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How to Improve the Outlook of an Old Building for Business Purposes in Nigeria by Dennis Isong
How to Improve the Outlook of an Old Building for Business Purposes in Nigeria by Dennis Isong
Sahara Weekly Reports That In Nigeria, many businesses are housed in older buildings due to their affordability, strategic location, or historical value. However, these buildings often require significant upgrades to be visually appealing and functional for modern commercial purposes. Revamping an old building can greatly improve its commercial viability, attract tenants or customers, and boost business operations.
Improving the outlook of an old building doesn’t always require a full-scale renovation; strategic enhancements can offer significant improvements. In this article, we will discuss practical steps to improve the aesthetics and functionality of an old building for business purposes in Nigeria.
1. Do a Building Assessment
Before embarking on any improvement project, a thorough assessment of the building’s current state is essential. This evaluation should cover both the exterior and interior, identifying areas that need repair or replacement.
Ensure the building is structurally sound. Look for cracks, water damage, or foundation problems. Consult a structural engineer if necessary.
Outdated wiring or plumbing can be hazardous. Have professionals inspect these systems and update them to meet modern safety standards.
Consider how the building’s design, façade, and layout affect its appearance. Does it look old and outdated? Could minor cosmetic changes make a significant difference?
Once the assessment is complete, prioritize repairs based on necessity and budget.
2. Enhance the Façade
The exterior of the building is the first thing customers or tenants see, and its condition can impact first impressions. Improving the façade should be a key focus in your project to modernize the building. In Nigeria’s competitive business environment, a visually appealing exterior can make a huge difference in attracting clients.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve the outlook of an old building is through a fresh coat of paint. Opt for modern, neutral colors that suit the business type. Vibrant accents can add character and appeal.
Outdated or damaged windows and doors can make a building look dilapidated. Install modern glass windows and sleek doors that complement the new look.
Invest in modern, high-quality signage. Ensure it is visible, well-lit, and reflects the brand image.
A well-maintained lawn, trees, or flower beds can enhance the curb appeal of your building. Consider adding potted plants or small garden areas, especially in urban areas where green spaces are scarce.
3. Modernize the Interior Design
Once you’ve addressed the building’s exterior, focus on transforming the interior to meet the needs of modern businesses. Outdated layouts or designs can deter potential tenants or customers, especially in sectors like retail, hospitality, or offices.
Many modern businesses prefer open, flexible spaces. If possible, remove unnecessary partitions or walls to create an open, airy environment.
Upgrade old lighting systems to energy-efficient LED lights. A combination of natural and artificial lighting enhances visibility and can make a space feel larger.
Use modern furniture that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Opt for ergonomic chairs and sleek desks if you’re creating an office space. The décor should also reflect the brand and business type.
Old, worn-out flooring can diminish the building’s appeal. Consider replacing it with durable, stylish options like polished concrete, laminate, or tile.
In Nigeria’s hot climate, proper ventilation and air conditioning are essential for creating a comfortable business environment. Ensure that HVAC systems are in good condition or upgrade them if necessary.
4. Upgrade Energy Efficiency
Energy costs in Nigeria can be a significant expense for businesses, especially when dealing with older buildings that were not designed with modern energy-efficiency standards. Upgrading the building’s energy efficiency not only reduces operational costs but also makes the property more attractive to eco-conscious tenants.
Proper insulation can significantly reduce the need for excessive air conditioning. Install insulation in the roof, walls, and floors to regulate indoor temperatures.
Consider installing solar panels to supplement the electricity supply, reducing dependency on the grid. Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular in Nigeria as a way to offset high electricity costs.
Use double-glazed windows to minimize heat loss and reduce the need for constant air conditioning.
Installing smart thermostats allows tenants to control the temperature more efficiently, reducing energy waste.
5. Improve Accessibility
Accessibility is a crucial factor when improving an old building for business purposes. Ensuring that your property is accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities, broadens its market appeal and complies with legal requirements.
Ensure the building has wide, accessible entrances and exits. Ramps or elevators may need to be installed to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
Provide restrooms that are accessible to people with disabilities. This may involve widening doorways or installing handrails.
Designate parking spaces close to the entrance for disabled individuals. If the building is situated in a busy area, ensure adequate and accessible parking facilities.
6. Maintain the Building Regularly
Once the improvements have been made, regular maintenance is essential to keep the building in good condition. Neglecting maintenance can cause the building to deteriorate quickly, negating the value of your investments.
Schedule routine cleaning of both the interior and exterior. This helps maintain the building’s appeal and prevents issues like mold or pest infestations.
Conduct regular inspections of the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Promptly fix any damages, whether it’s a leaky roof, cracked windows, or malfunctioning security systems. Delaying repairs can lead to bigger problems and higher costs in the future.
7. Rebrand the Building
If the building is old, it might have a reputation that no longer fits its new look and function. Rebranding can attract new tenants or customers by shifting perceptions and aligning the building with modern business trends.
If the building’s name is outdated or unappealing, consider rebranding it with a new name that aligns with the type of businesses you want to attract.
Invest in professional branding services to create a cohesive brand image for the building. This could include a logo, signage, and marketing materials.
