Canterbury Cathedral attracts around a million and a half visitors each year, as pilgrims, worshipers, and tourists. The south transept shop provides those visitors with the opportunity to purchase gifts - from recordings of the choir to various books about the Cathedral, from top quality replicas to inexpensive mementoes - while the proceeds go to the Dean and Chapter’s programme of work. Mark Homer Design has been given the task of designing and project managing a new shop installation at the Cathedral.
THE BRIEF
Cathedral Enterprises, operators of the south transept shop, had identified that the existing outlet was due for an update in order to meet the current and future needs of visitors, and that merchandise display methods needed to be improved, both in terms of accessibility and stock levels. Most significantly, the design proposals had to respect their architectural surroundings and not interfere with the acts of worship and religious services that punctuate the daily life of the Cathedral.

THE SOLUTION

Four items of fine, shopfit joinery have been developed and installed in the south transept, comprising counter, table, postcards display unit and mid floor cupboard. English oak has been used throughout with walnut, bronze and brass detailing, all in an understated contemporary style. High value items are merchandised under frameless glass displays with books and postcards easily accessible from adjustable shelves and pockets. A low service counter has been incorporated to accommodate the needs of disabled visitors while clear space for browsing has been developed with a two-fold increase in display facings. Directional low voltage lighting focuses on the merchandise providing an oasis of light. Trading has improved significantly since launch with turnover increasing by over 30%.