8 Marla Shopping Mall and Commercial Plaza Design
8 Marla Shopping Mall and Commercial Plaza Design
The demand for commercial spaces has significantly increased, especially in urban areas where the need for retail and service-oriented businesses is booming. An 8 Marla shopping mall and commercial plaza can be an attractive investment for entrepreneurs and developers alike. This article explores the essential aspects of designing an 8 Marla shopping mall and commercial plaza, including layout considerations, aesthetic appeal, and the benefits of such developments.
1. Understanding the Concept of an 8 Marla Plaza
1.1 Definition of a Marla
In the context of real estate in Pakistan and India, a Marla is a traditional unit of area, typically equivalent to 272.25 square feet. Thus, an 8 Marla commercial plaza covers approximately 2,178 square feet, making it an ideal size for mixed-use developments.
1.2 Importance of Commercial Plazas
Commercial plazas serve as hubs for shopping, dining, and entertainment, providing essential services to local communities. They enhance economic activity and offer opportunities for businesses to thrive.
2. Design Considerations for an 8 Marla Plaza
2.1 Aesthetic Design
The visual appeal of your shopping mall is crucial for attracting customers. A modern and stylish facade with thoughtful landscaping can create a welcoming environment. Consider the following design elements:
- Architectural Style: Choose a style that resonates with the local community, whether modern, contemporary, or traditional.
- Facade Materials: Use a combination of glass, steel, and stone to create an eye-catching exterior.
- Lighting: Incorporate attractive lighting fixtures to enhance the ambiance, especially during the evening.
2.2 Functional Layout
A well-organized layout maximizes space and improves customer experience. Key considerations include:
- Zoning: Designate areas for retail, dining, and entertainment. This organization helps streamline customer flow.
- Entrances and Exits: Ensure multiple access points to facilitate easy entry and exit for customers.
- Parking Facilities: Adequate parking is essential. Plan for both surface and underground parking options to accommodate visitors.
2.3 Sustainability Features
Incorporating sustainable design practices can enhance your plaza’s appeal while reducing operational costs. Consider the following:
- Energy Efficiency: Use energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems to minimize energy consumption.
- Green Spaces: Integrate green roofs, vertical gardens, or landscaped areas to improve air quality and aesthetics.
- Water Management: Implement rainwater harvesting systems and efficient irrigation practices.
3. Essential Facilities for the Plaza
3.1 Retail Spaces
The primary function of the plaza is to provide retail spaces for various businesses. Consider creating:
- Anchor Stores: Larger retail chains can draw foot traffic, making them beneficial for smaller businesses in the plaza.
- Kiosks and Pop-Up Shops: Flexible spaces for temporary businesses can create variety and excitement.
3.2 Food and Beverage Outlets
Dining options can enhance customer experience. Design areas for:
- Cafés and Restaurants: Outdoor seating can attract visitors and create a vibrant atmosphere.
- Food Courts: A shared dining space offers diverse culinary options in a communal setting.
3.3 Entertainment Areas
Incorporating entertainment options can make your plaza a destination. Consider:
- Play Areas for Children: Family-friendly spaces can attract parents with young children.
- Event Spaces: Design flexible areas for community events, markets, or live performances.
4. Construction Process
4.1 Planning and Permits
Before construction begins, secure the necessary permits and comply with local regulations. This step ensures a smooth building process.
4.2 Choosing a Reliable Contractor
Selecting an experienced contractor with a strong portfolio in commercial construction is crucial for quality assurance.
4.3 Quality Assurance
Implementing regular inspections during construction helps identify and address any issues early, ensuring the project meets quality standards.
5. Marketing Your Shopping Mall
Once construction is complete, effective marketing strategies will help attract tenants and customers.
5.1 Targeted Advertising
Utilize social media, local newspapers, and digital marketing to reach potential tenants and customers. Highlight unique features and offerings of your plaza.
5.2 Community Engagement
Building relationships within the local community can foster loyalty and increase foot traffic. Consider hosting events or sponsoring local initiatives to establish a positive reputation.
6. Benefits of an 8 Marla Shopping Mall and Commercial Plaza
6.1 Economic Growth
Commercial plazas contribute to local economies by providing job opportunities and supporting small businesses.
6.2 Increased Property Value
Investing in an 8 Marla plaza in a desirable location can lead to significant appreciation in property value over time.
6.3 Community Hub
Your plaza can become a central gathering place for the community, offering various services, entertainment options, and social activities.
