Gray and yellow is such a modern, yet soft, color pairing. So hot right now.

The home-front (aka the area around Halsted and North in Lincoln Park*) just became a little more PLRG friendly with the opening of the city’s first West Elm store! Before now you had to hike up to the suburbs, or take your chances on an online purchase, but not anymore. This stylish, eco-conscious and wallet friendly retail furniture store should be a do-not-miss for all of you who love to decorate. Yesterday morning, we got a sneak peak tour of the new store and a chance to talk with West Elm execs.

Pinkish-purple and gray with black accents, mixed with fluffy pillows and mirrored pieces...our fave combo!

The color of the season that the design team at West Elm hope you embrace is yellow, and you will see it everywhere, from side tables, throw pillows and dinner wear. With all the grey (and white) weather we have been suffering through, not to mention the economy, it’s a nice change to embrace something so bright and energizing.

Keep your eyes peeled for a departure from their usual store layout/décor. There is definite attempt to mix materials and textures in their vignettes, as well as more installation art (think Anthropology). Currently, art from students at the Art Institute of Chicago hang throughout the store, which is a really great local addition.

So, the next time you are in desperate need for something new to spruce up your abode, or are just in the area, be sure to check out this new addition to Chicago’s design community!

West Elm Chicago
1000 West North Avenue (at Sheffield)
Chicago, IL 60622

(Katie Rogulski)

*PLRG Fun Fact- the new West Elm is located in the old Whole Foods space, which is conveniently located very near the new Whole Foods space (dubbed “the clubhouse” by team PLRG for their readily available free parking & internet, made-to-order burritos and alcohol). Um, when the weather warms up, we might just start camping out at this intersection.