Downtown Geneva icon to reopen with new look

A downtown Geneva institution since 1929, Merra-Lee boutique will reopen Thursday after major renovations.

The business will hold a grand reopening ribbon cutting at 5 p.m. Thursday, and the celebration will continue through May 15 with sales and giveaways.

Owner Michael Simon said in a statement that the reopening marks a continuation of the store’s history keeping “itself relevant in the fashion scene by bringing the latest trends to Geneva for a good value.”

Merra-Lee has been a staple in downtown Geneva since 1929, when it was founded by Sol Simon and Rose Becker Kozberg. In 1941, the shop moved to the corner of State and Third streets, the former site of the Betsy Ross Tea Room in the historic Geneva Hotel, and has been there ever since.

Interior designer Mark Norkaitis of Room 363 played a key role in the remodeling, from the gray tone color scheme with black and a touch of blues, to opening up the building’s large windows to let natural light in. Norkaitis “re-purposed” a number of items as part of the remodel.

“It’s amazing all the things that where hiding in the basement for me to use for this space,” Norkaitis said.

In addition to old dress forms, items that have been given new life include a black crystal chandelier that greets customers as they step through the door and a collection of vintage disco balls that give the surroundings a touch of whimsy.