MVE + Partners (MVE), an award-winning architecture firm, recently completed the design and rebranding of the Johnson Lexus Dealership of Durham, North Carolina. Working with the existing building structure of the dealership and aligning with new Lexus brand standards, MVE created a design that is functional, operational, revenue generating and has the guest experience at its core.
MVE’s innovative planning strategy transformed the nearly 100,000 square foot dealership, creating a seamless flow for guests regardless of whether they are browsing, purchasing, or going in for service. The team used a holistic approach to designing all programmed areas including the main showroom, guest lounges, snack and refreshment areas, service drop-off, and car delivery, with an experience that is welcoming and comfortable, while effectively displaying the Lexus brand and cars.
“The intention of the design and rebranding of the Johnson Lexus dealership of Durham was to design a dealership that enhances the brand and creates a unique guest experience that leaves a strong lasting impression,” said Kap Malik, FAIA, principal at MVE.
Located at the juncture of I-40 and Rte.751, customers are easily guided into the dealership from the freeway. The building’s overall color and materials echo the Lexus brand’s sophistication. The form of the ceilings and striking light fixtures in the showroom are inspired by the Lexus car grill.
The guest consultation areas are in the form of “tripods” and use patterned glass. This allows for intimate conversations while remaining a part of the overall showroom experience and connected to the automobiles.
“MVE really understood how the Lexus brand is evolving with their unique design approach,” said Kimberly Sherron IIDA, LEED AP BD+C Dealer Facilities Manager & Design Leader, Lexus Division – Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. “The dealership showcases the brand’s essence and puts car buying experience at its heart.”
Every programmed area of the dealership enhances operational functionality. Using innovative technology and a personal check-in, guests are welcomed to the space. The intuitive floor and ceiling designs then effortlessly guide guests through the space.
All building materials used in the dealership are efficient and sustainable. The incorporation of high-performance glass reduces glare and heat transmission in the building, allowing the optimization of the mechanical building systems for the dealership. The entire building is also designed to sustain heavy wind loads as North Carolina is prone to hurricanes and extreme weather events.
“The design of Johnson Lexus Durham is a guest-oriented product that puts their needs at the forefront,” said David Johnson, owner of Johnson’s Automotive Service. “MVE’s innovative design is transforming the way we do business, making the dealership a place our guests look forward to visiting for all their automotive needs.”
Additional partners on the project include Choate Construction Company (general contractor), Morrison Engineers PLLC (structural engineering), Bass Nixon and Kennedy, Inc. (MEP) and Lighting Design Alliance (LDA).
Through its varied architectural capabilities, MVE has designed Honda, Porsche, Subaru, and Lexus dealerships that provide brand-immersive experiences for guests. The firm is looking forward to designing a KIA dealership in Miami and a Subaru dealership in Conroe, Texas.
“MVE is applying innovation and new technology to design forward-thinking projects that make the dealership experience straight-forward and appealing,” said Matthew McLarand, AIA, NCARB, president, MVE.
About MVE + Partners
Celebrating 50 years in the industry, MVE + Partners provides architecture, planning, and interiors from its multiple studios across the United States and Mexico to its clients across the globe. MVE + Partners’ mission is to design with passion, collaborate successfully, and sustainably enrich the communities it influences to continually deliver buildings that are exceptional by design. For more information, please visit their website.
