Week 3-4: Plans for the new building

We are getting excited because plans are being finalized for the new workshop. We have decided to look on the bright side of this whole experience and take the opportunity to build a larger building. We are adding 1500 sq ft and will also get a chance to implement the many improvements that we have been planning in the past few years. Here are some of the working plans.

The outside of the building is utilitarian (it is a workshop, after all) with a nice array of windows to let in natural light. The walls and roof will be clad with dark grey Galvalume corrugated metal. 

We decided to move the overhead loading door to the east side of the building for easier access. Although I must say, I was always impressed at how the various freight and supply company’s drivers were able to manouever their large tractor trailers back to our old loading door. You can also see the 2 man-doors (that’s builder-speak for a regular hinged door) that will allow access to the main workshop area and the new back addition.

This is a plan view of the main workshop floor. You can see the new rear section that will house a separate finishing room, assembly and pack/ship area. We are particularly excited about the new finishing room as this will really improve our efficiency and ensure an even higher quality product. We have also gained some valuable storage and work space in the northeast corner of the shop.

This is a plan view of our office. It is quite similar to the layout we had before with a large open plan space, a small kitchenette and bathroom, and an added window on the east wall to help with air circulation.