Reimagining Retail: Creating Value Through Regeneration, Adaptation and Experience

The retail sector continues to evolve. While consumer confidence and footfall are returning across many parts of the UK, developers, investors and occupiers are increasingly focused on how existing assets can be adapted, enhanced and repositioned to remain competitive in a changing market. The conversation is no longer centred solely on new development. Instead, the emphasis has shifted towards revitalisation, sustainability, flexibility and the creation of destinations that offer more than a place to shop.

At Keppie, we see this evolution as an opportunity. Our experience across retail parks, shopping centres and mixed-use destinations demonstrates how thoughtful design can unlock value from existing assets, improve customer experience and create resilient environments that are prepared for the future. We believe successful retail environments are those that balance commercial performance with placemaking, sustainability and long-term adaptability.

This approach is reflected throughout our retail portfolio. The most recent example is from Strathkelvin Retail Park in Bishopbriggs, delivered for John Turner’s team at Derwent London and Caledonian Properties.

Our long-term masterplan and architectural strategy focused on refurbishment, reconfiguration and targeted enhancement rather than wholesale redevelopment.

Rather than replacing successful but ageing assets, the project focused on retaining and repurposing their significant elements, amplifying their strengths, and enhancing customer experience throughout the design process. Key interventions included the reconfiguration of the existing B&Q unit, new retail accommodation, upgraded public realm, enhanced pedestrian connectivity and a refreshed architectural identity inspired by the surrounding woodland context.

The result is a more cohesive, attractive and future-ready destination that supports occupiers, customers and the wider community.

This project demonstrates how retail parks can respond to changing occupier demands and environmental aspirations whilst continuing to support commercial growth by repositioning them through strategic, design-led intervention.

The principles applied at Strathkelvin are mirrored across our wider retail experience. Keppie’s Ocean Terminal Masterplan has helped reposition a long-established waterfront retail destination into a mixed-use neighbourhood centred around retail, leisure, residential and community uses. Through adaptive reuse, reconfiguration of existing retail accommodation and the creation of new public realm, the project responds directly to changing retail patterns and wider urban aspirations.

Similarly, our long-standing relationship with Overgate Centre in Dundee demonstrates the value of supporting retail assets beyond initial delivery. Over more than two decades, we have worked alongside successive owners to explore refurbishment, tenant optimisation, leisure integration and targeted enhancement strategies that help maintain relevance and attract future investment. Recent feasibility proposals focus on refreshing and reinvigorating key areas of the centre to create brighter, more inviting environments aligned with contemporary retail expectations.

What differentiates Keppie’s approach is our ability to combine strategic masterplanning with practical delivery. We work with clients to understand not only what an asset is today, but what it can become. Whether that involves retail park repositioning, shopping centre enhancement, mixed-use regeneration, heritage-led retail development or long-term portfolio planning, we help clients unlock opportunities, reduce risk and create lasting value.

As retail continues to adapt, we believe the greatest opportunities lie within existing places. The challenge is not simply to refurbish buildings, but to redefine destinations for future generations.

As John Turner, Associate at Derwent London, notes:

“Keppie Design has been a trusted partner at Strathkelvin Retail Park, delivering creative and sustainable solutions that align with our vision. Their work on the B&Q reconfiguration, new retail units, and wider park improvements has transformed the site with a modern, dynamic look while addressing energy efficiency and connectivity. Keppie’s collaborative approach and ability to overcome design and technical challenges have been invaluable.”