7. Challenges in Designing and Constructing Commercial Plazas
7.1 Regulatory Challenges
Navigating zoning laws and obtaining permits can be time-consuming. Stay informed about local regulations to avoid complications.
7.2 Economic Fluctuations
Market changes can impact demand for commercial spaces. Be prepared to adapt your strategy based on economic conditions.
7.3 Competition
With the increasing number of commercial developments, standing out is crucial. Focus on unique offerings and exceptional customer service to differentiate your plaza.
8. Conclusion
Designing and constructing an 8 Marla shopping mall and commercial plaza can be a rewarding venture. With careful planning, attention to design, and effective marketing strategies, you can create a thriving commercial hub that serves the needs of the community and contributes to local economic growth.
FAQs
1. What businesses are suitable for an 8 Marla shopping mall?
Common businesses include retail stores, cafes, restaurants, service providers, and entertainment options.
2. How long does it typically take to construct an 8 Marla plaza?
Construction timelines can vary, but it usually takes around 8 to 12 months, depending on various factors.
3. What are the key features to include in the design?
Key features should include a functional layout, aesthetic appeal, sustainable design elements, and adequate parking.
4. How can I effectively market my shopping mall?
Utilize targeted advertising, community engagement, and social media platforms to reach potential tenants and customers.
5. What are the initial costs associated with constructing an 8 Marla plaza?
Initial costs can range from PKR 15 million to PKR 25 million, depending on location, design, and materials used.
8 Marla Commercial plaza construction cost
Previously, all articles on the cost by Team ACCO applied to residential construction projects only, however, there was a very popular demand by our followers for commercial plaza construction cost frame structure. Since Team ACCO already has a first-hand experience of various commercial projects completed in Lahore & Islamabad, hence it is easy for us to guide our followers about the cost of a commercial plaza built as a frame structure. However, most of the methods of calculating cost might be the same as in our previous articles and videos, there is one significant change in this video where we have also mentioned quantities along with the per sqft costs. Similarly, like previous residential costing videos, this costing video for the commercial plaza will also be only for the grey structure.
Commercial plaza construction can be done by two methods which should be known before going towards the construction cost of a commercial plaza:
Labour contract
A contract in which the owner procures material and supervises labor on a self-help basis. A labor contractor is responsible for arranging required labor to carry out construction procedures. Construction cost, in this case, is all in hands of the owner himself. The final cost of construction will depend upon how well the owner has managed the construction process both in regards to material procurement and labor procurement. In this video, we will discuss the construction cost of this method.
Turnkey contract
This is a method or contract in which the owner hires a professional company on a lump sum or per square foot construction rate for a turnkey solution. The owner does not have to worry about the construction cost as the builder has agreed to provide him with all services within in predefined budget and cost. The owner only must supervise if a builder is carrying out the work as per the agreement or not. At the end of this video, we will tell you how much a professional company charges for its services and how much per square foot you will have to pay extra than the cost that could have been if you build the commercial plaza yourself.
Sample project
8 Marla commercial plaza construction cost (125 sq. Yd)
Covered area TOTAL 4900 sq. Ft including
- Basement 1200 sqft
- Ground floor 1200 sqft
- first floor 1200 sqft
- Second floor 1200 sqft
- Mumtee 100 sqft
Item wise per square foot commercial plaza construction cost:
Bricks 125 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
125 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft=612500 Rs
Brick price =11.5 Rs per piece
Quantity =612500/11.5 = 53260 bricks
Crush 131 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
131 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft=641900 Rs
Crush price =80 Rs per Cft
Quantity =641900/80 = 8024 Cft
Cement 175 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
175 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft=857500 Rs
Cement price =500 Rs/50kg bag
Quantity =857500/500 = 1715 bags
Steel 620 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
620 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft=3038000 Rs
Steel price =111 Rs/kg or 111000 Rs/ton
Quantity =3038000/111 = 27370 kg or 27.37 tons
Sand 50 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
50 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft=245000 Rs
Sand price =30 Rs/Cft
Quantity =245000/30 = 8166 Cft
Labour contractor 450 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
450 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft = 2205000 Rs
Steel fixer 36 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
36 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft = 176400 Rs
Plumbing contractor 18 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
18 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft = 88200 Rs
Electric contractor 18 Rs/sq. Ft
Calculation:
18 Rs x 4900 sq. Ft = 88200 Rs
POINT TO BE NOTED:
The Labour rate considered as 450 in this calculation includes each thing related to labor & machinery such as masons, helpers, mixing machines, vibrators, scaffolding, and shuttering. Since this method of construction is a frame structure, shuttering has a very critical role. Best quality shuttering is done with steel plates of 4ftx8ft palai sheets. In this labor rate, we have considered the use of both steel plates and palai for shuttering columns, slabs, basement retaining walls, etc. Another critical labor is the steel fixer for which the per ton labor rate has been considered at the rate of 6500 Rs. Similarly, electrician and plumber rates include complete work related to electrical and plumbing till grey structure i-e conduit in slabs and walls, hot and cold-water pipes, drainpipes & main sewerage lines, etc
Other items
Excavation 10 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
10 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 49000 Rs
Waterproofing 10 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
10 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 49000 Rs
Waterproofing considered in this method is the simple chemical coating of Ultra of Sika any of the brand surface area rate of which is maximum up to 20 rs/sqft. For a stronger water proofing method for basement retaining walls PVC membrane sheets can be used however it will add up to the overall waterproofing cost because it is expensive.
