Utah architect’s keen understanding of the complex and sophisticated nature of automotive dealerships

Mike Anderson, Project Architect and Automotive specialist, was first introduced to the automotive market sector through Ken Garff Companies with their addition remodel to their American Fork, Utah Ford location. From there, he has become an invaluable expert for CMA.

He understands and values the many influences on automotive design. “We coordinate the owner preferences, balancing the owner’s and manufacturer’s needs to produce a product that complements both parties.” Dealerships are complex and sophisticated, and the CMA team rises to the occasion.

3D models and massing visualizations help, he said. The big picture helps determine a wide swath of pros and cons before delving into construction. Anderson urges automotive clients, when approaching the architecture of their building, to “allow for adaptations that will ensure your business functions the way you want it to, based on your customers and employees.” Adaptations aren’t always the easiest to settle on for those who have a solid vision, but they often result in structures that are far more suited to the overall vision and demands of the client. “Use the updates to influence your future vision for long term use and business practices,” he urged.

CMA’s automotive department relies on virtual reality and 360-degree panorama tours to help clients come to a more nuanced and adaptable vision; it’s one of our strengths. Providing clients a tangible conception of their space offers room for discussion concerning any adaptations and aspirations that need to be addressed. Automotive design is ever-evolving and requires both precision and inspiration.

“More than ever before, each manufacturer is developing models that cater to electric power resources,” Anderson said when asked to address which changes are occurring in automotive design. “This is likely to continue and become more the norm.” There are other things like laws for proximity of manufacturer representation and, he suggested, vertical storage buildings—precisely because of an increased prevalence of online shopping, inventory display, and car delivery services.

But overall, whatever the changes, the need for adaptations, or the high demands for nuance and vision that make automotive design what it is, Anderson said that it’s the team that makes the difference. “CMA has established relationships with engineers and contractors that are experts in their field,” he expressed. Together, we see to it that “timelines, budgets, and expectations are met or exceeded.” And we always strive to exceed.