Val Ward Cadillac opened in Fort Myers at the current location in 1980. While the architectural style was very traditional with brick facades and large arched openings, the design became dated and was not in keeping with the newer youthful image that Cadillac presents. Similarly, the interior spaces, while still adequate, had grown tired. As part of General Motors GM Facility Image program across all GM brands, subsidies became available to the Cadillac retail network to make changes necessary to align with the revitalized brand strategy and changing customer expectations. Cadillac partnered with the Detroit Office of Gensler Architects to create a ?Kit of Parts? to provide guidance on finishes, furnishings, lighting, and the proper use of the branded design elements for both the interior and exterior of the facilities. Cadillac developed these facility image guidelines to express the brand for retail customers consistently across locations.
?
Utilizing the available design and material standards, GMA began the task of documenting the changes necessary for the dealership to comply with the current national guidelines. Interior renovations brought a fresh new look and also were able to address some internal circulation and logistical issues. The most dramatic change was the re-cladding of the exterior facades. Large scale porcelain tile was used to conceal the existing brick and provide an elegant yet modern look. This material mimics the classic Indiana limestone facing recommended by the Facility Image Guidelines while addressing the inherent problems associated with using natural stone cladding in the Florida environment. The final result is a timeless appearance that ideally projects the Cadillac image.
