Little
The Catholic University of America
The Cardinal Shop
Washington, DC
Project Type
Higher Education, Specialty Retail
Size
14,000 Square Feet
Design Services
Brand Experience, Interior Architecture
The Cardinal Shop at The Catholic University of America has been reimagined as a dynamic campus destination, infused with school spirit and pride.
Strategically relocated to a prime campus location, the shop offers a curated selection of spirit-wear, gifts, and collectibles that celebrate the university’s identity. With bold branding, immersive storytelling, and interactive elements, it has become a central hub where students, faculty, alumni, and visitors connect through tradition and shared pride.
PROJECT GOALS
Create a campus landmark for spirit and connection.
The goal was to transform The Cardinal Shop into a campus landmark that radiates school spirit and fosters connection. By relocating the store to a high-traffic location, the design aimed to increase visibility, enhance the shopping experience, and establish a strong, flexible brand identity that aligns with the university’s evolving presence.
DESIGN OBJECTIVES
- Relocate the shop to a high-traffic campus location
- Create bold visuals to attract and engage customers
- Develop a flexible brand identity for long-term adaptability
- Integrate storytelling to celebrate university traditions
SOLUTION SUMMARY
The relocation and redesign of The Cardinal Shop transformed it into a high-impact retail space that blends school spirit with a modern shopping experience. The design leverages strategic layout enhancements, immersive graphics, and interactive visual displays to create an engaging atmosphere that strengthens the university’s brand presence.
THE POWER OF PROXIMITY
A strategic move to the heart of campus
Relocating to the Edward J. Pryzbyla Center transformed The Cardinal Shop into a vibrant hub of activity. Positioned in a high-traffic area, it now attracts a steady flow of students, faculty, alumni, and visitors—turning a once-hidden store into a central destination for school spirit and connection.
BRINGING SCHOOL SPIRIT TO LIFE
Immersive branding and visual storytelling
A bold cardinal graphic behind the cash wrap commands attention, reinforcing school pride at first glance. Vibrant school colors, thematic displays, archival photos and memorabilia transform the shop into a tribute to Catholic University’s legacy, creating an emotional connection for students, alumni, and visitors alike.
ENGAGING SHOPPERS THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Interactive and immersive retail design
The Cardinal Shop turns shopping into an experience. A custom print shop inside a branded vintage van lets customers personalize spirit-wear, while wall-mounted basketball hoops and cornhole boards invite playful engagement. Dynamic product displays seamlessly blend merchandise with storytelling, making every visit both interactive and memorable.
DESIGNED FOR EVOLUTION
Flexible branding for an evolving identity
With the university’s branding in flux, The Cardinal Shop was designed for adaptability. By focusing on timeless elements—like the mascot and school colors—the shop maintains a strong identity while allowing room for future brand evolution. Transparent, engaging signage ensures visibility and openness, keeping the space dynamic and future-ready.
Results
With increased visibility and foot traffic, The Cardinal Shop saw a 14% sales boost in its first month.
It has become an integral part of campus life, serving as both a retail space and a hub for connection and tradition.
