West Elm at a glance

By JOHN EWOLDT, Star Tribune

Last update: October 6, 2008 - 7:16 PM

Contact: 3821 Gallagher Dr., Edina, 952-835-8332.

Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat. and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun.

Demographic: Those who like soft contemporary, smaller-scale pieces with clean lines.

Sales: Selected items go on sale at 10 to 50 percent discounts, but not generally an entire grouping.

Clearance: Usually at a change of season, but there will be no clearance section.

In-store-only items (not online or in the catalog): Tabletop items, table linens, glassware and design books.

Outlet stores: None.

In-stock program for furniture: Many pieces come flat-packed, similar to Ikea. Yes, that means "some assembly required." The website (www.westelm. com) indicates which items need assembly and provides instructions on the home page under "assembly instructions."

Signature items: Platform beds (no box spring needed), cube styles such as the Overlapping Squares Chair, left; organic bed and bath collection, and Capiz pendant lamp, above.

Delivery fee: Starts at $125.

Return policy: 30 days with a receipt

Product guarantee: Like most companies, it's a case-by-case basis after 30 days. The company says it stands behind its products, but bloggers have complained about slats breaking on a West Elm bed. The company asked customers to bring in the bed rather than having it picked up.

Design service: In-store only.

Colors: Muted. Browns, taupes, whites and olives are now joined by "daring" new rust and blue hues.

JOHN EWOLDT

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