Luxury Retailers Flock to S.F.
Union Square keeps upping its high-end fashion game: Dior just inked a deal to move into Grosvenor's 185 Post in 2016, occupying the space De Beers left. (Even better: They're so close alphabetically, it might not mess up the coveted order of the lobby directory.) The 10k SF flagship store will take up three floors of the glass-enclosed gem, first built in 1908 and renovated in 2007. The French label raised its popularity in recent years after famed designer Raf Simons took the helm. Union Square recently welcomed another 10k SF luxury fashion house, Valentino. Grosvenor also owns 308-310 North Rodeo Dr in Beverly Hills, home to Harry Winston and Chanel.
We also found out Winnipeg-based EQ3 is opening its first S.F. store at the former Design Within Reach space at 2299 Alameda. Here, its sole Bay Area—and US—location is in Emeryville. CEO Peter Tielmann grew up in Europe and recognized the lack of modern furniture in North America, hence the idea to start the company in 2001. Now it's got about 11 locales in Canada. The Design District location off Potrero Avenue is expected to open at the end of May or June.
