A construction starting point
The Consultony calculator uses CAD $80–$180 per square foot as a standard-spec tenant-improvement benchmark for existing Toronto retail space. Luxury flagships, new buildings and spaces needing major base-building work can cost substantially more.
Custom fixtures and millwork
Display walls, cash desks, shelving systems and feature pieces shape the customer experience and are often a large share of the visible budget. Decide which pieces need to be custom and which can be standard products, and make sure millwork is not counted twice in contractor quotes.
Lighting, storefront and signage
Retail lighting affects how products look and how the store reads from the street. Storefront changes and exterior signage may need landlord approval and permits. Price these items explicitly.
What to budget separately
Inventory, point-of-sale systems, security, loose furniture and business operating costs are outside construction. Design fees, contingency and tax should be added as separate lines.
Compare quotes on the same scope
Ask contractors to price the same drawings, finishes and fixture list, and compare inclusions and exclusions—not only totals. Consultony brings design and fabrication knowledge to retail projects and works with reputable contractors to complete the work. Ranges are planning information, not quotes.