Use social media, local media, and outdoor advertising to showcase the improvements made to the building. Offer potential tenants a tour of the upgraded space.
For personalized assistance with your property needs, contact Dennis Isong, a top Lagos realtor specializing in helping Nigerians in the diaspora own property stress-free.
Contact: +2348164741041
Dr. Abigail Adesina Olagbaye, CEO Desigo Tourism Development and Facility Management Company Ltd and founder, Sayari Dunia Sustainable Tourism Foundation, a seasoned tourism practitioner with 23 years of experience (out of which 21 years have been in Tourism), has announced her candidacy for President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), the oldest and premier tourism trade Association in Nigeria.
With a proven track record of driving innovation and sustainable growth, Dr. Olagbaye is poised to transform Nigeria’s tourism landscape.
” Her vision is to re-position ATPN as the leading voice for Nigeria’s tourism development,” Dr. Olagbaye stated. “I’m committed to empowering our members with the training, resources, and networking opportunities they need to excel in their careers and elevate industry standards.”
Dr. Olagbaye’s campaign focuses on five key objectives:
– Strengthening Industry Partnerships: Fostering collaborations and alliances that drive growth and development.
– Capacity Building: Providing training, resources and opportunities to enhance professionalism.
– Advocacy: Amplifying the voice of tourism practitioners in Nigeria and beyond.
– Tourism Promotion: Showcasing Nigeria’s hidden gems both domestically and internationally.
– Improved Member Benefits: Enhancing the overall experience for ATPN members.
Additional initiatives to consider include:
– Faith-based International Conference Tourism: Tapping into the MICE potential of faith-based tourism.
– Medical Tourism: Promoting Nigeria as a hub for medical excellence.
– Sports Tourism: Leveraging sports to drive tourism growth.
– Language Training: Enhancing language skills to improve tourist experiences.
– Youth Tourism: creating opportunities for youths to be actively engaged in Tourism leveraging their potentials, talents and energies and enabling them to benefit from the socio-economic opportunities that tourism offers.
– Agro Tourism: Develop agro-tourism as a sub-sector of Tourism through partnerships and collaboration with the ministry of agriculture to ensure regulatory support, international organisations for cross pollination of ideas and knowledge transfer and capacity building, encourage our members to organise more farm stays, rural tours, food tourism events for more authentic experiences. Advocate for infrastructural development for rural roads and other amenities. Collaborate with locals for sustainability and inclusion.
To further enhance Nigeria’s tourism industry, Dr. Olagbaye plans to create robust social media platforms for the association. This will enable people at home and abroad to access tourism companies in Nigeria with international standard websites and social media focusing on major sites.Social media being an essential tool for promoting tourism.
As the pioneer of initiatives like Africa Tourism Climate Action Forum ATCAF and Africa Tourism Day, a nouveaux initiative in Africa which she started in 2020 in collaboration with the African Tourism Board, now in its 5th edition, Dr. Olagbaye has demonstrated her passion for sustainable tourism practices and her ability to drive meaningful change. “I invite fellow tourism practitioners to join me in transforming Nigeria’s tourism landscape,” she concluded.
Get in touch with Dr. Abigail Olagbaye:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +2349122525250
Social Media: @abbieolagbaye
@abigailolagbaye
@Dr. Abigail Olagbaye
(Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)
*Campaign Slogan:* “Transforming Tourism, Empowering Practitioners”.
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The Next Chapter of Amen City: Sade Balogun talks about TIARA Estates & Amen Phase 3 in Lagos, Nigeria
In a move that underscores her commitment to excellence, Sade Balogun, the mastermind behind Redbrick Homes International Limited and Amen City Ltd, has introduced TIARA Estates and Amen Estate Phase 3, expanding the renowned Amen City in a big way!
Situated in the picturesque Ibeju-Lekki area, Amen City has become synonymous with luxury and elegance. The launch of TIARA and TIARA 2.0 by Amen City Ltd soon after Amen Estate Phase 3 is set to elevate this community to new heights.
With its refined homes and superior amenities, the TIARA series embodies royalty and opulence. Amen Phase 3 enhances the living experience with modern architecture and top-tier facilities.
A nearby hospital at Amen Estate Phase 2 offers swift healthcare access, contributing to residents’ peace of mind. This proximity to medical facilities is especially important in emergencies, ensuring that help is always close by.
A large supermarket within the estate provides convenience for everyday shopping, eliminating the need for long trips to distant markets. The presence of excellent schools nearby ensures quality education for children, making it an ideal location for families. The coastal road that reduces travel time to Victoria Island to under 40 minutes makes Amen City a practical choice for professionals who need to commute to the city.
The estate 24-hour light supply from a dedicated turbine engine ensures uninterrupted power, which is a significant benefit for those seeking reliable energy solutions.
Sade Balogun’s innovative vision has transformed Amen City into a model of luxury living and community development. This expansion marks another milestone in her illustrious career, reinforcing Amen City’s status as a premier investment destination. With her ability to foresee market trends and deliver projects that exceed expectations, Sade Balogun continues to set new standards in Nigerian real estate.
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