#CID Archives - Concept i

The Face of Retail

concepti — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 09:08:04 +0000

The Face of Retail

Designing first impressions that last

— it’s about identity, atmosphere, and experience. At the heart of it all lies the Retail Façade: the face of the brand, the first impression, and the invitation inside. Here are 6 key insights from Concept i Founder/CEO Geoffrey Morrison on how to craft powerful and purposeful Retail Façades that resonate.

Read more: iNews—The Face of Retail

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And the Winner is….

concepti — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:03:31 +0000

AND THE WINNER IS …. CITYSTARS!

Citystars, Katameya, Cairo

2025 | RLI Retail and Leisure—Future Project Award, RLI Global, Londoner Hotel, London, UK.

2024/25 | Best Retail Development – International at International Property Awards – Global, Strand, London, UK.

2024 | MECS+R Shopping Centre and Retailer MENA Awards – Gold Award Winner for Design and Development “Visionary Concept “ at Retail Congress MENA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Citystars Katameya, a 245,000 sq.m mixed-use development in Cairo, has been awarded the RLI Future Project Award at the 20th Global RLI Retail & Leisure International Awards on June 25th, 2025 in London! Concept i are the lead designers for the project, including master planning, architecture, and retail interior design.

“We are absolutely delighted” says Geoffrey Morrison, Founder/Managing Director of Concept i “This is the second global class award received by the project after winning the 2025/25 “World’s Best” Retail Development at the International Property Awards, MECSC&R Visionary Project Award in 2024. It’s even more special to be part of RLI’s 20th Year celebration, marking 2 decades of Jayne Rafter and her teams relentless energy, passion and connectivity in this amazing sector.”

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Top 7 Trends Shaping the Future of Retail Design

concepti — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 11:00:39 +0000

How Retail Spaces are Evolving to Become Cultural, Social & Experiential Hubs

The retail landscape is undergoing a thrilling transformation, driven by cutting-edge technology, a commitment to sustainability, and ever-evolving consumer expectations. Retail spaces are no longer just places to shop; they are becoming vibrant cultural, social, and experiential hubs. Concept i has identified seven innovative trends that are set to revolutionize the future of the retail industry.

CONCEPT I WINS WORLD’S BEST

concepti — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 06:15:50 +0000

CONCEPT I WINS WORLD’S BEST

Citystars, Katameya, Cairo

2024/25 | Best Retail Development – International at International Property Awards – Global, Strand, London, UK.

2024 | MECS+R Shopping Centre and Retailer MENA Awards – Gold Award Winner for Design and Development “Visionary Concept “ at Retail Congress MENA, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

A massive “congratulations” to Citystars, ARCO and the entire development team for this outstanding achievement. Last night, Citystars Katameya, Cairo won the prestigious Best International Retail Development at the 2024/25 IPAX Global International Property Awards held at the Savoy Hotel, Strand, London.

Set in vibrant New Cairo, Citystars Katameya is a vast, 1.2 km long, mixed use development spanning a 245,000 sq m. site. The project is conceived as the “Birth of a New Star”, fusing lush, sustainable landscapes and spectacular retail-tainment, with luxurious residential, hospitality and Grade A office space. It will set a new benchmark for life-style destinations in Cairo, one of the world’ greatest, most rapidly expanding Metropolis. Concept i is the lead Design Architect and Interior Designer, working together with Turner Const. Int. (PM), ECG (Arch/Eng.), Accor (Hotel and Residences), RCG (Retail Consultants), Kristina Zanic Assoc. (Residential/Hotel Interiors), PLandscape (Landscape Design), DJ Coalition (Lighting), Shaker (M,E&P), CKP (Hospitality Consultants) and more.

The International Property Awards celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry. An International Property Award is a world-renowned mark of excellence.

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THE GROWING APPETITE FOR AESTHETICS

concepti — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 05:10:39 +0000

THE GROWING APPETITE FOR AESTHETICS

by Raymond Lopez, Associate Creative Director

The Evolution of Food Environments and Dining Experiences

Times are rapidly changing, and nowhere is this more evident than in our dining spaces. The traditional cafeteria-style dining hall has undergone a revolutionary transformation, evolving from a utilitarian space into a vibrant hub for shared experiences. Today’s food environments are more than just places to eat—they are destinations where people gather to socialize, connect with their community, and capture Instagram-worthy moments. These spaces have become integral to fostering personal and communal connections, evolving to meet the needs of modern diners.

