Charlotte DUers: Tell me about the new IKEA store

[supernova]

What's the local scoop?

I know that it's supposed to open sometime in February on the north side of town. Is that still true, even with the downturn in the economy? Did people want it, or did they try to come in like Wal-Mart usually does?

Are you looking forward to it? Anyone going to work there? I'm just trying to imagine what it's going to be like with the IKEA store at one end, and the BASS Pro Shoppe not so very far away. :crazy:

[carolinablue]

1. IKEA

I actually think I heard it was going to open a little earlier than planned. It certainly looks almost ready. I think most people wanted it. Traffic was a bit of an issue, but there are some road improvements that should help.

[wildeyed]

2. People want it, at least the people I know.

Still scheduled to open in February. The outside of the building is finished, including a sign. Ikea might be one of those businesses that does ok in a downturn. People will still need furniture, but might decide that Ikea provided a good, low cost alternative to traditional, more expensive furniture stores. They also have a decent, affordable restaurant and free childcare while you shop, so it is a cheap date.

[supernova]

3. Was thinking of making a field trip

down there after they open. I'm doing research on kitchen remodels, and I will probably wind up with a more European influenced design.

:D

Good to know they're still on schedule.

[wildeyed]

4. My kitchen is Ikea.

They have an online design tool that works well, so you can get started designing anytime! When I priced the cabinets, Ikea was thousands less than Kraftmaid at Lowes. I have had both, and the Ikea is actually wearing better than the Kraftmaid that was in my old kitchen. The down side to Ikea, the cabinets came flat packed and we had to put them together ourselves.

[MedleyMisty]

5. We plan on checking it out soon

I drove by a couple of days after it opened and there was a traffic sign saying "IKEA use 29 - U-turns next two exits" or something. So I guess maybe it caused traffic problems at first?

[supernova]

6. Thanks for that tip

I wondered about if 29 was an easier entry or not. Seems so.

I was planning on going the weekend of Spring. I want to let the commotion die down a little bit. :-)