COUSINS Furniture

COUSINS Furniture

Transforming Customer Experiences In-Store

Established in 1985, Cousins are the largest family-run Independent Furniture Retailer in the Midlands.

In recent years we've been working with them to transform their stores throughout the region and create a complete shopping experience for their customers.

Location
Year
Services

Midlands
2022
Insights, Strategy, Branding, Concept Design, Interior Design, Communications, POS, Digital Applications, Bespoke Applications, Project Management, Visual Merchandising

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Through our connection with the Associated Independent Stores Group and a Retail Design seminar held by us during their annual conference, we were approached by Cousins Furniture to reimagine their stores during a major rebrand.

Their new brand had been launched to give them more appeal in alternate parts of the marketplace and we were challenged to raise the level of their stores to match that.

The first developments made involved a new offering of furniture that can be tailored to their customers’ requirements, and manufactured within the region.  The Cousins Bespoke Collection was created as a new in-store brand where new departments were designed to act as a Shop-In-Shop environment.

From initial brief of the proposition the overall story, tone and look of the departments were created by us through the design of Branding, Communications and Interior Design. The designs have an authentic and crafted feel that exhibits Cousins Heritage and confidence.

Whilst their new brand provided a new look for the retailer, Cousins also recognised that the first impressions when entering their stores needed to equal that.

The redesign of their ‘reception’ spaces was also carried out where we wanted to transform the way Cousins is perceived when entering their stores.

A central hub was designed to highlight all of the products that are available in store. An area that is flexible to changeable products, seasons and offers was created where ‘impulse buy’ accessories, seen throughout the store, could be purchased.

The stores main Receptions were moved to be insight of the Entrance while clear way-finding was included and linked to other key departments throughout the stores.

Since that time our partnership has evolved from seeing us redesign much their showrooms, creating new in-store brands, destinations and departments and restaurants, to more recently create a new external presentation across their sites.

To coincide with developments to their interior and brand, the exterior of their stores are being transformed through new facades and architectural improvements designed by je+1.

What our
client thought

''Cousins are continuing to redevelop their stores and business with je+1 and have been encouraged by the progress made, showing a great Return on Investment''


— John Shotton (Managing Director)

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    Sofology

    Sofology

    Latest Store Concept

    je+1 have been supporting Sofology with their stores for some time, and were more recently asked to develop a new concept for their new locations in Southampton and Inverness.

    Location
    Year
    Services

    Nationwide
    2023
    Insights, Strategy, Concept Design, Interior Design, Communications, Digital Applications, Bespoke Applications, Project Coordination.

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    Considering a fresh approach, the new concept encompassed some existing strategies alongside new design features in prime locations to present the key brand propositions, such as ‘The Sustainable Edit’ and ‘George Clarke’.

    Initially we carried out a review of their existing store planning strategy and created larger, flexible zones within the central area of the store. New floor finishes were used to achieve this, on occasions breaking up the traditionally used, ‘walkway’ around the store and ultimately creating ‘pause points’ for the customer to stop and take in the ranges presented to them.

    The ‘Sustainable Edit’ sits centrally as a feature within the store. Its location carefully considered amongst its surrounding room settings to allow the brand to increase/ decrease as required with flexibility and little effect on surrounding areas.

    The presentation of the new ranges and brand story included info graphics while product displays use to testify and support the ‘sustainable’ name. Soft, neutral tones and materials were used within the design elements, in-keeping with the ‘sustainable’ look.

    For the ‘George Clarke’ brand, the brief was to create a key ‘destination’ within their stores, to become a focal point for customers looking back through the store especially from the first-floor mezzanine.

    Spanning across the mid floor area, customers will always pass through as they enter and leave the store.

    The product within this brand display encompasses craftsmanship, and timeless design. The interior design concept was influenced by this, with geometric wall paneling, soft tones, and neutral finishes. Sat immediately opposite the ‘Sustainable Edit’, both brands needed to work well together and flow comfortably, to allow any overflow/ infill ranges to be easily placed should this be required in the future.

