DG Pilot
Union Depot | St. Paul, MN
The Creative Brief
DG Pilot built its reputation as a specialty aviation model store — a niche destination with a devoted following and a strong identity. When the store relocated into Union Depot, the retail space nearly tripled in size, creating an opportunity to evolve the concept without abandoning what made it special.
The challenge: expand into a broader retail experience, travel-inspired gifts, local goods, and carefully curated finds, while staying true to the aviation roots that defined the brand. The new space needed to speak to both commuters passing through and the Lowertown neighborhood beyond the depot's doors.
The Results
The finished store blends aviation heritage, travel energy, and local character into a single cohesive environment. Custom travel icon graphics animate the space with a sense of motion, while rustic wood fixtures and wrought iron details feel at home in the historic depot setting. Deliberate color moments invite exploration without competing with the merchandise, and clearly zoned retail areas give each category room to breathe while keeping the experience unified.
DG Pilot's new home honors where it started — and makes space for where it's going.
Before & After
