Residential interiors have it easy: they only need to appeal to a few residents. On the other hand, retail spaces must entice a far larger audience to survive. Thus, nailing the design is especially important. But there is much to consider for a successful retail store interior design. So, why not start early? Read on for great interior ideas helping retailers profit!
Why Store Interior Design is Important
Fun store interior by Decorilla designer, Alicja S.
Simply put, retail stores revolve around profiting from sales. To make these sales, stores have to draw customers in with more than unbeatable deals and fantastic service. Their retail interior design needs to excite the target audience. With this in mind, commercial interior design firms recommend retailers consider their brand’s message. A store’s spaces, décor, and furnishings should clearly communicate its objective and cause.
Modern luggage store interior design by Decorilla designer, Ibrahim H.
Despite the popularity of online shopping, retail stores certainly hold a special place. After all, they allow customers to interact with products before buying them. That said, physical stores still have to provide a one-of-a-kind experience to compete with virtual vendors. This is where commercial interior design ideas come in. It’ll ensure stores remain immersive, rich, and a treat for the senses.
Small shop interior design by Decorilla designer, Rehan A.
In short, store interior design is significant since it has the power to entice customers and influence sales. It needs to be striking from the entrance and feature various ‘distractions’ along the way. That’s because they keep customers lingering for longer. The ideal layout encourages browsing without making shoppers feel like they’re trying to escape a maze.
Need help updating your retail store interior design? Then, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to learn more about your design options today!
Retail Store Interior Design Ideas that Convert Sales
Eclectic clothing store by Decorilla retail space designer, Courtney B.
The fact is that every retailer would love to see more customers coming through their doors. To enjoy an influx of customers and convert more sales, explore the retail interior designer approved ideas below.
1. Ensure the Design Reflects the Brand
The correct positioning makes a world of difference in attracting and retaining customers. That’s why developing a cohesive brand image plays such a significant role in a retailer’s success. The store interior should reflect the spirit of and emotions linked to its brand. When a retail space and its brand aesthetic align, clients feel secure about shopping there. In turn, this builds trust and loyalty.
2 Identify the Appropriate Layout
Modern haberdashery layout by Decorilla retail interior designer, Lorenzo C.
The store layout is far more crucial than most people think, as it can actually enhance the customer experience. However, different types of retailers work best with different kinds of layouts. The store interior design layouts are:
- Angular – Shows off designer or specialty clothing or accessories
- Grid – Best for convenience stores or retail of shelf-stocked goods
- Forced-path – Works as a guide for shoppers, leading them through a path showcasing décor and furniture
- Loop – Maximizes wall space and versatility as it leads shoppers through homeware, toys, clothing, or personal care items
- Diagonal – Encourages product testing and employee-shopper contact, like in tech and beauty stores
- Free-flow/Mixed – Ideal for a boutique store showcasing designer items or mixed-use like bakeries and goods
Ultimately, the ideal layout depends on factors like the size of the space, the products on display, and the preferred traffic flow. Experiment with different retail interior design layouts before settling on a fixed arrangement.
3. Entice Customers with a Window Display
Never underestimate the allure of a good window display, given that it’s the first taste customers get of the retail interior design. The décor and setup must, once again, make the store’s aesthetic clear. For example, an outdoor store could create a display with a rustic vibe depicting a camping scene.
4. Capture Attention Using Focal Point Displays
An effective and aesthetic retail shop interior design tip is to create focal point displays with select merchandise. Consumers love it because they’re introduced to products in a visually appealing way. Bright colors, special lighting, and added height make for striking displays. Position them in strategic, high-traffic areas to help guide customers through a store. And remember: they must reflect the products within a specific section.
5. Keep the Entryway Clutter-Free
Retail store by Decorilla interior designer, Laura A.
The transition zone in retail interior design spans up to fifteen feet from the entrance. It should remain relatively open, allowing customers to decompress and take in the store’s character. Here, it’s not so much about selling as it is about making a lasting impression. Focus on using this area to set the tone for what’s to come deeper within.
6. Arrange Store Interior Design for Spacious Aisles
Now more than ever, people enjoy keeping their distance while shopping. Prevent people from having to brush past each other by arranging aisles into spacious pathways. It improves the retail experience and customer’s comfort – plus the store interior design feels roomier as well!
7. Capitalize on Impulse Purchases
Encourage another purchase (or two, or three!) by turning the checkout station into a final display. It’s the perfect place to show off small, inexpensive items clients won’t hesitate to add during checkout. Not to mention the retail store interior design will feel complete, remaining faithful to its aesthetic up to and including the exit.
8. Consider Color Use
Colorful eclectic restaurant – retail store interior design by Decorilla designer, Sonia C.
Famous retail stores are inherently linked to their iconic, easily recognizable brand colors. Use these colors in shop interior design through accent walls, décor, and more – but be sure to use them tastefully. Be careful not to go overboard and overwhelm customers with too much color. Instead, go for a blend of neutrals and bold hues. After all, the main focus should be the products.
9. Essential Retail Space Designer Tip: Prioritize Good Lighting
Glamorous cosmetic boutique store interior by Decorilla designer, Nathalie I.
Lighting can make or break a retail interior design. For one thing, it has a variety of effects, depending on how it’s used. Ultimately, it should suit the store while giving clients a clear view. There are four main types, which work best in combination:
- Accent lighting quite literally shines the spotlight on select areas, products, or displays
- Decorative lighting is more about appearance than functionality as it adds to the space’s vibe – like a chandelier
- Task lighting is all about practicality and visibility, making doing tasks easier
- Ambient lighting acts as the primary light source and is the one all the others build upon
10. Big or Small Store Interior Design – Embrace Seasonal Touches
Whether dealing with small shop interior design or a large-scale operation – the space should remain relevant all year. Attract customers by adding seasonal touches to the usual design. For example, decorate the store with string lights and even a Christmas tree during December to capitalize on the festive vibe.
Need retail store interior design help?
Whether looking into a creative interior design for a small boutique shop or another retailer, Decorilla can help. Schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation today to be on your way to enjoying more checkouts!
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