First Look: Build-A-Bear opens ‘one-of-a-kind’ destination in Orlando
Build-A-Bear Workshop has opened a multi-level retail and entertainment destination in Orlando — its largest location yet — that offers an array of exclusive experiences and expanded customization options.
The new three-story Build-A-Bear is located in Orlando's Icon Park, whose tenant roster includes Madame Tussauds, Sea Life Aquarium and Museum of Illusions. The store offers plenty of new opportunities for customers to personalize their furry friends through embroidery, screen printing, scents and sounds. It also houses several specialty shops, including Build-A-Bear x Pokémon Workshop, the first-ever Pokémon specialty shop featuring collectible plush, apparel and themed photo opportunities.
Build-A-Bear partnered with design firm Chute Gerdeman to bring the destination to life. The firm has designed immersive retail environments, including the FAO Schwarz New York flagship, where Build-A-Bear operates a shop-in-shop.
Here’s a look at the store’s highlights.
•Build-A-Bear Design Studio is a first-of-its-kind, appointment-only experience where customers work with a dedicated design consultant to create a custom furry friend. From premium fabrics and fur colors to eyes and paws, every detail is selected by the customer, previewed digitally and brought to life by a seamstress.
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Image courtesy of Build-A-Bear. -
Image courtesy of Build-A-Bear. -
Image courtesy of Build-A-Bear. -
Image courtesy of Build-A-Bear. -
Image courtesy of Build-A-Bear.
•Personalize Me is a dedicated customization station offering embroidery, screen printing and patches for furry friends and their apparel, including personalized names, initials and designs, as well as ear embroidery on select plush.
•Scent Bar offers a selection of over 20 scents guests can add to their furry friends for another personal touch.
•Hear Me gives customers an opportunity to add music, special messages or personal voice recordings to furry friends.
•Build-A-Bear Bakeshop is a dessert destination where customers can frost and decorate their own cookies and cupcakes.
•Promise Pets is an adoption-inspired experience inviting visitors to welcome new furry friends through imaginative pet-care play.
•Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty and Friends Workshop: A specialty destination featuring a curated collection of Hello Kitty and Friends plush, including Icon Park exclusives,
The space also features an open-air gathering space overlooking International Drive, complemented by opportunities for birthday parties, corporate events and other group celebrations.
“Today is such an exciting day for Build-A-Bear!! For nearly 30 years, the brand has created memorable make-your-own experiences centered on connection, imagination and heart,” said Chris Hurt, who took the reins of the company in June. “Our Icon Park Workshop represents our most ambitious experience yet, a place where families can step into the world of Build-A-Bear, share meaningful moments together and create memories that last well beyond their visit. We are thrilled to welcome guests from all over the world inside this truly one-of-a-kind tourist destination and continue our mission of adding a little more heart to life.”
Icon Park continues to build its tenant roster. CardVault by Tom Brady set to open its first Florida location at the center in mid-November.