Creating Visually Engaging Food Environments

The ambiance of a dining space is now as important as the food and beverages it serves. A visually appealing, immersive atmosphere draws customers, enhances their dining experience, and encourages them to linger. Such environments not only increase foot traffic but also foster loyalty, turning visitors into repeat customers and boosting business. To achieve this, thoughtful design is key. A well-balanced mix of elements—including strategic lighting, diverse seating styles, vibrant colors, captivating artwork, and varied textures—creates a unique and memorable character for the space. Incorporating natural light and greenery fosters a warm, therapeutic, and relaxing environment, enhancing the overall experience. The integration of biophilic design principles can make the space feel alive and inviting.

One of our newest interior renovations in Dhaka, is the creation of a vast, 7,900 sq. m food hall, immersing guests in daylight, plants, and nature. External walls are replaced with open air terraces and glass to flood the area with a healthy, biophilic character.

Food Court Zone, a new cuisine concept creating new attractions.

At Seacon, Bangkae Bangkok, we re-created the energy of “street food” hawkers in the mall, using urban materiality and graphics in a fresh and contemporary way.

Street Food Gourmet, a dynamic food hall offering a uniquely Thai experience.

One of our newest projects is the design of a 40,000 sq. m food mall in Jeddah. The master plan provides a creative fusion of cool indoor/outdoor food streets, shaded dining and lounge terraces. Guests will enjoy spectacular Red Sea views, breezes, plants, and nature, intermingled with fountains and dynamic entertainment spaces.

Stunning Tribute to the Red Sea, Jeddah KSA

Adding cultural and local elements to the décor—such as endemic materials and traditional motifs—is a cost-effective way to infuse authenticity and context into the design. This approach offers a fresh, eclectic vibe and a distinctive identity that resonates with the local community and attracts visitors seeking unique experiences.

Adapting to Change: The Future of Dining Spaces

The future of food environments lies in their remarkable ability to adapt and transform, offering not just a simple meal but rather a deeply meaningful and truly memorable experience that engages all the senses. Modern dining spaces must evolve to meet changing consumer expectations while maintaining their essential role as gathering places for human connection.

Designers who thoughtfully embrace this forward-thinking philosophy will continue to shape innovative spaces that uplift the spirit, foster genuine connections between people, and enhance the human experience in ways that resonate long after the meal is finished.

Check out our latest newsletter issue

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CITYSTARS KATAMEYA – BEST RETAIL DEVELOPMENT EGYPT AND AFRICA!

concepti — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:24 +0000

CITYSTARS KATAMEYA, CAIRO – BEST RETAIL DEVELOPMENT EGYPT AND AFRICA!

Following its Gold Award (Visionary Concept) at the 2024 MECS+R and MENA Awards, CITYSTARS KATAMEYA, Cairo, is now shortlisted for the Best Retail Development Project in Africa (Regional Level) by the International Property Awards for 2024-2025. The project is now a strong contender for the overall International award, showcasing its exceptional innovation and design.

Congratulations to ARCO, Citystars, and our talented team of designers and support consultants. Thank you to The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres & Retailers and International Property Awards for recognizing this unique and trend setting project in the retail industry.

Concept i is proud to be the Lead Architect and Interior Designer for the project.

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SHAPING TOMORROW

concepti — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:00:20 +0000

SHAPING TOMORROW

5 Trends Shaping Our Built Environment

In this ever-changing world, the role of architects and designers extends beyond the present time. “Shaping Tomorrow” explores the dynamic relationship between innovative design practices that challenges our vision and shape the Future. Our future built environment is being molded by current trends. We anticipate challenges in demographic shifts and health, technology and science, climate, economic growth, happiness and reverse globalization. The future is ours to shape, and we must aim high. We envision a future that not only integrates sustainable strategies but also prioritizes well-being, inclusivity, and human experiences.

We invite you to join us in discovering the tools architects and designers will use to reimagine design as a catalyst for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.

Read more: iNews – Shaping Tomorrow

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Shaping the Future with OKANA!

concepti — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:00:13 +0000

Shaping the Future with OKANA!

Concept i participated in Okana‘s inaugural global meet-up. Representatives from 24 global cities gathered to define their global collaboration.

The workshop, held in Austria in mid-October, provided an excellent opportunity to not only expand our reach and expertise but also to reaffirm OKANA’s commitment to driving positive change in the built environment and making a meaningful impact in communities worldwide.

Francesc Domingo attended the event and stated “It was a fun and exciting opportunity to explore the future of design with our global partners”

Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gyT_iFEC

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