How to Upgrade an Aging Building While Staying Open for Business
Renovating an occupied commercial building presents a unique set of challenges. Business owners and property managers want to upgrade aging infrastructure, outdated layouts, and inefficient systems—but they can’t afford to shut down operations entirely.
At Construction, Design, and Management (CDM), we specialize in phased renovations that allow businesses to stay operational while undergoing improvements. Whether you’re upgrading office space, retail stores, medical facilities, or industrial buildings, here’s how to modernize an aging building while keeping your business running smoothly.
1. Plan a Phased Renovation Approach
A phased renovation allows construction to happen in sections, so business operations aren’t completely disrupted.
📌 How Phased Renovations Work:
✔ Prioritize Critical Upgrades First – Identify high-impact renovations (structural, mechanical, or safety-related) and tackle them first.
✔ Divide the Building into Work Zones – Renovate in sections, keeping part of the business open at all times.
✔ Relocate Departments or Tenants Temporarily – If necessary, move employees or tenants into completed areas while others are under construction.
🔹 Example: A medical office upgrading exam rooms might renovate two rooms at a time while keeping the rest of the practice open.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We work closely with business owners and facility managers to create a renovation schedule that minimizes downtime and keeps daily operations flowing.
2. Work During Off-Hours & Weekends
For businesses that operate 9-to-5 or have high foot traffic, off-hours construction is often the best solution.
📌 Flexible Scheduling Options:
✔ Evening & Overnight Work: Contractors complete major work after business hours to minimize disruption.
✔ Weekend-Only Construction: For businesses that close on weekends, major renovations can take place in two-day time blocks.
✔ Holiday Closures & Seasonal Downtime: Some businesses (like restaurants or retail) can schedule work during slower periods to minimize revenue impact.
🔹 Example: A retail store replacing flooring may schedule the installation overnight so it’s ready before opening hours.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We provide customized work schedules that fit each client’s operational needs, ensuring minimal disruption.
3. Upgrade Infrastructure & Systems First
If your building is older than 20 years, chances are it has outdated electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. These systems should be upgraded before cosmetic renovations to avoid future disruptions.
📌 Key Infrastructure Upgrades for Aging Buildings:
✔ Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems – Reduces energy costs and improves indoor air quality.
✔ LED Lighting & Smart Controls – Enhances efficiency and modernizes the workspace.
✔ Plumbing & Water System Repairs – Prevents leaks, water damage, and high utility costs.
✔ Updated Electrical Panels & Wiring – Supports modern equipment and prevents safety hazards.
🔹 Example: An office park upgrading its HVAC system might install new units in phases, keeping work areas comfortable while transitioning to energy-efficient systems.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We conduct thorough building assessments before renovations begin, identifying which infrastructure systems need upgrading first.
4. Enhance Safety & Accessibility Compliance
Older buildings often don’t meet modern building codes, making compliance upgrades a necessary part of renovations.
📌 Key Safety & ADA Compliance Upgrades:
✔ Upgraded Fire Suppression Systems – Ensuring sprinklers, alarms, and exits meet current codes.
✔ ADA-Compliant Entrances & Bathrooms – Installing wheelchair ramps, wider doorways, and accessible restrooms.
✔ Improved Ventilation & Air Filtration – Reducing airborne contaminants and improving indoor air quality.
✔ Seismic & Structural Reinforcements – Strengthening buildings to withstand environmental risks.
🔹 Example: A hotel upgrading guest rooms might focus first on ADA compliance improvements, ensuring accessible features before making cosmetic upgrades.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We assess code compliance early, ensuring that all renovations meet safety regulations and accessibility requirements.
5. Improve Aesthetics & Space Efficiency
Once the essential upgrades are complete, focus on modernizing the space with improved layouts and updated finishes.
📌 Key Cosmetic & Layout Enhancements:
✔ Open Floor Plan Designs – Modern layouts that improve workflow and collaboration.
✔ Upgraded Flooring & Ceilings – Refreshing interiors with durable, easy-to-maintain materials.
✔ Modernized Reception & Common Areas – Creating a welcoming first impression for customers and employees.
✔ Smart Storage Solutions – Maximizing space with built-in shelving, compact storage, and modular furniture.
🔹 Example: An outdated law office might remove excessive walls and cubicles, replacing them with collaborative open workspaces and glass partitions for a modern look.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We help clients reimagine office, retail, and industrial layouts to maximize functionality and enhance aesthetics.
6. Minimize Disruptions for Employees & Customers
A renovation should be as invisible as possible to customers and staff. This requires careful noise control, dust containment, and clear communication.
📌 How to Maintain a Positive Work & Customer Environment:
✔ Use Temporary Partitions & Barriers – Minimizing noise and dust in active work areas.
✔ Schedule Loud Work Strategically – Jackhammering, drilling, and demolition should happen after hours.
✔ Provide Regular Project Updates – Keeping employees and customers informed on progress and timeline.
✔ Adjust Workflows Temporarily – Relocating desks, entrances, or workstations if needed.
🔹 Example: A restaurant undergoing a kitchen expansion may keep the dining area open while renovations happen behind a partition.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We ensure open communication with staff, tenants, and customers, providing clear updates and minimizing disruptions.
7. Plan for Future Growth & Energy Efficiency
An aging building renovation isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about preparing for the future.
📌 Smart Future-Proofing Upgrades:
✔ Modular Layouts – Flexible workspaces that can evolve with business growth.
✔ Solar Panel & Energy-Efficient Systems – Reducing long-term utility costs and increasing sustainability.
✔ Smart Building Technology – IoT-enabled lighting, HVAC, and security systems that improve efficiency.
✔ Improved Insulation & Windows – Cutting down on energy waste and improving comfort.
🔹 Example: An outdated medical office might install smart thermostats and automated lighting, reducing energy consumption while modernizing patient experience.
✔ CDM’s Approach: We design long-term solutions that improve efficiency, lower costs, and future-proof your building for growth.
Why Work with CDM for Your Renovation?
At CDM, we specialize in occupied renovations, ensuring businesses stay open while upgrading their facilities.
✅ Strategic Planning & Phased Construction – Keeping businesses operational throughout the renovation process.
✅ Custom Scheduling for Minimal Disruptions – Working around business hours, seasonal downtime, and tenant needs.
✅ Energy-Efficient & Future-Proof Upgrades – Helping clients modernize aging buildings for long-term success.
✅ Transparent Communication & Cost Control – Providing realistic timelines and budgets to avoid unexpected costs.
📞 Planning a renovation? Contact CDM today to modernize your space while keeping your business running smoothly.