Commercial Contractor in Atlanta, GA

Since 1995, Glazer Design & Construction has delivered commercial build-outs and renovations across metro Atlanta: office spaces, restaurants, retail, and tenant improvements, licensed and permit-ready.

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Atlanta Commercial Build-Outs & Renovations

Commercial contractor work in Atlanta, GA requires a different skill set than residential renovation: tighter timelines, commercial building codes, tenant coordination, and the added complexity of keeping a business operational during construction when possible. Glazer Design & Construction has delivered commercial build-outs and renovations across metro Atlanta since 1995, working with business owners, property managers, and commercial tenants to complete projects on schedule and within a fixed scope. Glazer’s commercial construction work spans office renovations, restaurant build-outs, retail fit-outs, medical and professional office improvements, salon and spa build-outs, bar and entertainment venue construction, and shopping center tenant improvements. Every commercial project is permitted through the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, DeKalb County, or other applicable jurisdiction, managed by a dedicated project manager, and coordinated with licensed commercial subcontractors across all trades. As an experienced commercial build-out contractor in Atlanta, Glazer manages the full scope: from initial space planning and permit submission through construction, inspections, and final certificate of occupancy. If you are a business owner looking to build out a new space, a landlord managing tenant improvements, or a property manager coordinating a renovation in an occupied building, the process starts with an on-site assessment and a written, itemized estimate.

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Five Items To Keep In Mind For Commercial Renovations & Build-Outs

Zoning

Before committing to a commercial space in Atlanta, confirm that your intended use is permitted under the property's zoning classification. Atlanta uses a range of commercial zoning designations (C-1, C-2, C-3, MRC, and others), each of which permits different business types and construction activities. Glazer evaluates zoning compatibility during the planning phase. If a variance or special use permit is required, that process starts before construction planning begins, not after you sign a lease.

Commercial Building Codes

Commercial construction in Atlanta is governed by the International Building Code as adopted by Georgia, not the residential building code that applies to home renovations. Commercial projects require commercial-grade electrical, HVAC, plumbing, fire suppression, and ADA-compliant accessibility features. Glazer works with licensed commercial subcontractors and has direct experience with the City of Atlanta's commercial permit review and inspection process from initial submission through certificate of occupancy.

Space Planning and Property Size

The usable square footage of a commercial space and its layout determine what can be built and what the build-out will cost. Before scoping any project, Glazer assesses existing conditions: ceiling height, structural column placement, mechanical and electrical infrastructure, storefront access, and landlord restrictions on modifications. A space that looks straightforward on a floor plan often has significant hidden constraints. Glazer identifies those during the initial site assessment, not after demo has started.

The Neighborhood and Customer Base

Commercial build-out decisions in Atlanta are shaped by the neighborhood's foot traffic patterns, parking availability, signage restrictions, and the finish expectations of the intended customer base. A restaurant in Buckhead requires a different scope and finish level than one in East Atlanta. A medical office in Sandy Springs has different flow and accessibility requirements than a retail space in Midtown. Glazer has completed commercial projects across Atlanta's key neighborhoods and understands how those differences affect construction scope, timeline, and cost.

Timeline and Business Operations

Commercial build-out timelines in Atlanta are directly tied to permit turnaround. City of Atlanta commercial permits can take six to twelve weeks for plan review depending on project complexity. Glazer builds permit lead times into the project schedule from the start so your lease commencement date and construction timeline are coordinated before work begins. For occupied spaces where tenants need to remain operational during renovation, Glazer plans phased construction sequences and off-hours scheduling to minimize disruption.

Build-Out & Renovation Ideas

Glazer Named A “Best Restaurant Contractor” In Atlanta

Glazer Construction was named as one of the top five "Best Restaurant Contractors" by Atlanta Architects. Contractors were chosen based on their experience, portfolio, and awards received. View the full article: The Best Restaurant Contractors In Atlanta, GA

GC Magazine Ranks Glazer Construction Top 9 Commercial Contractors in Sandy Springs, Georgia

GC Magazine names Glazer construction to the Top 9 Commercial Contractors in Sandy Springs, Georgia. "Glazer Construction showcases expertise for both custom build-outs and extensive renovations. It has offered commercial services since 1998. Some of its most...

Our New Home Office Built By Us

We proud to show off our new Home Office. We completed construction recently and are getting settled in. We've posted some photos of the final results. Be sure to stop by and say hello. Need help a commercial build out or renovation? Contact us for a free quote at...

Commercial Renovations Attract New Customers

Buckhead, Midtown, Dunwoody, Virginia Highlands, Vinings, Decatur … all of these metro Atlanta neighborhoods pride themselves on providing an urban, culturally-rich and enticing environment for their residents. When people are looking to relocate, they obviously...

What to Expect from a Commercial Build-Out in Atlanta, GA

Commercial build-outs in Atlanta, GA follow a different process than residential renovation. The timeline and cost implications are significant if that process is not managed correctly from the start.

