Occupant load drives design
Assembly uses have a high occupant load per area. This increases the number and width of exits, washroom fixtures and fire protection. A small increase in capacity can require large changes.
Confirm the planned load with your designer and the authority before you lease.
A rented space previously used for offices or retail often needs significant upgrades to carry an assembly use safely.
Exits and life safety
Doors, panic hardware, exit signs, emergency lighting and alarm systems are central. Our electrical and low voltage teams install these systems, and our doors and hardware crew fits the doors.
Fire alarms may need voice notification in larger rooms.
Panic hardware, door swing direction and exit paths are checked closely in assembly spaces, so confirm them with the designer early.
Ventilation and comfort
Crowded rooms heat up and fill with carbon dioxide. Ventilation must be sized for peak use, with controls that adjust to actual numbers. Our mechanical crew designs for both.
Acoustics matter for speech and music.
Cooling is as important as heating when rooms are full, particularly in summer events.
Acoustics and technology
Echo makes speech hard to follow. Absorptive ceilings and wall panels help. Sound systems, projectors, lighting and recording equipment need power and cabling. Our low voltage team installs audio-visual systems.
Consider storage for chairs and tables.
Plan storage and a clean-up routine. Tables, chairs and equipment need homes that do not block exits.
Test the sound system with a full room if you can, since people absorb sound.
Washrooms and kitchens
Washroom counts are tied to occupant load. A kitchen for catering or serving requires its own approvals and ventilation. Plan for accessibility throughout.
Parking and drop-off areas also matter to the neighbours and may be part of the approval.
Questions we hear
Can we use any commercial space for events?
Not necessarily. Occupant load, exits and zoning must allow it.