Warby Parker, a New York City-based brand of eyeglasses and sunglasses with showrooms in the United States and Canada, will open its first Detroit storefront on Nov. 26.
Located at 1449 Woodward Ave. (just south of Clifford Street), which company officials say is the original site of Vernor’s Pharmacy, the new 1,682-square-foot Warby Parker store will offer a full selection of the brand’s optical and sun glasses styles for men and women, starting at $95 for prescription lenses. Paying homage to the history of the facility, Vernor’s Ginger Ale will also be available on tap in custom-designed, Detroit-specific cups.
“The youthful creative energy and innovation in Detroit is truly special,” says Neil Blumenthal, co-CEO and co-founder of Warby Parker. “And of course we’re finally realizing our childhood dreams of being able to drink soda at all hours without supervision, thanks to Michigan’s favorite—Vernor’s Soda.”
The space will feature a 16-foot domed ceiling, grey and white terrazzo tiled flooring, globe lighting, brass detailing, and walnut shelving featuring classic book titles.
A marble “reference desk,” which offers services such as pickups, adjustments, and more, will be located at the back of the store, and artwork created by Detroit artist David Rubello, whose Color Cubes mural was displayed in the city’s downtown area for more than 40 years, will hang behind the desk.
An optometrist will be available for eye exams at the store, and appointments can be booked online in advance. Prescription glasses will be shipped within days, while sunglasses and optical frames with non-prescription lenses will be available for immediate takeaway.
Detroit-based Sachse Construction is doing the build out for the new space as the general contractor.
Warby Parker plans to hire more than 15 people for the Detroit location. The store will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Founded in 2010 and named after two characters in an early Jack Kerouac journal, Warby Parker aims to offer designer eyewear at a budget-friendly price point. The company also partners with nonprofit organizations to distribute a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair sold.
For more information, visit warbyparker.com.
