Interior Office Space design

[JStructsteel]

working on a interior office space build out. Will be offices in a warehouse. Top wont be occupied, but will have a couple HAVC units.

Was thinking a 20psf live load. would you reduce that more? Wont have a decking of any sort, so bare joists.

Im trying to use some longer spans for the architect, but then dont want to end up with a huge point load at bearing areas, walls etc.

Thoughts?

 

[AgMechEngr]

Make sure they agree that there are no plans to occupy the "top" in the future. I agree with 20 psf. They will inevitably throw some decking up there for storage.

 

[JStructsteel]

Thanks. Yes, I have discussed with the Arch. Will just have to post it, and let them decide if they want to risk it. Got some long spans, so some extra weight will cause ceiling deflections.
Thanks

 

[phamENG]

My preference is to design for the lesser of: maximum existing framing can support (as applicable) and maximum load that is likely to be placed considering physical restrictions. So if you have an open warehouse that's 20' tall and a ceiling at 8' in the office with a wall that's only 9 to 10feet...you have a mezzanine, plain and simple.

Extend the wall to the roof (or within a foot or so with some appropriate deflection detailing) and prevent anyone from getting in there unless they climb through a 2'x2' hatch in the ceiling.