Today’s car dealerships are no longer just places to buy a vehicle. Instead, they’re evolving into experience centers. Dealerships need facilities that reflect their brand and support a more efficient and future-ready operation. Modern customer expectations are prompting dealership owners to invest in dealership renovations that enhance the customer experience, streamline operations, and ultimately increase sales.
Crain Construction has been a long-term construction partner for many dealerships across Nashville, and we understand the unique demands of this industry. In this article, we’ll offer an inside look at a recent dealership renovation—from concept to completion. The Lexus of Cool Springs project offers a real-world example of how today’s best practices play out on the ground.
A Long-Standing Partnership Reimagined
Our relationship with Lexus of Cool Springs goes way back. Crain Construction built its original dealership in 1997. Two decades later, Lexus reached out to Crain with a new vision: they wanted to renovate the space to better serve modern customers and elevate the luxury Lexus brand.
Completed in 2020, our renovation touched nearly every part of the building. Upgrades included a new roof over the showroom and service areas, a dedicated vehicle delivery zone, an enhanced customer lounge, and a small addition to expand office and sales space. The finished facility now totals 27,555 square feet.
What made this project even more meaningful? Crain was able to bring back eight of the original trade partners who helped complete the dealership 23 years prior. That continuity speaks to the strength of relationships with trade partners and the level of trust we build with the subcontractors we choose.
Best Practices in Auto Dealership Renovations
Renovating a busy car dealership requires careful planning and precise execution. Here’s how key strategies were applied during the Lexus of Cool Springs renovation:
Exterior and Facade Updates
The exterior of a car dealership creates a valuable first impression. A well-designed outdoor space with plenty of parking and clear pathways can grab attention and make the dealership more inviting.
First, we modernized the building’s exterior to include tall glass windows surrounding the showroom. The new windows now create an open and welcoming feel for visitors. We also installed new aluminum composite panel cladding, a sleek material that gives the dealership a fresh, contemporary look.
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Prioritizing Customer Experience Through Welcoming Interiors
Today’s dealerships focus on creating comfortable, welcoming spaces that build customer trust and loyalty. Every touchpoint—from arrival to departure—should be smooth and pleasant.
We completely revamped the entire interior, starting with the reception area and customer lounge to ensure they were inviting and comfortable. Next, we updated the restrooms and service areas, aiming to create a consistent, high-end experience for every visitor.
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Integrating Technology into the Showroom
Technology is a major force in the modern dealership experience. Customers expect seamless, digital interactions, so dealerships must integrate technology into their physical spaces. This includes digital displays, interactive kiosks, and reliable connectivity for both staff and customers.
A centerpiece of the renovation was building a brand-new Lexus Technology Center. This dedicated showroom highlights the innovative and advanced technology available in Lexus vehicles, offering customers an interactive way to explore features firsthand.
Phasing Construction While Staying Open
Working on any project while a business is still open is always a challenge, but for a busy car dealership, it’s crucial. Customers need access, and sales must continue. Careful planning, constant communication, and flexibility are essential. Partnering with a contractor who excels at clear scheduling for each renovation phase can make all the difference.
A proud moment on this project was our speed. The contract aimed for 184 calendar days to complete the work, but we were able to finish it in just 138 days. We achieved this by working closely with Lexus, keeping disruptions to a minimum, and allowing the dealership to operate smoothly throughout the renovation.
Protecting Assets With a Durable New Roof
A dealership’s roof protects significant assets: vehicles, equipment, and customer areas. Often, a new roof is needed alongside a renovation, which calls for careful coordination. Since the business remains open, safety and minimizing disruption are top priorities. Updating the roof with the latest advancements ensures long-term protection and improved energy efficiency.
As part of the renovation, we installed a new roof over both the showroom and service areas. This upgrade provides long-lasting durability and safeguards Lexus’s valuable assets for years to come.
Your Partner in Dealership Evolution
Dealership renovation is a strategic investment to ensure your facility meets the demands of today’s customers and future vehicle technologies. Crain Construction has overseen several renovations for dealerships since the Lexus of Cool Springs project in 2020.
If you’re planning a dealership renovation in Nashville or the surrounding area, let’s connect. Crain Construction is ready to be your long-term construction partner. We can help you navigate the complexities of modernizing your space to ensure your dealership is ready for the future. Check out our other dealership projects or reach out to our team today to discuss your vision.
