Retail – Storefront Design Tips

A retail storefront creates that all important first impression. It should be both attractive and welcoming to draw in the customer and it should also represent the shop’s brand and products. A storefront can be used for promotions and to welcome a season and there are effective ways for making the most of any storefront.

A good sign is essential. Customers need to know the name of the store and to identify with it. It should be easy to read, easy on the eye and relate to the services or products on offer inside, so the customer knows what to expect before he enters. Signs over the door, the exterior of the building and in the windows will all draw attention and be memorable.

A store which is outdoors greatly benefits from an awning. Not only is it attractive, it also serves as a shelter from the elements for passing customers. A customer who stops in front of the store to escape the rain is more likely to look at the window display and be drawn inside. A good outside display with the latest and most popular products is a boon for any shop and an awning means the display can be left out even when it rains. And just because a shop is inside doesn’t mean an awning isn’t useful as it can help a store stand out from the rest.

A good window display is the next step for an attractive storefront. What the store sells affects how the window is presented, but the display should appeal to the target customer. Teenagers need modern, dynamic windows with bright colors, older people will appreciate a more subtle, chic look. Florists tempt customers with their most beautiful bouquets and cake shops display mouth watering treats. Holidays and special occasions such as Christmas or Mother’s Day merit a special window with appropriate products to give people an idea of what to buy. Above all, it helps to clean the window regularly and change the display from time to time to keep it fresh.

Plants and flowers in window boxes make a storefront look very pretty. Make sure the outside area is swept and cleaned regularly to create the best impression. A glass door is more inviting as customers can see inside and they are light and easy to open for the elderly client. It’s also a good idea to have well signed wheelchair access. Lighting is helpful to highlight the window display, the signs and the entrance, particularly in winter. Before deciding on an awning or any outdoor display, it might be worth a telephone call to the local council to see what is allowed.

Combining all these elements will give any storefront an edge on the competition and make for as welcoming and attractive a shop as possible.

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