Celebrating 10 years in the metro area, Nandina Home & Design in Sandy Springs is revamping its 2,700-squarefoot store.
Set to open this summer, the new space feels more like a designer showroom than a typical furniture store and highlights the work of Nandina’s lead designers, John Ishmael and Jessie Lafalce, near the entry. With a collection of layered custom furnishings, lighting, art and accessories, the store lets clients touch, feel, sit in and learn about the quality of Nandina’s customizable products. The store settings will change several times a year, and each showroom unveiling will be accompanied by a sample sale (think 30 to 70% off) of the previous merchandise. Behind the front showroom is where the real magic happens—a studio where designers work with clients to create their personalized style. A bonus perk: a complimentary coffee and wine bar.
In an effort to adapt to the changing times, Harry Norman, Realtors has amped up its use of virtual tools to allow clients to continue the process of buying or selling a home amidst social distancing. From virtual caravans and open houses to dedicated web pages, videos and tours for properties, the company is providing the ability for buyers to shop from the comfort of home. And when it’s time to ink the contract, realtors, mortgage, title and insurance partners are also ready to process all documentation digitally. “The use of virtual offerings has shifted from an option to a need,” says Luke Trigwell, Harry Norman’s director of marketing. “We are fortunate in that we are large enough to put substantial investment into providing our agents the best tools available, but also our operating model is nimble enough to adapt and respond very quickly.” The Harry Norman mobile app provides updated property information and in-app texting to directly contact an agent. One tool the company added this year creates a range of digital and print marketing materials automatically within hours of a property listing, which is making it easier for agents to promote a home virtually across various platforms. “There was an existing need for us to offer these tools to maintain our position in the market as leaders in client service,” Trigwell says. “The COVID-19 epidemic has absolutely made this a more critical need.”
Looking for a little design boost? Try out the free design services at retailers West Elm, Crate & Barrel and Pottery Barn, all with locations in Buckhead. The no-stringsattached services include in-person or online chat with a member of the design crew, help with furniture selection, custom room design and placing orders (although a purchase isn’t required). To make an appointment or connect with a designer, visit crateandbarrel.com, westelm. com or potterybarn.com.
