TAKE 5 - MAKING AN ENTRANCE

I often think the entrance to a building or shop is the most important. It’s the welcoming bit so it should set a good impression. There’s nothing better than making an entrance into a building, especially when that entrance feels a bit special, so here’s a few shops in my Take 5 series that have done just that…

Who would have thought a few orange sticks could make such a dramatic difference.  This vivid structure looks like it could come alive at any minute. The natural flow and the contrast of the orange against the grey of the building just say, look at me… Anthroplogie has done it again, creating anticipation and excitement on the street before we even cross the threshold.  Who wouldn’t want to go in and investigate further…

Not necessarily my favourite shop front but I love the simplicity and the signage really works. The illuminated white lines stand out against the black façade and draw you into the store. It may not be quite the yellow brick road but it sure has the same effect and even on a crowed street you’ll always be able to see it. Get ready, click your Adidas trainers and follow the line…

Planting is always an option but if you really want to stand out from the crowd take note of this Piaget shop front. Keep it simple, single colour is usually best and limited use of plant types will deliver a robust visual impact. You’re not going to miss this walking down the high street…

OK so this is possibly the odd one out in this collection but, the reason I selected it is because its quirky, its creative, we know instantly what this shop is and it definitely makes something of this rather dark tight entrance. I know which book shop I would visit if I was on this particular street.

This isn’t the first time I’ve used this image but I just love everything about it. Created by Fos for Rayen in Madrid. This entrance makes a really strong visual statement, it makes you look and, what's more, this wouldn’t cost much to implement. The idea maybe simple but it’s so clever. The problem, a grey building with a narrow non-descript entrance, hard to find and difficult to see so, what do you do?  Simple, add a directional light over the centre of the entrance (extra light is always a good addition), paint the beam of light in bright yellow paint including everything that falls in its path and there you have it. A standout entrance that just says, welcome, come in…

If you want to know more, just ask, 07907 691711 or email.  All the best

PETER