Will Leather Goods Store
4120 2nd Ave, Detroit
Tel: 313-309-7892
Architects: McIntosh Poris Associates

Eugene, Oregon–based Will Leather Goods recently opened their flagship store in Midtown Detroit—the largest and most thoroughly designed of their eight locations. Birmingham, Michigan–based McIntosh Poris Associates rehabilitated the 9,000-square-foot former run-down Tomboy grocer into a wonderland of leather goods and handmade products.

The Detroit iteration of the shop has special meaning to founder Will Adler, who grew up in the Motor City. He found a kindred spirit in architect Michael Poris, another prodigal Detroit native. “This store was an opportunity to show the entire catalogue.” Poris said. “Once we understood the catalogue, it became, “How do we put this all together as an experience?”

McIntosh Poris was heavily involved with the design realization, down to displaying the goods. Left mostly raw with concrete floors, glazed terra-cotta tile walls, and an exposed ceiling, the shop includes a gallery, cafe, and giant cowhide teepee. The hip Americana outpost is intended to be as much a community space as it is a store. An outdoor seating area is planned for spring 2016.