Automotive

Gengras CDJR – A Comprehensive Dealership Transformation

Modernized service and customer lounge areas bring new life to this fully renovated Nissan dealership.

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Transforming Gengras CDJR: A Complete Facility Renovation in East Hartford, CT

Jewett Construction took on the challenge of renovating the Gengras CDJR dealership in East Hartford, CT, bringing modern design, functionality, and customer experience to the forefront. This fully occupied 17,000-square-foot renovation project redefined the dealership’s showroom, service area, and customer lounge, ensuring that every aspect of the facility met the high standards expected by today’s automotive consumers.

Creating a Customer-Centric Showroom

The showroom is the heart of any dealership, serving as the first impression for prospective car buyers. The redesign of Gengras CDJR’s showroom focused on creating an open, welcoming environment that enhances the car-buying experience. With spacious walkways, modern lighting solutions, and sleek finishes, the new showroom invites customers to explore the latest Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles in a setting that reflects quality and professionalism.

Some of the showroom’s new features include:

  • High-end tile flooring: Durable and stylish, designed to withstand heavy foot traffic while maintaining a polished look.
  • Energy-efficient LED lighting: Enhancing vehicle displays and reducing operational energy costs.
  • Updated seating and consultation areas: Providing comfortable spaces for customer interactions with sales representatives.
  • Glass-enclosed offices: Maintaining privacy while fostering a sense of openness within the showroom.

Enhancing the Service Area for Efficiency

Beyond the showroom, a dealership’s success depends on its ability to provide top-tier service and maintenance. The renovation of the Gengras CDJR service area focused on improving workflow, technician efficiency, and customer convenience.

Key upgrades to the service center include:

  • Additional service bays: Expanding capacity to accommodate more vehicles, reducing wait times for customers.
  • Advanced diagnostic equipment integration: Ensuring that every vehicle receives the highest standard of care.
  • Dedicated quick lube lanes: Speeding up essential maintenance services for customer convenience.
  • Improved vehicle drop-off and pickup areas: Creating a seamless process for customers bringing their vehicles in for service.

A Comfortable and Engaging Customer Lounge

Understanding that service wait times are inevitable, Jewett Construction designed an upgraded customer lounge that enhances comfort and convenience. The new lounge provides customers with a more enjoyable waiting experience through thoughtful design elements.

Enhancements to the lounge include:

  • Plush seating areas: Featuring a mix of individual seating and communal tables.
  • Complimentary coffee and refreshments: Keeping customers comfortable during their visit.
  • Charging stations and Wi-Fi access: Allowing visitors to stay connected while waiting for their vehicles.
  • Kid-friendly areas: Creating a welcoming space for families with children.

Innovative Design and Sustainability

Incorporating sustainability into commercial projects is a top priority for Jewett Construction. During the Gengras CDJR renovation, energy-efficient materials and smart building systems were used to reduce the dealership’s carbon footprint.

Some of the eco-friendly features include:

  • LED lighting upgrades: Lowering energy consumption throughout the dealership.
  • High-efficiency HVAC systems: Improving climate control while reducing energy costs.
  • Use of recycled and sustainable building materials: Contributing to an environmentally responsible renovation.
  • Water-saving plumbing fixtures: Minimizing water usage in bathrooms and service areas.

Overcoming Challenges in an Occupied Renovation

One of the key challenges of the Gengras CDJR renovation was completing the work while the dealership remained operational. This required careful planning, phased construction, and clear communication between all stakeholders.

Jewett Construction implemented the following strategies to ensure minimal disruption:

  • Phased construction scheduling: Breaking the project into stages to keep key areas of the dealership open at all times.
  • After-hours and off-peak work: Completing high-impact construction activities outside of peak business hours.
  • Temporary barriers and dust control: Maintaining a clean and safe environment for customers and employees.
  • Regular progress updates: Keeping dealership staff informed to ensure smooth daily operations.

Setting the Stage for Long-Term Success

The completion of the Gengras CDJR renovation marks a significant milestone for the dealership, positioning it as a leader in automotive sales and service excellence in East Hartford, CT. With modern amenities, enhanced operational efficiency, and a customer-focused environment, the dealership is now better equipped to meet the evolving needs of today’s car buyers.

Key takeaways from the project:

  • Enhanced customer experience: A more inviting showroom and service lounge improve overall satisfaction.
  • Increased service capacity: Additional bays and quick lube lanes improve operational efficiency.
  • Energy-efficient design: Sustainable building solutions reduce long-term costs and environmental impact.
  • Seamless renovation process: Careful planning allowed the dealership to remain fully operational.

Partnering with Jewett Construction for Your Automotive Renovation

Jewett Construction has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality dealership renovations that align with manufacturer standards while enhancing the customer experience. Our expertise in automotive construction ensures that each project is completed with precision, efficiency, and attention to detail.

Whether you're looking to upgrade your showroom, expand your service center, or modernize your dealership’s facilities, Jewett Construction is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can transform your space into a high-performance dealership designed for long-term success.

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