Retail Design Tips You Will Need When Opening Your First Retail Store

Are you ready to open your first retail store? Exciting times are ahead!

Opening your first retail store is a thrilling experience, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider, from choosing the right location to finding the perfect products to sell. But before you can even start selling your products, you need to create a space that will attract the right customers. Your retail store design is crucial to the success of your business - it can make or break your sales!

Storefront

The storefront is the first thing that customers will see when approaching your store. Therefore, it is important to create visual interest and make a statement with your storefront. Materials such as brick, wood, metal, and glass can all be used to create a unique and visually interesting storefront. Additionally, the colour of your storefront can also be used to attract customers. Bright colours such as red, yellow, and orange are eye-catching and can make your store stand out but remember to keep the colours on brand!.

Signage

The signage of your store is also crucial in customers identifying your store. There are different types of signage to consider, such as decorative, 3-dimensional, illuminated vs. non-illuminated, vinyl, and awnings. Decorative signage can add personality to your store and make it more memorable; 3-dimensional can create a more impactful effect, while illuminated can draw attention to your store at night. Vinyl signage and awnings can be a great option for budget-friendly signage.

Flooring

This should be durable, aesthetically pleasing, and safe for customers. The material, pattern, and features of your flooring should all be considered when choosing the right flooring for your store. Hardwood flooring can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while tile flooring can be easy to clean and maintain. Additionally, transitions between different flooring types should be smooth and safe for customers to walk on.

Ceiling

The ceiling of your store should complement the overall design and theme of your store. Materials such as wood, metal, and acoustic panels can all be used to create a unique and visually interesting ceiling. Additionally, accents such as moulding and lightning fixtures can be added to create a more dynamic and engaging ceiling.

Lighting

This is a critical aspect of retail design as it can create a mood, highlight displays, and draw attention to specific areas of your store. Ambient lighting can provide a general level of illumination, while task lighting can be used to highlight specific displays or products. Decorative or sculptural lighting can be used to create a unique and visually stunning atmosphere in your store. (check out some of our favourite statement lighting in our Amazon Storefront and Etsy Shops) 

Fixtures

Shelving, clothing racks, tables, display cases, and cash desks are essential to the functionality and cohesive design of your store. It’s so important to keep your fixtures on brand and avoid mix and matching fixtures. Custom fixtures can be expensive but can create a unique and memorable look for your store. Alternatively, off-the-shelf fixtures can be more affordable and easier to acquire. 

Visual merchandising

The art of displaying products in a visually appealing and persuasive way to encourage customers to make a purchase. Mannequins and forms can be used to display clothing in a more engaging way, while acrylic risers can be used to create high and dimensional displays. Price cards and directional and promotional signage can also be used to guide customers and draw attention to specific products.

If you are planning to open your first retail store  and ready to start designing your retail store, be sure to check out our NOLA Storefront on Amazon and Etsy for some great items. From unique lighting fixtures to decorative signage, you will find everything you need to create a stunning store that will attract and retain customers. Happy designing!