Local Eclectic opens first store in historic Chicago mansion
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Local Eclectic is inside this landmarked mansion at 212 E. Ontario St. Photo: Carrie Shepherd/Axios
After more than a decade selling jewelry online, Chicago-based Local Eclectic has opened its first brick-and-mortar store in Streeterville.
Why it matters: The store's location off the Mag Mile in a landmarked, restored mansion creates a luxury shopping experience at accessible prices.
What to expect: The Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival-style house has been transformed into a Parisian-inspired store accented by pink and wallpapered walls and colorful marble jewelry cases.
- Plus, shoppers can experience an all-day cafe featuring Metric coffee, pastries, and eventually wine, cocktails, snacks and dips.
Zoom in: Jewelry prices start at $49, with the average piece coming in under $100, Nido-Russo says.
- That price point invites shoppers to "play" in the store and not feel intimidated, like they might feel browsing on Oak Street or other high-end shopping districts.
What they're saying: "People have been saying, 'Oh my God, this space is so amazing! I just want to hang out in here for two hours.' And I hope that that is what people do: come and have a drink, wander around, try on jewelry," Nido-Russo tells Axios during a tour.
Yes, but: No laptops. The owner says the cafe is not meant to be a place to work but a gathering place for conversation and fun.
What's next: Eventually, Nido-Russo looks forward to opening more stores, but in the meantime, shoppers can stop by 212 W. Ontario St. and online.