Detailed Definition
Core Space refers to the centralized areas in a building used to house essential and shared services. These areas are integral to the building’s functionality and include but are not limited to elevator banks, stairwells, restrooms, electrical and mechanical rooms, janitorial closets, and other utility areas. Core space is significant in the design and layout of office buildings, commercial properties, and other multi-tenant buildings as it affects the usable and rentable area calculations.
Examples:
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Office Building: In an office building, the core space might include multiple elevator banks, several stairwells, restrooms on each floor, mechanical rooms, electrical closets, and janitorial storage. If the total interior space of the office building is 100,000 square feet, the core space could take up to 5-15% of this area.
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Mixed-Use Property: In a mixed-use property comprising retail space, office areas, and residential units, the core space would include separate elevators and stairwells for different sections, centralized HVAC systems, building management offices, and emergency exit routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of core space in a building?
Core space is designed to provide centralized locations for essential services that support the building’s functionality and accessibility, such as elevators, restrooms, and utility rooms.
How does core space affect rent?
Understanding core space is crucial for determining usable and rentable areas within a building. Rental calculations often exclude core space, leading to tenants paying for only the actual usable square footage.
Can the layout of core space vary?
Yes, the layout of core space can vary significantly depending on the building’s design, usage type, and the specific needs of tenants. For example, a high-rise office building’s core space might focus heavily on elevators, while a healthcare facility would prioritize things like utility and service corridors.
How is core space factored into building management?
Building managers must ensure that core spaces are maintained and compliant with regulations. Core space planning ensures the building’s safety and operational efficiency, impacting maintenance schedules and resource allocation.
Are restrooms always considered core space?
Generally, restrooms are considered part of the core space because they serve the general needs of building occupants and are centrally located within each floor or section of the building.
Related Terms
Usable Square Footage
The area within a building that is actually available for tenant use, excluding core space and common areas.
Rentable Square Footage
The total space that a tenant can be billed for, including usable space and a proportionate share of core space and common areas.
Building Envelope
The physical separator between the interior and exterior of a building, including walls, doors, windows, and roofs, but excluding core space.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
A ratio defining the total building area divided by the plot area, which considers all floor areas including core spaces.
Tenant Improvements (TI)
Modifications made to the rental space according to the specific needs of a tenant, often not including core space adjustments.
Online Resources
- Building Design & Construction Magazine
- National Real Estate Investor
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International
References
- Building Design & Construction Handbook
- The Architect’s Studio Companion
- The Commercial Real Estate Lease: What You Don’t Know
Suggested Books for Further Studies
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“Building Design & Construction Handbook” by Frederick S. Merritt and Jonathan T. Ricketts This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of building construction, including the importance and design of core spaces.
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“The Architect’s Studio Companion” by Edward Allen and Joseph Iano A valuable resource for architectural and design considerations, featuring insights on core space functionality.
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“Commercial Real Estate Analysis and Investments” by David M. Geltner and Norman G. Miller This book explores commercial real estate dynamics, covering aspects like rentable and usable square footage in the context of core space.
