The interesting trend in retail in the last decade of uncertainties is the embrace of ‘eco-friendly’ design. Call it ‘rustic’, ‘industrial’ or ‘salvage-chic’, these styles have dominated the retail environment for several years. Retail designers are eager to embrace emerging technologies and finishes and combine it with affordable designs to create state-of-the-art interiors. Their work has slowly shifted from a designer-centric focus to a more people-centric one.
Retail clothing stores and outfitters are taking up the challenge of creating superior décor for their stores at a reasonable price, something unheard of even five years ago. Does that mean the décor is a compromise between cheap and make do? Not at all! It’s due to the creative minds of store owners who are keeping up with trends like the rustic-chic look. This style has been perfected and is now more popular than ever.
Rustic design easily blends in with all kinds of décor, does not need a high-end look or finish since shabby chic is the target, and can be coupled with all kinds of merchandise and accessories to feature them in a comfy environment.. There is no hard-and-fast need for a uniform look, which makes it easy for retailers to search for items that will create a more out-of-the-box experience.
Key features that mark the rustic-chic trend include:
• Blending old and new items — like antiques with country fresh accessories.
• Pairing modern sleek with salvaged industrial fixtures or accents to give a more transitional flavor.
• Use of rustic elements in interior spaces — like textured slatwall and weathered wood shelves.
• Use of natural elements like rock, natural wood and stone for both exteriors and interiors.
• Natural fabrics like cotton and burlap for curtains or jewelry displays.
• Natural light in a room to help accentuate the natural feel.
• Wood, leather, piping and pottery to make warm retail environments.
• Use of solid colors in rugs and accessories while blending earth tones with neutrals.
Installing rustic slatwall panels, like 3-D textured slatwall creates an old-world look in your retail store. Using the rustic slatwall as a backdrop when photographing store merchandise is a popular way of branding the store with the warm rustic-chic look. For store designers who like to think outside the box, rustic chic has been a handy tool to deliver excellence in an affordable package.