1. What does retail design mean to you?
Retail design translates to one word ‘Customer satisfaction’. Whether it’s the one for whom we design or the one for whom the retail space is meant to be for, both the parties greatly influence and are impacted by the design. I believe retail design is interpreting and expressing the ideologies of both the seller and buyer and translating it into a space that aligns with this. It is all about creating an environment that reflects the brand’s identity and values while meeting the target audience’s needs and desires. It encompasses everything from the layout and flow of the space to the lighting, colour scheme, and signage. The goal of retail design is to enhance the customer experience by creating an inviting, easy-to-navigate, and visually appealing space, ultimately leading to increased sales and brand loyalty.
2. How did you, as a designer, get into retail design?
With a tricky site context and challenging brief, we began our journey of retail design with a furniture experience centre in Mumbai. From selecting the materials and mood boards to developing the layout and its details, retail designing involves many more factors than residential interiors, and it is a great learning experience and an opportunity to explore growing trends and styles.
3. What are the key trends in retail design for 2023?
Retail, especially luxury retail, has expanded to offer more services and rely more heavily on technology. The focus has shifted from displaying as many products as possible to creating the best possible customer experience. Modern retail store designs feature bold colour contrasts and typography both on shopfronts and inside. Visual media and moving graphics are also popular in retail design. The focus is on imparting an immersive experience to the customers and giving a full run of the services or the products — in other words “Experience Centres” will be a growing trend in 2023.
4. How do you plan to incorporate the same in your designs?
Using every inch of the space and creating multipurpose and dynamic zones within the complete layout are essential strategies for maximising a retail space’s functionality and visual impact. In addition, I incorporate bold elements that make a statement and capture the customer’s eye. Further additions like modular furniture and fixtures that can be rearranged or repurposed, and I use creative storage solutions to make the most of every corner in my designs.
Collaborating with several experts in installations, lighting, and automation is critical for creating a retail space with the right energy. Lighting, for example, can play a significant role in setting the mood and highlighting key products or displays, while automated features such as motion sensors or temperature controls can enhance the overall customer experience.
I work closely with experts in these fields to incorporate these elements into my designs and integrate their input into the overall design strategy. By taking a holistic approach to retail design and considering every aspect of the space, from layout and furniture to lighting and technology, I create dynamic and engaging environments that meet the needs of both the brand and the customer.
5. A few tips to design a commercial retail space?
The scale of the store has always been an integral element in luxury designs to incorporate subtle grandeur. Entrances are designed to give the customers room for exploration. Similarly, walkways ease one into a discrete display of alcoves on either side; reflective surfaces like mirrored walls and ceilings enhance the sense of depth and splendour. Here, interior lighting is a critical factor that determines customer experience. Custom designed shelves and display units with a bold yet elegant edge always draws the customer’s attention. Incorporating sophisticated detailing in the materials or on the walls and ceiling can act as a luxe backdrop for the products.
6. Psychological factors to consider while planning a retail store?
Yes, definitely, the target audience is the customers so how they move, what they look at first, what will and won’t interest them etc, are some critical points to touch upon before determining the circulation and zoning of the space. First impressions matter and how the space is designed to create that impression becomes vital. The space should be able to capture customers’ interest and direct it towards key products or displays. Creating a positive emotional experience through the store’s design and elements, can build brand loyalty. Hence, keen attention must be paid to the entryways and circulation paths that do not confuse or tire the customers.
7. How does one pick colours and furniture for the same?
Picking colours and furniture for retail interiors is a process that requires careful consideration of several factors. One of the most critical factors is the brand story and values. A retail interior should effectively depict the brand’s story and values through its design, which can be achieved by using colours and furniture that align with the brand’s identity.
The overall theme of the retail space is also a crucial factor in choosing colours, textures, and materials. For example, if the theme is modern and minimalist, choosing a monochromatic colour scheme with clean lines and minimal ornamentation would be appropriate. On the other hand, if the theme is rustic and natural, warm earthy tones and natural materials such as wood and stone would be suitable.
Innovation and out-of-the-box thinking can also play a significant role in picking colours and furniture for retail interiors. The difference you are trying to achieve in retail can answer several questions about sourcing furniture and choosing colours. For instance, if you’re trying to create a retail space that feels edgy and modern, bold colours such as red, black, and metallics can be used. In contrast, if you’re trying to create a more relaxed and tranquil space, soft and muted colours such as pastels or earthy tones can be used. Deciding the concept and the mood you are planning for the space will help us narrow down the right furniture pieces.
8. Are there any upcoming retail projects coming from your end?
Yes, we have a furniture experience centre coming up in Mumbai & Dubai. Our team is also working on an exciting interior restoration retail space in South Mumbai. We are looking forward to creating memorable experiences through these spaces that make a positive impact on the customers and the brand.