We are excited to announce we are in the final stages of the Tamiami Hyundai dealership rebranding project, with completion expected next month! Rebranding an auto dealership is a specialized process that balances a manufacturer’s corporate identity with a local business’s identity. Our goal has been to enhance the dealership’s brand, improve its operational flow, and deliver a premium customer experience.

The project’s complexity is driven by Hyundai’s strict Global Dealership Space Identity (GDSI) standards, which dictate the look and feel of the facility to ensure brand consistency. Our process began with a detailed site assessment, followed by adapting Hyundai’s design prototypes to the location. After securing approvals from both Hyundai corporate and local municipalities, we moved into the construction phase, bringing the new brand identity to life with major exterior and interior upgrades.

As construction wraps up, the facility will soon undergo a final compliance inspection by Hyundai representatives before its grand re-opening.

Want a behind-the-scenes look at this structured process? Our article below breaks down how a complex dealership rebrand comes together from start to finish.

At Houchin Construction, we know that rebranding a modern auto dealership is about more than square footage—it’s about brand identity, operational flow, and delivering a premium customer experience. Here’s how we brought the Tamiami Hyundai dealership rebranding to life, from the first plans to the Grand Reopening.

Rebranding this automotive dealership was far more complex than changing a sign. For Hyundai dealerships, the process is governed by Hyundai Motor America’s Corporate Identity (CI) guidelines known as Global Dealership Space Identity (GDSI) —a comprehensive set of standards that define how each facility should look and feel. These standards ensure consistency across the Hyundai network, while also elevating the customer experience.

For dealership owners and their construction partners, navigating this process requires careful planning, close collaboration, and attention to detail:

Corporate Approval & Program Enrollment
The process begins with the dealership’s ownership team working directly with Hyundai Motor America to confirm the rebrand or facility upgrade. Hyundai requires dealers to participate in its facility image programs, which specify everything from façade materials to showroom furniture.

At this stage, the dealership receives Hyundai’s Corporate GDSI design standards, which serve as the foundation for all project decisions.

Site Assessment & Feasibility Study
Once guidelines are in hand, the Houchin Construction team conducted a site survey and feasibility analysis:

• Evaluate the existing structure for compliance with Hyundai’s CI requirements.
• Identify which elements need replacement (signage, façade, customer lounge, service lanes).
• Assess zoning and permitting restrictions, particularly for exterior signage and lighting.
• Establish a preliminary budget and timeline.

This step ensures there are no surprises before design and construction begin.

Design Development
Hyundai provided prototypical dealership design packages, which must be adapted to the local site by licensed architects and engineers. This is where the construction company works closely with the design team to translate the corporate vision into a buildable project.

Typical design elements include:

• Façade treatments with Hyundai-specified aluminum composite panels (ACM).
• Pylon and wall signage in Hyundai’s approved styles.
• Showroom layouts with modern sales and lounge spaces.
• Service reception areas designed for efficiency and customer comfort.

Approvals & Permitting
With design documents in place, two approvals are required:

• Hyundai Corporate Sign-Off – Plans are submitted to ensure strict alignment with GDSI guidelines.
• Local Municipality Permits – Building permits, signage approvals, and zoning compliance must be secured before construction begins.

Construction & Brand Implementation
This phase brings the new Hyundai identity to life. Key construction activities include:

• Exterior upgrades: Installation of branded ACM panels, new façade elements, and Hyundai signage.
• Interior remodeling: new space arrangements, flooring, furniture, and finishes specified by Hyundai.
• Technology integration: Digital displays, vehicle configurators, and modern lighting.
• Service area enhancements: Branded service advisor desks, drive-through lanes, and wayfinding signage.

Close coordination with Hyundai’s approved vendors (signage, furniture, and technology providers) is essential to maintain compliance.

Final Inspection & Brand Launch
After construction, Hyundai representatives conduct a final compliance inspection to confirm the facility meets all CI standards. Local authorities also perform inspections for occupancy approvals.

And now–the dealership is ready for a grand re-opening event!

Conclusion
Rebranding a Hyundai dealership is a highly structured process that requires alignment between the dealership owner, Hyundai corporate, architects, and construction professionals. For construction companies, success depends on attention to detail, compliance with OEM standards, and efficient project management.

We want to thank Tamiami Hyundai for partnering with Houchin Construction!