Arturo Cruz November 11, 2025
IKEA Is Officially Coming to Chantilly, Virginia: Here’s What to Know
The rumors are true — IKEA has officially confirmed it’s opening a brand-new, 100,000+ square-foot store inside the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia.
For months, residents and shoppers across Northern Virginia wondered whether the Swedish furniture giant would expand its footprint beyond Woodbridge. Now, it’s official — The Burn has confirmed that the South Hall of the Dulles Expo Center at 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center Drive will be transformed into one of the region’s most exciting retail developments in years.
A New Chapter for the Dulles Expo Center
The Dulles Expo Center has long served as one of Fairfax County’s landmark convention venues, hosting trade shows and community events. That’s about to change. IKEA will take over the South Hall, converting roughly 109,000 square feet into a full-fledged home furnishings store — marking a significant transformation for the site.
This mid-sized IKEA format will blend accessibility with scale — offering shoppers a full showroom experience while maintaining a smaller footprint than the brand’s sprawling suburban superstores.
While the North Hall remains untouched for now, industry observers are curious whether this move signals a broader redevelopment of the Expo Center in the future.
How Big Will the New IKEA Be?
At 109,000 square feet, IKEA Chantilly will sit comfortably between the company’s massive 325,000 sq ft Woodbridge store and its smaller “Plan & Order” design studios found in urban markets like D.C. and Arlington.
This hybrid format represents IKEA’s evolving approach — offering immersive shopping experiences with curated inventory and delivery options, without requiring a full-scale warehouse operation.
The IKEA Restaurant Is Coming Too 🍽️
Yes, Chantilly’s IKEA will include the brand’s iconic in-store restaurant — a favorite draw for IKEA fans. Shoppers can look forward to Swedish meatballs, salmon plates, lingonberry sauce, and other classics alongside a day of browsing Scandinavian home design.
The inclusion of a restaurant underscores IKEA’s intention to make Chantilly a destination shopping experience, not just a place to pick up furniture.
Why Chantilly? Strategic Location, Smart Timing
Anchoring inside the Dulles Expo Center gives IKEA a turnkey location that’s already accessible, well-known, and zoned for large-scale operations.
Located near Route 28, Route 50, and Dulles International Airport, the site sits at the heart of Northern Virginia’s growth corridor — serving Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties.
For IKEA, this move eliminates the need for new construction while positioning the store in one of the fastest-growing residential markets in the region.
When Will the IKEA Chantilly Store Open?
While the location and plans are confirmed, the timeline is still developing. IKEA must finalize design plans, secure building permits, and select contractors.
Based on similar U.S. rollouts, industry watchers anticipate construction could begin within the next year, followed by a grand opening soon after. Local officials and nearby businesses are already gearing up for the boost in traffic and visibility.
What the New IKEA Means for Northern Virginia Shoppers
The arrival of IKEA in Chantilly brings major convenience — especially for residents who previously traveled to Woodbridge or Maryland for their furniture and décor needs.
Here’s what local shoppers can expect:
Shorter travel times for Fairfax and Loudoun County residents
Expanded access to affordable Scandinavian design
A boost to local businesses from increased retail traffic
New jobs and regional investment tied to IKEA’s footprint
This addition further solidifies Northern Virginia as a retail powerhouse, attracting both global brands and local entrepreneurs to the area.
IKEA Chantilly vs. IKEA Woodbridge
While IKEA Woodbridge remains one of the largest IKEA stores in the country, Chantilly’s new store offers a different kind of experience — more compact, more accessible, and designed for efficiency.
Think of it as the best of both worlds:
A full showroom and restaurant experience
Easier navigation and shorter shopping trips
Streamlined order and delivery systems
What’s Next for the Dulles Expo Center?
With IKEA taking over the South Hall, questions remain about what’s next for the North Hall of the Dulles Expo Center.
Some expect the remaining space to continue hosting conventions and community events; others anticipate potential redevelopment or additional retail tenants. Either way, IKEA’s arrival will redefine the site’s legacy and breathe new life into one of Fairfax County’s most recognizable properties.
Why It Matters for the Northern Virginia Market
IKEA’s move into Chantilly is more than a retail headline — it’s a reflection of Northern Virginia’s economic momentum.
As population growth, international relocation, and housing development continue across Fairfax and Loudoun counties, retailers like IKEA are following the data. The region’s strong demographics and spending power make it a natural fit for major lifestyle brands.
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer for Chantilly
The confirmed arrival of IKEA Chantilly — a 109,000 sq ft store inside the Dulles Expo Center — marks a defining moment for Fairfax County’s retail landscape.
It’s not just another store opening — it’s a signal of growth, opportunity, and confidence in the region’s future. IKEA’s presence will transform how Northern Virginians furnish their homes and how Chantilly positions itself as a major lifestyle destination.
Whether you’re a shopper, a homeowner, or a real estate investor, one thing’s clear: IKEA’s next chapter in Northern Virginia is just beginning — and Chantilly is at the center of it.
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