waiting to inhale…

Every retail business owner understands the importance of crafting spaces that not only look stunning but also serve their purpose effectively. We’ve all been in awful waiting rooms, so no need to go there. 

We’re going to boil down our favorite places to pause and the specifics of what we love about them. 

Tone

This luxury dispensary in NJ unabashedly feels elegant and transports the customer into an incredible destination. A former car dealership, the large bay doors remain and remotely open to allow passage into the main dispensary. The round ID concierge is centrally located to the sitting area and entry doors to accommodate all visitors. Multiple textures and layers of lighting styles add interest and dimension to the previously flat space. 

The waiting room is the first physical space your clients encounter, setting the tone for their entire experience. Understanding and capturing the nature of your business and your brand identity is key.  It’s about creating an environment that reflects modernity, sophistication, and approachability.

What's in a Name? Blackdog Retail Design

Designed for 11th Colony

Comfort 

This dispensary in Michigan is in a rehabbed Victorian house. The original formal sitting room was revamped into the waiting room, complete with brick fireplace, drapes and frosted wood panel doors to stay compliant. All original woodwork was refinished and salvaged. Coffee table is set with iPads ready to take online orders and browse daily specials. 

A waiting room should feel like a comfortable transition space, not a place of stagnation. Opt for plush seating arrangements that are not only visually appealing but also ergonomic. Consider diverse seating options to cater to different preferences—a mix of sofas, chairs, and perhaps even a cozy corner with some ambient lighting for those seeking a quieter moment. You can introduce your brand here too. 

What's in a Name? Blackdog Retail Design

Designed for Twig

Engaging 

This modern dispensary utilizes natural light and lightbox effect fixtures to highlight handblown glassware from local artists. Modern industrial style is dotted with beautiful macro shots off their popular strains. We opted for oversized chairs in a linear layout that can be rearranged. This flexibility allows the space to be shaped for education or social events. 

Incorporate elements that capture attention without being overwhelming. Consider using your design expertise to integrate brand colors subtly or showcase artwork that reflects the ethos of your brand. The goal is to create an atmosphere that engages visitors while still maintaining a sense of professionalism.

What's in a Name? Blackdog Retail Design

Designed for 11:11 Cannabis

Small Space 

This small scale waiting area in lower Michigan uses print and strategic color placement to make the space feel larger, and super welcoming. The area rug grounds the furniture and has a deliberate ‘family room’ feel. This brand is all about everyone feeling welcome and a part of their family. To save swing space, sliding barn doors were used to display their etched logo.

Efficient space utilization is a hallmark of great design. Ensure that the layout of the waiting room allows for easy navigation. This is especially true for businesses where security shouldn’t feel restrictive. 

What's in a Name? Blackdog Retail Design

Designed for Be Provisioning

Natural 

This dispensary entry boasts beautiful industrial materials added to the space. To keep the space from feeling cold or unwelcoming, we added in the signature green from the brand deck. Incorporating natural materials, natural light available and live plants brighten the space and mirror the brand’s commitment to environmental reuse. 

Bringing in elements of nature can transform a waiting room into a more serene space. Strategically placed plants or a green wall not only add visual appeal but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. For Blackdog Retail Design, this could be an opportunity to reinforce a commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly design practices.

What's in a Name? Blackdog Retail Design

Designed for Be Provisioning

Personalized Touches

Consider adding personal touches that make visitors feel welcome and valued. This could range from curated reading materials related to retail design trends to a small refreshment station. Small gestures go a long way in creating a positive impression and show the customer who you are before they are introduced to your products and service. 

Consider adding personal touches that make visitors feel welcome and valued. This could range from curated reading materials related to retail design trends to a small refreshment station. Small gestures go a long way in creating a positive impression and show the customer who you are before they are introduced to your products and service. 

What's in a Name? Blackdog Retail Design

Designed for Greenleaf Wellness Solutions

Designing the perfect waiting room goes well beyond aesthetics—it’s about creating an experience. It’s about making a statement that aligns with your brand’s values and leaves a lasting impression. Adding excitement for your customers who are waiting to inhale. We love crafting narratives that resonate within the first steps after entering the space.