What type of building is designed for direct trade or service to the public?

A commercial building is specifically designed to facilitate direct trade or services to the public. These buildings include stores, offices, restaurants, and other establishments where business transactions occur. The architecture and layout are purposefully planned to optimize customer interaction and access, which is crucial for the success of commercial enterprises.

The distinction lies in their function; commercial buildings are explicitly tailored to host activities that generate profit through the sale of goods and services. This type of building often features storefronts, open layouts for customer engagement, and amenities that support business operations and marketing, making them vital components of local economies.

In contrast, residential buildings serve as living spaces, industrial buildings focus on manufacturing and production, and public buildings are generally designed for government or community services rather than direct commercial activity.