hughes marino planning and design service line

Top Commercial Space Planning & Design


Enhancing Office Function and Design to fit Your Culture

Creating the Perfect Space for your Team to Thrive


At Hughes Marino, we believe that every company deserves a workspace that not only meets operational needs but also inspires teams and reflects unique company culture. Our Planning + Design team partners with clients nationwide to deliver tailored commercial space planning and design solutions—guiding you from initial concept to move-in, and beyond.

Trusted by Leading Companies Nationwide 

We are honored by the national recognition for our service and culture we’ve received over the years, including the praise from our clients.

Our transaction included a significant multi-floor occupied remodel. Hughes Marino’s Planning + Design and Project Management teams worked together to bring our office up to date and emulate our brand and values. We can’t recommend Hughes Marino enough!

Steven Cologne
Managing Partner, Higgs Fletcher & Mack, LLP

See more client testimonials to discover why top companies choose Hughes Marino.

Our Approach to Commercial Space Planning

Our integrated approach ensures a seamless experience—minimizing disruption, controlling costs and delivering spaces that truly work for your team.

hughes marino headquarters living room planning and design page

Understanding Your Needs

We start by listening and learning about your business, culture and goals. Our team conducts in-depth needs assessments, space surveys and workflow analyses to ensure your new environment supports productivity, collaboration and future growth.

What We Offer

Programming + Needs Assessment

We gather data on your staff size, desking requirements, functional and support spaces, and desired amenity spaces. We then consider the building type you are pursuing to include necessary circulation and load factor ratios that determine how many square feet of space will be required.

Space Utilization/Existing Conditions Analysis

We tour your space and collect visual information on how it is used to determine where we can enhance efficiency, density, or function, and to determine what spaces are under-utilized or where opportunities can be created.

Workplace Strategy + Culture Consulting

As thought leaders in culture, we lead conversations on workplace culture, evolution, design, and desired outcomes. Our impartial status yields honest and thoughtful dialogue and carries energy and momentum into the real estate process. We collate and distribute real, actionable, data-driven results to launch the physical design process.

Space Planning + Test Fits

We provide initial floor plan studies that develop the “big idea”, ensure a space is sized adequately, and include necessary functions and amenities.

Interior Design

We engage all phases of the design process—concept, schematic and design development. We develop floor plans and architectural components, as well as palette and material finish selections.

Furniture, Fixture, Equipment Design + Procurement Management

We develop a design standard and lead a Request For Proposal (RFP) process which includes bidding and selection, and coordinate with selected furniture vendors on layout, material, and finish selections.

Corporate Design Standards

We develop architectural, material palette, and furniture standards for businesses with multiple locations who want a unified look across their portfolio.

Architectural Branding

We use words and imagery together with architectural branding solutions that graphically illustrate a company’s corporate culture, history, mission and values.

Physical Distancing Analysis

Our team specializes in space planning of all types and densities and is uniquely positioned to respond to the changing needs of your team by reconfiguring your space to meet recommended physical distancing standards.

Design Consulting

For our clients who have periodic but not continuous need for in-house design representation, we provide consulting and peer review services that ensure your companies best interests are priority during the design process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are companies evolving their conference and meeting spaces to meet today’s needs?

We’re seeing companies move toward more 4-6-person meeting rooms and open all-hands spaces, while integrating technology-forward rooms that make every participant, remote or in the office, feel included. Thoughtful layouts, like U-shaped seating, ensure collaboration flows seamlessly between in-person and virtual attendees.

What is the process for commercial space planning and design?

We guide you through every step—from initial needs assessment and space programming to design selection, construction oversight and move-in support. Our team manages all the planning and interior design details, so you can focus on your business.

How far in advance should I start planning my new space?

Ideally, engage our team as early as possible—preferably six to twelve months before your desired move-in date. Early planning helps secure the best locations, negotiate favorable terms and avoid costly delays.

Can you help with furniture and design selection?

Absolutely. Our designers curate options that align with your brand, budget and functional needs, coordinating all procurement and installation.

How do you ensure the space reflects our company culture?

We collaborate closely with your leadership and teams, integrating your values, branding and workflow preferences into every design decision.

What are some of the most important elements in office design?

Based on our experience, some of the most important key elements of office design include a welcoming reception area that creates a strong first impression, effective lighting (ideally natural) to enhance functionality and ambiance, and the use of glass to maximize light and openness. Additionally, well-designed collaboration spaces—both indoor and outdoor—foster creativity, teamwork and innovation.

How do you promote future proofing your client’s spaces?

We promote future proofing by conducting a Needs Assessment, gathering employee feedback, and, when possible, testing different furniture layouts to find what works best. We also advise making gradual adjustments rather than drastic changes, allowing spaces to adapt to shifting trends and avoid delays or inefficiencies.

How can we easily refresh our office space without a full renovation?

Small updates can make a big impact! Our Planning + Design team at Hughes Marino suggests swapping out slipcovers and pillows, updating lighting fixtures, or introducing bold, inspiring art and books to create a fresh, vibrant feel. Thoughtful touches like these can revitalize your space, spark creativity and keep your office feeling new and inviting.

How can the layout of our office kitchen impact employee engagement and productivity?

A strategically arranged kitchen can boost engagement by providing a central spot for collaboration and informal discussions. When employees have a place to recharge and connect, productivity and morale naturally improve.

Our Awards & Recognition

Hughes Marino’s commitment to client success and workplace innovation has earned national recognition. Explore our awards and honors.

Ready to Create Your Dream Space?

Let’s discuss how our Planning + Design team can help you achieve a workspace that cultivates culture, supports growth and inspires your team.

Schedule Consultation

Start your real estate project

"*" indicates required fields

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Services apply.

Subscription
Privacy Policy*

Planning + Design Insights