MiniLuxe
Game Changer.
As a pioneer in the nail salon industry, MiniLuxe has dedicated itself to creating clean, beautiful, and engaging environments for their loyal customers. Similarly, Upland Architects stands as a dedicated partner, contributing to the development of over 20 locations nationwide, including their flagship site in Boston, MA.
Same but different.
Upland developed a kit-of-parts prototype that offered the speed and cost efficiency of prototyping while retaining the client’s upscale boutique aesthetic. This approach gave the client the flexibility to explore various commercial spaces and was successfully applied to a range of challenging locations. The distinctiveness of each site enhanced the boutique nature of the brand, creating unique environments that were further highlighted by the diverse storefront designs.
Each salon was comprised of six components that could be arranged in various configurations, while maintaining consistent elements like millwork, size, and materials across all locations. This approach maximized cost savings, accelerated time to market, and provided flexibility, all while fostering a sense of brand identity and familiarity for loyal customers. The kit of parts included: concierge /welcome, manicure, pedicure, clean room, wax room, and backstage /support area.
Team MiniLuxe.
Upland participated in all aspects of real estate development and operated as an extension of the MiniLuxe real estate team. Services included....
Preliminary site analysis (pre-lease signing):
Graded prospective lease spaces for the client by identifying potential cost drivers prior to the lease signing. This included potential utility challenges, building maintenance issues, ADA barriers, building code, or permitting concerns. Additionally, Upland would review leases and assist in establishing landlord and tenant work letters.
Layout & Design Development:
Using the kit of parts, Upland would develop layout options based on local geographies, sight lines and brand elements. Upland also developed exterior renderings for storefront facades.
Construction Documents:
Developed architectural & engineering drawings for construction, landlord review, and permitting within 4 weeks of the notice to proceed. This included coordination of drawings with client's preferred vendors.
Permitting:
Prepared all documents and drawings required by local building and design review departments and worked with permit expediters in high-profile areas when deemed necessary during the preliminary site analysis.
Construction Bidding / Administration:
Qualified preferred contractor’s bids and provided construction administration services including RFI's, shop drawing reviews, and submittals.
Commissioning:
Ensured that contractor closed out all permits including health inspections.
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