In today’s competitive retail industry, lighting is an essential element that can enhance the overall shopping experience for customers. Proper retail lighting can not only highlight products but also set the mood and ambiance of the space, influencing customer behavior and increasing brand recognition. In this blog post, we’ll discuss six key factors for effective interior retail lighting.
Focus on Balance in Your Store Lighting
Using a combination of different lighting techniques and balancing them to create a cohesive look is key when creating an immersive shopping experience. The first step is to identify the different areas of the store and the type of lighting that would work best in each area.
For example, the entrance may require bright, welcoming lighting, while the display areas may need a combination of ambient and accent lighting to highlight the products. Task lighting may be necessary in areas where customers need to read labels or instructions.
Once you have identified the areas and types of lighting needed, the next step is to select the right fixtures. It is essential to choose lighting fixtures that complement the store’s aesthetic and add to the overall ambiance.
Use the Right Types of Lighting to Fit the Specific Space
The lighting design should fit the specific layout, style, and purpose of the retail space. First, you should consider the overall aesthetic and layout of the space. For example, if the store has high ceilings, pendant lights can add a touch of elegance and create a focal point. If the space is smaller, recessed lighting or track lighting can be used to create a more subtle and streamlined look.
It is also important to consider the purpose of each space. For example, the checkout area may require brighter task lighting to ensure visibility, while the dressing room may require softer lighting to create a more flattering effect.
Finally, choose lighting that complements the type of merchandise that will be displayed in the space. Different types of products may require different types of lighting to showcase them properly. For instance, clothing and accessories may require a combination of ambient and accent lighting to highlight the colors and textures, while electronics may require brighter task lighting to showcase the features and functions.
In a clothing store, color rendering is an especially important consideration as the quality of lighting can affect the perception of color and overall quality of the merchandise. Pay attention to glare as well, since lighting in areas with glass display cases can be tricky to accomplish.
Texture Matters in Retail Store Lighting
Lighting texture refers to the visual effect created by the interplay of light and shadow. The texture of lighting in a retail space can greatly affect the mood and ambiance of the environment. Diffused lighting, for example, can create a soft, calming effect, while harsh, directional lighting can create a more dramatic, high-energy effect. Lighting texture can also affect the way that products are perceived. Soft, diffused lighting can make products appear more luxurious, while harsh, directional lighting can create a more utilitarian feel.
Pro Tip: Aiming lights to catch clothing at an appealing angle can also make a difference in their appearance. See this before and after from a Lululemon store featuring Solais retail lighting.
How to Achieve Layered Lighting in Retail Stores
Creating lighting with layers and depth in a retail space can be achieved by using a combination of different lighting techniques and fixtures. For example, a combination of ambient lighting and accent lighting can create a layered effect that highlights the texture and dimensions of merchandise.
Use of different light sources such as overhead, track lighting, and wall sconces can also create various layers in the retail space. Moreover, adding different lighting accessories such as diffusers, filters, and dimmer switches can help to adjust the lighting texture and create a desired effect.
Use Flexible Store Lighting Options for Floor/Merchandise Changes
Flexible lighting design is important in a retail space because it allows for versatility and adaptability for different situations. Retail spaces are dynamic environments where the merchandise, layout, and customer flow are constantly changing. Flexible lighting allows for easy adjustments to accommodate these changes.
A flexible lighting system may include dimmer switches or adjustable light fixtures, which can be used to highlight different products or change the mood of the space. Lighting flexibility also allows for energy-efficiency by using controls that can adjust the illumination levels automatically or remotely, reducing energy consumption and costs. Overall, a flexible lighting design is crucial in ensuring that a retail space remains adaptable, efficient, and visually appealing.
Use the Right Lumen Output for Your Space
The lumen output is the measure of light emitted by a lighting fixture. Choosing the correct lumen output for a retail space is necessary to create a visually appealing and functional environment that showcases the merchandise in the best possible way.
A higher lumen output can make the products appear more vibrant and attractive, while a lower output can create a more intimate and relaxed shopping experience. The lumen output should also be balanced with the ambient light levels to ensure that the customers can see and appreciate the merchandise without any discomfort or eyestrain.
Get in Touch with Solais for Help With Retail Store Lighting
Interior retail lighting is a critical aspect of the shopping experience. By focusing on balance, choosing the right lighting fixtures and texture, using flexible lighting options, selecting the right lumen output, and utilizing smart lighting systems, retailers can create a pleasant, immersive shopping experience.
If you’re looking to elevate your space with innovative retail lighting solutions, Solais Lighting Group can help. Solais provides a range of lighting solutions, including LED lights, dimmable lights, color-changing lights, and more. We have implemented retail lighting systems for numerous clients with high-traffic spaces, including Sperry, Fossil, and Tumi.
Our team of experts will work closely with you to create a lighting design that enhances the customer experience while being energy-efficient. Contact Solais Lighting Group today to learn more.