Interior Design: What Makes a Waiting Area in Jewelry Stores so Successful
Clients often ask during the initial consultation: “What is the importance of the waiting area for my jewelry store?”. A waiting area needs to make the customer feel relaxed, comfortable, and warm. Creating a proper waiting space allows customers, and their significant others, to experience a stress-free and enjoyable environment.
Here are five quick ideas to think about prior to developing or remodeling your waiting area.
- Pay close attention to the traffic flow to optimize the location.
- Choose comfortable furniture with upholstery and finishes that coordinate with the entire store.
- Create a relaxing design décor by setting the mood with lamps, chandeliers, and layered lighting.
- Have Wi-Fi and charging utilities available. These features allow your customers to browse the internet and/or charge their devices while they’re waiting.
- Have a beautiful beverage cart, or cabinet offering a selection of coffee, tea, fresh fruit, cold drinks, nutrition bars, small bags of packaged nuts, etc. An example is shown in the image from Crocker’s Jewelry, where a small built-in refrigerator beautifully displays refreshments and snacks.
One of my favorite design elements is an electric fireplace. The fireplace wall should be designed as a focal point in the area. It should reflect the design style of the store with each stone or tile fitting within the overall theme of the retail space.
Another electronic element to consider is a television. Retailers can have their current advertising or specials playing on a loop for their customers to watch while they’re waiting, instead of the general programming. Many times, the television is best placed above the fireplace.
The use of area rugs in the waiting area can also give the space a residential feel, as well as create a welcoming image for the customer. A super thick and very textural rug under a cocktail table can help center the space and draw the eye. Just remember to keep the rug’s design in line with the space’s overall aesthetic.
As a business owner, you have the power to make your customer’s waiting experience more relaxing and pleasant. Sit in your store’s waiting area to feel and see what your customers are experiencing. What would you do different to make that area just right?
About the Author: Leslie McGwire™ has over 35 years in business development, interior design, equipment, furniture sales and marketing services in retail and jewelry-based businesses. Leslie has won 25 national design awards, including the prestigious Salon Today and INSTORE Jewelry Store awards. Leslie has a true passion for business, design for the jewelry and retail industries.
