A Walkthrough Of Our Retail Design Process

Designing a retail space can be a very exciting and fulfilling project, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many elements to consider and coordinate, it's easy to feel lost in the process. That's where we come in!

At NOLA, we have a proven effective process for creating beautiful, functional retail spaces that will make your vision a reality. Our team of experts will guide you through every step of the way, ensuring that your project runs smoothly and successfully - ultimately leading to a gorgeous new retail space that attracts your ideal customers.

A lot of clients ask us about our retail design process and are not entirely sure how much time to budget for the design process! So we wanted to share our phases along with you to learn more about what we do and how we do it. Keep reading to get the insider’s view on our workflow and process!

Phase 1: Project Initiation 

We start with project initiation where we gather all the necessary information about your project and space. Our team will take the time to understand your business goals, design preferences, and the layout of your space. This step is crucial as it helps us to create a customized design plan that meets all your requirements. Our goal is to make sure that we have a solid understanding of your project before we move on to the next phase.
Duration: ~ 1 week

Phase 2: Concept Development

Once we have a clear understanding of your project, we move on to concept development. During this phase, our team will create a preliminary concept for your retail space and develop store strategies to inform the design direction. This includes determining the best layout for your space, selecting materials and finishes, and developing a detailed floor plan. Our goal is to create a design that not only looks great but also meets all your functional needs.
Duration: approx. 1 week

Phase 3: Design Development

In phase 3, we take the concept and turn it into a detailed design solution. We use 3D modeling to create a virtual representation of your space, allowing you to see how your space will look and function before it's built. This is an important step in the process as it allows you to make any necessary changes or modifications to the design before we move on to the next phase.
Duration: 2-4 weeks *dependant on service type

Phase 4: Design Implementation

Once you are happy with the design, we move on to design implementation. During this phase, our team will develop a detailed design package with all the necessary dimensions, material specifications, and finish call-outs. We will also provide you with a complete furniture list, so you know exactly what you need to purchase to bring your vision to life. Our team will work with you to gather any necessary approvals or receive pricing from suppliers.
Duration: 1-2 weeks

Phase 5: Project Coordination

With the design complete, it's time to bring your vision to life! In phase 5, our team will coordinate the build-out of your store, providing support and troubleshooting any issues that arise during the process. Depending on your scope of work, we may coordinate and schedule contractors or trades on your behalf. Our goal is to ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget.
Duration: As needed during building out

Phase 6: Visual Merchandising Execution

Finally, in phase 6, we bring the finishing touches to your space with visual merchandising execution. Our team will provide, schedule, and coordinate on-site labor to merchandise your displays according to the merchandising strategy we created for your project. This will include placing fixtures, furniture, and equipment in the right place to create an attractive and functional retail space that will impress your customers.
Duration: 1-3 days *dependant on scope of work

Our retail design process is designed to make the process of designing your retail space as stress-free as possible. Our team of experts will guide you every step of the way, from project initiation to visual merchandising execution. 

We would love to work with you in creating your dream retail store. Contact us today to learn more about our process and how we can help you bring your vision to life! 

Check out our services to learn about the services that are a good fit for you!

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