Feng Shui Store Design

A well planned store interior is essential for retail success. We know for example that good store design can revitalize sales, minimize shoplifting and promote a brand image. But what if the way the interior space is articulated, allowed you to tap into a hidden energy for promoting your store and attracting good fortune?

This is the belief behind Feng Shui store design and it is by no means a New Age fad. This practice has been applied by Chinese merchants for centuries, and is now finding new followers in the west in amongst some large retailers. Without getting too deeply into it (it's heavy with arcane detail), it is an ancient code, partly aesthetic, partly practical and with a large helping mysticism. The purpose (which literally translates as air water) is to modulate and channel the invisible energy ("qui" pronounced "chi") that exists all around us. By manipulating or rather fine tuning the physical environment, it is possible to harmonize with this energy and create a beneficial synergy to affect the lives of those who interact with that environment in a positive way.

Some retailers who are applying the ancient Chinese principles within their stores design are vehemently asserting a measurable increase in business according to a recent article published in Apparel News. But, while the financial returns may be indisputable it is just possible that a lot of the results reflect the fact that Feng Shui incorporates a lot of good design practice and pure aesthetic principles, the real benefits stemming from ordering a retail space with a non subjective clarity. Of course there speaks the skeptic! The other possibility is that there exists a metaphysical force with a power to influence the bottom line. Where ever the truth lies, anything that acts a tonic to boost sales in these testing times is worthy of some further exploration.

To find out more information about Feng Shui or to find a consultant in your area visit The American Feng Shui Institute (www.amfengshui.com) or if you're into a bit of DIY then Lillian Too's book "The Complete Illustrated Guide to Feng Shui" is a great starting point and reference manual.

Autor: Timothy Baldwin

Tim Baldwin is the President of Subastral Inc. Store Fixtures; retail display supplier to the fashion apparel industry.

For Further Information Please Visit Our Site http://www.subastralinc.com

Subastral Inc. 2009 All Rights Reserved

Added: October 17, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/