How Omar Khalil is set to transform retail space design

Photo courtesy of Global Recognition Awards

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For most people, elements such as sleek lines, inviting layouts, and artistic lighting are typical features of a beautifully designed store meant to guide shoppers through the aisles. But to Omar Khalil, it is much more. For him, such space reflects how retail design can transform the future of shopping. “The goal isn’t just to sell products anymore,” he says. “It’s to tell a story people want to be part of.”

As the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Global Recognition Award, Omar Khalil is making a name for himself in the competitive retail design world. His success is no accident—it results from combining innovation, consumer psychology, and a deep understanding of industry trends. He is becoming an instrumental figure in transforming how people experience physical shopping spaces.

The changing face of retail

Retail design is no longer just about creating aesthetically pleasing stores but crafting experiences that combine physical and digital worlds. As e-commerce continues to dominate, designers like Omar Khalil are reimagining brick-and-mortar spaces to keep them relevant. 

Omar Khalil’s work stands out for its boldness and merging of art with functionality. His method makes shopping an immersive experience rather than just a transactional one.

“Consumers aren’t just looking for products; they’re looking for experiences,” he explains. “The challenge is to design memorable spaces that connect the brand and the customer.” 

He is committed to blending inventive technologies like augmented reality and smart fixtures into his designs. This is evident in his latest projects, which do not just display products—they invite customers to engage with them in new ways.

This strategy aligns with current retail trends, showing consumers are increasingly drawn to in-person shopping experiences beyond simple transactions. Data supports this shift: in-store shoppers are looking for something they cannot get online, whether hands-on interaction with products or unique brand experiences. 

Omar Khalil’s designs meet these demands, making physical retail spaces destinations rather than stops on a shopping list.

Building the future of retail design

Omar Khalil draws diverse teams, from architects to technologists and even psychologists, to craft retail spaces that are beyond the limits. This procedure has been especially evident in his latest venture, a flagship store in Paris for a global fashion brand. 

The space isn’t static—it evolves with the seasons and the time of day, thanks to modern smart lighting and digital displays. “We wanted to create a store that feels alive, one that adapts to the needs of both the brand and the customer,” he shares.

Adaptability is crucial to Omar Khalil’s vision for the future of design for retail. With shopping habits shifting, especially in the wake of the pandemic, his designs must evolve to meet these changes head-on. 

“The way people shop has fundamentally changed,” he notes. “People are more selective about where they spend their time, so the experience has to be worth it.”

Sustainability is also a crucial part of Omar Khalil’s design ethos. His work resonates with brands and consumers, from using eco-friendly materials to implementing energy-efficient technologies. “Sustainability isn’t just a trend, it’s a responsibility,” he insists. “We can design beautiful and eco-friendly spaces, which should be the future of retail design.”

Redefining retail, one space at a time

As Omar Khalil’s influence in design for retail grows, so does his commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers. He frequently gives lectures and works with design students, emphasizing the importance of creativity and innovation in shaping the future. “Design is constantly changing, and so should the people who influence it,” he says. 

With several upcoming projects, including a major collaboration with a luxury automotive brand, Omar Khalil is redefining how we shop and think about the spaces we interact with. “We’re looking at integrating virtual reality and physical space to enhance the customer’s experience,” he reveals. 

For Omar Khalil, retail design goes beyond aesthetics or functionality—it’s also about creating emotional connections. His blueprint for the future is one in which creativity, technology, and sustainability unite to craft inspiring spaces.

“Every space tells a story. My job is to make sure it’s a story worth telling,” Omar Khalil says.