Here are the basics of what you should know about a white box, and why it’s a smart retail construction project for commercial landlords.
As a commercial property owner, you may have heard of the term “white box” when discussing retail construction or renovation. Essentially, the white box finish of a space is the shell in which the interested tenant will complete with their own improvements before officially opening their retail space for business. Here are the basics of what you should know about a white box, and why it’s a smart retail construction project for commercial landlords.
What’s Included?
The white box is unfinished, and further retail construction is needed before the resident company or business can fully operate from the location. Still, a white box has quite a bit of the basic interior work already completed. These include:
- Basic lighting
- Basic ceiling
- Basic floors or subfloor
- Windows and doors
- Restrooms
- HVAC
- Basic plumbing
- Basic electrical wiring
Landlords usually also have any necessary building permits, inspections, and licenses sorted out for the new tenant’s convenience.
What Does the Tenant Need to Finish?
Tenants are working with a blank slate when they lease a white box from the property owner. Therefore, the businesses leasing the commercial space need to complete painting, building additional interior walls, adding wall coverings, furnishing, upgrading the plumbing and electrical work as required, and more. Businesses finish the interior with designs that align with their branding or industry needs. One retailer will build out their white box far more differently than another will if they sell different items or offered walk-in services.
Why is a White Box Desirable?
As we’ve previously explored, having a physical store location remains a critical component of retail success. Rather than complete extensive retail construction, companies prefer to find a suitable location for commercial renovations to bring the interior up to brand standards. A white box sets the right foundation for these unique tenant improvements. Furthermore, landlords who offer a white box lease can entice tenants to sign with them and get a quick project turnaround to open sooner.
Work With Encore Construction
As a premier commercial general contractor, Encore Construction is proud to provide interior and exterior services in Baltimore, Maryland and beyond. We have an impeccable track record, an impressive portfolio, and an experienced team that is ready to tackle your next big project. Our results speak for themselves, and we’re proud of the work we continue to produce for our clients.
Our office is located in Annapolis, MD and we are happy to serve Baltimore, Bowie, Columbia, Rockville, Washington DC, Tysons Corner VA, Northern VA, and surrounding areas. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for news and updates! Do you want to discuss your project with a member of our team? Visit our website, and call us at (410) 573-5050. We look forward to hearing from you!