Project Details:

Renovate an existing 3,055 sq. ft. commercial suite to create a modern, flexible classrooms and workspaces that supports hybrid work, collaboration, and student and staff well-being. The project includes interior reconfiguration, MEP upgrades, finishes, commercial kitchen equipment procurement, and minor exterior improvements to the main entrance and signage.

Objectives

• Transform dated commercial restaurant layout into flexible zones for classroom, work, collaboration, and live interaction.

• Improve indoor environmental quality (lighting, acoustics, thermal comfort, and air quality) while accommodating the technical requirements a full commercial kitchen stations.

• Increase space efficiency and accommodate 25–53 students and staff with adaptable workstation options.

• Provide accessible, code-compliant facilities and comply with ADA standards.

• Integrate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems where feasible.

Scope of Work

1. Space Planning and Design

   • Conduct programming sessions to confirm user needs and adjacency priorities.

   • Produce concept design, schematic layouts, and final construction documents.

   • Define furniture plan and finish schedules for all areas.

2. Demolition and Interior Construction

   • Selective demolition of interior partitions, ceilings, and finishes as required.

   • Construct new partitions, storage room, and classroom areas.

   • Install new accessible restrooms modifications and equipment upgrade.

3. Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP)

   • Upgrade HVAC system to improve ventilation and thermal comfort; implement localized controls for zones.

   • Replace lighting with LED fixtures; integrate layered lighting (ambient, task, accent).

   • Provide power and data infrastructure to support flexible layouts and collaboration tech integration.

   • Plumbing upgrades for kitchenette and restroom modifications.

   • Gas lines modification for equipment connections and regulation.

4. Acoustics and AV

   • Implement acoustic treatments in open-plan areas and conference rooms to control reverberation and support speech privacy.

   • Furnish connections for AV systems (display, conferencing camera, wireless presentation) per classroom space.

   • Provide soft-touch collaboration tools (whiteboards, writable glass) in team spaces.

5. Finishes and Furniture

   • Specify durable, low-VOC finishes for floors, walls, ceilings, and millwork.

   • Procure modular workstations, adjustable-height desks, collaborative seating, and storage solutions.

   • Provide wayfinding signage and branded elements at reception and main circulation.

6. Exterior and Entry Improvements

   • Refresh main entrance facade and install updated signage and lighting.

   • Improve accessibility at the main entry as required.

Deliverables

• Existing conditions survey and code review.

• Schematic design drawings and 3D renderings.

• Construction documents (plans, sections, details, specifications).

• Permitting submittals and coordination.

• Procurement lists and furniture specifications.

• Commissioning report for upgraded MEP systems.

• As-built drawings and operation & maintenance manuals.

Schedule*

• Design Phase: 8–10 weeks (programming through construction documents).

• Permitting: 6–10 weeks (concurrent with late design stage where possible).

• Construction: 10–12 weeks (dependent on permit timelines and site conditions).

• FF&E installation and commissioning: 2–3 weeks.

• Total estimated project duration: 22–29 weeks.

*Note: This original schedule was modified due to the COVID-19 impact on project delivery time schedule.

Budget Estimate

• Preliminary construction estimate: $300–$375 per sq. ft. (includes demolition, build-out, MEP upgrades, finishes, and general conditions).

• Furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E): $120–$160 per sq. ft.

• Owner contingency and soft costs (design fees, permits, testing, commissioning): 20–30% of hard costs.

Assumptions and Constraints

• Work occurs within an occupied building; phased construction and noise mitigation measures are required. Coordination with mall management.

• Structural work is limited; no major load-bearing modifications assumed.

• Existing utility capacities are assumed adequate; significant upgrades would adjust schedule and budget.

• Client to provide finalized branding assets for signage and reception graphics.

Success Criteria

• Completion on schedule and within approved budget range.

• Meeting occupancy and performance targets for workstations and classroom spaces.

• Achieving improved indoor environmental quality metrics (lighting levels, acoustic performance, thermal comfort).

• Positive user feedback gathered during post-occupancy evaluation (within 3 months of move-in).