MARCH 2015 \ BUILDING DIALOGUE \
51
as well as the residents and daytime
population in the immediate trade area
using a void analysis.
• Developers need to be intentional in
the development of their retail space. For
example, if they wish to secure a restau-
rant, they need to incorporate a hood sys-
tem, grease trap and outdoor seating area
(if possible) into their development plan
and budget. Other logistics, such as daily de-
liveries and trash removal, are critical to ad-
dress before construction of the project even
begins.
• Developers also need to be intentional
about the access and parking for retail cus-
tomers. This is very critical to the success for
retailers and restaurants, and parking is major
determining factor when they decide whether
or not to lease space.
• First-floor retail also needs to consider the im-
pact to the residence above. Such issues as hours of
operation, restaurant odors, delivery times and outside cus-
tomer traffic can be a negative more than a positive o the
building’s amenities.
• Developers need to be realistic about the visibility of their
retail space to heavily trafficked streets and intersections. All
things being equal, a retail space with inferior visibility to
the main road or intersection will equate to a smaller rental
rate and might not ever attract a strong business. Currently,
almost every nondestination business would prefer to pay a
premium for a superior location instead of receiving a dis-
count for an inferior space.
Denver’s new apartment buildings aren’t just providing
new residences to people, but many are also bringing new
– and needed – amenities and services to their residents and
the surrounding community.
\\
blarson@legendretailgroup.comTRENDS
in Retail Development
Belleview Station
MDP
ENGINEERING GROUP
303.389.0095
www.mdpeg.com“MDP Engineering has one goal – to be a great
engineering rm by providing the highest levels of
both technical delivery and project management,
and by being committed to a culture of loyal
clients and great employees.”
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Michael Passas, President