Confident look for Irish Exhibit

‘A bold, confident statement’ is London retail specialist Dalziel & Pow’s aim with this new retail concept for Northern Irish fashion chain Exhibit.

The confidence shows in, literally, thinking outside the box – the white box too often favoured by fashion retailers. Walls are white, says D&P interior designer Richard Collier, but brightly coloured lighting can change the mood and seasonal feel of the outlets. Coloured glass is used for shelves, gondolas and counter tops.

Aimed at women aged 16-25, Exhibit currently has 12 sites in Northern Ireland. D&P’s concept will be unveiled at two new sites, on 28 November at Belfast’s Castle Court Shopping Centre and a few days later at the city’s Forestside Shopping Centre.

Both new sites have very high ceilings, says Collier, and these will feature a strong central raft. Above this will be blue lights reflecting off the ceiling. The timber floor turns to become a wall at one edge.

Exhibit’s identity has been developed by D&P graphic designer Carl Saliba. ‘It’s very simple, a move on from what they had,’ says Collier. Key features include large window graphics and abstracted images ‘to add to the flavour of the store’, he says.

According to Collier, the two pilots will be assessed within three or four months with a view to rolling the concept out across the chain. The client is also looking to open outlets in Scotland.

Design: Dalziel & Pow

Client: Exhibit Partners