Key Elements to Consider When Designing a Retail Store Exterior

With changing times, consumers’ expectation of a brand, its products/services, and the shopping experience it provides has changed considerably. This has forced retail owners to redefine their store proposition and take recognized steps to address diverse consumer needs. Since a store is a powerful tool in the hands of retail owners to meet the increasing expectations of consumers, retailers now give proper emphasis to retail interior design.

The exterior design of the store is one of the main factors that shape the perception of consumers about the store. It is the first thing a consumer sees about the store, making it a deciding factor in whether or not they should enter the store. Therefore, the exterior design of the store must communicate an impressive image of the store and entice consumers to enter. Elements that affect the exterior appearance of the store include the store front, storefronts, and the store entrance.

a) Shadow fascia: The storefront is the most visible and primary expression of a company’s identity. It tells customers what your store is all about while portraying both the positive and correct image of the store. Your storefront should be designed in a way that it accurately represents your business and attracts the right audience. It must be unique and attractive to attract passersby to the store.

b) Shop windows: Shop windows have gone from being mere storage spaces for products to becoming a potential marketing tool. It is an important point of contact between the store and the customer and has tremendous power to attract visitors. By thoughtfully displaying your best store merchandise in window displays, you can easily convert passing visitors into loyal customers. However, avoid product clutter as it distracts visitors. Keep your storefronts clean so that it offers a proper store preview inside. Change the positioning of products, photos, mannequins, and other items on the screen after regular intervals. Also, use bold colors and proper lighting to highlight the products on your display and draw customers into the store.

c) Input: The job is half done when a visitor is greeted by a well-designed entrance that sets their buying mood. Determine the number of entrances your store should have based on store layout and traffic. The purpose of the main entrance and the rear entrances are different, therefore the design should be done keeping in mind the purposes that the entrance serves. Entrances should be wide, spacious and welcoming. There should be no disorder or barriers at the entrances. In addition, the beautiful graphics at the entrance and exit create a lasting impression on visitors. Entries should also provide an overview of what a consumer should expect after entering the store.

Therefore, exterior elements, including the store front, window displays, and entrance, work together to create an aesthetic and functional retail design that captures the customer’s attention and leads them into the store.