Essentials to Keep in Mind While Designing A Retail Store

The Internet has redefined many facets of our lives, including the way we shop. The in-store retail shopping is plummeting as online shopping is woven deeper into the fabric of our lives. This has increased the pressure on retail store owners to lay emphasis on the retail interior design like never before. The only difference between the in-store shopping and online shopping is the shopping experience that a retail store is able to provide. Hence, creating an unforgettable shopping experience through impressive retail interiors has become the central objective of majority of retail owners. The following are the key aspects to be considered when designing a retail store:

1) Layout:

The layout plays a vital role in influencing customers’ behaviour and boosting the sales revenue. The more the products customers are exposed to, the more is the tendency of purchase. Hence, the store layout should be designed properly whilst keeping in mind the flow of traffic, products’ placement and the ambiance. Smooth and easy navigation will encourage customers to take their time and make a purchase, thus ensuring a longer stay. Proper signage would help customers locate the merchandise easily whilst making their shopping experience hassle-free. The success of the retail store highly depends on the effectiveness of its layout design.

2) Lighting:

Lighting creates the atmosphere for the store and also has tremendous impact on the perception of space. A well-lit retail store makes products look desirable and stimulates demand. As a result, getting the store’s lighting right is absolutely crucial. Lighting depends on the type of business and products that are sold. Some require harsh lighting whereas others require softer ones. It should be functional as well as aesthetic.

3) Colour:

Colour has the power to evoke emotions and create mood. The colour of the store should complement the brand whilst creating a positive feeling amongst consumers. Colour differs for different business sectors and depends on the atmosphere the business wants to create. Some colours have a calming effect whereas some promote energy and excitement. Hence, select the colour that suits your corporate identity and works well under the type of lighting selected.

4) Furniture:

The selection of furniture should depend on the space available. Avoid clutter as customers need to move from start to end. Whilst choosing the right furniture, lay adequate emphasis on its quality and material. Since a retail store is expected to have a large flow of visitors, the chances of furniture wear and tear are greater. As a result, the furniture should be pleasing as well as durable.

5) Ambience:

Ambience plays an important role in creating a memorable shopping experience for the consumers. Visitors enter a retail store not only to shop but also to relax and entertain themselves. The ambience should serve as one of the major reasons for consumers’ revisits. Music is known to create a perfect ambience. It can influence, entertain and inspire visitors, thus making their shopping experience pleasant. So, a retail store can set the right mood through proper music based on its target audience. Powerful graphics and wall arts too add to the overall ambience of the room. It sends an effective message to the visitors about the brand and its beliefs.