Secrets Of Apple's New Flagship Store

Apple loves secrets, and its new store on Union Square in San Francisco is no exception. But an analysis of building permit data using BuildZoom’s permit database shows detailed cost breakdowns as well as tracking design changes through the life cycle of the project.

The new 100% renewable energy flagship retail destination was built largely by San Diego's Ledcor Construction at a cost of $23.6M. It features an open air design more reminiscent of a community space than a traditional store. The building’s outer shell was the most expensive component at $19M, while the stairs alone cost $1.1M.

BuildZoom's Jack Cookson tells Bisnow the work is impressive. "Overall, the project was very intensive with many subcontractors, lots of permits and many revisions," he says. "As is to be expected, this project spared no expense and is likely to stand out among all other retail locations in San Francisco's Union Square."

Apple also paid attention to sustainability and resiliency when it designed the store. Solar panels produce 50KW to power the entire site and were installed for $800k. Since San Francisco is seismically active, the company filed four permits with officials to prepare for earthquake stresses.

Data also showed about one-sixth of the permits were revised or corrected mid-project. The changes could indicate either the company changed its design direction or authorities pushed back for clarification.

The Cupertino-based company has been updating and refreshing its retail stores as part of a larger overhaul. Former Burberry CEO Angela Ahrendts is leading the effort at Apple.