So, whether you’re planning to refurbish or construct a building, here are our top tips to ensure the electrical design ticks all the right boxes.

Engage early

Early engagement is key to a project’s success – no matter what size or sector. Even the smallest jobs need to be carefully researched and properly planned.

As soon as you know what your vision is for the building, start to engage with a good design team. An experienced electrical contractor or consultant will ask the questions needed to tailor the design to meet all requirements, avoiding the need for variations and additional costs further down the line.

This process will also ensure any potential issues can be identified at the beginning of the project, saving time and improving efficiency during installation.

Prioritise building users

How the building will be used, and by who, should be front of mind when designing an electrical solution. It’s important to think about how those people are going to use the space and what may be required to make their experience better.

For a new office, for example, there will be many factors to consider ranging from the location of desks and photocopiers through to employees’ wellbeing, which may require break out areas and specialist spaces that will affect the design.

Lighting is another consideration as not only affects energy efficiency, but plays a big part in the overall feel of the space. LEDs are the natural choice to reduce energy use but their colour, spacing and control mechanisms should be considered too.

Accessibility in commercial buildings is also important, which may require sockets to be installed at certain heights and away from room corners to meet the needs of the disabled, wheelchair users and the elderly.

Future-proof

Future-proofing a building is crucial, especially in the commercial sector. From an electrical perspective, that means moulding the design to allow for the potential reconfiguration of the space and changing occupiers’ needs.

A small, additional investment from the outset can help to future-proof through simple measures such as ensuring power reaches every space in the floor. If the office space needs to alter in size or if desks and equipment have to move, this will prevent the need for new cables and containment to be installed.

Don’t leave it too late

Developing an electrical design from scratch, procuring the materials, and installing the solution takes time. For larger projects, expecting this process to be completed within a matter of weeks is unrealistic and risky. Rushed jobs can result in a design that cuts corners as well as unsuitable products and a sub-standard installation which may not be fit for purpose.

The cost of rectifying these issues can be high and for new builds, may affect the overall construction programme.

Appoint a specialist

Taking the time to research reputable and skilled electrical consultants and contractors can streamline the entire process. Their expertise will ensure a detailed and accurate design which drive efficiencies across the entire project. And once the solution has been installed, you can be assured that no elements will need to be changed.

At West & West, we have vast experience of design and build electrical projects and work closely with specialist M&E consultants such as Capstone Design & Consultancy to ensure clients benefit from solutions of the highest standards.

For further information or advice on creating on electrical design for your building, please contact Rob McGill on 01865 655419.