Resilient Retail: Design Strategies to Protect Stores from Climate Change

Following his presentation at ICSC Centerbuild on resilient retail design strategies, RSP’s Kyle Tornow goes in depth on what some of the largest retailers are doing to resist the effects of climate change.

As climate change drives more frequent and severe weather, resilient retail design has become a top priority. High-wind events like hurricanes are increasingly common, reaching further inland and causing significant damage to retail facilities. In 2024 so far, the United States experienced 24 weather events that each caused over $1 billion in damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). For big-box retailers and smaller chains alike, adopting resilient design strategies is essential—not only for survival but for maintaining business continuity in the face of these challenges.

Building Resilient Retail: Lessons from Experience

Retailers are proactively incorporating resilient design strategies to protect their stores. One critical focus is on resilient building envelopes—structures engineered to withstand high winds, impact from windborne debris, and water infiltration. Advanced materials like curtain walls and impact-resistant glazing are helping stores better endure extreme weather. These innovations, while sometimes increasing initial costs, offer long-term value by reducing repair expenses and minimizing disruptions. Retailers understand the straight line between the quality of their store and the quality of the shopper experience. Any disruption to that experience risks compromising their ability to serve the customer. 

Smarter Materials and Streamlined Approvals

A key component of resilient retail design involves selecting materials and navigating complex building codes. For instance, the International Building Code (IBC) defines “Windborne Debris Regions,” which require robust systems to protect openings like doors and windows. Architects can also use existing approval systems, such as Florida Product Approvals or Miami-Dade Notices of Acceptance (NOAs), to meet compliance standards in hurricane prone coastal regions.

When codes fall short of addressing unique climate challenges, third-party engineering judgments can provide creative solutions tailored to local conditions. These strategies allow designers to push the boundaries of resilience without sacrificing efficiency or aesthetics.

Investing in Resilient Retail: Cost vs. Value

While designing resilient retail spaces can increase initial construction costs, the long-term benefits are undeniable. Smart retailers are adopting standards and new procedures that bring enhanced levels of resilience and protection—not just in high-risk zones but across their entire portfolios.

The investment in resilient retail design goes beyond immediate weatherproofing. Many retailers are integrating sustainable materials like low-carbon concrete and recycled steel into their projects in order to align with broader sustainability goals. Rooftop solar arrays and energy-efficient building envelopes are increasingly common features in resilient retail spaces, providing dual benefits of disaster preparedness and reduced energy costs.

Preparing for the Future

Resilient retail is evolving as part of a larger shift toward sustainability and energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), buildings are responsible for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions. By integrating resilience into their designs, retailers are reducing their environmental impact while protecting their facilities against climate threats.

Looking ahead, the next decade promises advancements in materials and technologies that further enhance resilient retail spaces. From renewable building materials to flood mitigation systems and AI-driven building management, the tools for creating climate-adaptive retail environments are improving rapidly.

Key Takeaways for Resilient Retail Design

Designing resilient retail spaces requires a collaborative approach, balancing creativity, cost, and functionality. By leveraging advanced materials, existing approval systems, and innovative engineering solutions, architects and retailers can navigate the challenges posed by climate change.

The goal of resilient retail design is not just to protect stores but to enhance the shopper experience and ensure business continuity. The smarter retailers are focused on their customers, and that always comes out in the retail space. As the industry continues to innovate, resilient retail spaces will play a critical role in ensuring stores, warehouses, and supply chains thrive in a changing climate.