Interior design can seem intimidating, especially if you’re trying to do it yourself. But, it’s really not that difficult to do when you know what you’re doing, and with so many resources available to help, you can get help from the best of the best in no time at all! These interior design secrets will allow you to make your business look more stylish and appealing without breaking the bank or taking up too much of your time.
Every detail counts
When designing a retail or salon-based business, remember that every detail counts. Don’t overlook mundane details like where you place your products or how clean your counters are—the smallest things can have an impact on customers’ impressions of your store. Many interior designers also agree that strategic placement of mirrors can be very effective in adding depth to small spaces, creating an optical illusion that makes rooms appear larger than they actually are. It’s important to keep in mind that even if you don’t have a lot of space, there are still plenty of ways to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. For example, consider using light colors (like white) to make smaller spaces feel airy and open.
Lighting
Of all of a business’s design elements, lighting is by far one of most critical. Poor lighting will negatively impact customer perceptions of your shop or salon. Not only does it make a space look smaller, darker, and dingier than it actually is—it can also make customers feel more anxious or insecure. The right lighting can have an entirely different effect: It makes a room appear larger, brighter, and more inviting. For example, if you have light-colored walls in your store or salon (as opposed to dark colors), you should use bright lights that reflect off those walls to bounce around. This will give off an illusion of brightness even when you don’t have natural light streaming in through windows. If however you own a restaurant, bear in mind that darker environments make people eat more!
Colour Scheme
Your store’s interior design should reflect your brand’s personality. Consider implementing a cohesive colour scheme throughout your space. If you’re planning on having multiple locations in different cities, you can use your brand colours as your colour scheme (it will make it easier to maintain continuity between locations). For example, if your brand is bold and playful, consider using bright colours such as yellow or pink. You could also choose neutrals like black or white with pops of colour here and there. Or if you want to create an air of sophistication, stick with neutral tones like black or grey with accent pieces in gold or silver. The possibilities are endless!
Layout
If you work in an environment where space is limited, it’s important to make sure that your layout isn’t causing any problems with efficiency. First, make sure that all of your needed tools are within arm’s reach and that they are properly organized so they can be found easily. If necessary, consider using portable shelving systems to hold tools in areas that don’t have adequate storage space. Next, keep your workspace clutter-free. Clutter creates distractions and wastes time as employees search for things they need. It’s also not conducive to a calm working environment and it doesnt look good for clients. Finally, make sure that you have enough room to move around comfortably—you should be able to sit on a stool for example while working without having your knees bump into a counter or table and the ability to move around the table and room easily.
Brand Identity
Before you decide on a physical design, it’s important to figure out your brand identity. Who are you? What do you stand for? Your brand should be something that represents both your business and yourself. Once you have a firm grasp on who you are, think about how to translate that into something visual. Is there a certain color or style that represents what you’re doing well? How can you incorporate that into your design choices in unique ways? Is your brand natural, ethical and a bit rustic? Think about using natural interior design materials like lots of wood and natural colours. Are you going for a luxury spa? Think oppulance and luxury when decorating. Keep it practical though, if you are a pet salon with lots of 4 legged clients then that gorgeous extortionate velvet couch you are imagining in your waiting area may take a battering so make sure all surfaces are practical and easily cleaned. Think about the pets eye view when designing a space for them to feel calm and relaxed.
Creative Touchpoints
The entrance to your business is one of its most important design decisions. It’s a space that potential customers walk by, but it’s also a space you can use to enhance your brand. Make sure your storefront logo, colors, fonts, images and other creative details are consistent with those used throughout your website and social media marketing pages. Make your business recognisable. Build your brand!
Consider Budget
Many shops and salons start out with a budget of £5,000-£10,000 for decor, which is great. But look at how much you’re spending on each aspect of your store. If you aren’t spending enough to achieve a design that will invite potential clients, your budget may need a review. Keep in mind that it often costs more to go back to fix something than it does to fix it right from the beginning.
Create a Compelling Exterior Environment
Creating a great first impression goes beyond clean windows and well-lit interiors. If your shop or salon is on a busy street, consider what passersby will see when they glance through your front window. Are you presenting something that looks welcoming? Does it look like you’re open for business? A potential customer may decide to walk inside based solely on their first impression of your exterior environment. Take some time to make sure that first impression is as good as it can be!
