How do you create different lighting zones and scenes for different retail functions and occasions?

1 Lighting zones

Lighting zones are areas of the retail space that have different lighting levels, colors, or directions. They can help to create contrast, focus, and hierarchy in your layout. For example, you can use brighter or warmer lighting to draw attention to a display or a promotion, or use cooler or dimmer lighting to create a more relaxed or intimate zone. Lighting zones can also help to separate different product categories, services, or customer segments. For example, you can use different lighting colors or temperatures to differentiate between men's and women's sections, or between casual and formal wear.

2 Lighting scenes

Lighting scenes are pre-set combinations of lighting settings that can be changed according to the time of day, season, or event. They can help to create different ambiances, moods, and impressions in your retail space. For example, you can use a bright and cool lighting scene for the morning, a warm and cozy lighting scene for the evening, or a festive and colorful lighting scene for a special occasion. Lighting scenes can also help to adapt to different customer needs, preferences, or expectations. For example, you can use a soft and flattering lighting scene for a fitting room, a dynamic and stimulating lighting scene for a sales area, or a calm and soothing lighting scene for a checkout.

3 Lighting control systems

Lighting control systems are devices or software that allow you to adjust, program, and automate your lighting system. They can help you to create and switch between different lighting zones and scenes with ease and efficiency. For example, you can use a dimmer, a timer, or a sensor to control the lighting intensity, duration, or response. You can also use a remote, a panel, or an app to control the lighting color, direction, or pattern. Lighting control systems can also help you to save energy, reduce costs, and improve safety and security in your retail space.

4 Lighting design process

Lighting design process is a system of steps used to plan, implement, and evaluate your lighting system. This process can help you reach your lighting goals, meet customer needs, and improve the retail experience. To design your lighting system, you should first define the retail concept, brand identity, and target market. Then analyze the retail space, layout, and product display. Afterwards, identify the lighting functions, objectives, and challenges. After that, select the lighting sources, fixtures, and accessories. Create the lighting zones and scenes according to the lighting functions and objectives. After that, choose a lighting control system according to the zones and scenes. Finally, test, monitor, and adjust your lighting system based on customer feedback and performance indicators.

5 Lighting design tips

Lighting design tips are practical suggestions that can be applied to improve your lighting system. These tips can help you avoid common mistakes, solve problems, or create effects in your retail space. For instance, you should use a variety of lighting types, such as ambient, accent, task, or decorative lighting, to create layers, depth, and interest. Additionally, a mix of lighting colors, such as warm, cool, or neutral colors, can create contrast, harmony, or balance in your retail space. You can also employ different lighting directions such as direct, indirect, or diffuse lighting to create focus, drama, or softness. Moreover, appropriate lighting levels like bright, dim, or moderate lighting can create moods like energy or comfort. Finally, flexible lighting fixtures like movable, adjustable or track lighting can adapt to product displays and customer movements.

6 Lighting design examples

Lighting design examples are real-life cases or inspirations that can help you create and control different lighting zones and scenes for different retail functions and occasions. For instance, Apple Store uses bright and cool lighting to create a modern ambiance, and spotlights and backlights to highlight products and the logo. Starbucks utilizes warm and cozy lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere, and pendant lights and wall sconces to create zones for seating and ordering. Nike has dynamic and colorful lighting to generate a sporty vibe, plus LED strips and panels to create scenes for different product categories and events.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?