An Inside Look at the Wayfair’s First Physical Store

2024.06.05

Wayfair has opened its first large-format store in Wilmette, IL, near Chicago, as part of its initiatives in the development of a physical retail presence in the market. The store will serve as a one-stop shopping destination for all things home, including a wide assortment of furnishings and housewares.

The company noted that the 150,000 square foot, two-story Wayfair branded store is a one-stop shopping destination for all things home, including furniture, home decor, housewares, appliances and home improvement products for shoppers across the style, space and budget spectrum.

Customers can expect a distinct home shopping experience at the store, Wayfair asserted, where they can explore 19 departments and find most household needs in its curated collections and with the assistance of in-store experts.

In more specific terms, the main features of the Wayfair store include, according to the company:

A Selection of All Things Home. The store brings quality furniture, home decor, kitchen, appliances and home improvement items together in one space.

Immersive and Effortless Shopping. Consumers can explore easy-to-shop assortments strategically set up so they can find products faster and make selections that best fit their needs and preferences.

Free Onsite Expert Design Services and Home Improvement Pros. Shoppers can get no-cost one-on-one design and home improvement advice from Wayfair team members, with scheduled and walk-in consultations available.

Exceptional Service and Fast Delivery. Customers can take certain products home as they’re purchased and then receive most other products with free shipping within a day or two.

Debut Restaurant Operation The Porch. Hungry visitors can grab something to eat or gather with friends in an all-day cafe offering small bites, salads, soups, handhelds and related fare.

In tribute to the local community, Wayfair commissioned artist Alyssa Low, a Chicago resident hailing from Long Grove, IL, to create a custom mural weaving in references to Chicago and Wilmette. The mural occupies the north exterior store wall of the Wayfair store. In addition, as part of Wayfair’s ongoing commitment to support housing and a sense of home for everyone, the company is making a $100,000 donation to local non-profit Connections for the Homeless.

“We are committed to providing our customers with unparalleled shopping experiences, tailored to their preferences, whether they choose to shop online or in-store,” said Liza Lefkowski, Wayfair vice president of merchandising and stores, in announcing the store opening. “The opening of our Wilmette location marks an exciting chapter for Wayfair, reinforcing our position as the premier destination for home goods. Our store is thoughtfully designed to be both inspirational and practical, empowering shoppers to create spaces that are just right for them.”