Tenant Improvement Projects: What Business Owners in Kansas City Should Know

A Guide to Upgrading Your Commercial Space with Confidence

If you’ve recently leased a new commercial space or are looking to update your existing location, you’ve likely heard the term “tenant improvement” (or TI). But what exactly does that mean—and why is it important?

At Tekton Contracting, we specialize in tenant improvement projects across the KC Metro. In this post, we’ll break down what tenant improvements are, what they typically include, and why investing in them can benefit your business long-term.

✅ What Are Tenant Improvements?

Tenant improvements refer to the customized renovations or modifications made to a commercial rental space to meet the needs of the tenant’s business. These changes are typically negotiated in the lease agreement and may be partially or fully funded by the property owner through a TI allowance.

The goal is to take a “blank” or outdated space and tailor it to your business’s operational, branding, and design needs.

🔧 Common Tenant Improvement Upgrades

Every business has different needs, but here are some of the most common upgrades involved in a TI project:

• New Floorplans & Layout Adjustments
  – Reconfiguring walls and rooms to create offices, waiting areas, or open-concept spaces.

• Flooring, Paint & Finishes
  – Installing new carpet, tile, or vinyl flooring, repainting walls, and updating finishes for a refreshed look.

• Lighting & Electrical Work
  – Adding custom lighting fixtures, upgrading panels, or rewiring for specialty equipment.

• HVAC Modifications
  – Improving airflow, zoning, or system upgrades to suit your specific business use.

• Plumbing Upgrades
  – Especially for restaurants, cafes, or salons where new sinks, restrooms, or drainage systems are needed.

• Branding Elements
  – Incorporating brand colors, signage, or design features that reflect your company’s identity.

🏢 Who Needs Tenant Improvements?

Tenant improvement projects are common across a wide range of industries, including:

• Medical & Dental Offices

• Law Firms & Professional Offices

• Retail Stores

• Coffee Shops & Cafés

• Boutique Fitness Studios

• Creative Studios & Agencies

Whether you’re starting a new venture or relocating your business, a custom build-out ensures your space works for your daily operations and gives your customers and employees the best possible experience.

📈 Why Tenant Improvements Matter

A well-designed space doesn’t just look good—it improves productivity, supports growth, and helps make a strong first impression. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:

• Boost Brand Image: A modern, professional space reflects the quality of your business.

• Improve Workflow: Smart layout choices can improve team efficiency and reduce bottlenecks.

• Increase Property Value: A professionally improved space can also benefit the landlord long-term.

• Attract & Retain Talent: Employees are more likely to stay in a clean, functional, and inspiring environment.

• Enhance Customer Experience: Comfortable and well-designed spaces help build trust with your clients.

🔨 How Tekton Contracting Can Help

At Tekton Contracting, we’ve completed tenant improvement projects across Kansas City and the surrounding metro—from coffee shop build-outs to office renovations for growing companies. We can handle each phase of the process:

• Design

• Construction and project management

• On-time, on-budget delivery

We take pride in minimizing disruptions to your business and maintaining a clean, safe, and professional job site at all times.

Ready to Customize Your Commercial Space?

If you’re planning a tenant improvement project in Kansas City, MO or nearby areas like Leawood, Raymore, or Brookside, Tekton Contracting is here to bring your vision to life.

📞 Call us today at (913) 405-7506
📧 Or email admin@tektoncontracting.com to schedule a consultation and get started.