A Look at Use of Space and Visual Merchandizing from a Multicultural Perspective

Visual merchandising is a powerful tool that sells more than a product  it sells the identity of a business. You’ve been told for years that storefront windows must have some degree of transparency, but in some communities with diverse populations, rethinking this tenet of design can attract more customers. What is behind the conventional wisdom advising against “busy” storefronts and merchandising schemes? Join design and revitalization professionals and business owners to learn how interior design and store windows can be aesthetically pleasing while still respecting cultural design expectations.

Learning Objectives:

  • Address the specific issues and frequently asked questions such as signage, storefront displays, interior product layout, etc. from the multicultural entrepreneur perspective.
  • Increase understanding on the multicultural values on visual merchandising.
  • Help Main Street organizations position themselves as a connector rather than a regulator for businesses capitalizing on the opportunities to foster mutual education and appropriate balance on design perspectives considering multicultural sensitivities.

Presenters:

Norma Ramírez de Miess, National Trust Main Street Center, Washington, DC;

Luis Rico-Gutierrez, Gerardo Sandoval, Iowa State University;

Kenneth R. Miess, Victory Packaging

Tracks:

Inclusion, Design

Date and Time:

Monday, May 3, 3:45-5:00 p.m.