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Text: Ar. Uphar Chibber, Partner and Principal Architect, LTDF

From the local open markets of Agora in ancient Greece and the Indian bazaar to the 21st-century e-commerce company, the retail industry has grown and witnessed several interventions. With the arrival of the internet and online shopping, shoppers equip themselves with industry knowledge and merchandise that were once inaccessible in brick-and-mortar department stores.

Modern retail begins on laptops and smart devices, as digital shopping platforms now offer at-home comfort and retain customer attention. Architects put in time and effort when designing building storefront facades that leave an impression on the passer-by, and compel them to enter. One also sees a demand for greater brand recognition and recall, where brands now use bold graphics or loud textual reminders for significant impact.

Luxury retail sees a greater dependence on technology, such as maximising the number of displays in shops to curate the best client experience. Partnerships with global icons and pop stars become brand ambassadors, creating trends worldwide. Bold colour contrasts, texts and typography on shop fronts and interiors. Visual media, lighting and moving graphics determine the customer experience. White light up to 4000K is the latest trend, and LED lights are now used in international retail.

Entrances and walkways are designed for customers to explore and discover, such as by using alcoves on both sides and mirrored surfaces. Self-illuminated niches, exhibits and jewellery windows carved into the walls add to the grandeur and become personalised to the shopper’s requirements.

In the pre-pandemic era, opulence was expressed in lavish design elements. However, high-end luxury is now defined by personalised experiences. Luxury retail brands have VIP sections inside high-end showrooms for their clientele, which allow customers exclusivity and privacy to shop in a relaxed space.