Retail Shop Interior Design

For retailers looking to make the most of their space, entice customers inside, and encourage them to spend longer browsing, excellent interior design is essential. As specialists in commercial interior design, our team will get to know your business and your target customers to create an interior design which transforms your retail space.

What are the benefits of professional interior design for retail shops?

The retail environment is more competitive than ever before, especially as physical stores are often forced to compete with online retailers. Creating an excellent customer experience is the key to standing out in a competitive marketplace, and by revamping your retail space with the help of a professional design agency, your business will be in the ideal position to attract target customers.

There are many aspects to retail store design, from the décor itself through to the layout of the store, displays and signage within the shop, with each element being key to creating an enticing store. The benefits of professional interior design support are far reaching, from the increased footfall and sales through to reinforcing the brand, showcasing your product range, and improving employee happiness.

The key principles of retail shop interior design?

There are several key principles which act as useful guide within all interior design projects, and when combined they work together to create a harmonious theme which will enhance every space.

Balance – There are many elements which combine within interior design, however it is the careful balancing of patterns, colours, textures and shapes which tie a design together. For example, in a narrow store achieving a symmetrical balance with mirroring sides is a great way to enhance the feeling of space, whereas in unusual layouts an asymmetrical style which incorporates various shapes, colours and finishes can help guide customers to areas within the store.

Rhythm – By repeating elements of design such as colour and pattern it is possible to create a natural flow through a space, which is particularly important within retail stores. By slowing the natural flow of customers in a store through careful choices in flooring covers and shelf layouts, it is possible to encourage shoppers to spend longer browsing. By immersing your customers within the interior of the store, it is possible to guide customers in a loop, and the more products they see, the more they will potentially purchase.

Emphasis – There are many key areas within a retail store which should be emphasised through interior design, however it is often the eye-catching window displays which attract customers initially. Through bright colours, contrasting patterns and interesting accessories it is possible to capture the attention of passers-by, so they are persuaded to browse the store.

Scale & Proportion – A fundamental component within retail interior design is the scale of elements within a shop, such as the size of a display window or a shop display which serves as a backdrop to a promotional area. It is important to give customers space to browse, as over-crowded retail stores can be overwhelming. By carefully choosing product displays, seating areas and counters which are in proportion to the scale of the shop, customers will feel more at ease and free to browse for longer.

Light – If a retail space is restricted in terms of layout, space or size, lighting is a great way to create an open feel, and it can also be used to enhance key displays. For example, signage, graphics, and other written branded material can be used to entice customers to different areas within a shop, and through careful lighting choices it is possible to enhance these features.

Contrast – Retail interior design is the perfect place to be bold and creative, as the actual customer experience in a store is often just as important as the products themselves. A shop can be large with few products, but if the environment is enticing and stimulating to customers it will still encourage them to stay and brand. Through contrasting colour choices, bold signs, and innovative design choices, it is possible to reinforce your branding and showcase key product lines.

What are some popular examples of retail interior design styles?

In the past, it was the products which attracted shoppers to a retail shop, but today many factors such as the location, staff and the interior styling of the shop combine to attract customers. In many retail environments, contemporary modern design with colour schemes that match the businesses overall branding work well, however you should not be afraid to be bold with interior styles. The following are some great examples of retail design styles that could provide you with some great inspiration:

Bright colour schemes – Customers connect with colours they recognise, such as the shade of Starbucks green, so use the bright, bold colours from your branding to create an instantly recognisable interior design scheme. Bright colours should be used as key accent colours to add a bright and positive feel, however trends which balance these colours with calm, neutral tones are very popular.

Black interiors – Depending on your retail business, you may want to consider the psychology of colour, with black being a great way to create an immersive customer experience that exudes sophistication. Great examples of businesses which could use the colour black effectively are high-end boutiques and clothing stores.

Embrace technology – Although technology is always evolving, many stores are embracing new trends and incorporating virtual and augmented reality into the interior store designs. This interactive shopping experience can set stores apart from competitors, and by creating a mixed-use retail environment it is possible to appeal to many potential customers.

Boxx Design – Transforming retail shops with professional interior design services

Retail shop design extends beyond interior design itself, so our experienced team also offer a range of useful services such as styling, visual merchandising and branding which will all help your store stand out to potential customers. Whether you own a department shop, supermarket, pharmacy or clothing boutique, our comprehensive range of innovative design services will ensure your business is positioned to attract the customers you deserve. To find out more about our retail store design services, contact our team today and we will be more than happy to discuss your project.