CocoCart

Designing a World-Class Chocolate Destination for a World-Class Airport

Following our successful delivery of a Bon Voyage CocoCart retail experience at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Barber Design was commissioned to design a new, premium retail concept for CocoCart’s chocolate offering at the globally renowned Singapore Changi Airport, Terminal 1.

Our Design Philosophy: Luxurious Sustainability for the Garden City

Our proposal for Changi was built upon the pillars of sustainability, technology and ecology, directly supporting the innovative Singapore Green Plan 2030.

Inspired by Nature: The core of our design was the indigenous Singaporean Sea Almond tree, whose autumnal colours inspired the warm palette we proposed for the space. While its leaf motif was the inspiration for the bespoke packaging and gift bags, and the shimmering gold feature ceiling above the main counter.

A Commitment to Green: We designed the CocoCart concession to move beyond a ‘nice-to-have’ sustainability approach, and proposed using materials that were mostly recycled or sustainable:

• Marble was selected for its cooling, durable, and eco-friendly properties, and it’s suitability for warmer climate.
• Recycled metals were specified for all fixtures and fittings.
• Bamboo and regionally sourced sandalwood were proposed as sustainable alternatives to conventional timber.
• Clayworks clay plasters, a natural, breathable finish that regulates humidity and absorbs acoustics, were recommended for the perimeter walls.
• Energy-saving LED lighting was designed for use throughout the space.

Customer Experience in The Theatre of Chocolate

We designed the 100 – 150m² premium space to attract, engage and capture the hearts and minds of global travellers. Open on two sides for maximum visibility, the layout features distinct focal points and a seamless flow.

• Experiential Zones: Customers are drawn the large-scale chocolate fountain, which is the perfect spot for a ‘selfie moment’, while a dedicated chocolatier is on hand to showcase the finest confectionery.
• Sensory Engagement: Promotional tables, placed at the entrance, are designed to showcase the luxurious chocolates, while a subtle scent of fresh chocolate pumped into the environment entices the senses.
• Luxury Detailing: The fascia was designed to echo the smooth, flowing curves of molten chocolate, with illuminated logos and LCD screens. Inside, tiered displays, soft lighting, and luxurious material finishes, inspired by the Harrods Chocolate Hall, elevate the entire shopping experience.
• Gifting Excellence: Specialised gift-wrapping services and exclusive, leaf motif packaging, printed with water-based inks on recycled paper, ensure visitors are encouraged to buy gifts and souvenirs.

By combining the proven success of CocoCart’s retail model with an elevated, luxurious, and deeply sustainable concept, we showcased a world-class chocolate destination that is the perfect fit for the ‘World’s Best Airport’.

This project is a proud example of our ability to blend commercial necessity with high-end, responsible design.