Praxis

With 145 branches, Praxis is one of the biggest DIY chains and garden centres in the Netherlands. The Praxis store formula is determined by head office in Diemen. In principle, the formula is the same for all Praxis stores. For the past 10 years, Stenfert Interieur & Design has been one of the partners of Praxis when it comes to interior and store design. We talk to Richard Dijkman, project manager for store design and presentation at head office.

“Our store formula is very detailed and won’t change any time soon. However, there are always modifications to continue innovating. Stenfert Interieur & Design is often called on when we change the assortment. A new assortment nearly always affects the store design. Nowadays, we don’t have many brand new stores, but Stenfert has often been our first port of call for new interior design.”

Richard Dijkman likes working with Stenfert.

“They are very flexible. They can respond fast to changes, even if they are only told about them at the last minute. Stenfert always delivers custom work and we see that in the way they contribute ideas. They are real builders. Hands-on. For example, some Praxis stores have a mirrored layout, which means that the interior elements have to be adapted. That’s no problem for Stenfert.

Our partnership always goes smoothly. If a new design is required, we plan the general details and Stenfert goes off and develops the model further. In one or two steps – so very fast – we produce a final design. Recently, for example, we joined up with Stenfert to redesign the paint mixing desk for all the branches. Once the design was approved, it was rolled out. Then within six or seven weeks, Stenfert installed 140 brand new paint desks throughout the country. That’s pretty impressive! Particularly when you consider that the paint desk has had great reactions, from both our customers and staff.”

Dijkman is very clear: he’s delighted with Stenfert.

“I have huge respect for how they work. They really put the customer first. If there’s an issue, they immediately say: ‘We’ll come to you.’ And they do. They’re always there when you need them. And that’s worth a lot.”