Retail Architect: Asking when is enough enough?

Every time I see one of these pink T Mobile stores I wonder if the glowing pink walls, circa 2011, have translated into increased sales.  The design, we are told, creates a positive customer experience by sporting an open plan, service desks, interactive centers,...

Retail Architect 2015 Trends: between new and passé is timeless

I started 2015 by attending and event about a subject near and dear to those of us intimately involved with the retail trade.  Namely, “Marketing Trends for 2015,” a worthwhile presentation sponsored by the Alexandria Small Business Development Center, and...

What do retail architects really do?

It is probably safe to say that many people know little, if anything, about what architects actually do. How, then, can one benefit from an architect’s, or other design professional’s, services when faced with planning a new store? We have found that the...

Store Design: Material Perceptions

I was researching another project when I ran across these book stores. I was looking for examples of how different finish materials can change the perception of quality in a space, and as these views are void of brand signs, they allow for a fairly objective...

Store Design: When location is not enough?

Slow Sales: Recently I have had the experience of interacting with several long time business owners with shops in high traffic, high profile, historic locations.  These are highly desirable locations with  low vacancy rates and instances of failure.  Not only is...