Echelon Completes $2 Million Bike Shop for Big Shark in Richmond Heights

Big Shark Bike has opened a new store at 1155 S. Big Bend Blvd. in Richmond Heights on a site that had been vacant since 2011 following the demise of well-known music system/home theatre retailer, Hi-Fi-Fo-Fum.

Overseeing the $2 million project was Maryland Heights, Mo.-based Echelon Constructors. Echelon initially sourced the location for Big Shark, then collaborated with developer Hany Abounder of Third Man Development to demolish 65 percent of an existing 20,000-square-foot structure and re-work the site to create parking for 22 vehicles. Next, Echelon gut-rehabbed the remaining 7,000 square feet of space, completing interior finish and system installations within a fast-track 45-day schedule.

The interior of the shop exhibits an open architecture theme, with exposed ceiling beams and a wood deck. Project architect was Klitzing Welsch Associates.

The Big Bend store replaces a location in the Delmar Loop that Big Shark closed in January. The retailer also operates stores in Chesterfield and Downtown St. Louis.