Cole Haan
Chicago
Valerio Dewalt Train Associates

A signature leather goods maker uses architecture to establish its identity

© Barbara Karant

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

Cole Haan, maker of high-quality men’s and women’s shoes, bags, and outerwear, is redefining its brand for the new millennium as modern, sexy, and optimistic.

The architect completely renovated the existing Cole Haan store on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, expanding it to 4,200 square feet. A 1950’s Palm Springs look was used as a reference point to develop a warm modern image for the store.

Teak entrance doors with a grid of circles open to a corridor extending the length of the store. The circle theme is repeated in screens that line the hall and separate it from "living rooms" for selling shoes. The volume of the store is spare, with new store fixtures and new and antique furniture establishing the detailed character of the space.

Click here to see September 2001's Record Interiors.

Formal name of Project:
Cole Haan

Location:
Chicago

Gross square footage:
4,200 sq ft

Client:
Cole Haan

Architect's firm:
Valerio Dewalt Train Associates
500 North Dearborn Street, Suite 900
Chicago, Illinois 60610
312.332.0363 v
312.332.4727 f