Ideas for better spaces
Two free tools to assess your space, and practical advice for businesses and private clients alike.
Quick check for your shop
Eight questions, two minutes: assess what your retail space says about you and leave with your three priorities.
Your answers stay on your screen: nothing is stored or sent.
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Your space is well designed
A few adjustments can still make it more memorable.
Plenty of room to improve
A few targeted changes can really make a difference to your sales.
Your space could do much more for you
That is good news: the quickest wins are often the simplest.
Your priorities
- Your window should answer one question: “What can I find here?” One well-lit hero product beats the whole collection.
- A window that never changes becomes invisible to regular passers-by. Plan display supports that are easy to change (plinths, rails, hanging systems).
- The first metres are a transition zone: keep them free of displays and tills so customers feel comfortable stepping in.
- Place a focal point facing the entrance or slightly to the right: it draws the eye and sets the tone of the space.
- Add accent lighting (adjustable spots) on products, in addition to general lighting: that is what makes people want to buy.
- A loop layout with points of interest all the way to the back increases time spent in store and average spend.
- Place the till at the end of the route, visible but set back from the entrance, with room to put a bag down.
- Choose two or three materials and one signature colour that echo your identity: that is what makes a place memorable.
- No major weakness: an outside eye can help you go further.
What is your style?
Five questions to put words to your taste, with a colour palette and three tips to get started.
Your answers stay on your screen: nothing is stored or sent.
Parisian classic
You love interiors with a story: mouldings, parquet, fireplaces, beautiful proportions. The effortless chic of a Haussmann apartment.
- Ivory
- Brass
- Taupe
- Midnight blue
Three tips
- Keep and highlight original features rather than hiding them.
- Mix in one contemporary piece per room: the contrast avoids a museum feel.
- Favour eye-level lighting (wall lights, lamps) over a single ceiling light.
Warm minimalist
You are looking for calm: few objects, simple lines, but soft materials that make the space welcoming.
- Off-white
- Linen
- Oak
- Graphite
Three tips
- Plan for plenty of closed storage: minimalism starts there.
- Play with textures (linen, wool, wood) to avoid a cold feel.
- Leave real empty spaces: a bare wall is a choice, not an oversight.
Graphic contemporary
You love contrast and statement pieces: black and white, metal, crisp shapes, one design object that catches the eye.
- White
- Black
- Steel
- Midnight blue
Three tips
- Stick to two strong colours and one glossy material.
- Go for one iconic piece per room rather than piling things up.
- Pay attention to accent lighting: shadows are part of the decor.
Natural Mediterranean
You love lively, sunny interiors: natural materials, earthy colours, plants and vintage finds.
- Lime wash
- Terracotta
- Olive
- Rattan
Three tips
- Choose raw, handmade materials: terracotta, rattan, linen, wood.
- Bring in plants, as large specimens rather than small pots.
- Prefer lime plasters to smooth paints: they make the light shimmer.
Practical advice
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Shops: 5 ways to make people want to come in
A shop is won or lost in a few seconds, on the pavement. Here are the five things I look at first when I study a retail space.
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Lighting: think in three layers
One ceiling light in the middle of the room, and that’s it? It is the most common mistake, at home and in shops. The fix: layer three kinds of light.
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Preparing your interior project: the checklist
Before a first meeting with a designer or interior architect, a little information saves a lot of time and money.
A place to imagine,
an internship to offer?
Write to me and I will get back to you soon. You can also follow my work on Instagram: @faustineds.design.