Miltons – The Store for Men in Burlington, Mass.

THE GREATER BOSTON area’s destination for men’s formalwear debuts its newest concept at Burlington Mall, showcasing the importance of an engaging customer experience.

📷: Ed Wonsek, Concord, Mass.

1. IF THE SUIT FITS

Miltons emphasizes the physical experience of trying clothing on in store: Specialized tailors are employed to help customers find the right fit. “It’s about the touch and feel of the material, but it’s also about the service you get when you go into the store,” says Sean Selby, Partner for Arrowstreet, the architecture firm charged with the space’s design, alongside general contractor Kaplan Construction.

2. IN THE ZONE

Selby explains the importance of emphasizing three zones through the design, one of which being toward the middle nearby the fitting area (shown). This section is characterized by a hanging sculptural light fixture, and the height of the ceiling made an ideal spot. Its illumination enhances the striated layout of the space as customers move from one area to another.

3. A CLOSER LOOK

The wallcoverings used in the fitting room area takes its cues from the material of men’s suits. “We found wallcoverings that appeared to be a lot like men’s suiting. You have very subtle patterning and striping in it with nice colors, and we used that in a few key places,” Selby explains.

4. SWITCHING STYLES

The wood slat ceiling delineates the store’s “middle zone” and visually warms the area where the cash wrap is situated, bringing down the scale of the space and giving it a more intimate feel. With only an inch and a half of clearance, the installation of the pendant light fixtures was meticulously planned to fit into the narrow spaces of the ceiling.

5. SIT BACK, RELAX

Cozy seating beside the fitting area provides a space for customers to dwell. “You don’t go there alone,” Selby says. “Someone’s going to be there with you who is not getting fitted, and you have seating there so people can get comfortable.”