How a Commercial Building's Color Can Add Appeal and Attract Customers

First impressions are what causes a person to look closer or look away. So the appearance of a commercial building can actually make or break a deal. Take for example, a man looking for a law firm to represent him in a civil case. He walks down Main Street looking for a lawyer. The first building he comes to is shabby, the paint is peeling, and it just looks run down. It has the name of a law firm on the window. Across the street, a newly painted tan building with a bright red door cheerfully boasts the name of another law firm. The man quickly crosses the street and enters the bold red door.

Why did the man choose the law firm housed in the newly painted building? It was a case of first impression. The building that was shabby looking gave the appearance of failure. It gave the impression that the lawyers working there must not be doing very well. By simply painting the other commercial building, it gave it an aura of success. And the bright red door conveyed the "We're good" message loud and clear. Truthfully, the lawyer in the newly painted building may be fresh out of law school, with hardly any experience. And the lawyer in the shabby building may be a thirty year veteran with thousands of wins under his belt. But the man looking for a lawyer didn't know that. He just went with the appearances of the buildings.

Painting commercial buildings is an excellent way of boosting curb appeal and attracting customers. Even basic neutrals look clean and fresh when newly painted. And by adding bright colors as accents, customers are drawn to the crisp, clean look. Any building that has that cared-for look will appeal to customers. If a building looks good, the general sense is that the business inside it must be doing good.

Of course, when painting commercial buildings one should be careful of the color chosen. Too bold or bright a color might actually be considered in bad taste. It could be considered tacky. Or worse yet, it might be an eyesore. That could definitely turn customers off and give the impression of a non-business type atmosphere.

The number one goal behind painting commercial buildings is to attract customers and clients. Check other commercial buildings in the area. Try to stay in a compatible color scheme. If most of the buildings are white, a soft ivory or pale green would stand out, but not be intrusive. By adding a brightly colored door or shutters you give the building some excitement. Thus, it attracts the attention of potential customers while just plain looking good. And don't forget to add some landscaping, such as potted trees or plants near the entrance. That helps give the building a personal touch.