RETAIL LIGHTING PLANS
Lighting can make or break your store. There is nothing that can drive sales like the lighting layout. It’s not so much how the lights look. It’s the brightness and color of the bulbs and the location of the fixtures. Hire a pro. Don’t goof it up.
Retail Store Lighting Layout Guide
Here’s a quick overview on on planning your stores lighting layout:
1. Understand the Store’s Layout & Zones
Divide the store into functional zones:Entry/Facade:
Attract customers and create an inviting entrance.
Display Areas: Feature products with accent lighting.
Aisles & Circulation Paths: Ensure safe and even illumination.
Point of Sale (POS): Bright and friendly lighting.
Fitting Rooms (if applicable): Soft, flattering, and shadow-free.Storage/Back Areas: Utility lighting.
2. Define Your Lighting GoalsAsk:Do you want a warm, inviting feel or a modern, sleek vibe?
What merchandise are you selling (fashion, electronics, food)?
What’s the ceiling height, wall color, and natural light availability?
3. Layer the LightingUse a layered lighting approach:
LayerPurpose
ExamplesAmbient General illumination Recessed downlights, track lightsAccent Highlight specific
products/displaysAdjustable spotlights, wall washers
Task Functional lighting for specific tasks Under-shelf lighting, POS area lights
Decorative Branding and aesthetics Pendant lights, neon, chandeliers
4. Choose the Right Fixtures
Track Lighting: Flexible, great for spotlighting merchandise.
Recessed Downlights: Clean look, good for ambient lighting.
Pendant Lights: Stylish, adds personality, great over counters.
LED Strips: Perfect for shelves, cabinets, display edges.
Wall Washers: Emphasize graphics or textured surfaces.
5. Select Color Temperature
2700K – 3000K: Warm white – cozy, ideal for fashion & boutiques.
3500K – 4100K: Neutral white – clean, modern, for general retail.
5000K+: Cool white/daylight – crisp, good for tech or hardware.
6. Control & EfficiencyUse dimmers for flexibility.Incorporate motion sensors in low-traffic areas.
Use smart lighting for scheduling and energy saving.Choose LED for long life and low power consumption.
7. Sketch the LayoutCreate a basic floor plan and overlay lighting:
Use symbols to show light types and beam angles.
Indicate power sources and control switches.
Highlight product displays and circulation flow.(If you want, I can help you draft a basic layout sketch or concept
map.)
8. Test and Adjust
Do a trial installation if possible.Adjust beam angles and intensities for optimal impact.
Walk through the store as a customer would—observe focal points and visibility.
