As retail evolves into a more experience-driven industry, sustainability is steadily moving from the sidelines to the centre of business strategy. Today, it is no longer just about creating visually appealing stores, it is about designing spaces that are responsible and future-ready.

In an exclusive conversation with Retail4Growth, Prerna Mohan, Founder & CEO of Prerna Mohan Design Studio, we understood how sustainability is not merely a design choice, but a long-term business decision that impacts brand perception and environmental balance.

Prerna Mohan Design Studio is an architecture and bespoke interior design firm whose expertise lies in comprehensive turnkey solutions, including the design and creation of custom furniture and fittings, with clients such as Walkway, Metro Shoes, Mochi, GKD Opticals and more.

This is all about responsibility

Prerna links business decisions with a deeper sense of responsibility. She explains that it’s important for brands to also consider the impact of their actions on the environment. She says, “If we are constantly taking from the environment and spoiling it, how can we expect positive outcomes in return? What goes around comes around. We all believe in karma. The same applies to how we build and run businesses.”

For brands, choosing sustainable practices is not just the right thing to do, it also enhances the appeal of their brand. Spaces that are thoughtfully designed and environmental friendly naturally draw people in and help promote the brand without direct marketing.

According to Prerna, sustainability is no longer optional. As she says, “There’s no looking back now. If we want a future for ourselves and the next generations, sustainability is the need of the hour.”

Is sustainability expensive?

A major barrier for many brands is the perception that sustainable design comes at a high cost. Prerna challenges this notion, calling it a mindset issue rather than a financial one. “It’s a myth that sustainability is expensive. In fact, in the long run, it is cost-saving,” she explains.

While initial costs may appear higher due to specialised techniques or limited adoption, increased demand will eventually bring costs down through economies of scale.

Operational costs – especially electricity, air conditioning, and maintenance- form a significant portion of retail expenses. If a brand adopts sustainable design strategies such as natural ventilation, biophilic elements, and efficient materials, it can significantly reduce these costs.

The shift has begun

While achieving complete sustainability remains a challenge, some brands are already taking meaningful steps. Prerna highlights Nexus Malls for incorporating biophilic elements in retail spaces. Globally, brands like Hilton and several European players are leading the way by integrating sustainability into both design and operations. According to her, India is still in its early stages but holds strong potential to evolve rapidly in this space.

Moving towards a sustainable future

Prerna concludes that while 100% sustainability may not yet be achievable, consistent and ethical efforts can lead to meaningful change. From material choices to energy efficiency, every decision contributes to a larger impact.