    New digital applications were included at other key points throughout the store to entice browsing. For instance an ‘Entrance’ to the first-floor mezzanine was included, where an additional new brand gallery is located. This gallery was designed to give the feel of an apartment, its location within the store created a ‘walk-in’ space with a range of different furniture types, including sofas and beds.

    Alongside the concept design the team at je+1 also continued to provide Detailed Design for the projects through Fit-Out drawings, Lighting and Electrical Designs, Bespoke Fixture design, all Finish Specifications and project Coordination.

    What our
    client thought

    "The concept as a whole, has been positively received with key elements already rolled out into the latest new store in Inverness, and plans to continue rolling out into the new and refitted Sofology stores going forwards"


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    Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


      Designer Sofas

      Designer Sofas

      An Unparalleled Store Environment

      je+1 were approached by Italian Furniture specialist Designer Sofas, to create a new store concept that would lead the way for their ambitious future. A third generation family run business spanning over 40 years, Designer Sofas pride themselves on working with the finest brands from Italy, offering high quality and unique products.

      Location
      Year
      Services

      Nationwide
      2022
      Insights, Strategy, Concept Design, Interior Design, Communications, Digital Applications, Bespoke Applications, Project Coordination, Visual Merchandising

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      ‘’Our brief was to create a store concept unparalleled in the marketplace that provides the perfect environment for their customer and product, whilst ultimately being conducive for sales’’. Their product range is a story of design, modern materials and quality with brands such as Natuzzi, Calligaris, Franco Ferri, Calia and Hypnos to name a few.

      je+1  worked alongside Designer Sofas planning their offering of Upholstery, Dining, Bedroom and Lighting; designing and delivering their first concept store at their Flagship location and Headquarters, in London’s Brent Cross.

      Following the success of the concept that took the new store to No. 1 in sales within the group, je+1 more recently began work on the latest store in Cardiff Gate. The store design at the 18, 000 Sq. Ft location has evolved from the concept store ‘architecturally’ and included new range strategies and brand galleries.

      Designer Sofas stores at their core are now spaces that allow seamless transition through style, design and function. As with all je+1’s stores the Customer Journey is paramount to provide purposeful navigation through each destination, engaging interaction with product at each point. The stores Interior Design approach was to provide an inspiring atmospheric environment, which aesthetically matches the quality of its Italian product.

      A modern lifestyle inspired setting was created that progresses through subtle themes with the use of architectural finishes, feature designs and lighting; while also introducing new Brand Gallery designs for Calligaris and Cattelan Italia. je+1 delivered the store from Concept to Detailed Technical Design and Completion, assisting with product accessorisation and Visual Merchandising.

      What our
      client thought

      We loved working with the team at je+1 creating our new store concept. They supported us throughout the entire process and the outcome was exactly what we needed for our brand. The first store at Brent Cross quickly ranked No.1 in our portfolio and we've since worked with je+1 on new stores in Lakeside, Cardiff and Glasgow.


      Say Hello

      Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


        Our Work

        A design agency specialising in the creation of retail environments; realising engaging spaces through strategy, creativity and delivery.

