Some of the popular renovations by homeowners are kitchens, master bathrooms, and secondary bathrooms. Also common are home offices, gyms, multi-functional outdoor, and multi-purpose kitchens. Homeowners are concerned with sustainability, including recycled or green materials, smart home integration, and wellness. Users would like kitchens, baths, and other spaces that serve as spaces of retreat. Some users are also looking for the latest tech in faucets, showers, and appliances.
Some homeowners prefer a simple, minimalistic design. Others are focused on functionality and efficiency. Overall, customized and personalized homes are highly regarded by homeowners. Although, less homeowners have the skills of previous generations, do-it-yourself (DIY) projects remain popular.
Most homeowners dislike aggressive marketing in a showroom. For them, shopping is more of a social event. These users seek out omnichannel experiences. Showrooms should have an authentic in-store experience that is curated for the showroom’s target audience. Professional advice and knowledge is valued by showroom visitors. These visitors usually prefer an in-person experience. Quality in a showroom should be prioritized over price. Reviews and word-of-mouth referrals are important factors in the overall success of the showroom.
The showroom should be organized to allow visitors to engage with products. For example, in a kitchen and bath showroom, tubs and vanities could be placed at a lower level with faucets and other accessories around the lower fixtures. In order to showcase more in less space, online catalogs or QR codes can offer access to additional styles and finishes. Above all, great customer service and professional knowledge is a critical part of the showroom experience.
Designing a showroom using other techniques can make the showroom an engaging experience. One way is to combine sensory experiences with on-trend aesthetics. This allows the showroom to tap into emotions that transform feeling into action. Instead of designing for one sense, use the five senses. Develop a unique, authentic environment by using a diffuser to remind visitors of the spa or the beach, allowing visitors to tryout faucets and appliances, using background music, and offering refreshments.
Although some showrooms are displaying the latest tech gadgets, considering going low tech in the showroom. High tech showrooms are hard to maintain because these types of showrooms require constant updating. Some visitors might find that the overabundance of technology disrupts the showroom experience. Any money saved by staying on the lower tech side could be invested in other areas, such as the company’s website.
Keep in mind that showroom design should be market specific. The showroom design for a store offering technical products will differ from a kitchen and bath showroom. This highlights the importance of knowing your audience and target market. In addition, functionality and organization are strategic characteristics of successful showrooms.