Designed to Sell: The Evolution of Modern Merchandising and Display

Designed to Sell explores the development of postwar retail design philosophies in America from the 1930s to the 1960s, tracing the emergence of a new type of industrial designer and the impact of aesthetics on consumer behavior.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Designed to Sell: The Evolution of Department Store Design and Display in America from the 1930s to the 1960s

In the mid-twentieth century, America experienced a significant transformation in the design and display of department stores. This period, spanning from the 1930s to the 1960s, witnessed the emergence of a new era of retail design that prioritized both aesthetics and function. The postwar philosophies of retail design, which embraced the concept of creating spaces that were visually appealing and practical, gave rise to a new breed of industrial designers who were tasked with creating innovative merchandising displays.

The evolution of aesthetics in department stores during this period reflected larger cultural shifts in consumer behavior and lifestyle. As the postwar era brought about a rise in consumerism and a desire for convenience, department stores began to adapt their designs to cater to the changing needs of their customers. Designers sought to create spaces that were not only visually appealing but also functional, with an emphasis on creating a seamless shopping experience that would entice customers to explore and purchase a wide range of products.

One of the key developments of this period was the emergence of new modes of merchandise display. Gone were the traditional static displays that showcased products in rows and columns. Instead, designers introduced interactive displays that encouraged customers to touch, feel, and interact with the products. These displays included mannequins, display cases, and interactive kiosks that provided customers with information about the products and their features.

Another important aspect of this period was the link between designers and consumption. Designers began to see themselves as more than just creators of objects; they became influential figures in shaping consumer behavior and culture. They worked closely with retailers to understand the needs and preferences of their customers and used their expertise to create designs that would attract and engage them.

Designed to Sell explores these changes using five key case studies and original archival sources. The book provides a comprehensive account of the development of retail design and display in America during this period, and it sheds light on the role that designers played in shaping consumer culture. It argues that design is not simply connected to retail consumption, but that it is capable of controlling how and where customers shop and what they are drawn to purchase.

The book contextualizes this discussion and brings it up to date for students and scholars interested in design, retail, and interior history. It provides a valuable resource for those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between design, consumer behavior, and the retail industry.

In conclusion, Designed to Sell offers an engaging and informative account of the evolution of department store design and display in America from the 1930s to the 1960s. It provides a valuable insight into the role that designers played in shaping consumer culture and the impact that retail design had on the shopping experience. By exploring the link between designers and consumption, the book challenges the traditional notion of design as solely functional and demonstrates the power of design to influence and shape the way we shop and consume.

Weight: 324g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032474755