Broadway in Soho is quickly becoming the new shopping destination for home design. CB2 opens today at 451 Broadway and is only the third store in the US for the lesser priced modern design off-shoot of Crate and Barrel.While on November 16th, Muji finally opens it's first US store at 455 Broadway at exactly 12 noon with over 3,200 square feet of retail space and more than 2,000 products for sale including housewares, fabric, furniture, appliances, apparel and more. I can already envision a line out the door to buy their minimalist designed products.
I don't think it's any coincidence that both of these stores are moving in right down the street from the original reasonably priced design mecca, Pearl River Mart. If you've never been to Pearl River Mart, you don't know what you are missing. I can't go there without buying something fun. It's a fabulous place to buy gifts. They carry a wide array of Asian tableware in a myriad of patterns and styles but also have a great selection of plain white tableware downstairs that are perfect for parties or just those who want simple dishes at a great price. If you are in need of a Buddha, some foo dogs, even chopsticks, this is the place to go.
As excited as I am for CB2 and especially Muji, I really hope they don't force out stores like Pearl River Mart. They are what make New York so unique and exciting!
