“Creative Space” construction has been the common theme for new tenant improvement build outs here in the Los Angeles area. With an influx of tech companies coming to LA, along with a wave of young entrepreneurs flooding the market, the next generation is paving the way of design and office feel.

In the last 10 years we have remodeled many outdated offices and converted them into “Creative Spaces” with polished concrete, glass wall offices, open ceiling concept, vibrant wall colors, fire sprinkler pipes, columns, and soffits. An extra feature to enhance these creatives spaces have included adding ping pong tables, gaming systems, TV’s and even Virtual Reality systems in some work places.

Although we love building Creative Spaces, it isn’t always as easy and smooth, or less expensive as most people would think . In fact, it’s about 40% more expensive, and depending on which type of finishes the client has chosen, it may take longer to complete, adding about 30% more time compared to a “Building Standard” build out.

The reason for this longer process is due to the term “Creative”. As a Contractor you need to get creative in your scheduling and in your plan of attack. When planned and scheduled correctly, and you make sure your subcontractors are highly monitored, it can create a fun and smooth process.

Pro’s & Cons’s of building a “Creative Space”

Pros’s 

1. Space looks amazing!
2. Floors are easy to clean.
3. Easier Maintenance.
4. All pipes, conduits, VAV boxes etc above ceiling are easily accessible.
5. Bragging rights that you have a creative space
6. Office space may get nominated for an award or be placed in a magazine.
7. Employees will love coming to work

Con’s 

1. Approx 40-60% more expensive compared to a normal “Building Standard” build out.
2. Noise travels and almost impossible to omit the echo and sound travel.
3. Not good for conference room, especially if doing video conferencing.
4. Tenants below may complain about the sound

In the end, it all lies in the eye of the beholder. Some companies truly believe this cool new “creative space” and feel makes all the difference in how their employees carry themselves- the vibe can enhance work flow, etc and can be vital to a successful new age work feel/flow.

Other’s however believe that it’s way too expensive to spend for construction per $SF cost. They would prefer to use that money to invest, build, hire etc. Or they may fall into the category of professionals who require more privacy, for example- therapists, lawyers, or doctors – who may need more privacy, walls to deck, insulation, wood doors for privacy and sound, carpet, drywall or t bar ceilings etc.

At the end of the day, we here at DGR Construction Company Inc. are happy and grateful to be able to serve you in your construction needs. We are well versed in all aspects of the commercial construction space.