Have you ever wondered how commercial architecture can influence the success of a business? The way a space is designed, decorated, and lit can attract customers, create a visual identity, and convey a message about the brand. In this post, we'll show you 10 examples of commercial architecture that will inspire you to renovate your establishment or plan your next venture. Check it out!
Cosmetics store
A cosmetics store should be an invitation to beauty, self-care, and self-esteem. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this type of establishment should emphasize product display, customer circulation, and adequate lighting. An example of a cosmetics store that follows these principles is Sephora, a French chain with branches in several countries. Sephora stands out for its use of vibrant colors, such as black and red, which contrast with the white and transparent furniture and shelves. In addition, the store features mirrors, counters, and poufs that allow customers to comfortably and conveniently try on and test products.
The Lush store in São Paulo is another example of how to create a playful, colorful, and sensory environment for selling natural and handcrafted cosmetics. The store has a bathtub with running water where customers can test the products, and a soap wall reminiscent of an open-air market. The space also includes an area for workshops and events.
Sporting goods store
A sporting goods store should convey energy, dynamism, and health. To achieve this, the commercial architecture of this segment should focus on strong colors, geometric shapes, and durable materials. An example of a sporting goods store that follows this approach is Nike, one of the most famous brands in the world. Nike is characterized by its use of red and white, reminiscent of its logo, and by its efficient use of vertical space, with tall shelves and panels displaying images of athletes and products. In addition, the store features interactive areas, such as touchscreens, simulators, and running tracks, allowing customers to experience the sport firsthand.
The Nike store in New York is a truly immersive experience for sports enthusiasts. The store has five floors, each dedicated to a type of physical activity, such as running, basketball, and soccer. Customers can try out the products on tracks, courts, and simulators, as well as customize their shoes and clothing.
Luxury car dealership
A luxury car dealership should reflect sophistication, elegance, and exclusivity. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this sector should invest in neutral colors, straight lines, and premium materials. An example of a luxury car dealership that follows this concept is Audi, a German brand that stands out for the quality and design of its vehicles. Audi differentiates itself through the use of gray and black, which contrast with the shine of the cars on display, and through the use of glass, metal, and wood, which give a modern and refined look to the environment. In addition, the dealership has dedicated spaces for personalized service, a waiting lounge, and a coffee area for customers.
The Audi dealership in Munich is an example of how to integrate technology and sophistication into the sale of luxury cars. The dealership has a digital showroom, where customers can view models on giant, interactive screens, and an elevator that takes the cars to the customer after purchase.
Accessories store
An accessories store should be a creative, fun, and versatile space. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this segment should explore varied colors, organic shapes, and flexible materials. An example of an accessories store that follows this line is Imaginarium, a Brazilian brand that specializes in original and fun gifts. Imaginarium stands out for its use of blue and yellow, which are reminiscent of its logo, and for its use of wood, fabric, and cardboard, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. In addition, the store features niches, drawers, and hangers that organize products by themes and categories.
The Pandora store in London is an example of how to create a welcoming, feminine, and elegant environment for selling jewelry and accessories. The store has a decor inspired by an English garden, with flowers, plants, and wooden furniture. The space also has an area for personalizing the brand's bracelets and necklaces.
Restaurant
A restaurant should be a pleasant, comfortable, and delicious place. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this type of establishment should prioritize natural or artificial lighting, adequate ventilation, and the acoustics of the environment. An example of a restaurant that follows these criteria is Jamie's Italian, a British chain created by the famous chef Jamie Oliver. Jamie's Italian is characterized by the use of warm colors, such as brown and red, which evoke Italian cuisine, and by the use of wood, brick, and metal, creating a rustic and industrial style. In addition, the restaurant features communal tables, upholstered benches, and pendant lights that create an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
The Noma restaurant in Copenhagen is an example of how to create an environment that reflects the philosophy and gastronomy of the place. The restaurant is considered one of the best in the world, and its architecture emphasizes natural elements such as wood, stone, and glass. The space also features a vegetable garden, a greenhouse, and an open kitchen.