Water stopper 5 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
5 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 24500 Rs
Electricity items 35 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
35 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 171500 Rs
Electric items include complete uPVC conduit (pipes) required in walls, slabs, underground, etc. It also includes complete switchboard internal box fittings required for standard Chinese fittings. Main DB (Distribution boxes) are also included in these figures for the ground and first floor. Electric conduit witnessed a sharp increase in prices in 2019/20 as compared to 2018.
Plumbing items 70 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
70 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 343000 Rs
Plumbing items include complete PPRC pipes and their fittings such as elbows, bends, T’s, etc required for water and gas connections. It also includes complete uPVC piping for sewerage and drain systems. It also includes a typical and standard 400 gallons plastic overhead water tank with GI (steel) pipes fitting. Plumbing conduit witnessed a sharp increase in prices in 2019/20 as compared to 2018.
Brick Tile 15 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
15 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 73500 Rs
Brick tile is required during the process of waterproofing and finishing the floor of roofs. The brick tile considered in this cost is up to 10 Rs/brick tile.
Guard Salary 16 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
16 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 78400 Rs
Guard salary has been considered on basis of 15000 Rs/month for a tenure of 5 months maximum.
Gravel 20 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
20 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 98000 Rs
Bitumen 5 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
5 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 24500 Rs
Polythene sheet 4 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
4 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 19600 Rs
Mud 4 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
4 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 19600 Rs
Chips Aggregate 5 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
5 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 24500 Rs
Taxes 6 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
6 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 29400 Rs
Electricity bills 5 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
5 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 24500 Rs
Water boring 5 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
5 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 24500 Rs
Anti termite spray 7 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
7 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 34300 Rs
Random expenditures 20 Rs/sq.ft
Calculation:
20 Rs x 4900 sq.ft= 98000 Rs
Let us see what will be the total cost of the Grey structure for 8 marlas commercial plaza frame structure method:
8 Marla Shopping Mall Cost | |||
S# | Item | 2020 per sqft cost | 2020 Total approximate cost |
1 | Bricks | 125 | 612500 |
2 | Crush | 131 | 641900 |
3 | Cement | 175 | 857500 |
4 | Steel | 620 | 3038000 |
5 | Sand | 50 | 245000 |
6 | Labor cont | 450 | 2205000 |
7 | Steel fixer | 36 | 127400 |
8 | Plumbing | 18 | 88200 |
9 | Electric | 18 | 88200 |
10 | Electric items | 35 | 171500 |
11 | Plumbing items | 70 | 343000 |
12 | Earthfill | 0 | 0 |
13 | Brick tile | 15 | 73500 |
14 | Guard Salary | 14 | 68600 |
15 | Gravel | 20 | 98000 |
16 | Excavation | 10 | 49000 |
17 | Bitumen | 5 | 24500 |
18 | Polythene sheet | 4 | 19600 |
19 | Mud | 4 | 19600 |
20 | Chips | 5 | 24500 |
21 | Taxes | 6 | 29400 |
22 | Electric bills | 5 | 24500 |
23 | Boring | 5 | 24500 |
24 | Anti termite | 7 | 34300 |
25 | Random | 20 | 98000 |
26 | Water proofing | 10 | 49000 |
27 | Water stopper | 5 | 24500 |
Total | 1865 | 9138500 |
Disclaimer:
-Possible ±5% Variation is possible in cost shown in video
-Rates applicable on frame structures only in Lahore & Islamabad/Rawalpindi
-Skills required to achieve this cost:
-Past construction experience
-Quality & honest labour
-Labour management skills
-Quality, timely & cost-effective material procurement
-Factors such as construction inexperience, unusual