Commercial Kitchen Design & Construction

Led engineering decisions for a commercial kitchen buildout, optimizing layout, equipment selection, and mechanical/electrical/network infrastructure while reducing project cost through code-compliant design alternatives.

Type
Professional
Timeframe
Nov 2024
 - 
Jun 2025
Status
Complete

Overview

Served as engineering consultant for the design and construction of a full-scale commercial kitchen at Lake Clear Lodge & Resort. The project required balancing budget constraints, building code compliance, and operational efficiency across mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and network systems. Responsibilities spanned from initial layout design and equipment evaluation through contractor coordination, system documentation, and final inspections.

Goals

  • Lead engineering decisions for a complete commercial kitchen buildout within budget
  • Optimize kitchen layout, equipment selection, and infrastructure for workflow efficiency and long-term operating cost reduction
  • Identify cost savings without compromising code compliance or operational capability
  • Design and install modern network infrastructure to support POS and KDS systems
  • Produce comprehensive documentation for all building systems and coordinate implementation across trades
The foundation being poured in the early stages of the project.
The foundation being poured in the early stages of the project.

How Was It Made?

Electrical rough-in during the build out.
Electrical rough-in during the build out.
  • Evaluated 10+ kitchen layout configurations using custom cost analysis tools, optimizing for workflow efficiency, equipment placement, and operating costs
  • Identified and implemented a code-compliant alternative to a Type I Hood, eliminating $50,000+ in equipment and installation costs
  • Redesigned the electrical system layout to resolve power constraints, avoiding costly service infrastructure upgrades
  • Installed a 10 Gbps fiber optic network throughout the kitchen, replacing legacy connectivity and enabling modern POS/KDS integration
  • Developed detailed written documentation covering mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and network system layouts
  • Coordinated with contractors across all trades and managed inspections and sign-offs for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems

Results

Interior of the commercial kitchen after completion.
Interior of the commercial kitchen after completion.
  • Delivered a fully operational commercial kitchen on budget, meeting all applicable building codes and safety standards
  • Saved $50,000+ through strategic equipment and infrastructure decisions
  • Eliminated previous connectivity issues with a dedicated 10 Gbps fiber network supporting POS and kitchen display systems
  • Produced a complete documentation package enabling future maintenance and system modifications across all building disciplines
Technical Report