Coffee
A café should be a welcoming, charming, and aromatic space. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this segment should focus on soft colors, curved shapes, and natural materials. An example of a café that follows this concept is Starbucks, one of the most famous chains in the world. Starbucks differentiates itself through its use of green and white, which are reminiscent of its logo, and through the use of wood, leather, and straw, which give the environment an organic and sustainable feel. In addition, the café features sofas, armchairs, and small tables that allow customers to relax and enjoy their products in peace.
The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan is an example of how to create an environment that celebrates coffee culture and history. Located in a former stock exchange building, the café features a decor that blends classic and modern elements. The space also includes a roastery, a bakery, and a bar.
Pharmacy
A pharmacy should be a clean, organized, and trustworthy space. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this sector should invest in light colors, simple lines, and hygienic materials. An example of a pharmacy that follows this concept is Drogasil, one of the largest chains in Brazil. Drogasil stands out for its use of green and white, which are reminiscent of its logo, and for its use of glass, metal, and plastic, which create a clinical and professional aspect to the environment. In addition, the pharmacy has gondolas, counters, and display cases that organize products by category and brand.
The Farm pharmacy in Rio de Janeiro is an example of how to create an environment that conveys health, well-being, and sustainability. The pharmacy has a green facade, with plants that purify the air, and an interior that uses natural materials such as bamboo, cotton, and recycled paper. The space also has an area for beauty and health services.
Bookstore
A bookstore should be a cultural, educational, and inspiring space. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this segment should explore diverse colors, varied shapes, and diverse materials. An example of a bookstore that follows this line is Livraria Cultura, one of the most prestigious in Brazil. Livraria Cultura stands out for its use of vibrant colors, such as red and orange, which contrast with the white and black of the displayed books, and for its use of wood, metal, and paper, creating an artistic and creative atmosphere. In addition, the bookstore features curved shelves, escalators, and stages that allow customers to circulate and interact with the products.
The Zhongshuge bookstore in Chongqing is an example of how to create an environment that stimulates imagination and reading. The bookstore has a futuristic design, with mirrors, lights, and geometric shapes that create optical illusions. The space also has a children's area with interactive books and educational toys.
Beauty salon
A beauty salon should be an elegant, glamorous, and relaxing space. Therefore, the commercial architecture of this type of establishment should emphasize indirect or diffused lighting, natural or artificial ventilation, and the acoustics of the environment. An example of a beauty salon that follows these criteria is Laces and Hair, one of the most renowned in São Paulo. Laces and Hair is characterized by the use of neutral colors, such as beige and gray, which evoke sophistication and simplicity, and by the use of glass, metal, and stone, creating a minimalist and contemporary style. In addition, the salon features reclining chairs, large mirrors, and vertical gardens that create an atmosphere of well-being and harmony.
The Drybar beauty salon in Los Angeles is an example of how to create an environment that offers comfort, fun, and style for clients. The salon specializes in blowouts and has a bar-like decor, with stools, tables, and lamps. The space also has an area for watching movies and series while getting your hair done.
Desk
An office should be a functional, productive, and motivating space. Therefore, commercial architecture in this sector should focus on sober colors, rectangular shapes, and durable materials. An example of an office that follows this approach is Google, one of the most innovative companies in the world. Google stands out for its use of blue, green, yellow, and red, which are reminiscent of its logo, and for its use of glass, metal, and concrete, which give the environment a modern and technological look. In addition, the office features shared desks, ergonomic chairs, and playful spaces that allow employees to work comfortably and have fun.
Google's Zurich office is an example of how to create an environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation among employees. The office's architecture blends fun and functionality, with themed rooms, slides, nets, and soundproof booths. The space also includes a cafeteria, a library, and a gym.
