Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Retail Architecture & Design Studio in Cleveland
Jencen Architecture is an award-winning full-service design studio that has been shaping the retail landscape for the world's top brands since 1971. Our team of seasoned professionals specializes in creating immersive branded environments that resonate with customers while addressing the practical challenges of retail architecture. With expertise in retail design, interior architecture, and strategic brand experience, we collaborate closely with clients to deliver functional, memorable spaces that align with their brand identity. Our comprehensive services include store planning, millwork design, feasibility studies, and project management, supported by advanced 2D/3D visualization tools. Holding licenses in 48 U.S. states, we serve clients across North America with a proven track record of over 8,000 retail projects representing 130+ brands.Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by industry recognition, including Chain Store Age Retail Store of the Year awards. With an average team tenure of 26 years and 360+ cumulative years of retail expertise, we combine institutional knowledge with innovative design solutions. Our collaborative approach ensures direct access to leadership, rapid decision-making, and tailored strategies that drive brand success. Client testimonials from industry leaders like Johnston & Murphy and Vitamin World highlight our reliability, thoughtful design, and consistent delivery of on-time projects. We remain dedicated to evolving with industry trends while maintaining the personalized service that has defined our practice for five decades.
Services
Retail Architecture
Interior Design
Brand Strategy
Project Management
Store Planning
Millwork Design
Feasibility Studies
LEED Analysis
Accessibility Design
Visual Merchandising
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of specialized retail architecture experience
- Our full-service team handles projects from concept to completion
- Proven track record with 8,000+ retail projects across 130+ brands
- Direct access to leadership ensures rapid decision-making
- Award-winning designs recognized by Chain Store Age and NASFM
What people say
Award-winning designs
Thoughtful design approach
Reliable project delivery
Deep industry expertise
20-year partnership
Services
Retail Architecture
Jencen creates immersive retail environments that translate brand identities into physical spaces. Our architects develop functional, visually compelling stores that enhance customer experiences while meeting operational requirements. With expertise in code compliance and material selection, we deliver designs that balance aesthetics with practicality for national and international retail clients.
Interior Design
Our interior design team focuses on creating cohesive brand experiences through spatial organization and material selection. We optimize layouts for customer flow while maintaining brand consistency across lighting, finishes, and fixtures. This service includes 3D visualization tools to help clients experience designs before implementation.
Brand Strategy
We analyze brand identity and market position to create environments that authentically represent client values. Our strategic approach ensures physical spaces align with brand messaging through targeted design elements and experiential features that resonate with target audiences.
Project Management
Jencen oversees all aspects of project execution from initial planning to final implementation. Our team coordinates with contractors, manufacturers, and client stakeholders to ensure timely delivery within budget parameters while maintaining design integrity throughout the construction process.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct comprehensive evaluations of potential retail locations, assessing structural capabilities, zoning regulations, and operational requirements. These studies help clients make informed decisions about site selection and development potential through detailed technical analysis.
People
Nick Zalany
Managing Architect
AIA-certified architect with decades of retail design experience, Nick leads Jencen's architectural team in delivering innovative solutions that combine functionality with brand expression.
Juleen Russell
Principal
As a licensed architect and key leader, Juleen contributes extensive retail expertise to strategic decision-making and client relationships across Jencen's major projects.
Keith Royer
Director of Design
With 20+ years in retail architecture, Keith oversees creative direction while ensuring designs maintain both aesthetic appeal and operational practicality for commercial clients.
Kate Wells
Director of Interior Design
NCIDQ-certified designer Kate specializes in creating cohesive interior environments that enhance brand storytelling through strategic spatial planning and material selection.
Sarah Klinger
Interior Designer
Recent addition to the team with specialized retail experience, Sarah contributes fresh perspectives to commercial space design while maintaining Jencen's high standards of execution.
Questions
What industries does Jencen Architecture specialize in?
We primarily serve retail brands, healthcare providers, and commercial clients needing branded environment solutions.
How long has Jencen been in business?
Our firm has delivered architectural solutions since 1971, with current team members averaging 26 years of tenure.
What services does Jencen offer beyond architecture?
We provide comprehensive services including interior design, brand strategy, feasibility studies, and project management.
Do you work with international clients?
While based in Cleveland, we hold licenses in 48 U.S. states and have completed projects across North America.
How does Jencen ensure design meets brand objectives?
We combine brand analysis with 3D visualization tools to ensure designs align with client goals before implementation.
What makes Jencen different from other architecture firms?
Our retail specialization, rapid decision-making process, and 50+ years of proven experience set us apart.
