Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hello,

I don`t even know where to start with this, so I figured this community would be a knowledgeable reference point.

I am working on opening a b2c service business with a store front.  I know how critical it is for the interior design to be clean, refined,  and repeatable (hopefully) anywhere in the country.

So.... where do major outlet chains (eg. Panera Bread, Jamba Juice, Starbucks) go to get design assistance? 

Thanks in advance,

Jason

 

Well, I know this one guy locally that does something like this:
http://calypsolandscape.com/exp-retail.html

I read how Starbucks does it internally. Many of those big chains have the
resources to do that. I`m sure some do while some outsource. Sorry I
don`t have any leads but I thought I would share that. Good luck!

Wow Colypso does some great work! My wife is an interior designer and while in school there where individuals who approached the head of the department at the college asking for design work. This became there final portfolio. I would recomending finding a college near by and approaching them with this idea. Think about it would be free and you would have prob 20-40 designs to take ideas from and make them yours.

Many of the larger companies are also having competitions for things like commercials (the super bowl ones for ex.). If the college didnt want to do something directly through them. You might be able to hang signs up in there interior design area and make your own competition out of it. That is a great way for you to get your design and a new interior design student get a real life project.

This doesnt always have to apply to students either. You could run an ad in the paper. Many people would be more than willing to try and design something like that for a prize.

Not sure of the type of business that you are doing but the prize could entail a large gift certificate or a cash prize. The total cost of everything would be alot less than to have a large firm come in and do it for you.

If any designers are looking for unique, one of a kind decorative products, I would be a great resource. I would be happy to work something out for those interior designers looking for an edge on quality decoratives.

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Vincent Wilcox (a.k.a. KRAKR)
Drummer
My band: Letters Make Words

I used to work for the #1 retail firm in the country in Fort Lauderdale, FL
called Pavlik Design...now they do major developments all over the world
and cost could be an issue. But I do know of one of their lead designers
who has since left and started his own design firm. You can check out his
site at iddidesign.com. He would have all the experience in what you are
looking for. He is truly a gifted designer. Hope this pans out for you.

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CMARK