Trend Journal: The rise in multipurpose stores

The rise in multipurpose stores
With the rise in online shopping, many people don’t visit physical retail stores, causing the space in these outlets to be underutilized. This growing trend of digital shopping inspires the design of the Miami-based Off-White flagship store. It has incorporated a flexible space that can be quickly adjusted for any cultural event. The multipurpose store doesn’t only focus on being a retail outlet in the Miami Design District.
Many cultural events occur in Miami's Design District, which means the flexible design will ensure the store hosts many events annually. The flexible space creates a storage area for the retail products in case of an event. It is made possible by a retractable wall that allows apparel to be stored in the rear. The shop caters to other activities in the front.
The store's interior uses corrugated metal and thinly stained concrete floors that give the store a lighter visual theme. Stainless steel shelves and marble rails are used to showcase the Off-White apparel. The frames are adjustable to create space. Additional space is also made by using movable furniture. The artworks ensure the store can be converted to host intimate occasions such as anniversaries or birthdays.
The Off-White apparel store reveals how retail outlets can create flexible designs in their interior that allows space for other events. With the change in shopping habits, brands can explore how space in their physical stores can be maximized to generate more revenue (DeZeen, 2020). This concept also shows the significance of using retractable walls and furniture that allow easy movement of objects in case of an event.
This concept is similar to the AT&T concept store in Seattle which aims to create a multipurpose store. Seattle is renowned for its thriving tech scene and coffee culture. So, this particular concept incorporates several aspects of digital shopping and traditional shopping. Their shop is inspired by the desire to create an environment that resembles the atmosphere of a living room. It allows the public to socialize, have coffee or host events, and use multiple technology platforms. The concept store also enables customers at home to order products through AT&T customized app. This ensures they can gain access to the store through the virtual space (AT&T, 2018). The goal of the AT&T lounge is to make innovative use of the space by making it a multipurpose facility. In this concept, a retail store, hangout space, and coffeehouse are under one roof. So, space can serve various consumer interests. The lounge’s design aligns with the local culture and taking into consideration the interests of the surrounding community. In this concept, AT&T partnered with local entrepreneurs during the design process to instill a localized flavor of Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. This has helped the lounge to create an ambiance that resonates with the vibe of the Seattle community. A notable aspect of this shop is the use of robots in coffee making. The use of these sophisticated technologies in the coffee store falls in line with the booming high-tech industry in Seattle (AT&T, 2018). This concept changes the customer engagement and ensures the space gives cu...