Island Fresh
Colorful tilework, quirky quotes modernize Caymans institution

HURLEY’S | Grand Harbour, Cayman Islands
completed July 2018 | size 28,000 sf
photos Tom Williamson/Picture This Studios
Contributing Shop! member: Ampersand Studio design
A modern, ‘Island Fresh’ new look, layout, and shopping experience has transformed Cayman Islands mainstay Hurley’s into a foodie haven that appeals to locals and mixed global clientele alike. Operating in the Cayman Islands as a family-run business for more than 30 years, Hurley’s sought to go big with its rebranding and renovation, encompassing a major strategic shift from traditional grocery store to elevated food experience.
A focal point of the store appears at the entrance. Hurley’s Eatery signage is highlighted with a perforated metal canopy, pendant lights, and colorful handmade cement tiles. Tilework continues as an accent throughout, used to highlight the heart of the store offering, Hurley’s Eatery, and one of the core service counters, Meat & Seafood.


Sections of the store are differentiated by design. White distressed wood porcelain tiles anchor the Bakery department, creating a focal point for customers, elevating the Bakery experience, and adding an overall warmth and welcoming vibe. A 64-ft. wooden undulating facade with the call out “Good Eats” celebrates various food stations below.
Sustainably harvested reindeer moss serves as an integral material in the signage throughout the produce department, highlighting the fresh aspect of this department. The greenery is also featured prominently on a moss wall that serves as the backdrop for the new dining area, adorned with the Hurley’s “leaf” logo. The addition of flora across the space facilitates an inviting yet intimate experience.


A carefully curated, consistent image and voice carries throughout the space, from the interior design, communications, digital, uniforms, and shopping bags, all the way to Hurley’s new delivery service. The design language appears urban, modern, and simple yet playful, creating a balance of warmth and comfort.
Clear, fun, and unique graphics address shoppers on a personal level. Slightly quirky quotes around the store bring an element of fun to various customer touchpoints.
A new layout created with customer convenience in mind highlights all services points and reduces the center of store. The addition of the dine-in area builds on the shopping experience and has proved a highly popular in-store feature.
Dedication to the customer experience is what sets this supermarket apart from other competitors on the island. The redesign achieved this goal, revolutionizing shopping options in the Cayman Islands by turning an everyday trip to the grocery store into a fun, personal, fresh experience.