DWR has opened its second Michigan store, featuring modern furniture designs and in-house design consultations, in downtown Birmingham.
DWR (Design Within Reach) is a part of MillerKnoll, a west Michigan-based collective of brands including Herman Miller and Knoll. The new store is located at 214 W. Maple Road in the site once occupied by Anthropologie (two blocks north of the Townsend Hotel).
The new store is a 7,757-square-foot space that occupies part of the historic Wabeek Building, originally designed in 1928 by Albert Kahn. Preserved elements of the original structure, including exterior piers, were integrated into the interior to create what DWR calls “a visible dialogue between historic architecture and contemporary design.”
The balance of heritage and innovation is designed into the store, which features a mix of materials including wood, brick, limestone, terrazzo, metal, and stone.
The showroom includes a design library and a team of specialists offering complimentary 3-D room planning, fabric sampling, and personalized design consultations.
The new store’s proximity to the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills is notable. Its alumni, which include architects and designers such as the Saarinens, Ray and Charles Eames, and Florence Knoll, shaped the world of art, architecture, and design in the 20th century.
“Many of the pieces and collections that were concepted by Cranbrook designers are icons that are widely recognized and still prominently used in spaces around the world today,” says Debbie Propst, president of global retail at MillerKnoll. “Some of these include the Eames Lounge and Ottoman, Eames Molded Plastic Chairs, Saarinen Table and Tulip Chairs, and Bertoia Chairs, just to name a few. All of these designs are available at DWR.”
DWR says the Birmingham location was conceived as more than a retail space. It’s meant to function as a cultural outpost for modern design, according to brand officials. The interior is organized as a curated design tour, guiding visitors through landmark pieces by Cranbrook-connected designers alongside contemporary furnishings that support everyday living. Accents of granite and metal create a rich and tactile environment.
“For decades, Michigan has been home to many in our company,” says Propst. “It’s a hub of innovation and craftsmanship, and I’m thrilled to be able to continue to grow our footprint there and open our doors to the inspiring Birmingham community.”
The store’s hours are Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
For more information, visit dwr.com.
