Ever since Tom Boy Market closed last October, it's been no secret that the Midtown business would be replaced with retail more on the level with high-end shops like Shinola and Willy's than its modest grocer past. What was a secret, however, was just what type of retail that would be. That has all changed as it's been announced that Will Leather Goods will open a retail location in the 9,000 sq. ft. space at 4120 Second Ave.
Will Leather Goods offers hand-crafted leather belts, bags, footwear, wallets, and many more accessories and housewares. The company says the opportunity to re-imagine the old Tom Boy Market aligns with their "what-was-old-is-now-new" philosophy.
Scheduled to open September 1, 2015, the Detroit location will be the eighth Will Leather Goods retail store. Other locations include shops in Venice Beach, Calif.; Portland, Oregon; Eugene, Oregon; San Francisco; and New York City. The company, now based out of Eugene, started as a belt vendor on the Venice Beach boardwalk in 1981. William Adler, the founder and creative director for Will Leather, is a Detroit native.
"Detroit is the perfect backdrop to bring together my past, the present, and future of Will Leather Goods," says Adler. "The city is a metropolis of creativity firmly rooted in America's history and we're delighted to be part of the growth of Midtown."
Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MDI) was instrumental in bringing the brand to Detroit, says the company. Sue Mosey, executive director of MDI, characterizes the brand as friendly and approachable, making it sure to "resonate with members of the Detroit community."
Will Leather has tapped Detroit-based McIntosh Poris Associates to be lead architects in the redesign of 4120 Second Ave.
Writer: MJ Galbraith
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