Creation of retail spaces is a science

What you sell is of importance, but how you sell it – that is even more crucial. A stores layout, design and ambience greatly affect how products, and the store itself, are received by customers and employees. The design of a retail space is, therefore, a crucial part of any business. With aspects of psychology so prevalent in these design decisions, retail construction could be deemed a science of its own. Retail construction involves mixing elements such as the ideas and actions of a vast network of people including managers, architects and interior designers, with the goal of producing an appealing, welcoming retail experience unique to a store’s consumers.

The Formula

A number of elements must be considered when constructing a retail space. For most, the aesthetic of the store is what comes to mind initially. While this is a key part of the process, the functionality, robustness and fulfilment of the client are just as important. Taking these into consideration and implementing them to their fullest potential, will, in turn, result in a cohesive and enjoyable retail and work environment. It is the experience and knowledge of managers and creators which allows this to come to fruition. Each contributes to the science of retail construction, maximising results.

Forming an Identity

The identity of a business is the key to creating long-lasting sentiments amongst customers and employees. It is the role of a brand manager to ensure the character of the business shines through its image. As part of this role, they are responsible for the business’ target market thus; they have a strong understanding of the perceptions of customers. This knowledge plays a crucial role in the identification phase of retail construction. Forming an identity is about concocting different aspects of the business to formulate an image. It is the role of the brand manager to bring the character of the business to the forefront of design.

An Outside Perspective

Perhaps the most crucial perspective on a business is that of the customers. The role of an experienced manager is to take feedback on board to improve and refine the service and products of a company. Furthermore, the experience of a retailer, who interacts with customers, also contributes to this. When constructing a retail environment, taking into consideration what customers find appealing and what they do not is a crucial step. Without the input of an experienced manager or retailer, a company risks going against their target market’s ideal vision.

Creative Minds

Architects, interior designers and project managers execute the visions of retail construction. The creative aspects are crucial to the initial and long-lasting impression of the retail space. An interior designer can create an experience for customers and employees which is both visually appealing, and in conjunction with architects, functional. Being both visually appealing and functional are the most crucial elements in the construction of a retail space. These visions are all made possible with the supervision of a construction manager who oversees the execution of the building and design process. Together, they bring the vision to life.

Retail construction is more than simply placing bricks on foundations. In reality, a store’s foundation is set by brand and experienced managers as well as retailers who have a true understanding of customers and employees. It is the input of the creative teams of architects, interior designers and construction managers who implement this understanding to create an appealing and functional space. Constructing a retail space is indeed a science with success found when each element is implemented and mixed precisely within the formula of success.