Starry and Bold in Carlsbad

On a recent trip to Carlsbad, CA I visited the Hilton Resort and Spa for dinner and drinks. I was really impressed with the distinct energy and personality of this property and wanted to share some of the highlights.

Most notably, the backlit wall panel fixtures are striking. Wood panels are arranged with variously sized holes, randomly located, to give a starry effect.

The combination of modern design elements mixed with rich, comfortable textures makes the space at once welcoming and indulgent.

Another interesting aspect of this space is the choice of light fixtures throughout. Some are so bold they flirt with feeling almost out of place, but the furniture and décor pulls it all together in a way that feels intentional and polished.

images via 1, 2, 3 (iphone)

KRS Releases White Paper

“Retail's Newest Members: Non-Traditional Retailers Creating Retail Experience” delves into the growing trend of organizations in industries such as banking, education, hospitality, and medicine employing traditional retail strategies to strengthen customer loyalty and grow sales.

Leading retail design firm, King Retail Solutions (KRS), announced today the release of its most recent white paper.

“Retail's Newest Members: Non-Traditional Retailers Creating Retail Experience” discusses how tried and true retail strategies perfected by retail leaders are being adopted (with great success) by not-so-run-of-the-mill retailers such as banks, day spas, and hotels.

Tactics such as consumer research, branding, marketing, space planning, fixture design, optimized lighting, merchandising, packaging, online storefronts, social media, and more work just as effectively for non-traditional retailers as they do for retail big wigs like Target, Gap, Safeway, and Starbucks.

To view the white paper online, visit: http://kingrs.com/whitepaper/nontraditionalretailers.pdf .