Three new luxury concessions for iconic brands, Wedgwood, Waterford and Royal Copenhagen have recently opened in the newly refurbished Harrods interiors department. The 300 sm retail space pays tribute to the heritage and prestige of these three globally sought-after brands, with exceptional customer experience and service at the heart of its concept.
Designed, project-managed and delivered by new London design consultancy, Studio Found, the concessions showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of Wedgwood tableware and gift collections, Waterford crystal and Royal Copenhagen porcelain, using a mixture of plinths, tables, shelving and draw units to heighten their impact and the customer experience.
This ‘curated’ design approach dictated the choice of colour palettes, materials and textures that Studio Found used, with a focus on subtlety of tones, high end materials and craftsmanship, complementing the items on display.
In the Wedgwood space, the marble selected for the display plinths was influenced by original Jasperware, while greyed wood was added to bring warmth and depth. Details such as textured blue fabric and brushed brass finishes add a luxury feel.
Creating an exceptional customer experience, with service and storytelling at its heart, was also integral to the design, helping to bring the Wedgwood brand and products to life. A curved display creates a central focus, while a semi-private customer consultation area, where tea can be served in Wedgwood fine china, offers the chance for customers to experience the brand and to discover more about Wedgwood’s rich heritage.
While working within the Harrods light architectural palette, Studio Found decided to take a bold approach to the Waterfordspace to showcase the stunning crystal to draw customers into the space.
Taking inspiration from the velvet-lined presentation boxes used to protect crystal, the fluted-design back wall, lined in dark grey velvet, is mirrored on the chandelier plinth, adding texture and a dramatic backdrop to display the crystal products without creating a distraction. While a large raised central plinth is used to highlight impressive and limited-edition Waterford products to draw customers into the space.
The in-house design team at Royal Copenhagen selected the materials used in its concession with rich walnut timber, Burgundy and Deep Blue leather and burnished brass chosen to set off the porcelain. Studio Found worked closely with the team to ensure the finishes and quality of the joinery was of the highest standards.
“We created a design concept that allowed the beautiful Wedgwood, Waterford and Royal Copenhagen products to take centre stage,” said Ed Plumb, Design Director, Studio Found. “Part of this process was to work closely with Fiskars to get to know the history and heritage of the brands and the profile of customers who visit to Harrods from all over the world to buy luxury and quality.
From here we were able to create and deliver a design concept for Fiskars that celebrated and showcased exceptional craftsmanship and the beauty of the products, while also delivering an original and relaxing visitor experience. It has been a real pleasure and a privilege to work on this prestigious project.”
“Harrods is a one of Fiskars most high-profile concessions in the UK with customers from all over the world attracted by the prestige of the store and the quality of our brands,” said Mike Powell, Head of Retail, Fiskars.
“Working with a creative, flexible full-service design agency was critical to the success and timely delivery of this project, which was executed in just six months. Studio Found delivered on all accounts; from design concept and project management to overseeing the installation. Thanks to their attention to detail, we now have three contemporary yet timeless concessions spaces, that perfectly reflect the luxury and heritage of our brands.”
