Mark Ainley (Sense of Space): Optimizing Retail Spaces with Feng Shui

The Retail Insider Podcast Network

Craig and Mark Ainley, a contemporary Feng Shui consultant and the founder of Sense of Space based in Vancouver. Ainley sheds light on the intricate interplay between design, colour, and functionality in retail spaces. He emphasizes the need to move beyond conventional perceptions of Feng Shui, showcasing its relevance in optimizing the layout and ambiance of homes, businesses, and, notably, retail establishments.

Mark Ainley

Ainley discusses his expertise in aligning the design of spaces with their primary functions, offering a blend of aesthetics and functionality. He dispels common misconceptions about Feng Shui, illustrating its application in creating spaces that resonate with individuals, whether they live, work, or shop there. The discussion delves into the impact of subtle design elements on customer behaviour, from the positioning of tables to the psychology of colour and the importance of maintaining an inviting exterior.

The conversation extends to the nuances of retail, exploring how small details like cleanliness, lighting, and signage play a pivotal role in attracting customers. Ainley draws from his experiences, including a fascinating observation of a store with a table angle affecting foot traffic. As the dialogue unfolds, the focus shifts to the significance of visual merchandising, the changing dynamics of window displays, and the role of technology in enhancing or detracting from the overall retail experience. Ainley concludes by urging businesses to prioritize the physiological welcome and call to action within their spaces, fostering an authentic and enjoyable shopping experience that goes beyond the convenience of online alternatives.

Interviewed this episode:

• Mark Ainley, Flow Optimization Specialist, Contemporary Feng Shui Facilitator and Instructor, WELL AP
• Sense of Space

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Background Music Credit: Hard Boiled Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/