Step into the BIRKENSTOCK Art & Sole Concept Store

WORDS Gina Dionisio

A collective of local designers and artists enhance the BIRKENSTOCK Art & Sole concept store at 44 Stanley, celebrating 250 years of shoemaking tradition with an African flair.

Designed as an experiential space, Art & Sole commemorates the unique history of the brand while also celebrating the work of local artists and designers, including Mpho Vackier, Naledi Modupi and Mandla Thabethe, to give it a distinctly South African feel. 

The concept store, designed by TDC&Co, is inspired by the materials that make up BIRKENSTOCK shoes – cork, leather, jute and metal – every fabric and finish is representative of the iconic footwear. The celebratory store illustrates how dedication to shoemaking tradition, since 1774, has created an iconic footwear collection and brand motivated by a single purpose – to allow walking as nature intended. 

Leading South African designer and founder of TheUrbanative Mpho Vackier provided thoughtfully selected furniture and decor pieces that echoed the natural elements and materials of the BIRKENSTOCK shoe: cork, wood, metal and leather.

Local artist Naledi Modupi illustrated the collectable custom box sleeves, which shoppers receive when purchasing shoes at Art & Sole. Naledi’s “The opportunity to work on these designs for BIRKENSTOCK has been a moment to solidify stories around authenticity through genuine representation,” she says. ”What an honour it is to contribute to such a meaningful legacy – I hope the fresh and proudly South African perspectives I bring also pay homage to the roots that make BIRKENSTOCK special”. 

In a commitment to supporting the work of local fashion design, BIRKENSTOCK also called on Mandla Thabethe, founder and designer at Project Inflamed, to showcase his Soweto Born designs at the launch of the new store.

The store also plays host to a travelling art installation by Henry Leutwyler, entitled Walk This Way, which highlights the rich heritage of the brand. The exhibition will travel to over 25 locations globally, celebrating the brand’s legacy and craftsmanship.  

Step into the BIRKENSTOCK Art & Sole concept store at 44 on Stanley until 16 December. | bashafrica.com

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