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Design Considerations When Opening or Remodeling a Store | September 25, 2025 (0 comments)
West Bloomfield, MI--Opening a new jewelry store or remodeling an existing one is a major investment. Beyond location and product selection, the design of the store itself plays a critical role in how customers experience your brand. Some jewelers choose to rely on general contractors or in-house staff for design decisions, while others bring in professional interior designers. Both approaches can work — what matters most is understanding the options, knowing the right questions to ask, and making informed choices that align with your goals.
An interior designer can offer valuable expertise in areas such as space planning, lighting, materials, and branding. Even if you decide not to hire one, becoming familiar with what designers focus on can help you evaluate proposals and communicate effectively with any professional you engage.
Key Considerations When Designing a Jewelry Store
1. First Impressions Matter
A jewelry store’s design sets the tone the moment a customer walks in. A welcoming, thoughtfully designed environment can encourage visitors to explore, stay longer, and feel more confident about their purchases. Whether handled in-house or with a professional designer, attention to first impressions is essential.
2. Flow and Navigation
A strong floor plan ensures that customers can move comfortably through the space, with product displays positioned for maximum visibility. Designers often emphasize the placement of the point-of-sale area, repair or bench space, offices, and safes to create both customer-friendly navigation and efficient staff workflow.
3. Lighting and Display
Lighting is one of the most important design elements in a jewelry store. The right mix of ceiling lights, display case lighting, and accent lighting helps jewelry sparkle while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you work with a lighting consultant or a designer, make sure this aspect is a top priority.
4. Customer Comfort
Details like seating areas, color palettes, and acoustics may seem secondary but can make a big difference in how customers feel in your store. A comfortable environment encourages longer visits, which often translate to stronger sales.
5. Branding Through Design
A store’s physical environment should reflect its identity and values. From color schemes to materials to furniture choices, design can reinforce brand consistency. This doesn’t require a designer, but a trained professional may help translate abstract branding ideas into a cohesive physical space.
6. Avoiding Costly Mistakes
Remodels and buildouts involve countless details — from electrical layouts to flooring choices. Experienced designers can help avoid expensive errors, but even if you handle design independently, taking time to plan thoroughly can save time and money.
7. Resources and Materials
Designers often have access to vendors, materials, and fixtures not always available to store owners. If you’re not working with one, ask your contractor or suppliers about options and pricing to ensure you’re exploring a full range of possibilities.
8. Maximizing Space
Square footage is valuable, and every inch counts. An optimized layout can both improve customer experience and streamline staff operations. This is one of the areas where a professional’s input often proves especially useful.
Making the Best Choice for Your Store
Whether you hire an interior designer, work with a contractor, or manage the project in-house, the most important step is to approach design intentionally. Ask yourself:
- Does the store layout make it easy for customers to browse and buy?
- Does the lighting highlight jewelry in the best possible way?
- Does the environment reflect the brand’s personality and values?
- Will the design improve staff efficiency as well as customer experience?
By considering these questions, you’ll be in a strong position to guide the process and achieve the results you want — regardless of who leads the design work.
About the Author
Leslie McGwire™ has over 35 years of experience in business development, interior design, equipment, furniture sales, and marketing services in retail and jewelry-based businesses. She has won 25 national design awards, including the prestigious Salon Today and INSTORE Jewelry Store awards. Leslie is passionate about helping businesses create environments that inspire both customers and staff. Visit lesliemcgwire.com for more information.