Generis Collective client, Wayfair, opened its first-ever large-format store at Edens Plaza in Wilmette, Ill last week. Generis Collective was a key partner in the build-out of this flagship store experience.

Generis developed an “early involvement” general contracting strategy to get the Wayfair project underway, and then worked diligently to establish a system of timely procurement of long-lead building systems that reduced risk and increased project delivery predictability. As a retail prototype, Generis produced, procured, and managed a full-scale off-site mockup program for specialized casework, displays and technology systems.  The Generis team also managed specialty contracts for custom displays, audio visual, signage, casework and more.

Congratulations to Wayfair on this huge milestone event and to the extensive team of talented partners, including Gensler and JT Magen Construction, that made it possible!

For more on the opening, see the “First Look” article below from Chain Store Age.

Chain Store Age, May 23, 2024

First Look: Wayfair opens its first large-format store — complete with restaurant

Digitally native Wayfair Inc. has given its namesake brand the supersized treatment in brick-and-mortar.

The home furnishings giant has unveiled its first-ever large-format store, at Edens Plaza in Wilmette, Ill. Spanning 150,000 sq. ft., the two-level space is designed as a one-stop shopping destination for all things home.

The assortment includes furniture, home decor, housewares, appliances and home improvement products — for any style, space or budget, the company noted. There are 19 departments in all. Certain items are available to take home the same day, but most products will be delivered (shipping is free) to customers within a day or two.

The new Wayfair also includes a café, The Porch, which is open all day with a menu that include small bites, salads, soups, handhelds and more.

In other features, the store offers free onsite design services as well as advice from home improvement professionals. Scheduled and walk-in customers are welcome.

In tribute to the community, Wayfair commissioned artist Alyssa Low, a Chicago resident and Illinois native, to create a custom mural weaving in references to both Chicago and Wilmette. It is displayed along the north exterior wall of the Wayfair store.

“The opening of our Wilmette location marks an exciting chapter for Wayfair, reinforcing our position as the premier destination for home goods,” said Liza Lefkowski, VP of merchandising and stores. “Our store is thoughtfully designed to be both inspirational and practical, empowering shoppers to create spaces that are just right for them.”

As part of Wayfair’s ongoing commitment to supporting housing and a sense of home for all, the company will make a $100,000 donation to local non-profit organization, Connections for the Homeless, helping to fund their efforts in delivering essential services to people facing homelessness and housing insecurity.

The Wilmette store is not the company’s first foray into brick-and-mortar. The retailer has opened Wayfair pop-ups, along with stores for its Joss & Martin and AllModern brands.

Based in Boston, Wayfair generated $12.0 billion in net revenue for the year ended Dec. 31, 2023. Its brand portfolio includes: Wayfair, AllModern, Birch Lane, Joss & Main, Perigold and Wayfair Professional.