CEILINGS AND SPACE FRAMES

In most stores, a tile ceiling 9-10 feet off the floor is standard. Many retailers don’t do anything with the ceiling in the design stages of the store preferring to spend their money on display fixtures, lighting, floor coverings, etc. In some cases a ceiling is not in place and a warehouse look is obtained by simply painting the ceiling a dark color. In either event ceiling elements such as banners or space frames can be used to add interest to the space and distinguish merchandise presentation. The use of any of these elements pulls the store out of the ordinary and can do much to enhance the overall feel of the retail environment. Here are a few design elements that we often add to our clients ceilings:

Ceiling Display Features

These elements are typically thematic (oversized ball players, neon football fields,) or branded (logos, mascots). Our surf shop clients tend to stick with historical surfboards hanging from the ceiling while our arena and stadium team shops may opt for giant footballs (Denver), logos, (Nebraska), or icons such as a giant steel Sea Hawk (Seattle). In some stores projected images, video and/or oversized graphics is the answer. If you are looking for that final touch in creating a “cool” store, look up. Contact our design department for more information. Space Frames and Trussing Systems

A trussing or space frame system creates a distinctive architectural element inside the store. Originally used as a method to visually lower the ceiling and to support lighting, space frames are now also used as a simple and exciting method of defining space or as a support for signage or display. We’ve also used trusses to support model train runs, storefront signs, and table legs.

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