Design Trends for Industrial Real Estate

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published April 2020 and has been updated for accuracy and relevance to ongoing design changes for industrial real estate.

As 2024 continues to roll on, we cannot help but think that now is a great time to get a closer look at the design trends of the commercial real estate industry, specifically for the industrial sector. After talking with a few members of our industrial team on major design trends that are expected to dominate the industrial landscape, here is what we have found.

Industrial inventory is looking up — literally.

There is an evident trend towards maximizing clearance height and cubic footage as the demand for industrial space keeps growing. This trend reflects a strategic shift towards optimizing storage efficiency and accommodating larger inventory volumes.

Additionally, there is a focus on lessening office space and increasing warehouse capacity. This enables companies to move their administration into smaller office spaces while dedicating more square footage to productive operations. This trend highlights an industry-wide emphasis on improving operating capacities and successfully handling growing logistical demands.

The popularity of shallow-bay buildings will continue to grow.

In recent years, the industrial sector has witnessed the emergence of shallow-bay structures tailored for local, small, and starter businesses. Spanning 20,000 to 30,000 square feet per tenant, these warehouses have been shifting west and north, near rooftops, expanding from the occupied southside area. Moreover, to cater to the growing demand for faster distribution, they are purpose-built to accommodate smaller importers and new businesses, reshaping the industrial landscape responding to the net migration patterns.

Evolving Amenities.

There has been a noticeable trend in the industrial real estate market to satisfy tenant preferences for improved workplace facilities. One notable development is the incorporation of large fans, which are becoming increasingly important for reducing warehouse temperatures. Tenants place a high priority on these fans to assist their operational productivity in addition to comfort.

Another significant feature is the inclusion of porthole-style windows into industrial unit designs, notably within tilt walls. By letting natural light into the workplace, these windows not only fulfill a practical need but also enhance the structures’ visual attractiveness. The usage of these windows is a part of a larger trend in incorporating architectural elements that enhance both the visual and functional aspects of industrial spaces.

These design decisions highlight the increasing focus on developing spaces that cater to the evolving needs of tenants in a variety of industries. In addition to meeting present needs, industrial real estate developers are positioning themselves to draw in and keep tenants seeking out cutting-edge workspaces that prioritize comfort and efficiency by offering features like distinctive windows and large fans. These trends reflect the continuous shift in the industrial sector toward more adaptable and user-centered warehouse designs.