Last edited 06 Oct 2020

Advantages of shell and core

The concept of shell and core (or base build) is that the developer builds the base building (the shell and core), and fit out works are left to be completed by tenants to their own specification before the building is occupied. Shell and core originated in the USA where it was used for office buildings that were built for rent by developers. Rosehaugh/Stanhope introduced a similar idea in the UK in its ground-breaking Broadgate development in the City of London.

There are several advantages to the shell and core method:

It can speed up the design and build process considerably, which can generate cost savings. It allows progress to be made in the design of portions of the building which will be fitted out later while the items of the shell and core that have a longer lead time (i.e. structures, façade and so on), are being constructed. This allows work to proceed without delays waiting for details of the interiors to be finalised.
It creates a blank canvas for occupants, making it more flexible, without impacting on the the main fabric of the building.
It avoids waste as it is less necessary for occupants to strip out existing fittings.
It can result in more energy-efficient buildings, as the typically concrete core creates a thermal mass that enhances heat storage potential of the building.
From the perspective of the end user, shell and core is particularly beneficial as it can result in a finish more suited to their needs. The ‘blank canvas’ of the building enables the end user to better align it to their individual requirements and there can be more time to develop proposal.
The underlying flexibility of the design means it is generally more straight forward for subsequent occupants to change the interior fit out.