        COUSINS Furniture

        Transforming Customer Experiences…

        Learn More

        Sofology

        Latest Store Concept

        Learn More

        Designer Sofas

        An Unparalleled Store Environment

        Learn More

        TBK Design | Bathrooms

        Realising a New Concept Flagship

        Learn More

        The Terrace Cafe

        A New In-Store & Shopping Centre…

        Learn More

        JW.ORG

        International Charity UK Headquarters

        Learn More

        Too Hot

        Le Fix Pop-Up, Copenhagen

        Learn More

        Carl Hansen & Son

        Brining Danish Style to Pimlico

        Learn More

        Too Hot

        Harvey Nichols Pop-Up, Knightsbridge

        Learn More

        DFS

        Creating a Developed Store Concept

        Learn More

        Bensons for Beds

        Developing a New Megastore Concept

        Learn More

        Sofas By You

        Creating a Bespoke In-Store Proposition

        Learn More

        Dwell

        New Concept Stores Nationwide

        Learn More

        Sofa Workshop

        A Tailored Shopping Experience

        Learn More

        Topps Tiles Boutique

        Bringing Tiles to the High-Street

        Learn More

        Corporate Headquarters

        Creating a Property Development HQ

        Learn More

        Levi Strauss & Co

        European Distribution Centre

        Learn More

        Zoffany

        Chelsea Harbour Design Centre

        Learn More

        Office Conversion

        Victoria Pen Factory to je+1 Studio

        Learn More

        Say Hello

        Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


          TBK Design | Bathrooms

          TBK Design | Bathrooms

          Realising a New Concept Flagship

          TBK Design has been one of the leading independent brands in London for over 35 Years, specialising in Tiles, Bathrooms and Kitchens. Due their ambitious mind-set and continued growth, we were approached to lead the relocation of their original store to a new Flagship location.

          Location
          Year
          Services

          London
          2020
          Insights, Strategy, Branding, Concept Design, Interior Design, Communications, POS, Digital Applications, Bespoke Applications, Project Management, Visual Merchandising

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          We felt their new identity needed to communicate the different ranges individually, but also needed it to be cohesive for the overall brand. It was also very important for us to provide a subtle but clear differential between budget, high quality and luxury offerings. This was crucial to ensure their customer base could navigate through the store and discover their ideal products, whilst not being discouraged by quite contrasting price points.

          In-store, we were able to create the most ideal experience through the careful placement of departments; the identification of each area through Branding, Layout, Interior Design and Lighting; and strategic product positioning within each area. The entire store was given a distinct new style to elevate TBK as a market leader.

          The store design has a more experiential emphasis than their previous showrooms, which also went hand in hand with the new sales process. This was achieved through our design approach to varying display methods, with varying materials and finishes; the introduction of tools for interaction, and a considered Lighting Design creating very specific atmospheres.

          Within the main Bathroom Showroom the Customer Experience Strategy allowed us to create a combination of zones providing areas for Aspiration, Selection and Consultation. From the Bathroom Sets we designed, to the working Showers, Fitting Displays and Tile Selection Areas, every consideration was made to ensure customers have access to the most ideal products and the right expertise at each destination. The more Luxury Ranges are located on the next level in the store leading on from the main Showroom.

          TBK Design’s ‘Bespoke’ department specialises in High End Bathroom Design, offering opulent Vanity Furniture, Baths and large format Porcelain Tiles. Working closely with TBK Design, we also created their new Digital Communications and multiple POS applications throughout. Externally the façade finished with Fibre Cement Cladding, Imposing Glazed Entrance and Signage, transforming TBK Design’s new Flagship Store.

          What our
          client thought

          “We’ve been working with John and the Team for quite a few years now, and when the opportunity came to rebrand and relocate, we knew they were the right people to help us.

          The brief was for je+1 to come up with London’s best bathroom showroom
          And what we got was a design we were all blown away with; from the Angular Wood slatted ceilings working beautifully in tandem with the lowered bulkhead plasterboard ceilings, to the new accessory stands and even desks that all worked seamlessly together.

          We then asked them additionally to design all displays plus a boardroom we could welcome VIP clients into and the result was again, stunning.

          je+1 transformed our brand into what we are today, and created a new home for TBK that we’re proud to say has been nominated for KBB’s Showroom of the Year”


          — Steve Joel (CEO)

          Say Hello

          Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


            The Terrace Cafe

            The Terrace Café

            A New in-store & Shopping Centre Restaurant

            Recently approached by department store retailer Dixons to rethink their brand and stores, our initial work was focused on expanding their store to create The Terrace Café & Restaurant at Dunmail Park Shopping Centre in Workington, Cumbria.

            Location
            Year
            Services

            Cumbria
            2019
            Branding, Concept Design, Restaurant Design, Interior Design, Communications, Bespoke Applications, Project Management, Visual Merchandising

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            Dixons was founded by the Dixon Family in 1882 in Whitehaven, Cumbria.
            For many years they were producers of Fine Furniture and Cabinetry being employed by King George V as Interior Decorators, furnishing rooms used by the Royal Party during visit to the area.

