Most of us think of Ikea and immediately picture a huge warehouse full of furniture displays – but the Swedish retailer has a bit of a surprise for us with its newest location. Opened just last week in Manhattan, Ikea’s Upper East Side Planning Studio “is the first of its kind in the U.S.,” according to the press release, “delivering a new IKEA experience that is more accessible and tailored to meet the home furnishing needs of city residents.” The 17,000+ square foot location will allow customers to browse a curated selection of Ikea items, learn about and customize unique small space solutions one-on-one with a specialist, and order items for home delivery. While the retail giant plans to continue opening new traditional stores in the U.S. (it just opened its 50th, this month in Norfolk, VA!), the press release indicates that Ikea is also planning “a global effort to develop 30 new Ikea touchpoints in city centers over the next three years.” To book an appointment at the Manhattan Planning Studio, click HERE.