Permit Timeline Reality

City of Atlanta commercial permits for new tenant build-outs or major renovations typically take six to twelve weeks for plan review, not the two to four weeks many tenants assume when signing a lease. Glazer submits complete, code-compliant permit packages to minimize review cycles and tracks permit status actively throughout the process. Projects that arrive at the permit office with incomplete documentation restart the clock. Glazer's submissions are prepared to pass review on the first cycle, not the second or third.

Lease Commencement Alignment

One of the most common commercial build-out problems in Atlanta is a mismatch between the lease start date and the permit approval timeline. If your lease begins on Day 1 and your permit is not approved until Week 10, you are paying rent on a space you cannot occupy. Glazer advises on realistic timelines before lease signing when possible and coordinates construction scheduling to the permit approval date, not the lease date. That alignment prevents one of the most expensive and avoidable problems in commercial construction.

Certificate of Occupancy

A commercial space cannot legally open to the public without a certificate of occupancy from the relevant jurisdiction. Glazer manages the full inspection sequence — framing, mechanical rough-in, electrical rough-in, insulation, drywall, and final — and coordinates with the City of Atlanta or county inspectors to minimize gaps between inspection stages. Each inspection must pass before the next phase of construction begins. Glazer schedules inspections proactively rather than reactively, which keeps the construction sequence moving and prevents idle time that extends timelines and increases costs.

Tenant Improvements vs. Full Build-Outs

A tenant improvement is a modification to an existing commercial space within the landlord's base building, updating finishes, reconfiguring partitions, adding offices, or improving mechanical systems. A full build-out starts from a shell condition and constructs the entire interior from scratch including all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and finishes. The permit requirements, subcontractor scope, and timelines differ significantly between the two. Glazer scopes both types, advises on which category the project falls into during the initial assessment, and prices each accordingly.

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Our Commercial Projects

Colonial Lighting Showroom

European Wax

Taverna Restaurant

FAAM Sports

Cambria

White Magnolia Bridal Salon Renovation

Midtown Bowl

There Bar

Roxboro Valley Swim & Tennis

Peachtree Health & Rehabilitation

The Exercise Coach

Glazer Construction Home Office

Call Center

Everyday Industries

Yogi Mogli

Varuni Napoli

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What Our Clients Say

    
 
 
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   melissa greenfield 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are thrilled with our new family room addition to the back of our house thanks to the entire Glazer Design and Construction team. They finished ahead of schedule, were attentive to our needs, and paid great attention to detail. We will be finishing our basement in the next few years and we will definitely use them!
  
 
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   Rachel Cohen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Glazer design and construction did a phenomenal job on our home improvement project. Randy and his team paid close attention to detail as they transformed our vision. There was clear communication throughout the process, crewmembers were on time and cleaned up after each day. We were especially impressed with the craftsmanship that was displayed. Without hesitation, we would highly recommend Glazer design and construction for anyone seeking a contractor for home improvement projects.
  
 
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   Kristi Cimino 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Randy and his team went above my expectations!! Glazer construction cares about every detail of your renovation whether it’s big or small. Everyone worked hard and timely to get the job done. Every detail was done with pure craftsmanship and care which is hard to find today. I can’t say enough about Randy and his team!
  
 
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   Mindy Mitropoulos 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Glazer Design and Construction just finished a large home renovation project for us.  We are so in love with our new kitchen and master bathroom. The entire team was professional, friendly, and very communicative.  I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to do any type of construction project.
  
 
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   Stan Everett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Glazer D&C has done several projects for us and all have been outstanding! The latest was some interior renovations of a house recently purchased and the addition of a shade structure with lighting and BAFan over our patio to create a wonderful outdoor living space. Randy and his team are wonderful to work with and do  quality work. They are our "go to" team for all our work.
  
 
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   Josip Kukucka 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Randy remodeled my kitchen and bathroom. Did an amazing job. A lot of knowledge between him and his team. It Al ways felt like you had the boss there to answer questions. Will definitely hire him to finish my basement. 5 stars
  
 
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   Jennifer Young 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What is not to love about Randy and his team? I had a creepy unfinished basement that was transformed into a terrace level dream! Randy is well connected and works with the most skilled teams and will figure out a way around any problem you have.  I had a few big challenges with my HVAC unit, load bearing beams and general layout, but Randy and his teams will find a way to make it work.  I loved having Francois, the project manager, on site to bounce ideas off of and to make sure I wasn't trying to do something stupid. When you finish your basement, you will run into all sorts of things you didn't expect but what I loved is that nothing stood in Glazer Design's way! Nothing. They tackled everything with speed, efficiency and grace (I would have been cussing up a storm.)  Shawna and April in the office are great with managing timelines and payment schedules. I loved working with the Glazer team and I highly recommend them for any project!
  
