Field notes on building better.
Recent essays
How Long Does a Commercial Build-Out Actually Take in the Bay Area?
Between design, permitting, and construction, a commercial build-out in the Bay Area takes longer than most business owners expect. Here's a realistic timeline — broken down by phase, project type, and city.
Designing a Restaurant in the Bay Area: What First-Time Owners Get Wrong
Opening a restaurant in San Francisco, Oakland, or the broader Bay Area involves more design and permitting complexity than most first-time owners expect. Here's what to plan for — and what to avoid.
Title 24, Part 6: What It Actually Means for Your Commercial Tenant Improvement
If you\'re planning a restaurant, cafe, or retail tenant improvement in the Bay Area, Title 24 energy code compliance is one item that catches many owners off guard during permitting.
Commercial Tenant Improvements: 10 Questions to Ask Before Signing Your Lease
Finding the perfect shell for your restaurant or retail space in the Bay Area is exciting, but hidden technical requirements in your lease can exceed rental costs.
