Our second Anthropologie opened in Kansas City a week ago, so I wandered through yesterday to do my usual research. 15 miles away, our first Anthropologie premiered around 2001 and I was the first customer in the door! Sometimes feel I need to create a national Anthro club because I make a point to visit one in every city I find myself in. I have seen a dozen so far and each and every one has their own unique spin and ideas abound.

This new store is really different. I felt I should forgive them a bit because they just opened but then I thought, hey wait a minute, these guys are seasoned retailers- they shouldn't have a grace period! First, I had to look long and hard to see if they were even open. The front door is heavy, solid wood with no glass. Surrounding the left side of the door is about 8 feet of painted green plaster. The display windows do not start until the end of the space. Once in, I could literally drive a bicycle around the store which I am not sure is intentional or the results of a 'soft opening'.

Raw wood was the focal point; floors and display shelves were thick and chunky. Custom made industrial fixtures were used everywhere as well as the usual $4,000 giant antique tables and counters. Despite it being a little sparse without the usual jam-packed departments, going into an Anthropologie and not leaving with ideas would be impossible- so enjoy my discoveries:

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