Insight From Denver Real Estate Professionals

Golden-based Founder and CEO, Steve Johnson of ADI Workplace Acoustics, when asked on his take of the importance of acoustics in the workplace, responds with:

“The workplace is a fast changing environment! Our clients range from law firms, with lots of private offices to Activity Based Work (ABW) environments where no one has an assigned desk. No matter what the workplace configuration, if a productive work environment is the goal, acoustics should be addressed early in the project planning.

When good workplace acoustics are in place, private offices deliver true confidential privacy and open work areas allow conversational distractions to be minimized. Through the expert use of sound masking systems and acoustical products that absorb and block sound, a high performing workplace can be achieved without busting the budget.”

-Steve Johnson, ADI Workplace Acoustics

Denver-based office furniture dealer, Alison Datema, when asked for her take on technology & furniture in the workplace, responds with:

“It’s an exciting time to be a Steelcase Dealer with the recent announcement of the partnership between Microsoft and Steelcase. It shows a commitment from both companies to further understand how technology can support the workspace and boost creative work. A prime example is the Microsoft Hub: a huge touch screen with built-in intelligence for meetings, whiteboard sessions and videoconferencing. This elevated ‘Smart Board’ is essentially a Microsoft Surface on steroids and is a game changer for companies.”

-Alison Datema, OfficeScapes

Denver-based project manager, Heather Leslie, when asked for her advice about determining tenant improvement allowance, responds with:

“Prior to final lease execution, it’s important to understand the overall costs associated with a project.  Many clients concentrate on ‘hard construction costs’ plus architecture and engineering and the projects ‘soft costs’ get overlooked.  These ‘soft costs’ include furniture, structured cabling, IT equipment relocation, security, audio visual, sound masking, relocation and project management costs.  When accounting for soft costs, a total of $15-$25 per rentable square foot can be added to the budget.  Given the impact these costs can have to a project’s bottom line, it’s critical to quantify them before agreeing to a final tenant improvement allowance.”

-Heather Leslie, LEED AP, Task PM

Denver-based architect, Laura Swank, when asked for her advice about space utilization, responds with:

Tip One:

“When evaluating real estate needs, calculating for anticipated growth can be challenging.  One way to handle the unknown is to think strategically about the space planning process.  Allowing for versatile spaces vs. spaces with a dedicated function can make a big difference in flexibility.  Break Rooms can double as “all hands” meeting rooms or as additional break out/huddle spaces and offices can be easily converted to small conference rooms or shared workspaces.  This concept in planning can provide efficient use of space and quick integration of growth as required.”

-Laura Swank, Abel Design Group

Tip Two:

“Prior to the selection of a building, it can be extremely valuable to conduct a due diligence review of the base building mechanical and electrical systems.  Although many of the older buildings have gone through cosmetic renovations, the systems of a building are often overlooked and untouched.  This results in inadequate zoning for heating and cooling, creating cold or hot spots throughout the space.  Electrical infrastructure may also not be able to support the technology requirements of today’s high tech business climate.  Engaging mechanical and electrical engineers to provide a due diligence report can save in unforeseen expenses and working environment challenges.”

-Laura Swank, Abel Design Group