For quite some time now, light in the furniture industry has been more than just a functional element; it has become an important factor in sales promotion. Through targeted use of lighting, furniture retailers can enhance the shopping experience and positively influence purchasing decisions.
Light significantly influences human behavior and well-being. Studies by the Fraunhofer Society show that proper lighting improves product perception and evokes emotions in customers. For example, warm light can create a cozy atmosphere, while cool light increases attention. These emotional reactions can increase the willingness to buy.
Modern smart lighting systems open up a variety of possibilities for individually controlling light and integrating it specifically into furniture. Different lighting scenarios can be programmed and flexibly adapted to mood, time of day, or usage situation. Such systems are often activated via voice commands or motion sensors – an effect that not only makes operation more comfortable but also significantly enhances the shopping experience in furniture retail. A particularly innovative approach is shown in the direct integration of smart lighting into kitchen furniture. Here, light and furniture merge into a functional unit: light sources in drawers, under worktops, or behind wall units not only create atmospheric accents but also provide more orientation and comfort in everyday life. Such concepts are ideal examples of how furniture retail and lighting design interact in the digital age.
In addition to the aesthetic effect, intelligent light integration also offers functional added value for customers in brick-and-mortar retail. Through tangible lighting scenarios, mere product presentation becomes an emotional consulting experience with added value. With the help of targeted light guidance, for example, various usage situations in the furniture piece can be simulated – from the evening reading nook to the brightly lit work surface. These experienceable light applications not only help with better visualization during the consultation but also create an emotional sales experience that goes beyond purely visual presentation. For furniture retailers, this creates the opportunity to transform the point of sale into an inspiring light experience that brings products to life and makes the difference in competition.
The targeted staging of sales areas through light can direct customers’ attention and highlight products. By using accent lighting, certain pieces of furniture can be brought into focus, while uniform general lighting creates a pleasant atmosphere. Such lighting concepts not only enhance the aesthetics of the showroom but also increase the time customers spend in the store.
Show customers how different lighting changes the effect of furniture.
Discuss lighting concepts as an integral part of the furnishing proposal.
Ensure that your team is informed about the latest lighting technologies and can competently communicate them.
Offer customers the opportunity to experience lighting control via app or voice commands.
Through the conscious use of light as a design element, furniture retailers can not only improve the presentation of their products but also sustainably influence their customers’ shopping experience.
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Sources: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft | Interzum Magazine | The Verge | TU Dresden
Image sources: AdobeStock