BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Home furnishings store West Elm opened its new location at The Summit shopping center in Birmingham today, and several other retailers are expected to follow in the coming weeks.

The Summit store marks West Elm's entry into Alabama. The company sells contemporary furniture, home decor and housewares and is occupying 8,000 square feet in the former American Eagle space next to Urban Outfitters.

West Elm is a subsidiary of Williams-Sonoma, which also owns Pottery Barn. The Birmingham store also features local handcrafted products, including furniture, lighting, leather goods and wall art.

Other new-to-Alabama retailers set to join The Summit's lineup this month include Madewell next Tuesday, C. Wonder on Oct. 24 and Paper Source on Oct. 25.

Madewell is a women's brand launched by J. Crew in 2006. It is predominantly known for its jeans but also sells other denim and casual fashions.

The 3,000-square-foot Madewell store will be located next to lululemon athletica.

C. Wonder is a women's clothing, decor and accessories chain. The company was founded in 2011 by Christopher Burch, the ex-husband of fashion designer Tory Burch.

Despite luxury appointments, C. Wonder's goods are priced moderately, with the average price at less than $50. Trade publications have noted the stores' dressing rooms, which are outfitted with touch-screen controls for lighting and music and other features typically found in high-end boutiques.

Paper Source sells stationery, invitations, announcements and other paper goods and gifts. The company has more than 50 locations nationwide.

Another new retailer at The Summit is Kate Spade, which opened its first Alabama store there in September but will hold its grand opening event on Oct. 17.