Utility projects

What exactly is commercial construction?

Commercial construction includes all buildings that do not have a residential purpose but serve a functional role within business, the public sector, or various social services. Think of work-related buildings such as factories, offices, schools, and storage facilities, as well as commercial amenities like shops and garages. In addition, care facilities, hospitals, recreational facilities, cinemas, sports complexes, and various utility services also fall within this category.

In this type of project, everything revolves around functionality, technical reliability, and a building that seamlessly supports the activities of the end user. The requirements are often high, both structurally and technically, and disciplines such as electrical engineering play an essential role. Power supply, systems, and installations must be perfectly coordinated to support safe and efficient operations.

At PGA, we always approach commercial construction from the perspective of use. We immerse ourselves in the people who will soon work, learn, exercise, or receive care in the building. By thinking along from the very beginning, preparing carefully, and delivering according to plan, we ensure a result that functions exactly as intended. A carefully executed building with attention to detail and a dedicated aftercare phase.

Would you like to know what PGA can do for your commercial project? Feel free to let us know.

What types of buildings fall under commercial construction?

The term commercial construction originates from the English word “utility,” which means “use” or “functionality.” These structures therefore concern buildings that have a clear purpose and do not have a residential designation.

Commercial construction includes various types of buildings that support both business and society. Examples of commercial real estate include offices, shops, and factories. In addition, there is social real estate, such as schools, hospitals, sports halls, and town halls. Government buildings and other functional facilities also fall under commercial construction.

What all these buildings have in common is that they are specifically designed to optimally support their users. Whether it is an office where people can work efficiently, a hospital where care takes center stage, or a sports hall where activities run smoothly, functionality always comes first. At PGA, we ensure that every commercial building not only meets technical and functional requirements, but also aligns with the needs of the people who use it every day.

When is an energy performance or BENG calculation mandatory for commercial projects?

For new construction and major renovations of commercial buildings, an energy performance or BENG calculation is mandatory. This applies both during the permitting phase and at project completion. The purpose of these calculations is to ensure that buildings meet current energy requirements and are delivered sustainably.

A BENG calculation is required as soon as an environmental permit is applied for:

• New construction of commercial buildings
• Major renovations where the building envelope or installations are substantially modified
• Projects where energy performance must be demonstrated to the municipality or client

Accurate documentation is essential during the construction process. The use of sustainable materials, such as insulation materials and installation components, must be carefully recorded. Photos of installed insulation and delivery notes of materials on the construction site help demonstrate that the calculated values correspond to reality. Without this documentation, the final BENG calculation may result in a lower insulation value, which can lead to a lower energy label.

At PGA, we ensure that every commercial project fully complies with BENG requirements from the initial design through to completion. This combines technical accuracy with practical execution, ensuring the building is sustainable, energy-efficient, and future-proof.

Why is sustainability important in commercial construction?

Sustainability is not a luxury, but a necessary standard within commercial construction. The demand for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings is growing rapidly, driven by legislation and by companies’ and organizations’ awareness of their ecological footprint. The construction sector is responsible for a significant share of CO₂ emissions and resource consumption, which only increases the pressure to build sustainably.

At PGA, we see sustainability as an integral part of every project. By using environmentally friendly materials such as FSC-certified wood, recycled concrete, and biobased products like wood fiber insulation, we reduce the ecological impact of our commercial buildings. At the same time, we focus on energy-saving technologies: smart HVAC systems, battery storage, and AI-driven meters ensure optimal energy efficiency. This makes the building not only sustainable, but also economically viable through lower energy costs and operating expenses.

Certifications such as BREEAM-NL help us make sustainability measurable. Buildings that meet these standards score highly on energy efficiency, water use, material selection, and indoor climate. A BREEAM-certified building guarantees a healthy and comfortable environment for users, with benefits in terms of well-being and productivity.

Investing in sustainable commercial construction also delivers a competitive advantage. Companies strengthen their image and brand identity by making their green initiatives visible, while employees benefit from a pleasant working environment. At PGA, we combine these advantages by integrating sustainability from design through to completion, ensuring that every project is both environmentally responsible and functionally optimal.

How does the construction process of a commercial project proceed — from design to completion?

The construction process of a commercial project is a carefully planned journey that begins with the initial idea and ends when the building becomes fully operational. The process may vary by project type, but generally each project goes through a number of recognizable phases.

Different construction processes
In commercial construction, we distinguish various types of projects:

• New construction: The erection of a completely new building, from the foundation through to the interior.
• Renovation: Modifying or improving existing buildings, ranging from minor adjustments to large-scale renovations.
• Restoration: Preserving historic buildings with attention to authentic materials and techniques.
• Transformation: Converting existing buildings to a different function, for example from an office building to an educational facility.
• Sustainable construction: Focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and the use of environmentally friendly materials.

