Planning, Design
Trends - Industrial:
Big and Tall
Fall 03
Development
Trends in industrial design continue to be: bigger and taller. According to Michael Randall, principal of Randall Paulson, whose practice is nationwide, industrial buildings are much bigger than they used to be: at 500,000 square feet and larger, and at least 30 to 35 feet tall — or taller. “We’re seeing more flow-through buildings, more sophisticated lighting and data systems, and more wireless systems inside and outside, in the shipping areas. More high technology is being used,” he said. In addition, energy management systems are increasingly important, as are automated controls to reduce artificial light when natural light comes into play.
Randall observed that both developers and space users are focusing more on the element of human comfort — enabling workers to remain cooler in hot weather and warm in cold weather — particularly with better use of ventilation and spot heating and cooling. Similarly, there is more attention paid to the element of exterior design, so that these facilities will look like more than a big box. That’s done with architectural detailing, false fronts, sunscreens, use of concrete panels, creative use of paint and projections to break up long walls.
He also noted that the just-in-time manufacturing trend is gaining more momentum, with portions of many distribution centers dedicated to just-in-time shipments.
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