Pam Rosenberg, IIDA, ASID

featured in the Winter ‘08 issue of ASID’s
Inside Illinois Newsletter

before renovation

When we first considered leasing the retail space in Wilmette, we were challenged by the expansive wall of windows that took up nearly 40% of the pie-shaped store. We required more display space than our walls offered and so we were challenged to come up with an efficient & user-friendly way to display not only our gallery of framed artwork, but thousands of frame moulding samples as well. We solved this problem in a successful and space-efficient manner: by developing an innovative system that incorporates stacked, hanging panels which slide open to reveal additional layers of fabulous frame mouldings.

With just 815 sq. ft. of space, the new H. Marion Framing location is highly illuminated, with two walls of natural light beaming through the heavily windowed store. These unique features allowed us to implement a dramatic, yet neutral color sheme, and to employ unconventional hanging systems and display easels to effectively showcase a range of artwork sans the walls on which to diplay it. This method of layering creates the illusion of a much deeper and more spacious showroom than actually exists.

“We’ve made creative use of a small space,” explains Marion, “the new store is as visually striking as it is user-friendly. We succeeded in creating a design that showcases our beautiful collections of moulding and gallery of fine art in a way that is inviting from any angle, either from within the store or to window-shoppers and passers-by.” The space is itself, a work of art.

Serving the design needs of the North Shore since 1973, H. Marion Framing first opened up its doors in Wilmette, but moved its operations to other northern suburbs. Now, Marion has circled back to the company’s roots and couldn’t be happier. “It’s a really beautiful space; we’ve risen to the occasion in designing the new store and I can’t wait to share it with the people in my hometown.” says Marion.

Clients trust H. Marion Framing Studios because of employees’ artistic knowledge, use of conservation framing techniques and superior end-product. Regarded as an industry leader in every sense, H. Marion Framing Studios are committed to satisfying their customers no matter what challenges arise.

We are excited to announce that our second location is now open for business to serve all your art and framing needs! Visit our new Wilmette gallery & showroom at the Edens Plaza shopping center located at the corner of Lake Ave. & Skokie Blvd., just off the Edens expressway. We are by the Carson’s entrance, across from Starbucks.

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Fall is a season of change; a season of color and warmth. We, too, are busy changing… evolving… and have many exciting things to share with you!

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