5 Key Differences Between Industrial and Commercial Building Design
Not all building projects are created equal. While many architects have deep experience in commercial design, industrial facilities come with a different set of expectations, challenges, and technical requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for any owner, developer, or public agency embarking on a new project—especially when efficiency, safety, and long-term operations are on the line.
At LAE, we’ve helped guide hundreds of clients through both commercial and industrial projects. Below, we break down five fundamental ways industrial design differs from commercial design—and why it matters who you have on your team.
1. Function First: Form Follows Process
Commercial projects often prioritize aesthetics, user experience, and brand presence—think retail storefronts or office environments. Industrial design, by contrast, revolves around workflows, equipment, and operational efficiency. The building must support the process, not just house it.
For the Shinsegae Foods project in Salem, Oregon, the process flow and the equipment configuration dictated the shape and volume of the building.
2. Higher Structural Demands and Complexity
Industrial buildings typically require heavier structural systems to support large equipment, bridge cranes, or mezzanines. Floor loads, spans, and column spacing are dictated by operational needs—not just code minimums.
Commercial buildings, in comparison, usually have lighter loading requirements and more predictable structural layouts.
The San-J Expansion project featured a highly customized structural system to accommodate the client’s vertical process.
3. Specialized Codes, Safety, and Compliance
While all buildings must comply with zoning and building codes, industrial projects often face additional layers—from hazardous material storage and egress planning to seismic anchoring for machinery.
Navigating permitting is more involved, and mistakes can be costly. This is where experience with local jurisdictions and an understanding of state building and fire codes makes a major difference.
LAE has deep experience with hazardous (H) occupancies – applying our knowledge to create safe but cost effective buildings.
4. Utilities and Infrastructure Integration
Industrial buildings demand more robust MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems—often custom to their operation. Electrical service sizes, water service, compressed air lines, ventilation systems, and drainage are critical infrastructure elements that must be coordinated early.
In commercial projects, these systems tend to be more standardized and loads are typically smaller.
For the True Terpenes project, we worked closely with the mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, and the client to identify process demands and develop a coordinated architectural, structural, and MEP design.
5. Future Flexibility vs. Long-Term Specialization
Commercial spaces are often designed for flexibility—able to adapt to new tenants or uses. Industrial facilities, especially those supporting manufacturing, are designed around specific processes and equipment. That makes future-proofing more strategic and tied to the owner’s business plan.
The site for the Morinaga America Foods project was planned by LAE to allow for future expansion which could more than double the size of the facility.
Conclusion
The skills and mindset required for industrial building design go beyond typical commercial experience. From heavier structural systems to complex permitting and technical coordination, success depends on having a design team that knows how to keep things moving and eliminate surprises along the way.
At LAE, we specialize in clearing the path for clients navigating high-stakes industrial and commercial projects. If you’re looking for a partner who brings clarity, responsiveness, and practical experience to every step, we’d love to talk.