Aesthetic: Only a space that would show the true architecture of its frame would do for Lauren Liess, a designer who leans towards the natural. The store, with its original floors and open beam display is sunlit with a neutral backdrop of white walls allowing the pieces of furniture, linens, mirrors and home décor to be the focus.
Product spread: Liess not only spends time scouring markets and estate sales to find the unique items (local vegetation artwork from Lebanon Valley, Pa.; Le Blanc eco-friendly laundry products; locally made lip balms, soaps, lotions; tea towels and fabrics; lamps and chandeliers; bedding and more), she also showcases her line of Lauren Liess textiles and custom furniture.
Extra Services: Also occupying a piece of the Great Falls real estate is Liess’ interior design business. If patrons are inspired enough by the look of the store to have Liess work with them on a larger scale, they can simply step into the bright design studio and begin their customized project.
Liess is also planning on opening up the store as a community outpost, having designers, bloggers and authors come in to lead workshops on design, or hold signings for the latest locally penned book.
Wallet Wonders: Items throughout the shop range in price as much as they do in size and function. Décor accessories can start at $10 and customized furniture goes into the thousands. —Lynn Norusis
Lauren Liess & Co.
776-A Walker Road, Great Falls
571-926-7825
laurenliess.com/store
(March 2014)