Design in 2016 – what will the retail sector look like?

What will 2016 hold for retail?

“In 2016 we will be designing 360º retail experience for brands, as non-traditional retail brands as well as seasoned retailers look to physical retail as the place for tactile discovery to engage customers. This will mean incorporating enhanced theatrical service offers, multi-sensory interaction and more social sharing.

Digital will be increasingly intrinsic to the in-store experience, with digital communications contextualising products, providing layered information and responsive pricing.

We’ll also see a focus on super-charged convenience, with more retailers trialling ‘micro’ formats. These smaller formats will optimise every moment of the customer journey, from pre-ordering to fast track fulfilment, with self-pay options as standard.”

What was the stand out retail project of 2015?

“The redesign of Harvey Nichols at The Mailbox, Birmingham [by Virgile + Partners], with its ‘5 star hotel’ feel. The minimalistic interior and beautiful fixtures create a calm canvas that gives customers a chance to breathe, while accentuating the product.

The store also uses digital subtly and effectively to guide customers and focus on the shopping experience ­ without being intrusive.”

Discover more of 2015’s biggest retail projects:

• Harvey Nichols looks to redefine luxury with new store designs

• Sonos launches acoustically designed brand space 

• John Lewis’ £14m revamp of its Home department includes a giant interactive head

• IKEA trials new store formats to save customers a trip out of town

• Selfridges launches “gender neutral” retail concept

See all Design Week’s retail design stories at www.designweek.co.uk/retail/