Artist Turns New Downtown Space Into Showcase

Things are heating up in Northbrook’s downtown, an area often lamented as in need of development. A Caribou Coffee shop is  at Meadow and Shermer roads, while across the street a is already serving up its treats.

In an area of the Cherry Lane shopping plaza that was seemingly becoming a ghost strip, boutique opened its doors July 5. 

Not only do Melly Schwartz and her husband Mitch , they have brought a breath of fresh air to Cherry Lane with their antiques, collectibles and hand-painted furniture. After the move from their former shop and studio in a house on Shermer Road, the couple are enjoying their new digs and are glad to have more space to show off their refurbished and custom-painted works of art.

The Schwartzes spent a significant amount of time preparing their new showroom, painting turquoise flowers trailing up lilac walls, installing all new lighting and hanging burlap on the walls.

“Although we didn’t have to do any real structural work, it took a tremendous amount of effort,” said Melly. “We did open up one wall in the studio and put in subflooring to cushion my work area.”

They have also expanded their business to include consignment pieces. Clients would often ask for a specific piece of furniture, and Melly would search until she found something that fit the bill.

“It just seemed natural to bring in upscale consignment pieces now that we had more space,” she said. “We have some beautiful pieces, which are of course for sale just as they are, but they can also be purchased and I can customize them for a client.”

Jill Carlisle, owner of , is thrilled to have a new neighbor next door.

“I think our businesses totally complement each other,” Carlisle said. “Even though our business has continued to grow over the years, I think Turn the Tables will attract even more people and I think the area will become more of a destination spot.”

David Schoon, economic development coordinator for the Village of Northbrook, is also happy to see more activity downtown. According to Schoon, the village is in regular contact with the owner of the shopping center and is hopeful that a new business may be moving into the former Blockbuster shop soon, although nothing is definite at this point. 

“Of course it would be great if something were to come into the old Walgreens space as well,” said Schoon. “Being an end cap, it would certainly improve the entire center.” 

However, finding a tenant for such a large space, especially in this down economy, is a challenging task. Walgreens is still paying the lease, with many more years to go, so the renter may not be as motivated to find a new lessee. Schoon suggested that dividing up the space might make it more appealing to smaller businesses as well.

For the Schwartzes, however, the location is just right.

“There is a lot of foot traffic here,” said Mitch. “It’s a great location and we’re happy to be here.”

How happy?  “Ask me again in a year and I’ll let you know,” he said with a laugh.