I first broke news of Tom Ford's planned opening in Buckhead Atlanta this past October. The plan at that point was to open in Buckhead Atlanta, reportedly after first considering space in Phipps Plaza. Buckhead Atlanta reps were quick to deny a deal was done, and while there was great interest at first, the story died soon after. Flash forward to March and Atlanta Magazine is saying "It's official: Tom Ford is coming to Buckhead Atlanta." The story was prompted by Tom Ford logo signage being installed in a corner, Peachtree Road-facing space at Buckhead Atlanta, but still brought no "official" confirmation.
In the months that have followed, no perceptible work has occurred at the space and the company has remained mum on its plans only confirming "we will open in Buckhead next year."
A "Commercial Alteration" permit filed July 6th with the city of Atlanta and associated with 3393 Peachtree Road (Lenox Square) lists the owner as "Buckhead Lenders, OMB" (OliverMcMillan). The permit describes the space as 620 square feet with an estimated cost of construction of $143,000.
The permit describes the project as:
"Tom Ford Women's Collection: Interior finishes and millwork. New non-load bearing partitions, floor covering, and new ceiling. MEP's to be secured separately."
Also on July 6th, a "Commercial Quality Control Review" permit was filed with the city of Atlanta for "Tom Ford-Ste A156" at 3035 Peachtree Road (Buckhead Atlanta). The permit refers to the owner as "STREETS OF BUCKHEAD DEV CO AT LLC THE." Like the first permit, the space is described as 620 square feet with an estimated cost of construction of $143,000.
This would seem to be just a typographical error on the part of someone at the City of Atlanta (hard to imagine, right?) but still an interesting development.
I contacted a concierge at Buckhead Atlanta who said the Tom Ford store would be opening "next year," but they were as yet unaware of exactly when. I also contacted someone at the Atlanta offices of Buckhead Atlanta who, when asked about the Tom Ford store at Buckhead Atlanta, claimed they could not comment as to its existence and / or a planned opening.
As I've mentioned before, Tom Ford positions itself as a premium luxury brand selling items at prices that could make the normal man's jaw drop. Among the more pricey goods are $600+ long sleeve button down shirts and $670 to nearly $1700 belts, as well as $1500+ pumps for women.
Can metro Atlanta support such a high-end store? Given the sales struggles at the project thus far, is Tom Ford making the right decision in opening in Buckhead Atlanta over Phipps Plaza? How many things have you bought at Buckhead Atlanta, exclusive of restaurants?
Please share your thoughts below.