Storefronting is Curbed's regular look at the changing retail scene, with an emphasis on how it impacts neighborhoods. Opening a store? See a store that's opening? Send the deets. We have a special place in our hearts for those who also include digital photos.
It's been a long time coming for the Ralph Lauren store on Fillmore Street, but if all goes according to the new-and-improved ply, we should be popping the collars of our candy-colored polo shirts by fall. A little history: Back in February, the Pacific Heights Neighborhood Association and Fillmore Merchants Association voted 6-1 to oust Ralph from the neighborhood, even though the retailer had already signed a lease on the 3,500 square foot space at 2040 Fillmore Street. At that time, the Fillmore Merchant's Association was pushing to ban not only RL, but all formula retail in the area. The Planning Department suggested a conditional use permit for the site, at the very least. Obviously, that came to fruition, as the last building permit was issued back in June, and the store is now slated for a fall opening— A whole year later than planned.
· Reader Rant: Fillmore Merchants OK Urban Outfitters Over Ralph? [Curbed SF]
· Denied Access: Pac Heights Ousts Ralph Lauren [Curbed SF]
· Storefronting: Ralph Lauren Rugby Readies, Barneys Mania! [Curbed SF]