Your storefront can stand out from the many that line any avenue, shopping area, or major district with a few considerations. One major consideration that businesses should factor in is their brand and how it will be reflected in the appearance of the storefront. Another consideration is how the storefront appearance compliments or clashes with other stores in the area.
These are just a few of the major things that store owners must take into consideration when designing a storefront. Whether deciding on a bold style or something classier and more subdued, your storefront design speaks to the types of clients that patronise the business and gives character to your company. More importantly, while seemingly a small thing, your storefront design will ultimately be the thing that attracts business to your establishment.
Let’s take a look at a few areas you need to focus on when choosing a new look for your store to make sure you have that curb appeal you need.
Signage
Signage is of utmost importance in that it is the thing that tells customers the location what your store is all about. The script can be fanciful and whimsical or bold and serious, each one conveying certain impressions on customers. Then, there are the types of placards in which these signs appear. Among the different types of materials, there are fabric store signs, plywood signs, painted glass signs, metal signs, laser cut acrylic signs, and rock storefronts signs. All of these materials can be very attractive, but when considering signage, store owners want to use materials that will be durable in all types of weather and that fits with the overall company brand and image.
Windows
Choosing the right type of windows is important for both function and aesthetics. Of course, businesses want windows that will be attractive to potential customers in the area. Stained-glass windows, for one, can make your storefront have an old world appearance to customers, and attract a different clientele. Tinted windows, on the other hand, might be a better choice for stores in very warm climates.
Store owners have a huge range of windows to choose from, but they should also take other factors into consideration in the decision-making process. When looking for windows for your storefront, security, privacy, and energy efficiency should be factors as well. Even though these last few factors do not relate directly to beautifying the storefront, they can go a long way where safety and efficiency are concerned.
Storefront Doors
Of the doors that you can choose from, glass, aluminium, and steel door fronts are some of the more popular options. The door should blend in with signage and look maintained by other surrounding shops. More importantly, your storefront’s doors are going to be one of the first lines of defence against intruders during off hours. The best doors are reinforced and contain sweeps, which are seals that prevent debris and drafts from entering the space. Of course, a major factor in choosing door fronts is security, and many doors have reinforced or electronic locking systems that can provide additional security to keep your store safe.
Association Rules
A major factor contributing to the design of your storefront are the rules that govern the stores in the area. Almost like a home association, many shopping areas are governed by these types of organisations, which usually have regulations in terms of the designs and objects that are permitted in and around the store. If your storefront is in a shopping area and is governed by an association, consider talking to association members or reading the by-laws to determine which designs are appropriate.
Styling Your Storefront
Your storefront can make a statement to the public about your business and your brand. The appearance of your storefront should not only appeal to your customers, but it should also complement other surrounding businesses in the area. Finally, if successful, the storefront will leave a lasting impression on those frequenting the business, lead to more return customers in your store and more money in your pocket.