Retail Interior Design Considerations
The nature of retail interior design demands a range of creativity in both design and construction in order to flexibly accommodate the varying purposes of a retail space. The retail industry encompasses such a wide variety of businesses selling products of all kinds in all shapes and sizes. Because of such extensive possibilities, retail interior design requires functionality in as much it does aesthetics.
The design of an interior space must create an ambience that fits the purpose of your brand, while cleverly displaying merchandise to catch the attention of customers. Here is a look at 5 design considerations for any retail space.
Ensure A Comfortable Flow For Customers
A key component in getting shoppers to become buyers is to ensure that the customer feels comfortable in your store. The design of any retail space must include flexibility to comfortably accommodate a large crowd of shoppers. Many people, particularly women, will avoid shopping in certain stores or avoid merchandise in certain sections of a store simply because of the potential of brushing up against another person. This “Butt Brush” effect was studied by a consumer behavior expert and found that shoppers would intentionally leave behind a product they were truly interested in simply to avoid coming into close contact with another shopper.
While you may want a large selection of products available for your customers, be sure that your retail space will make them feel comfortable as they shop. Use displays, racks, or even furniture to create a path for customers that allows for fluidity while providing natural staging areas that will create openness. Work towards a layout that encourages a comfortable flow even in high volume.
Find A Balance In Merchandising
It can be difficult to find the right amount of product displayed and available on the sales floor. You want to be sure that your customers will find what they need, but you don’t want to overwhelm the space. Some retailers prefer to display quality first and foremost, while others prefer quantity. Finding the right ratio may depend on your overall brand identity or it might just vary among individual products. Taking sometime to identify priorities, expectations and goals for your merchandise will help to create an effective balance.
Create Sight Lines
Creating clear lines of sight that will catch the eye of customers from the moment they walk into your store and as they walk through it can make a significant difference in promoting products. Designated sight lines can also help as you decide on the amount of merchandise to display or where to display certain items. Clear sight lines also benefit your business as areas in your store become more visually accessible to both the customer and your employees making a significant impact in reducing the risk of shoplifting.
Design Built-In Storage
Regardless if you choose to display quantity over quality or vice versa, you will inevitably need additional storage. A back storage room is always good to have, however the convenience of built in storage throughout the sales floor is undeniable. Storage can easily be designed into freestanding product displays or even into the walls. Creativity is not limited to displays, it can also be curated into various forms of storage and stocking.
Don’t Forget About Curb Appeal
The interior of your retail space is significantly more important than the storefront, however you remember to design an intriguing and welcoming façade that will encourage shoppers to step into your store. The curb appeal or exterior of your store is, in essence, the first impression a customer will have of your brand so be sure to dedicate some time and money into creating an attractive design that will lure customers to step inside
Heather Allen Design Group offers Las Vegas custom store design that will create creative and intriguing retail spaces for products of any kind. Contact us today at (702)-547-1616 for a free consultation.
Heather Allen Design Group
5275 South Arville Street #104, Las Vegas, NV 89118
(702) 547-1616