Blair Loftspring, Managing Director, Leasing & Marketing – Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc.

 

“The Merchandise Mart was built in the 1930s by Marshall Field, sold to the Kennedy family in 1945 and is now owned by Vornado Realty Trust. The Mart is the largest commercial building in the country and is the second biggest building by square footage in the country (Only The Pentagon has more square footage) LuxeHome has been on the first floor of The Mart since 2003.  We had Kitchen and Bath showrooms in the Mart on one of the upper floors. So the idea was to bring these beautiful boutiques down to the first floor, and they’ve been here now for almost 16 years. We are so fortunate to have some of the best brands in the industry, and LuxeHome continues to expand its footprint at The Merchandise Mart.

The Merchandise Mart is an iconic landmark in Chicago, and it is a shopping destination! LuxeHome has the world’s largest collection of premier boutiques for home building and renovation located on the first floor of The Mart, and everyone is welcome to walk in and enjoy a brand experience firsthand and gather inspiration and ideas for their own kitchens, baths and luxury homes.  Blair Loftspring, the Managing Director, Leasing & Marketing for Merchandise Mart Properties recently joined Chef Jaime Laurita and me for a Kitchen Chat to celebrate the one year anniversary of the Viking and La Cornue showroom at LuxeHome and to share a bit of history and happenings at The Merchandise Mart. Can you believe that 30,000 people work each day in The Mart?  That’s like a small city!

Each year, LuxeHome partners with Wine Spectator Magazine to host CHILL, an international wine and culinary event.  The proceeds benefit three charities:  The Lynn Sage Foundation, Respiratory Health Association, and Saturday Place.  In 2018. CHILL raised over $250,000 for these charities in one night!  Also, when you are in Chicago, check out Art on The Mart

The Merchandise Mart is a great Chicago destination, and of course, please make sure you visit Chef Jaime Laurita in the Viking and La Cornue showroom, suite 137. He is always creating something delicious!

 

Are you building or renovating your home in the new year?

 

Savor the day!