Assistant Manager, Global Retail Design - Coty
New York, NY
2017
Founded in the mountains of Arizona in 1996 and acquired by Coty in 2010, Philosophy embarked on a rebranding initiative in 2015 to elevate the brand and strengthen its in-store presence. By then, stores had seen a ~30% decline in sales over the previous decade amid rising competition from Sephora, Ulta, and e-commerce. I was hired as a consultant on a 12-month assignment to support the design and development of this retail experience.
Philosophy’s premier concept store was envisioned as 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.
The store's layout outlined a well-being journey, while encouraging customers to explore and interact with the products organically.
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 the store, merchandising aims to appeal to experiential consumers while effectively conveying their science-led approach, Arizona birthplace, and unique notes that celebrate human spirit.
Philosophy's newly launched products are framed by the soothing light, warm tones of the Arizona landscape and botanical ingredients. A conversation circle is positioned at the heart of the store nearby a fountain-like sink where customers 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.
Various samples gratify the senses as users make their way through the Fragrance and Bath & Body collection.
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.