KI leaving Merchandise Mart for Fulton district

GREEN BAY, Wis. — KI announced that it is moving out of the Merchandise Mart in 2026 and relocating to Chicago's vibrant Fulton Market District, securing the entire eighth floor of the prestigious 1045 on Fulton building. 

This move positions KI at the heart of Chicago's premier design hub. The company, which ranks #22 on the FDMC 300 listing of top North American wood products manufacturers, will celebrate its final NeoCon at the Merchandise Mart in 2025, marking the end of a 50-year chapter.

KI, including its KI Wall and Pallas Textiles brands, will launch a state-of-the-art showroom in the WELL-certified 1045 on Fulton, developed by Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation and Fulton Street Companies. The grand opening is targeted for Design Days in June 2026.

"Moving to Fulton Market allows us to immerse ourselves in the dynamic community redefining design," said Tony Besasie, chief sales and marketing officer at KI. "This move aligns with our latest innovations, and we look forward to connecting with the creative community."

The new space will showcase the latest offerings from the three brands, fostering collaboration among architects, designers, and influencers. It will also house the company's Chicago-based teams. The building design emphasizes sustainability and a forward-thinking vision, both important to KI. 

Located at 1045 West Fulton Street, the 12-story building, designed by Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, offers convenient access to public transportation as well as underground and bicycle parking.

"We cherish our Merchandise Mart memories but are thrilled to begin this new chapter in Fulton Market," Besasie stated. "We eagerly anticipate welcoming the design community in 2026."

 

 

 

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Larry Adams | Editor

Larry Adams is a Chicago-based writer and editor who writes about how things get done. A former wire service and community newspaper reporter, Larry is an award-winning writer with more than three decades of experience. In addition to writing about woodworking, he has covered science, metrology, metalworking, industrial design, quality control, imaging, Swiss and micromanufacturing . He was previously a Tabbie Award winner for his coverage of nano-based coatings technology for the automotive industry. Larry volunteers for the historic preservation group, the Kalo Foundation/Ianelli Studios, and the science-based group, Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST).