Shopping for the perfect purchase often involves more than browsing store merchandise. While products take pride of place, establishing an appealing ambience—and one that’s consistent with a particular brand’s culture—is part of engaging customers. A store’s choice of lighting plays an important role in setting the right mood and creating an immersive retail experience.
At J. Crew’s flagship Fifth Avenue location in Manhattan, a series of Vibia Wireflow pendants make a striking architectural statement. The oversized Arik Levy-designed fixtures trace a three-dimensional outline in black electrical wire, illuminating a path that guides visitors down the center of the store. At once graphic yet transparent, their airy geometry allows the clothing displayed below to remain the focal point.
In New York City’s Soho neighborhood, Dita cultivates a cool, cutting-edge atmosphere to showcase designer sunglasses. The storefront window draws customers in with an artful display case accented by Vibia’s Match pendant. Crafted of long, slim sticks tipped with LED lights, the customizable fixture by Jordi Vilardell and Meritxell Vidal directs one’s gaze downward toward the merchandise like arrows pointing to the prize. Once inside, Levy’s Wireflow reinforces Dita’s refined, minimalist feel. The pendant’s sleek industrial cables double as sculptural décor, its warm glow brightening the moody space.
At its international flagship store in Soho, the Swedish outdoor apparel brand Fjällräven EPIC features a space outfitted in rich wood paneling and floors. Hovering strategically over display areas are sleek Skan hanging lamps by Lievore, Altherr, Molina. The LED-powered fixtures cast a broad, bright down light directly on the merchandise, its simple, organic silhouette echoing the store’s earthy sensibility.
