To accomplish all goals, it was necessary to obtain a conditional use permit and a signage variance.
Conditional Use Permit: Recent changes to the zoning law established a 350 foot setback for vehicle service
facilities; the existing body shop was 75 feet from the property line. By illustrating planned landscape
improvements and planned building appearances, a perpetual conditional use permit was obtained that allowed
future buildings to conform to the existing 75 foot position.
Signage Variance: City zoning guidelines allowed only one pylon sign; a variance for 3 pylons was obtained
by illustrating to the City Council that tastefully designed quality signage well integrated with the site
and building is a higher standard for judgement than quantity alone.
Existing SAAB Building:
The interior was a tired combination of plywood paneling, thin carpet, saggy lay-in ceiling tiles and glaring
fluourescent lighting. It's hard to believe the interior was attractive, even when new; it's message was
'do the least to get it done'.
Renovated SAAB Showroom and New Vehicle Delivery:
From the customer's point of view, there is nothing quite like the day one takes delivery of a new car. The
shopping is over and financing has been arranged; it's a day of success. From the dealership point of view,
the delivery sequence is an opportunity to reinforce the relationship - to suggest that every aspect of the
dealership is designed around customer service. One of the most significant memories the customer will retain
is the one they have as they drive out of the Showroom.
The back section of the building (location 1 on the floor plan) contains specially lighted hand wash and detailing facilities, enabling the dealership
to make the vehicle look 'perfect'. When ready, prepared vehicles are moved into the Delivery Area (location 5
or 10 on the plan, depending on the weather).
Upon arrival, the Customer is greeted by their salesperson, given a leisurely view of their new vehicle, then escorted to the glass enclosed Finance Manager's Office. Once paperwork
is complete, the customer receives a vehicle orientation from their Salesperson. In contrast to the vaulted
Showroom ceiling, the Delivery Area features intensified downlighting in a curved pattern ceiling, suggesting
the experience of being 'on stage'.
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