Williams-Sonoma reopens store at original 1956 location

San Francisco - Williams-Sonoma will reopen a retail store and cooking school in Sonoma, California, on Oct. 4, in the same location where the company opened its first store opened almost six decades ago. The timing also coincides with the 99th birthday of Chuck Williams, the company’s founder, on Oct. 2.



The cooking school will feature an innovative design allowing for hands-on instruction for up to 12 students. The new concept joins the original footprint of the store with the residence where Chuck Williams lived. The original space t has been planned with the bay shelving and black and white floor tiles that became early trademarks for the brand. Select fixtures and materials were salvaged and incorporated to maintain the integrity of the architecture. A garden of raised beds and planters to grow herbs and seasonal crops has been created for use by the onsite culinary team.



“This is a momentous occasion coming home to Sonoma where the company began. It is our goal to honor this special place as well as Chuck’s legacy with an inspiring new destination that reflects the values upon which Chuck built the business,” said Janet Hayes, president, Williams-Sonoma Brand. “The store will feature a curated collection of original items creating a timeline that deepens the customer experience while also offering recent new product concepts and introductions, continuing Chuck’s spirit of innovation.”