 
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   Lili Ray 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very very pleased with our front portico! Randy and his team worked with our architect and executed the design well. We could not be happier with the finished product!
  
 
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   Melissa Nunnally 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our company has worked with Glazer Design & Construction for over 6 years on many projects. They have always been great to work with and we would recommend Glazer Design & Construction for your next home renovation project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a commercial build-out cost in Atlanta, GA?

Commercial build-out costs in Atlanta vary significantly by space type, size, condition, and finish level. A basic office tenant improvement in an existing shell space typically runs $50 to $100 per square foot. A restaurant build-out (which involves full commercial kitchen equipment, grease traps, fire suppression, and custom millwork) commonly runs $150 to $300 per square foot or more. A high-finish retail or hospitality space in Buckhead or Midtown can exceed $300 per square foot. Glazer provides a written, itemized estimate after an on-site assessment of the specific space and intended use.

Do commercial renovations require different permits than residential projects in Atlanta?

Yes. Commercial construction in Atlanta is permitted under the commercial building code, not the residential code. Commercial projects require separate permit applications, commercial-grade plans stamped by a licensed architect or engineer in most cases, and inspection by the City of Atlanta’s commercial building inspectors rather than residential inspectors. Fire suppression, ADA compliance, commercial mechanical and electrical, and occupancy load calculations are all commercial-specific requirements. Glazer manages the full commercial permitting process including plan preparation coordination, permit submission, and inspection scheduling.

How long does a commercial build-out take in Atlanta?

Commercial build-out timelines in Atlanta depend on the project scope and permit turnaround. A straightforward office tenant improvement in an existing space typically takes eight to fourteen weeks from permit approval. A restaurant build-out with full commercial kitchen and utility connections commonly runs sixteen to twenty-four weeks. City of Atlanta commercial permit review for new build-outs takes six to twelve weeks depending on project complexity and current review queue. Glazer factors permit lead times into the project schedule from the initial planning phase so lease commencement and construction timelines are coordinated.

Can Glazer build out a restaurant in Atlanta?

Yes. Restaurant construction is one of Glazer’s core commercial project types. The company has been recognized by GC Magazine as a top commercial contractor in the Atlanta area specifically for restaurant build-outs. A full restaurant build-out involves commercial kitchen design and construction, grease trap installation, Type I and Type II hood systems and fire suppression, commercial HVAC with make-up air, bar build-out, custom millwork and finishes, and front-of-house design. All of these components require commercial permits and licensed commercial subcontractors. Glazer manages the full scope.

What is the difference between a tenant improvement and a commercial build-out?

A tenant improvement (TI) is a modification made to an existing commercial space that the tenant occupies within the landlord’s base building: updating finishes, reconfiguring partitions, adding offices, or improving mechanical systems. A full commercial build-out typically starts from a shell or cold-dark shell condition and involves constructing the entire interior from scratch including all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and interior finishes. Build-outs are more complex and expensive than tenant improvements. Glazer handles both and assesses which category your project falls into during the initial site visit.

Does Glazer handle commercial projects in occupied buildings?

Yes. Many of Glazer’s commercial renovation projects in Atlanta involve businesses that need to remain operational during construction: a restaurant staying open while a section is renovated, a medical office updating one suite at a time, or a retail space refreshing finishes during off-hours. Glazer plans phased construction sequences and off-hours scheduling where required and coordinates with building management on access, noise, and dust control. Full build-outs in vacant spaces do not require this level of coordination, but occupied renovations are a standard part of Glazer’s commercial project experience.

Which areas in Atlanta does Glazer serve for commercial construction?

Glazer Design & Construction handles commercial build-outs and renovations across metro Atlanta including Buckhead, Midtown, West Midtown, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Dunwoody, Decatur, Vinings, Roswell, Alpharetta, Marietta, and surrounding Fulton, DeKalb, and Cobb county commercial areas. The company has direct experience with the commercial permitting processes at the City of Atlanta Office of Buildings and surrounding county building departments.

Serving Metro Atlanta’s Most Established Neighborhoods

Our work spans the full range of metro Atlanta neighborhoods — intown communities like Virginia Highlands, Midtown, and Cabbagetown, established suburbs like Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Roswell, and everything in between. Wherever your home is, we bring the same licensed crew, written contracts, and on-site project management.

Buckhead Chastain Park Brookhaven Sandy Springs Midtown West Midtown

Druid Hills

Decatur Virginia Highlands

Cabbagetown

Vinings Dunwoody East Atlanta Roswell Alpharetta Marietta

Avondale Estates

Memberships & Associations

Glazer Design & Construction holds active memberships with the industry’s leading residential and green building organizations. These affiliations reflect our commitment to construction standards, energy efficiency, and professional accountability on every project we take on.

Need An Atlanta Commercial Contractor

Contact us for a free quote at (404) 683-9848, email Randy@GlazerConstruction.com or complete our Fast Form below.