About the Project

Amar Designer was entrusted with the exciting task of designing the new commercial space for dōTERRA, a leading global provider of essential oils, at their facility in Powai, Mumbai. dōTERRA is well-known for offering high-quality essential oils that help people improve their health and well-being. The space needed to serve multiple purposes: showcasing their range of products, offering a welcoming environment for customers, and providing an area for online training courses and workshops. The goal was to create a functional yet aesthetically appealing space that reflects dōTERRA’s core mission of enhancing health naturally through essential oils.

Project info

  • Architect : Amar Designer
  • Client : dōTERRA
  • Area : Essential Oils Retail and Training Facility
  • Project Type : Commercial
  • Strategy : Commercial Strategy

Design Requirements

The design brief from dōTERRA was clear:

  • A clean, welcoming retail environment where customers can easily explore and sample essential oils.
  • A dedicated area for dōTERRA’s online training courses and educational workshops, where clients can learn about essential oils and how to incorporate them into their health routines.
  • A space that communicates dōTERRA’s commitment to natural, holistic health, with the use of eco-friendly materials and a modern yet warm aesthetic.
  • Integrating smart design elements to highlight products, educate customers, and ensure a smooth customer flow throughout the store.

Challenges and Solutions

The key challenge for this project was to balance functionality with brand messaging. dōTERRA wanted a space that not only showcased their essential oils but also encouraged customer interaction and education through their Steps to Success training programs.

The solution was to design a multi-functional space with clear zoning for retail, product demonstrations, and training. Each area needed to flow seamlessly into the next while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic that reinforced dōTERRA’s brand values. Additionally, we focused on integrating natural elements throughout the space to align with dōTERRA’s ethos of health and well-being through natural products.

Design Concept

The design for dōTERRA’s Powai facility was inspired by nature and holistic health. We wanted to create a space that immediately connected visitors with dōTERRA’s core principles—using nature to enhance well-being. The design concept centered on the following themes:

  • Minimalism and Elegance: Clean lines, clutter-free spaces, and a neutral color palette with organic materials like wood, stone, and plants were used to create a calming and inviting environment.
  • Natural Lighting: We maximized the use of natural light to highlight dōTERRA’s products, making the space feel open, airy, and fresh.

Interactive Spaces: The store layout was designed to encourage customer interaction with the products, with product sampling stations, live demonstrations, and educational displays integrated throughout the retail and training areas.

Entrance and Reception Area

The entrance was designed to make an immediate impact, with a warm, welcoming reception area featuring dōTERRA’s branding prominently displayed. Natural wood paneling and greenery created an inviting atmosphere, setting the tone for the experience inside. Behind the reception desk, we installed a digital display that highlights dōTERRA’s core values and information about their product offerings. This digital board also features announcements about upcoming Steps to Success training programs and workshops, immediately engaging visitors and encouraging them to learn more about the benefits of essential oils.

Customer Relaxation Lounge

Understanding the calming effect of essential oils, we designed a small relaxation lounge where customers could take a break and enjoy the atmosphere. This space featured comfortable seating, soft lighting, and an aromatherapy station where customers could experience dōTERRA’s oils in a tranquil setting. This lounge became a quiet retreat within the bustling commercial space, inviting customers to relax and reflect.

Storage and Back-of-House

Practical storage solutions were an important part of the design. We incorporated discreet yet easily accessible storage for inventory, ensuring the retail and training spaces remained clutter-free. Custom cabinets and shelving were designed for maximum storage efficiency, with additional space in the back for stock management and staff needs.

Training and Workshop Area

A dedicated section of the facility was designed for dōTERRA’s online training courses and in-person workshops. This area was thoughtfully separated from the main retail space to create a more focused, educational environment. For the Steps to Success training, the room was equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment to support both live and online learning. Clean, modular furniture was used to create a flexible space that could be easily reconfigured depending on the type of training or workshop being held. Large screens were installed for presentations, and workstations with tablets allowed participants to engage with digital learning materials. The decor in the training room was intentionally minimal, with soothing natural elements, to maintain focus on the learning experience.

Retail Space and Product Display

The main focus of the space was the retail area, where customers can explore and purchase dōTERRA's essential oils. The layout was designed to ensure easy navigation and accessibility. We used custom shelving units made of natural wood and glass to showcase the wide variety of essential oils, arranged by category (e.g., wellness, relaxation, skin care). Each product display was accompanied by small digital touchscreens that provided detailed information about the oils, their uses, and health benefits.

Essential Oils Demonstration Area

The demonstration area was designed as a key focal point where dōTERRA representatives could engage with customers directly. Here, trained staff could host live product demonstrations, teaching customers how to use essential oils in various aspects of health and well-being. A large wooden table was the centerpiece of this space, designed for both demonstration and interactive sessions. Comfortable seating around the table allowed small groups to participate in hands-on workshops. The area was equipped with hidden storage for oils and accessories, keeping the space uncluttered while ensuring everything needed for demonstrations was easily accessible.

Material Selection

Sustainability was a key consideration in the material selection process, in keeping with dōTERRA’s commitment to health and the environment. We used eco-friendly materials such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and low-VOC paints throughout the space. Natural stone was incorporated into the countertops and flooring to enhance the organic feel, and indoor plants were used generously to bring a touch of nature indoors. To create a clean, modern aesthetic, we paired these natural materials with minimalist design elements, such as sleek metal fixtures and glass shelving. The result was a space that feels fresh, welcoming, and aligned with dōTERRA's values of natural wellness.

Lighting Design

Lighting played a crucial role in enhancing the atmosphere and functionality of the space. We used a combination of natural lighting, strategically placed LED fixtures, and soft ambient lighting to highlight the product displays and create a warm, inviting environment. Recessed lighting in the product display areas ensured that each product was well-lit without overwhelming the space. Pendant lights were used in the demonstration and training areas to add a modern touch, while maintaining the overall clean aesthetic.

Custom Furniture & Finishes

Throughout the design, we ensured that dōTERRA’s branding was subtly yet consistently integrated. The use of dōTERRA's signature purple color in select elements, such as accent walls and digital displays, helped reinforce brand identity without overpowering the natural aesthetic. We also incorporated custom features, such as bespoke shelving units, display tables, and a modular demonstration station, all designed to enhance the customer experience and align with dōTERRA’s brand ethos of simplicity and wellness.

Conclusion

This commercial interior design project for dōTERRA in Powai, Mumbai, successfully transformed their vision into a functional, inviting space that reflects their commitment to natural health and well-being. Amar Designer was proud to create an environment that serves both as a retail outlet and an educational space, helping dōTERRA connect with their customers and share their passion for essential oils. The result is a beautiful, modern facility that aligns with dōTERRA’s mission and provides a meaningful experience for customers and trainees alike.

dōTERRA was extremely pleased with the outcome of the project. The design not only met their functional needs but also embodied their mission of promoting health and wellness through essential oils. They appreciated the seamless flow of the retail, demonstration, and training areas, as well as the natural, calming atmosphere we created. The incorporation of eco-friendly materials and thoughtful lighting design were particularly well-received, aligning with their values of sustainability and holistic well-being.

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