Looking forward to designing your new retail store? It's certainly an exciting time, but there are also some potential pitfalls to be aware of. There's more to designing a retail store than some new retail shelving and fixtures, but a little preparation ahead of time can prevent a lot of headaches during design and construction.
Potential pitfalls and what you can do to prevent them
Pitfall: An unprofessional contractor
How to avoid it:
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Beware of the "lowest bid"
Just as you wouldn't buy retail shelving based upon price alone, so, too, must you put the same effort into hiring a true quality contractor with the expertise necessary to do the job right. While you certainly deserve a reasonable price for the work done, the best contractors often charge more because they don't cut corners; it takes time, effort, and quality materials to do the job right, and those things cost money.
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Look at potential contractors' work histories
As you interview contractors, look at their work histories. Do they have most of their experience in retail building, or in residential? What stores have they built or remodeled? Take a close look at potential contractors' portfolios; do previous projects clearly show a talent for building inviting spaces that effortlessly draw customers in? How good are they at customizing cost effectively so that they can meet your specific needs and yet keep the process within budget?
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Check references
The professionalism (or lack thereof) your contractor exhibits can make or break your business' ultimate success. The best indicator of that professionalism is what previous clients have to say. Thoroughly check references to make sure they're valid and that clients have been satisfied with the contractor's work.
Pitfall: Failure to meet building code requirements
How to avoid it:
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Determine needed permits ahead of time
Minor interior design changes (reconfiguring retail shelving layout, repainting walls, putting down new floor coverings) will probably not require a permit(s), but any type of new construction or remodeling will. An experienced contractor can help you determine and apply for the permits needed, but you should also read up on your own city's ordinances yourself.
An experienced retail contractor will be familiar with the laws and regulations pertaining to retail construction, but you should also become informed yourself. Failure to adhere to regulations could put you in violation and leave you subject to significant fines or even denial of permits altogether.
Pitfall: Failure to adhere to The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements
How to avoid it:
The ADA requires that new construction be fully compliant with current regulations and that existing businesses like retail stores must make "readily achievable" changes to remove existing barriers. Failure to meet these requirements may result in a $55,000 fine for the first offense and $110,000 for each subsequent offense.
Requirements include:
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Disabled parking spaces
The number depends on the size of your store and its location.
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At least one ramped, accessible entrance
Usually the main entrance. If you must choose another instead, it should be clearly marked. Doorways should be 32 inches wide at minimum.
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Accessible bathrooms and dressing rooms
Handrails, raised toilets, and lowered sinks and mirrors should be in at least one bathroom/dressing room per gender, as applicable.
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Lower service counters and wider checkout lanes
At least one service counter in areas such as checkout lanes must have part of that counter at more than 36 inches above the floor for easy wheelchair access; lanes should be at least 36 inches wide.
These suggestions can both guide you through your design process and help you avoid expensive mistakes, delays, and do overs.
