Steingold Volvo Auto Sales LTD

This expansion of the Steingold Volvo dealership reflects the evolution of a historic, family-owned business into a modern retail environment aligned with Volvo’s contemporary brand standards. Operating continuously since 1934, the dealership occupies a constrained 1.21 acre site along the highly traveled US Route 1 corridor. The work was executed within a fully built property, requiring that ongoing dealership operations be maintained throughout construction.

The scope included the addition of approximately 9,430 SF to the existing 14,930 SF facility, resulting in a cohesive 22,000± SF dealership. The expansion introduced a contemporary showroom, enhanced service areas, and upgraded customer reception spaces, all while integrating Volvo’s brand-driven architectural and site design standards. Careful consideration was given to building placement, site circulation, existing operations, and visual presentation to reinforce brand identity while maintaining functionality within the constrained footprint.

An essential aspect of the redevelopment was the strategic reconfiguration of site elements to improve overall performance. Despite the building expansion, the design successfully reduced total impervious area, enhancing stormwater management and environmental outcomes. Solli developed a fully compliant drainage system incorporating water quality treatment, subsurface infiltration, and peak flow attenuation in accordance with Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) standards. Favorable subsurface conditions, including sandy soils, supported the implementation of an underground infiltration system that significantly improved runoff management.

The effort also required a nuanced entitlement strategy. As a long-standing automotive dealership operating as a pre-existing nonconforming use within the General Commercial zoning district, the proposed expansion triggered the need for a Use Variance. Solli played a central role in navigating the permitting process, preparing technical documentation and coordinating with local agencies to secure approvals while supporting the client’s operational goals.

Equally important were site access, circulation, and safety considerations along US Route 1. The design addresses vehicle flow, visibility, and ingress/egress on this high-traffic corridor, ensuring that dealership operations remain efficient and accessible while minimizing conflicts and maintaining customer safety. Internal circulation was optimized to support sales, service, and customer movements without disrupting ongoing activities throughout the phased implementation process.

This carefully executed project modernizes a legacy dealership, enhances environmental performance, and aligns with contemporary branding—all while maintaining continuous operations. It demonstrates how skilled engineering and integrated design can successfully transform a constrained, fully developed site into a high-performing, visually cohesive commercial asset.

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