Allbirds get by with a little help from their Friends

Another successful Retail Design Delivered project by Tailor Inc.

Tailor Inc. has crafted the new ‘Allbirds & Friends’ flagship store in Britomart with a design that embodies sustainability, achieved through thoughtful material selection and adaptive reuse.

The ‘& Friends’ section introduces brands such as Cotopaxi, Hydroflask, and Nocs, each resonating with Allbirds’ commitment to sustainability and innovative design. Base build elements the of the existing tenancy were reused and enhanced, including the existing ceiling and timber flooring, which was beautifully revitalised through re-sanding and staining. A layered lighting scheme brings the space to life, combining repurposed LED fixtures from the previous store, with the addition of new concealed LED lighting that accentuates architectural details and adds a sense of depth to the product display. The lighting transforms the space, casting a soft, ambient glow that enhances the warmth of the natural materials. This interplay of light creates an inviting and dynamic environment, drawing the eye to the products while providing a sense of comfort and ease.

Contrasting black detailing has been thoughtfully incorporated throughout, to ground the design, adding depth and enhancing visual appeal. The interior aesthetic flows seamlessly with bespoke facetted walls featuring concealed lighting and a custom fixture system, allowing Allbirds full flexibility in reconfiguring their displays. Additionally, we shifted away from a typical point-of-sales counter to a more mobile service approach, enabling staff to engage with customers directly when in the store and complete sales with ease in any location. The overall store layout has been carefully considered and designed with the customer journey and operational requirements in mind as well as the staff interaction, to elevate the overall customer experience.

Signature Allbirds brand elements including mirrors, chairs, signage, and display plinths were repurposed and strategically placed to minimise waste. Sustainable new materials, including cork and timber, add warmth and texture to the store, complementing the product-focused design. Located on a corner site in the Britomart precinct, the design naturally draws customers in from either side of Takutai Square, emphasising both the product and the store’s sustainable ethos.

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