Project Development Terms
Key terms of Project Development to understand
Zoning Ratios
What are Zoning Ratios
Zoning ratios are planning metrics that determine how much building area can be developed on a given site, based on local zoning regulations. They influence project density, height, massing, and parking requirements. These ratios shape the overall scale, feasibility, and allowable use of new commercial developments.
Construction Methods
What are Construction Methods
Construction methods refer to the techniques, materials, and structural systems used to build commercial real estate. They range from traditional reinforced concrete to modular, prefabricated, or steel‑frame systems. The method chosen affects cost, speed, sustainability, and design flexibility of modern office, industrial, and mixed‑use projects.
Delivery Standards
What are Delivery Standards
Delivery standards define the level of completion and quality a developer provides when handing over a property to tenants or buyers. These standards specify items like MEP systems, façade quality, lobby finishes, and shell conditions, ensuring consistency and transparency across project types.
Redevelopment Strategies
What are Redevelopment Strategies
Redevelopment strategies involve repositioning or transforming existing properties to meet modern market needs. This can include adaptive reuse, structural upgrades, sustainability improvements, or complete redesigns. Such strategies maximize land value and extend the lifecycle of aging assets in competitive markets.
Site Planning
What is Site Planning
Site planning is the process of organizing buildings, access roads, utilities, green spaces, and infrastructure on a development plot. It establishes how the project functions within its surroundings, affecting circulation, efficiency, and compliance with local regulations.
Master Plan
What is a Master Plan
A master plan is a long‑range development blueprint guiding the layout, phasing, and future expansion of large commercial or mixed‑use sites. It coordinates land use, infrastructure, density, and sustainability targets to ensure cohesive long‑term growth.
Development Feasibility Study
What is a Development Feasibility Study
A development feasibility study evaluates the financial, regulatory, and technical viability of a proposed project. It analyzes costs, returns, zoning constraints, construction risks, and market demand to determine whether the project should proceed.
Concept Design
What is Concept Design
Concept design is an early design phase that explores initial building forms, massing, layouts, and architectural intent. It helps developers assess project potential, secure approvals, and estimate budgets before detailed design stages begin.
Mixed‑Use Development
What is a Mixed‑Use Development
A mixed‑use development combines multiple functions—such as office, retail, residential, and hospitality—within a single coordinated project. These developments optimize land use and support vibrant, interconnected urban environments.
Industrial Development
What is an Industrial Development
An industrial development is a property designed for manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, or distribution operations. Modern industrial projects prioritize site access, ceiling height, loading capacity, and energy efficiency to support high‑performance occupier operations.