For those on the outside, the commercial construction market in the UK might seem like it’s in a bad place right now.
Looking beyond the statistics, there’s a more nuanced outlook to be had. While there are still challenges, there are also many opportunities for businesses in this sector.
As we near the end of 2023, it’s clear that these opportunities will carry on into 2024, and could provide many valuable routes to success for commercial construction companies.
Keep reading to find the commercial construction trends that we believe will shift into 2024 and offer industry leaders the chance to grow and prosper over the next 12 months.
Multi-Use Properties Will Become Popular
As more workers stay at home, many property owners are creating mixed-use developments that combine commercial, residential, and retail spaces in a single project to make the most of unused commercial properties. These developments create vibrant, walkable communities and maximise land use, and they offer many opportunities for commercial construction firms.
Many Other Office Structures Will Be Adapted Into New Commerical Buildings
For smaller offices that are almost entirely out of use, some developers will be looking to adapt the properties for a different type of commercial use. Instead of offices, adaptive reuse of existing structures, such as warehouses, factories, and historic buildings, will continue as a sustainable and cost-effective way to meet the changing needs of businesses and communities.
Offices Will Need To Be Refitted To Meet The Needs Of Modern Workers
Some businesses are still dedicated to enticing staff back into offices, but they will need to find ways to adapt and make their existing office spaces more appealing. This might include switching layouts around and creating more private spaces for employees, or building ‘hot desk’ sections for workers to switch out if they work on a hybrid basis. That means that cat B fit out experts, like Amos Beech, will find themselves working on more projects to refit offices to meet the unique standards of specific businesses.
New Tech Will Change The Way The Construction Market Functions
Technology is always changing, and the rapid rise of new tools is making the construction market even more exciting. Emerging technologies like 3D printing and robotics are being explored for their potential to reduce construction costs and increase efficiency in various aspects of commercial construction, from formwork to finishing.
Public Building Projects Will Rise
The recent spate of crumbling from reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), which was used in many public buildings during the 80s and 90s, has led to many issues with a wide range of public buildings. Originally thought to be mainly schools, the product was also used in hospitals and other public-use properties, so there will be many opportunities for commercial contractors to start new projects in this section.
To Conclude: Things Will Develop Further
While these are some of the top trends for construction in 2023 that will undoubtedly continue into 2024, the market will continue to evolve over the coming months. As such, to stay current, it’s essential that you follow the latest developments and market trends in the commercial construction industry as we approach 2024.
