Theo Jordan describes the origin story of Homey, the Wicker Park home goods shop she opened last year with her husband, Alan Cosby, as a “real estate rom-com.” The pair met as students at New Trier Township High School, then reconnected while working opposite sides of a real estate deal. That transaction led to a marriage, a baby, and, eventually, the store. “I love the people aspect of being a Realtor, but we don’t get a creative outlet,” says Jordan. “This space has become my muse.” The layout of Homey, operated out of a hybrid office-store, unfolds residence-like, from living room to dining room, from kitchen to family room. You take in the furnishings, art, vintage finds, and other decor in much the manner you would touring a staged open house. Nearly everything is for sale, including one-of-a-kind display furniture. They also tap the space for hosting book clubs, mahjong lessons, and other social events — more ways the couple make Homey feel, well, homey. 2110 W. Division St., Wicker Park homeychicago.com
Petal Lane embroidered wall art, $22
Creative Collective lamp with shade, $150
Trinket tray, $10
Furbish embroidered throw pillow, $98
Chicago Homes book by Carla Bruni and Phil Thompson, $37
Literary Heroines embroidered cocktail napkins, $58 for a set of four
Judy Sutton Taylor is a freelance writer for Chicago magazine.