Commercial architectural thoughts and idea forums?

[DaViper]

I think I got some good advice here before but wasn't sure if there were better forums to discuss more of the design ideas rather than software use?  

 

In any case, I will pitch a couple things.  I'm working on our own business building again.  We planned to do this years ago but just got too busy.  We do many things, but the design here will not change our bottom line at all so I can't go nuts as some architects like to do with a blank check....lol  

 

the designed space is minimal as the main shop is where things get done.  For the office area, my plan is stained concrete to keep it simple and cheap.  10ft black 2x2 tile ceiling, and LED strip lights if I can finally find a vendor and good specs.  I hate Troffer lights!  The building will be a wood post frame design, in which I don't want those bare columns in the office.  My thought was either clad them with stained wood, or we can do what we do and cap with single, brake bent, pattern sanded Aluminum.  I am looking at speed, cost, warmth factor, and appeal to the majority, not just me.  Aluminum might look cool, but very industrial.  

 

As for the concrete floor, the main entrance and great room will have a conference table, and I'm thinking of ways to break it up or feel less 'concrete'.  That space will be about 28x17'.  

 

If there is interest in engaging here, I can dig up my chief plan stuff.  I have to keep in mind though that I know my reasons for things, which are harder for others to understand.  I'm an engineer and I plan on things like wire paths, plumbing, expansion, etc.  Probably less on architectural, but I always like the input.  

 

My overall goals here are cheap, fast, and merge the lines of modern, warm, and industrial.  As only an example, the combination of Pine log with painted/welded steel.  Not that I am building a home here, just giving a thought.  Sometimes just a couple radii corners make all the difference, and I'm hoping the black ceiling and LED strip lights change the vibe to 'different', quickly, but only to give a memory or impression.  

[SHCanada2]

you might want to try the chatroom forum. navigate first to "home" at the top left