Retail Architect
PEEK INSIDE

Assistant Manager, Global Retail Design - Coty

New York, NY

2017

Philosophy | Concept Store

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.

No items found.

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.

Use this form to describe your project
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.