Experience Design · Case Study
Philosophy's Immersive Retail —
Photography by Emanuel Hahn
- Experience Design
- Project Management
- Illustrator/ Indesign
- AutoCAD
- Sketchup
Philosophy wants to develop an immersive shopping experience that will inspire current and new users to embrace its holistic approach to beauty. Founded in 1996 in the mountains of Arizona, the company was acquired by Coty in late 2010. With a commitment to mental health and wellbeing, Philosophy offers science-led Skin Care, Fragrance and Bath & Body collections, packaged with unique notes that celebrate human spirit. Through store design and merchandising, the brand aims to appeal to experiential consumers while effectively conveying their science-led approach, Arizona birthplace, and unique notes that celebrate human spirit.
In 2016, it was estimated that stores had experienced a 30% drop in sales within ten years. Sephora, Ulta, and e-commerce players were increasingly challenging stores' dominance in beauty. Philosophy’s premier concept store would be a reimagined beauty destination aimed at engaging customers on a deeper level.
The store invites users to mindfully engage in sensorial textures, beautiful sounds and scents.
This approach aimed to create a seamless and captivating shopping environment that aligned with the brand's ethos, engaging the user in tactile experiences.
The store's layout outlined a well-being journey, while encouraging customers to explore and interact with the products organically.
Philosophy's newly launched products are framed by the soothing light, warm tones of the Arizona landscape and botanical ingredients.
Simple signage navigates users through skincare regimens replete with engaging product videos, ingredient specimens and tester units that encourage customers to touch, feel, and smell the various formulas.
A conversation circle is positioned at the heart of the store nearby a fountain-like sink where users can rest and awaken their senses with a fresh cup of tea. It’s a place for product inspiration, to consult one-on-one with a beauty confidante and to connect with the community in a more casual, comfortable way.
Various samples gratify the senses as users make their way through the Fragrance and Bath & Body collection.
Surrounded by tranquil picturesque Arizona landscapes, seating awaits as a place to slow down, restore balance and be present in the moment.
The Philosophy journey concludes at the gifting area where users can make purchases and have their packages delicately wrapped with colorful ribbon. Underscoring a feel good vibe, messages of the Hope & Grace initiative are displayed, leaving users inspired by the difference their purchases make in others lives.
