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In NYC commercial interiors, the industrial look is everywhere. From open ceilings to exposed brick and polished concrete floors, clients love the raw, unfinished aesthetic. But before you start tearing down drywall, it’s worth asking: what’s actually allowed—and what’s just wishful thinking?

Here’s what to consider before going fully industrial.

Open Ceilings: A Raw Look with Real Constraints

Removing a drop ceiling can instantly transform a space, making it feel taller and more open. But open ceiling design comes with strings attached.

Once you expose beams, ductwork, or conduit, everything up there needs to meet NYC Building Code visibility, accessibility, and safety standards. For example, those colorful pipes and ducts? They might need insulation or fireproofing. If you’re revealing sprinkler heads, they must remain code-compliant in spacing and clearance. And if your original ceiling is low or uneven, you might not gain as much vertical space as you hoped.

Our team evaluates whether your ceiling structure is up to code—and worth showing off—before you commit.

Exposed Brick: Iconic, but Not Always Practical

Exposed brick is a classic NYC look, but peeling back the layers isn’t always so simple. The brick beneath your plaster might be in poor condition, covered in years of adhesive, or structurally unsound. Even when salvageable, exposed brick must often be repointed, sealed, and inspected for integrity—especially if it’s part of a party wall or fire-rated barrier.

In landmarked buildings, revealing interior masonry could trigger Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) review. Even in non-landmarked spaces, DOB may require documentation if removing finishes affects structural or egress elements.

We help you assess the wall’s condition and guide you through any needed approvals—so your aesthetic doesn’t turn into a compliance headache.

Polished Concrete: Sleek Finish, Subfloor Surprises

The appeal of polished concrete flooring is obvious: minimal, modern, durable. But it’s only feasible if your building’s existing slab is up to par.

Many NYC properties—especially older commercial spaces—have uneven, cracked, or patchy concrete beneath their finished floors. Polishing that surface might require extensive prep, including grinding, sealing, or pouring a self-leveling compound. Plus, in high-traffic areas or public assembly spaces, the finish must meet slip-resistance requirements and may require sound-dampening solutions.

We review your floor conditions early, so you’re not surprised by what lies beneath.

Balancing Vision and Feasibility

Trendy finishes can elevate a space—but only if they’re structurally sound and code-compliant. At ArkCo, we don’t just build what looks good. We build what works. That means aligning design intent with NYC construction codes, zoning rules, and landlord requirements.

Because sometimes, the best design move isn’t what you take down—but what you leave covered.

Let’s Make It Work—for Real

Whether you’re renovating a retail storefront, a creative office, or a hospitality venue, we’ll help you determine what’s aesthetic possibility and what’s real-world construction.

Talk to ArkCo about transforming your space without sacrificing compliance, safety, or your timeline.