One very shift in shopping centre land would have to be the creative transformations taking place with the treatment of hoardings.
Once upon a time, it was the norm to take a sheet of scuffed white hoarding to cover up an empty retail site, chuck on a big padlock and place an obscure warning sign to let shoppers know that construction work was in progress. Well, the tides have most certainly turned and centres are now getting more creative – even artistic in some cases – with the way they create and use their hoarding. Gone are the days of grubby hoarding and in its place are now clever, attractive spaces specifically aimed at catching the eye of passers-by.
We are often contacted to develop concepts to overhaul these problematic and sometimes difficult retail spaces. After all, how do you make an empty space look appealing to customers?
Our most recent work at Warriewood Shopping Centre included sprucing up their hoarding as a result of the centre’s re-development. Inspired by the centre’s wonderful location on the northern beaches and tied in with its existing branding, we installed and overhauled surfboards with some pretty blue waves with over 15 metres of hoarding. As you entered the centre from the carpark, our challenge was to liven up the space and add some colour to ‘wow’ customers. We used colours that reflected the centre’s brand and of course, the ocean right across the road. Take a peek below at the end result.
We really love checking out shopping centres across the country and on our travels, this piece of artwork (below) caught our eye at the Imperial Centre in Gosford, NSW. This centre has taken their hoarding to a whole other level. At first glance, we didn’t even realise it was hoarding. In fact, the centre has engaged the services of a local artist to decorate their hoarding. And the result well worth it. What a great way for the centre to get involved in the community.
And to our further surprise, as we walked around this centre we also came across interactive hoarding. We stumbled across what would have to be the largest chalkboard we have ever seen. With chalk provided, customers were encouraged to write about theirs wishes and what they were thankful for. It was such a feel-good way for the centre to further engage with their shoppers.
Looking for further inspiration or guidance with your Centre’s Hoarding treatments? You can reach us here or give us a buzz on 02 9543 5777.
Regards
Tamarra and the AUSVM Design team.
