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.
For more information see: Shell and core.
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.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Government consultations for the summer of 2025
A year of Labour, past and present consultations on the environment, the built environment, training and tax.
Homes England supports Greencore Homes
42 new build affordable sustainable homes in Oxfordshire.
Zero carbon social housing: unlocking brownfield potential
Seven ZEDpod strategies for brownfield housing success.
CIOB report; a blueprint for SDGs and the built environment
Pairing the Sustainable Development Goals with projects.
Types, tests, standards and fires relating to external cladding
Brief descriptions with an extensive list of fires for review.
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.