STRAND HIGHPOINT — New Concept Evolution Retail Design — 2022
In order to expand their customer reach, Australian retailer, Strandbags, courageously underwent a two year brand overhaul and emerged as STRAND in 2022. As part of the evolution, we were tasked with pushing their retail concept from our initial design in 2018 even further, by designing a ‘Store of the Future’.
With this in mind, we set out to create a retail experience for modern lifestyles on the go. Tech, service and function were ranked as high on the list as hardware, fixtures and finishes. Wherever design details were considered, usability was also incorporated. Conceiving the ‘Store of the Future’ meant translating the convenience of the digital experience and creating an intelligent, operationally focused physical experience that could support straight-forward, efficient service in real life - all contained within a contemporary space that is timeless.
We envisaged a space that could transform at the click of a button; one that transpires excitement before embarking on that new adventure or helps earmark a new chapter in life. The optimism of lofty, brightly lit ceilings paired with a careful harmony between honest and elegant materials, we sought to create an interior that is timeless, so that the product and experience remains the hero from season to season.
“Fresh, modern and relevant.” - Felicity McGahan, Group CEO
Integrating the mobile POS experience was a key factor in the space planning for the store from the get-go. Even as the online shopping experience seems to offer customers with agile options and product knowledge at their fingertips, the tactile and instant nature of a physical shopping experience continues to remain unmatched. To connect the two worlds, the store experience has been aptly integrated with omnichannel point-of-sale, bridging the gap between online and in-store transactions. No longer are purchases rung up on a designated register - every team member is empowered with hand-held mobile devices to provide quicker, more casual service anywhere in the store. Streamlined kiosk units are placed in key locations in the store that feature tablets with customisable shopping menus to allow team members to help customers refine their options and select products based on their individual needs.
Strand at Highpoint features the world’s first Evity store-in-store experience. The crafted leather brand has its own distinguishing entrance and features soft curves and refined details, though utilises the same materials and textures to remain consistent with the rest of the Strand store design.
