A line on the fascia
A continuous line of light along the fascia or canopy edge, in your brand color or a clean white, frames your space and separates it from the neighbors. See continuous-line lighting.
The sign, lit and complete
A sign with a dark letter reads as neglected. Keep it fully lit, and if it's dated, consider halo-lit or LED neon letters. Actual signs need a sign permit, usually through your sign company.
Windows that show the floor
Light the floor near the glass brightly and keep eye level clear. Seen from the parking lot, people training are the best storefront there is.
The brightest door in the center
Light the entry and the vestibule so the door is obvious and inviting, and so members feel safe walking up at 5 a.m.
Check the lease and the landlord
Many strip-center leases control exterior changes, signs and sometimes colors. Ask the landlord before designing, and send them our rendering. Approval is usually easier when they can see it.
Check the city
In Oklahoma City, the sign code bans flashing or intermittent lighting except on permitted electronic message displays (§ 59-16105.A.4), so storefront light facing the parking lot stays steady. Other cities have their own rules. See how OKC's sign rules work.
When lighting won't fix it
A storefront can't outshine a bad location or no parking. It makes a good location work harder.
