1. What is a “Konzept für Innenausbau” (interior fit-out concept)?
A “Konzept für Innenausbau” is a comprehensive interior design and fit-out plan that includes:
Functionality (Funktionalität)
Aesthetic appearance (Design)
Movement flow and circulation (Bewegungsfluss)
Selection of materials (Materialwahl)
Compliance with laws and technical standards (e.g. DIN, fire protection, occupational safety)
The goal is to create a space that is not only visually appealing but also practical, safe, barrier-free and compliant with all relevant regulations.
2. Key DIN standards to consider
| DIN standard | Field | Key points |
|---|---|---|
| DIN 18040-1 / -2 | Accessibility (barrierefrei) | Door widths, ramp gradients, turning spaces for wheelchairs |
| DIN 4102 / EN 13501 | Fire protection (Brandschutz) | Material classification: B1 (hardly combustible), B2 (combustible) |
| DIN EN 15221 | Space and functional planning | Smart furniture layout and efficient movement paths |
| ASR A1.7 / A1.6 | Safety of doors, entrances and circulation | Emergency exits, floor surfaces, barriers and safety in access routes |
These standards ensure that the interior fit-out is legally compliant, safe and user-friendly.
3. Requirements for accessibility (Barrierefreiheit)
If you are opening a publicly accessible shop or space (öffentlich zugänglich), you must comply with specific accessibility requirements:
1. Door and corridor widths
Minimum door width: 90 cm for wheelchairs (ideally 1.00 m).
Corridors between furniture/shelves: at least 120 cm, to allow turning and passing with a wheelchair or walker.
2. Ramps and level changes
If there is a change in level, you need a ramp with a maximum gradient of about 6 %.
Doors should ideally be threshold-free (schwellenlos) to avoid tripping hazards.
3. Toilets / sanitary facilities (if provided)
Turning space: at least 150 cm free turning circle for a wheelchair.
Grab rails / support rails on the walls.
A washbasin height that allows a wheelchair to fit underneath.
4. Lighting and visual clarity
Colour contrasts between floor, walls and furniture to make edges and transitions easily visible.
In certain situations: visual and tactile markings for blind and visually impaired users.
4. Core elements of an interior concept (Konzept für Innenausbau)
1. Zoning (Zonierung – dividing the space)
A clearly visible, attractive entrance area.
A presentation area for products or services (Präsentation).
A service / checkout area (e.g. reception desk, cash desk, consultation counter).
A small storage area or private back office.
Free, clearly defined circulation routes for customers and staff.
2. Material selection (Materialwahl)
Materials with suitable fire rating (e.g. according to DIN 4102, class B1 – hardly combustible).
Easy-to-clean surfaces that can be cleaned quickly and hygienically.
Slip-resistant flooring (rutschhemmend), e.g. class R9, R10, depending on the type of use and risk.
3. Lighting (Beleuchtung)
Even LED lighting without harsh shadows or glare.
Accent lighting for products, shelves and important areas.
As much natural daylight as possible through windows or skylights.
4. Furniture and fittings (Möblierung)
No sharp edges or dangerous corners (Verletzungsgefahr – risk of injury).
Furniture and shelves must be securely fixed and stable.
All furniture dimensions and positions must be compatible with accessibility requirements (door and corridor widths, reachability, clear space).
Practical example: small shop (e.g. perfume store or salon)
| Element | Requirements according to DIN and accessibility |
|---|---|
| Entrance | At least 1.00 m wide, ideally without threshold |
| Reception area | Counter height 85–95 cm, part of it usable from a wheelchair |
| Flooring | Slip-resistant, at least R9 |
| Lighting | Around 500 lux in work and consultation areas |
| Aisle widths | At least 120 cm between shelves |
This way, a small shop becomes functional, customer-friendly and compliant with regulations.
5. Do you need to submit the design to the municipality or an engineer?
Yes, in many cases, especially if:
You change structural elements, walls or escape routes / emergency exits.
You substantially alter or extend the electrical installations.
If your shop is located in a listed / protected building (Denkmalschutz), you usually need a special permit before making structural changes.
Some municipalities require a proof of accessibility (Nachweis über Barrierefreiheit) as part of building permit applications or change-of-use procedures.
6. Final tips
Develop your interior concept together with an interior designer or architect who has experience with commercial spaces (Gewerberäume).
Make sure the customer flow (Kundenfluss) inside the shop is intuitive – people should naturally find their way through the space.
Plan all surfaces, floors and furniture so that they are easy and quick to clean – especially important in restaurants, salons and medical practices.
Include and display a fire and escape plan (Fluchtplan) on the wall in a clearly visible position.
The authors and editorial team of the website aim to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may remain uncertain. Please treat the information in these articles as an initial reference only, and always consult the relevant authorities and professionals for binding and officially reliable advice.