            The brief to us was to create a space for all customer types seen within the Shopping centre, but to also attract new customers to the new destination within the Shopping Centre and Homestore. We wanted to introduce a scheme that was modern, welcoming and something for everyone.

            The design stemmed from the name and branding we created for the café, where it in part overlooks the Shopping Centre Mall. The Terrace name allowed us to introduce an up-to-date design where the outside was brought within.

            From Interior Design, Branding, fabrics, finishes, planting, logo, menus and furniture; everything was steered towards a slight Scandi and Urban feel without creating a space overly themed, which saw the project being a Finalist in the Northern Design Awards.

            What our
            client thought

            ''je+1 designed a fresh, modern yet timeless space for our new Cafe.

            Their designs are innovative and practical and the team are excellent to work with. They listened to our requirements and designed a space that is both workable and beautiful''


            — Marie Dixon

            Say Hello

            Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


              JW.ORG

              JW.ORG

              International Charity UK Headquarters

              JW.ORG are one of the largest charities in the world and when they relocated their UK Headquarters, our sister company John Evans Interior Architecture & Design were approached for its Interior Design. Through the partnership, je+1 were able to apply their expertise within the project.

              Location
              Year
              Services

              Chelmsford
              2019
              Strategy, Workspace Design, Interior Design, Detailed Design, Communications, Bespoke Applications, Project Management,

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              The 85 acre site was transformed into their new UK headquarters taking the brave step to relocate from a Central London location to rural Essex. John Evans and je+1 collaborated with the JW in-house team to produce a series of stunning interiors that included five residential accommodation blocks, a 400 seat multi-purpose auditorium with canteen facilities, exhibition space, a four storey office building, an onsite healthcare centre and leisure facilities with indoor swimming pool and gym.

              Alongside the Interior Architectural elements, we developed the Receptions, Office Spaces, and Healthcare Facilities.

              The designs took on a palette echoing the Architectural elements of the project, using exposed concrete to combine with the warm tones of the timber detailing. Each building featured vertical slatted detailing to entrance and corridor areas and specifically designed way-finding of differing colour tones with additional braille sections to aid with the visually impaired and maximise accessibility to all visitors.

              The project was recently shortlisted as finalist for Project of the Year for the Mixology Awards alongside only four other projects.

              What our
              client thought

              ''John and his staff were amazing. Our relationship as professionals and friends was great from day one. They really had a passion for their work and at the end of the day were most interested in seeing a job well done that they and we would be proud of. We invested time and energy to find the team with the right relationship to work with through our project and John’s team came through with flying colours!''


              — Keith Cady (Design Director)

              Say Hello

              Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


                Too Hot

                Too Hot

                Le Fix Pop-Up, Copenhagen

                Following the success of Pop-Ups with Harvey Nichols across the UK, Too Hot were recently invited to Le Fix in Copenhagen to display more of their Iconic 80’s Cultural Artefacts which reflect the Italian Paninaro sub-culture, selling brands such as Stone Island, CP Company, Best Company, Moncler, Armani and Moshino.

                Location
                Year
                Services

                Copenhagen
                2019
                Insights, Strategy, Branding, Concept Design, Interior Design, Communications, Bespoke Applications, Project Management, Visual Merchandising

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                Having helped them with Pop-Ups at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, Manchester and Selfridges Birmingham we were again asked to create a space for them at Le Fix, utilizing fixtures from their previous installations.

                Le Fix was founded in Copenhagen in 1999 by Benny Kusk, Rasmus Jacobsen and Jesper Holm out of love for art, tattoo and clothing. Le Fix is an international lifestyle brand, globally renowned, from Japan to the US, but with strong roots in the Danish underground.

                The Le Fix brand’s history spans from design to art, street culture, tattoos, graffiti, music and clothing. Le Fix is a collective of artists and designers and is built upon a space with creative freedom, allowing everybody to unfold their individual and mutual potential.