The construction phases
The process is generally divided into the following phases:

1. Initiation phase: The project idea is developed, including location, purpose, budget, and timeline. Permits and feasibility studies are prepared during this phase.
2. Design phase: Architects, engineers, and other specialists collaborate to create a design that complies with all laws and regulations. Multiple iterations ensure an optimal plan.
3. Preparation phase: Permits are applied for, construction sites are prepared, and contractors and suppliers are selected.
4. Construction phase: The actual construction takes place, from foundation and structure to interior and installations. During this phase, progress is continuously monitored.
5. Completion phase: The building is inspected, tested, and prepared for use. Any defects are resolved before the owner receives the keys.
6. Aftercare phase: Minor adjustments or warranty claims are handled to ensure the building functions optimally.

At PGA, we guide every commercial project from start to finish. By ensuring clear planning, technical precision, and continuous coordination with all parties involved, we deliver buildings that not only meet functional requirements, but are also efficient and sustainable.

How can commercial construction be made sustainable and energy-efficient?

Sustainability and energy efficiency are core principles in modern commercial construction. At PGA, we focus on designing and delivering buildings that are both environmentally friendly and cost-saving, without compromising comfort and functionality.

Optimize the design
It starts with the basics: a compact building form limits heat loss and reduces energy demand. Strategically placed daylight openings maximize natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting, while preventing unwanted heat gain.

Energy-efficient systems
We replace outdated heating and cooling systems with efficient alternatives, such as heat pumps or connections to sustainable district heating networks. Ventilation and air conditioning systems are equipped with heat recovery technology and high COP values, significantly reducing energy consumption.

Insulation and building envelope
A well-insulated building envelope, including roof, façades, floors, and windows, is essential for energy savings. Wrapping the building can prevent up to 30% of heat loss, which both lowers heating costs and reduces cooling demand in summer.

Lighting and equipment
Switching to LED lighting with sensors and energy-efficient appliances helps further reduce energy consumption. Smart control technologies ensure that lighting and equipment are only in use when needed.

Sustainable and biobased materials
Using FSC-certified wood, recycled concrete, and reusing construction waste significantly reduces the ecological footprint. Biobased materials such as bamboo, hemp, and wood fiber insulation offer renewable alternatives with excellent insulation values. Projects like the ABN AMRO Circl building in Amsterdam demonstrate that these materials are practically applicable and economically viable.

Generation of sustainable energy
Generating your own energy with solar panels, solar thermal systems, or wind energy reduces dependence on the power grid and contributes to lower energy costs and improved BENG performance.

At PGA, we combine all these strategies to deliver commercial buildings that are sustainable, energy-efficient, and future-proof, while perfectly aligned with the user’s needs.

What is the difference between commercial construction and residential construction?

There are different types of construction machines on the market. However, these can be distinguished between commercial and residential use.

For commercial construction, heavy earthmoving equipment and cranes are used. These buildings are more complex and therefore require new technologies to achieve the best results. Technical equipment is needed to construct commercial building designs. This equipment also requires well-experienced personnel.

On the other hand, residential construction is not challenging. Standard construction machinery is sufficient for this type of building. In addition, construction is also influenced by suggestions from friends or family members. Of course, for some special, extravagant homes, heavy machinery is needed.

What is the difference between commercial construction and residential construction?

The distinction between commercial construction and residential construction lies in both function and complexity. Commercial construction includes buildings with a commercial, public, or business purpose, such as offices, shops, schools, hospitals, and business premises. Residential construction, on the other hand, focuses on residential buildings where people live, such as single-family homes and apartments.

In addition to the difference in function, there is also a difference in technical complexity and scale. Commercial buildings are often larger, take longer to complete, and place higher demands on construction, installations, and safety. As a result, specialized expertise, advanced equipment, and meticulous project management are essential. Residential construction projects are generally smaller, more standardized, and require more all-round building skills and a customer-oriented approach.

In addition, both sectors differ in regulations. Commercial construction has stricter requirements in areas such as fire safety, accessibility, and energy performance, while residential construction generally involves less complex compliance issues. Both disciplines offer unique challenges and opportunities, and experience in both commercial and residential construction can be a valuable asset for professionals in the construction industry.

When do you need a construction team or a turnkey approach for commercial projects?

For complex commercial projects, choosing a construction team or turnkey approach is often essential to achieve a smooth and efficient building process. In a construction team, the client, contractor, and possibly advisors work closely together from the design phase onward. This collaborative approach ensures that design, technical feasibility, cost control, and buildability are optimally aligned.

A construction team is particularly suitable when the client does not yet know exactly how the project should be realized or when technical challenges need to be addressed carefully. Depending on the situation, there are three scenarios:

• Scenario A: The client does not yet know exactly what is needed or how it should be realized. An integrated contract form, such as UAV-GC, is suitable in this case.
• Scenario B: The client knows what is desired, but not yet how it should be achieved. In this case, a construction team offers the best solution.
• Scenario C: The client knows what is wanted and how it should be realized. In this case, a traditional tender based on a RAW contract is often sufficient.

At PGA, we believe that collaboration from the design phase onward is crucial for success. By deploying a construction team, we deliver commercial projects that are technically feasible, cost-efficient, and executable, while keeping the process clear and predictable for all parties involved.