Got your eyes on a charming old building with all its history and character that you want to turn into a fabulous retail space? That sounds like a great idea.
The Marks and Spencer building in London’s Marble Arch and five retail shops in Middle Village inside the historic Atrium Building Julie Reinhardt are cases in point.
Historic buildings hold a certain charm, don’t they? High ceilings, exposed brick, intricate moldings—there is something magical about these spaces. But turning a centuries-old property into a chic retail store? That’s a different story.
Transforming a historic space into a contemporary retail store is about blending vintage charm with modern functionality. Here are some practical tips that will guide you through the process.
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#1 Don’t Erase the Charm—Embrace It
Historic buildings have a distinctive charm that modern architecture can’t replicate. From intricate moldings to grand staircases and weathered brick walls, these spaces tell stories that resonate with customers.
Don’t try to modernize every corner of the space. Celebrate what makes your building unique instead. Highlight original features like exposed beams, arched windows, or ornate ceilings—they create a memorable shopping experience that can’t be found in a cookie-cutter store.
Have an exposed brick wall? Don’t cover it up—let it take center stage as a striking design element. Are there original wood beams? Highlight them with soft lighting to draw attention to their natural beauty.
A case in point—The Factory at Franklin. Built in 1929, it was the home of Magic Chef, Dortch Stove Works, and the Jamison Bedding Company. The place, rich with history, was preserved carefully. Hence, it preserved many of the original features and architectural details.
#2 Address the Structural Basics
Old buildings have been around for a while. It’s no wonder that some parts might be a little worse for wear.
The Belle Isle Boat House, for instance, currently under lease by the Friends of Detroit Rowing, is significantly damaged.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reports that the structure has sustained severe damage. Constructed in 1902, the building’s structural issues have worsened in recent years. Architects estimate that renovation would cost $54m.
Addressing structural issues early on can save you headaches as well as expenses later.
Call an architect to inspect the foundation of the building—everything from the creaky floors to the dingy walls. Get them repaired if you notice gaps, cracks, unevenness, or deep scratches.
Don’t forget the roof, however. Just last month, century-old Strathmore Mill No. 1 hit the headline due to a partial roof collapse, which injured 3.
To avoid such incidents, get your roof inspected by a commercial roofer. A roof repair job might be in order, or even a replacement might be needed if the roof is sagging, has a missing shingle, or light is peeking through it.
A comprehensive inspection by a commercial roof repair company, according to CDS Systems Inc., will include exterior inspection, interior inspection, and roof access points. This will help the commercial roofing contractor figure out whether a roof repair or replacement is necessary.
A sturdy, updated roof not only protects your inventory, but also gives you peace of mind.
#3 Optimize for Modern Retail Needs
Sure, you want your store to feel modern, but there is a fine line between updating a space and stripping it of its charm.
How do you strike that sweet spot? By modernizing in ways that enhance functionality without erasing history.
Install sleek, minimalist lighting fixtures that highlight the old brick walls or modern shelving that complements vintage flooring. Keep the design simple and clean, so the original character of the space shines through.
Tech upgrades are another must. Consider installing smart checkout systems or AI-powered software systems in your store.
Omnichannel retailer Currys, for example, has launched new tech upgrades just ahead of this Christmas to enhance employee as well as customer experience. It has launched a digital queuing system in all of its stores in the UK.
This year, Walmart has also upgraded its regional distribution centers with high-tech automation, including robotics and AI-powered software systems.
#4 Make it Accessible for Everyone
Historic buildings weren’t exactly designed with modern accessibility in mind.
As you transform your space, make it such that everyone can access it. That is to say, you might have to add ramps and widen doorways. This will make your aisle easy to navigate.
Install elevators as well. They will provide easy access to different floors in the building.
If adding an elevator isn’t an option, think creatively about how to use the ground floor for the bulk of the shopping experience. Not only does this show that you care about inclusivity, but it also makes good business sense.
Transforming a historic space into a contemporary retail store is not just about making renovations, but more than that. It’s about honoring the past while embracing the present—because both have something special to offer.
Sure, there will be challenges, from navigating preservation rules to dealing with outdated infrastructure. But with a little creative flair, you can create a retail space that is not only visually stunning, but also functional and welcoming.