Birkenstock goes big in Berlin and also adds new U.S. stores — here’s where
Birkenstock has opened one its largest stores in Europe as it also continues to expand in the U.S.
Located in the heart of Berlin and featuring a 1,345-sq.-ft. selling area, the outpost combines the footwear brand’s distinctive and 250 -year shoemaking tradition with the cultural and creative identity of the German capital. The theme of craftsmanship is a common thread through the entire store concept — from the interior design to collaborative projects with the local creative scene.
The design draws on various references rooted in Berlin's culture and combines them with Birkenstock's characteristic materials and craftsmanship. Exposed concrete evokes the architectural character of the Berlin-Mitte locale, while the standard planters that lined the streets during the DDR era are reinterpreted as moss-covered elements.
Cork and jute — materials central to Birkenstock’s iconic footbed — are featured throughout the interior, as are naturally formed wooden structures. The design also pays homage to the history that has shaped Berlin.
Furniture and objects developed in collaboration with Berlin-based designers and studios bring contemporary Berlin directly into the store.
To celebrate the store's opening, Birkenstock has brought selected creative partnerships, initiatives and projects to life. Berlin-based Yellow Nose Studio, which designed seating and accessories for the store, is hosting a workshop where participants can create small wooden tags.
Analog Glass designed two chandeliers for the space that resemble the iconic shape of the Birkenstock footbed and are made of glass that was hand-blown in Berlin.
United States
Birkenstock has also been expanding its U.S. store presence. In July, the company opened two new locations, at Twenty Ninth Street Mall in Boulder, Col., and at CityPlace in West Palm Beach, Fla. Earlier this month, Birkenstock opened a store at Cross Creek Ranch, a new mixed-use destination in Malibu, Calif., marking its 24th company-owned U.S. location.
The spaces feature signature materials such as cork, felt, and leather, creating a warm, tactile environment. With the openings, Birkenstock now operates 22 company-owned U.S. retail locations.
