Birkenstock Flagship Store
Project Snapshot
Client: Birkenstock
Builder: Emac Constructions
Architect: Melbourne Design Studios
Completion Date: 2026
Features: Heritage Retail • Repair Workshop • Sustainable Design • Accessibility Integration
Birkenstock’s new Melbourne flagship store at The Malt Store in Carlton marks an important expansion of the brand’s Australian retail presence. Located within the historic former Carlton & United Breweries complex on Swanston Street, the store brings together retail, repair services, and Birkenstock’s Australian office within one thoughtfully restored heritage setting.
The flagship reflects Birkenstock’s focus on craftsmanship, comfort, and product longevity, combining warm natural materials, industrial architectural details, and a dedicated repair workshop to create a retail experience that feels both grounded and contemporary.
The Project
Designed by Melbourne Design Studios and delivered by Emac Constructions, the Birkenstock flagship carefully responds to the character of The Malt Store while introducing a refined modern fit-out. Existing heritage features, including the building’s industrial fabric, are complemented by considered retail displays, natural finishes, and a layout designed to guide customers through the space with ease.
A defining element of the project is the repair workshop, which places Birkenstock’s commitment to durability and circularity at the centre of customer experience. Rather than operating as a hidden back-of-house service, the workshop forms part of the store’s identity, reinforcing the value of product care, restoration, and long-term use.
As a busy flagship retail environment, safe and accessible circulation was an important consideration. The space required accessibility solutions that could support compliant movement for customers and staff while aligning with the store’s understated material palette and heritage-inspired design.
DTAC Products Specified
The following DTAC solutions were specified for the project:
- DIT0110 – DTAC Black PVD on Stainless Steel Integrated Tactile
- DT0120 – DTAC Stainless Steel Classic Ecotac®
- DE0110B – DTAC Pemko® Corduroy Edging 10x50x3mm
P5-rated, these DTAC products provide a durable, long-term solution suited to high-traffic environments. The DTAC Black PVD on Stainless Steel Integrated Tactile and DTAC Stainless Steel Classic Ecotac® feature a double lip design, providing a distinct advantage when it comes to high slip resistance. These products integrate seamlessly with the architectural detailing while meeting the demands of a high-traffic retail environment.
The DTAC Black PVD on Stainless Steel Integrated Tactile, DTAC Stainless Steel Classic Ecotac®, and DTAC Pemko® Corduroy Surface Edging System were selected for their durability, slip resistance, and ability to support safe navigation and compliant circulation. Their refined finishes integrate seamlessly with the store’s architectural aesthetic while supporting relevant Australian accessibility and building standards.
Outcome
The completed flagship transforms The Malt Store into a distinctive retail destination that invites customers to explore, connect and experience the space.
DTAC’s integrated tactiles and Pemko® Corduroy Edging support safe, accessible movement throughout the high-traffic space, with refined finishes that complement the heritage-inspired material palette. The result is a functional and thoughtfully resolved environment that supports both the customer experience and the building’s ongoing use.
