Stages of a retail project

The development of a retail concept includes brand and competitor analysis, trend and benchmark research, formulation of the brand’s Big Idea, planning of zoning and the customer journey, as well as the creation of concept visualizations, moodboards, and material boards.

From the very beginning of the project, architects and brand designers are involved as a single team to integrate brand identity into the space. We develop several versions of the retail concept, which we present through sketches and AI visualizations. These are not yet final 3D visualizations, but they provide a clear understanding of the project idea and the overall direction.

At the concept design stage, a layout for the retail space and a detailed design solution are developed, including interior-architectural solutions, a system of verbal communications, and graphic design. All of this is presented through photorealistic 3D visualizations.

The concept design can be developed for an actual location or an abstract space — a white box. At this stage, dimensional design drawings of individual elements and specifications for retail equipment, materials, and lighting are also prepared.

At this stage, we adapt the developed white box project for the pilot location (zoning and customer journey, layout, retail equipment, and graphic mock-ups). If the location has not yet been determined, the technical design is developed on a white box basis.

To ensure that the concept is implemented exactly according to the design, we prepare a full set of drawings. These include plans for equipment placement, ceiling structures, flooring, lighting, as well as wall elevations with finishes, equipment and graphic element placement, and more.

This stage is crucial to ensure that the project is implemented exactly as shown in the 3D visualizations. We provide detailed specifications, including item numbers, quantities, delivery times, costs, and supplier contacts. Pilot location visits are conducted to supervise the proper implementation of the design project by the construction team. We provide the client’s working group with necessary explanations and guidance on implementation issues and consult with designers. The client is regularly updated on the progress of the work, and any issues requiring adjustments to the design are addressed promptly.

The creation of a retail book is essential for scaling the retail concept. This 100–200 page document consolidates all rules for adapting the concept to different sizes and types of spaces. Based on the approved concept and detailed design, we develop a comprehensive guide for retail space design, including core principles and a set of rules that allow the retail concept to be implemented without further involvement from the agency.