# Conversation-Encouraging Retail Spaces PlayLab Inc Creates a Flagship Store for MadHappy By Amy Duong | Published 2024-01-04 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/madhappy References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2024/01/03/playlab-inc-space-conversation-los-angeles-retail-store/) & [playlab.org](https://www.playlab.org/)  Los Angeles-based design studio PlayLab Inc creates a captivating flagship store for local clothing brand [MadHappy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heart-to-heart). The retail space is defined by its sky-blue tonal conversation pit in the middle of the space. The store is separated into two main zones -- one of which is dedicated to shopping and the other for gathering including a courtyard and a cafe. Co-Founder of [PlayLab Inc.](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yellow-toy-racetrack), Jeff Franklin tells Dezeen, "Our collective goal with the design was to put space for conversation at the heart of the retail experience, creating a place that is equal parts for community dialogue and product. To do this we split the space down the middle, making one half a clear utility for shopping and the other a collection of [intimate gathering spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spaced-agency)." Image Credit: Sean Davidson ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.9/10 - Popularity: 37% | Activity: 29% | Freshness: 20% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Conversation-encouraging Spaces:** The creation of captivating spaces that prioritize conversation and community interaction within retail environments. - **Interactive Retail Design:** The use of innovative design elements and layouts that engage and inspire customers in retail spaces. - **Multi-functional Retail Experiences:** The integration of various activities and amenities within retail spaces to offer customers a holistic experience. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Fashion Retail:** The fashion retail industry can explore the incorporation of conversation-encouraging spaces in their flagship stores to enhance customer engagement. - **Interior Design:** The interior design industry can innovate by creating interactive retail spaces that prioritize conversation and community interaction. - **Hospitality:** The hospitality industry can adopt the concept of multi-functional retail experiences to create engaging spaces for guests, combining shopping, socializing, and relaxation. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Retail Design Landmarks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/d142.md) - [Immersive Sports Supplies Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vegas-sports.md) - [Colorfully Immersive Retail Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/athletic-propulsion-labs-store.md) - [Vibrant Colorful Retail Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/our-place-2.md) - [Minimal Cycling Retail Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/maap-lab-sydney.md) - [Dynamic Light-Filled Retail Space](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/josmo.md) - [Community-Centric Headquarters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/communitycentric-design.md) - [Community-Driven Retail Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stone-islands-munich-store.md) - [Futuristic Commerce Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deji-plaza-phase-ii.md)