What is a White Box?
An empty or unfinished space would be considered a Shell or Cold Shell. White boxing a space in commercial construction and real estate means to deliver a minimally or partially finished space to the property owner/landlord. This would typically consist of minimum mechanical (HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical) dropped ceiling and basic white walls(hence the term white box).Other variations would include finished out ADA compliant restrooms, minimum lighting, roughed in fire suppression system and HVAC system installed without finished ducting. This is all done so the prospective tenants will be better able to visualize their plans for the space.
Tenant Improvement Allowance:
In some cases the property owner/landlord will offer an allowance or rebate for portions of the finish out. This tenant improvement allowance (TIA) could include doors, walls, lighting fixtures, HVAC distribution, sprinklers, carpet, paint, or all of the above. The scope and dollar amount would be negotiated between the owner/landlord and tenant.
Finish Out/ Build Out:
Tenant build-out or finish-out is to take any retail, office or other commercial space from a cold shell or white box and remodel it for your particular business needs. Tenant improvements often include installation or relocation of interior walls or partitions, flooring, painting, shelving, doors, restrooms, and other accommodations to suite the specific needs of the tenant. Think carefully about the needs of the business and discuss these needs with your architect and general contractor. Getting these details sorted before the build out will save in change orders, cost and delays later.
Tout Construction Services offers these remodeling, build-out/finish-out and repair services throughout the Tarrant County area.