                With the opportunity to take up a larger space for this Pop-Up, we were able to utilise standard fixtures while also expanding Too Hot’s brand throughout the store with additional artefacts and photography.

                Le Fix Image Source: propermag.com

                What our
                client thought

                ''je+1 have been fantastic to work with, supporting Too Hot with its ventures into physical stores through their Pop-Up concepts. The freestanding displays have been invaluable and have worked perfectly within each space je+1 have designed across London, Birmingham, Manchester and Copenhagen''


                Say Hello

                Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


                  Carl Hansen & Son

                  Carl Hansen & Son

                  Bringing Danish Style to Pimlico

                  Carl Hansen & Søn represents over 100 years of Danish design history with their furniture being sold all over the world. Internationally renowned and family owned, the Danish Furniture Company are based in Aarup on the Island of Fumen.

                  Location
                  Year
                  Services

                  London
                  2018
                  Insights, Concept Design, Interior Design, Communications, Bespoke Applications, Architectural Services, Project Management.

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                  The company is behind many classical furniture designs by leading figures of the Danish modern movement, beside collaborating with contemporary designers.

                  Working with their in-house designer Despina Curtis on their new Pimlico Showroom, we were tasked with creating an intimate showroom worthy of been given the title of their new flagship store for the U.K.

                  The building period frontage was restored with new signage and awnings being selected while simple window displays were curated to showcase product.

                  Pale timber floors, from the same timber as their furniture was coupled with flat decorated walls were chosen to provide a simple backdrop for displaying the furniture.

                  Also designed was a bespoke Kitchen area which would provide an area for staff and clients while showcasing Danish Cabinets and Bookcases.

                  Carl Hansen created their own centre point to the store by providing an antique side board that was originally owned by company director; Knud Erik Hansen, with the addition of a new oak counter top the unit was carefully altered to provide a Reception.

                  What our
                  client thought

                  The project with Carl Hansen & Son was a great success while working alongside their Visual Merchandiser Despina for their Flagship Showroom in London.


                  Say Hello

                  Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.


                    Too Hot

                    Too Hot

                    Harvey Nichols Pop-Up, Knightsbridge

                    Too Hot specialises in Iconic 80’s Cultural Artefacts which reflect the Italian Paninaro sub-culture, selling brands such as Stone Island, CP Company, Best Company, Moncler, Armani and Moshino. We recently worked with Too Hot as they take their first steps into physical retail spaces.

                    Location
                    Year
                    Services

                    London
                    2018
                    Insights, Strategy, Branding, Concept Design, Pop-Up Design, Communications, Digital Applications, Bespoke Applications, Project Management, Visual Merchandising

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                    Too Hot has developed into a tightly edited online store which reflects the personal tastes and experiences of its founder, who travels the world sourcing vintage pieces and collectors’ items from secret locations.

                    Having already worked on concept designs for a potential store, je+1 were responsible for the Design, Project Management and Installation of a pop up space within the prestigious Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge.

                    The brief was to create a space that reflected the ‘urban’ nature of the brand with a digital element to showcase the fashion inspired film used by the brand online.

                    With strong ties to cultural magazines, such as ‘LAW’, we also added printed material to be displayed, providing customers with an opportunity to engage the sub-culture and providing Too Hot with an opportunity to further endorse the brand.

                    We designed a concept in which the space is formed by free standing, and to showcase special items, we designed a display unit with a motorised hanging feature to rotate the garment.

                    Being a new brand on the high-street we needed to ensure the brand presence and identity came across clearly to customers, who may also become online customers for future purchases.

                    What our
                    client thought

                    "je+1 have been fantastic to work with, supporting Too Hot with its ventures into physical stores through their Pop-Up concepts. The freestanding displays have been invaluable and have worked perfectly within each space je+1 have designed across London, Birmingham, Manchester and Copenhagen"


                    Say Hello

                    Want to chat about a project? Fill out the form here or send us an email at info@johnevansdesign.com and a member of our team will get back to you.