Chute Gerdeman is proud to announce that our collaboration with Hicks Nurseries has been honored with a 2025 Shop! Design Silver in the Specialty Store Over 25,000 sf. category. The win recognizes the transformation of Hicks Nurseries’ iconic Long Island destination into a modern, experience-first retail environment—where horticulture meets hospitality.
For 170 years, Hicks Nurseries has been more than just a garden center—it’s been a community institution. When they set out to reimagine their store, the mission was clear: elevate the retail experience while honoring the heritage and heart that generations of customers have come to love. Our team partnered closely with the Hicks to craft a space that feels both familiar and fresh, nurturing brand loyalty while making space for new growth.
The result is a guest-centric experience that guides shoppers through curated seasonal stories, lifestyle inspiration, and immersive displays. From the moment guests arrive, they’re invited into an intuitive, emotionally engaging journey—from discovering plant pairings and patio furniture to experiencing the scent of blooming florals and the warmth of seasonal vignettes.
The award-winning design puts storytelling and service at the center. Distinct zones encourage exploration, while visual merchandising and wayfinding work in harmony to create clarity across the expansive store footprint. The layered design language, rooted in natural materials and timeless textures, brings an unmistakable sense of place and purpose to every corner of the experience.
We’ve received great responses from our customers – they love the new experience and it puts the Hicks brand in a new light.”
—Eleni Roselli, Director of Marketing
This recognition from Shop! Design Awards reinforces the value of strategic design, thoughtful placemaking, and experience-driven retail in today’s evolving market. As the lines between home, hospitality, and retail continue to blur, the Hicks Nurseries project stands as a compelling example of the power of transformation rooted in heritage, yet designed for what’s next.
See more of the Hicks Nurseries project here >>
