You might not expect a health insurance office to take up residence in a retail-focused shopping center, but Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota is known for its innovation. The nonprofit’s outpost in the Roseville Commons shopping mall represents its second retail store location, a new concept designed to offer personalized health insurance support. We served as the general contractor for the build-out of the space.
Our Approach
Roseville Commons was previously an enclosed mall, but was “de-malled” nearly 10 years ago and now consists of multiple storefronts with separate entrances. As a former mall entryway, the Blue Cross space presented a few challenges for usability. To begin with, it lacked a dedicated air conditioning system, an electrical system, and restrooms. Despite the space’s awkward configuration, we were able to install all three without a hitch.
To build out the 5,000-square-foot retail store, we created office and seminar spaces, as well as wellness spaces that will be used for minor medical testing procedures. We installed warm reclaimed wood finishes, eye-catching ceiling clouds, sliding glass office doors, and a carpet bedecked with an intricate pattern. We also incorporated advanced mechanical and electrical systems that allow each room’s temperature and lighting to be easily adjusted.
The Results
Typically a project like this requires roughly 12 weeks, but the schedule required our work to happen within eight! We fast-tracked the project and were able to meet the aggressive deadline, which allowed Blue Cross to be ready to go for open enrollment. Pleased with our work, Blue Cross also hired our team to build out its third retail store, located in Duluth.