We recently purchased the BOMA Mixed-Use Properties Standards for one of our projects, with the understanding that it would be a comprehensive guideline for calculating the sq. footage of a project, as is indicated on the BOMA website. Now that we've been going through the book, we were surprised that the books says that it is to be used in conjunction with additional books to be purchased.

For the external gross area of a retail space, our understanding is that it includes the perimeter wall and the portions that are load-bearing (necessary to bldg.) but excludes unnecessary, 'decorative' portions. Could you confirm if this is correct?

On the first level of this mixed-use floor, there are a few staircases that service only one specific retail space. We hope it's correct that we're including it in the area of the specific retail space, and that we're taking the area from the landing to the first step.

What specifications are present in the BOMA Retail Standards and Gross Areas of a Building are not included in the BOMA Mixed-Use Properties?

Looking forward to hearing from you. Your prompt reply would be highly appreciated.

Thanks!