A stately mansion gets a new soul.
The table and bench are by Dutch designer Joep van Lieshout. Robust and sculptural. The colors have been specially adapted: the same bright white as in the showroom, with accents in Birkenstock's deep blue.
A stately mansion gets a new soul
The new Birkenstock Benelux office and showroom are located on Sarphatistraat in Amsterdam, in an imposing building dating from 1868. What was once a classic mansion is now a place where history and contemporary design meet — with great attention to detail, materials, and atmosphere. The renovation was carried out by DME with a sustainable approach. The interior was designed by Griffe Studio, which successfully translated Birkenstock's identity into a warm, inspiring environment.
From brand to space – Translating identity
Vivian Hartog, brand strategist and designer at Griffe Studio, was involved in the transformation of Birkenstock's Benelux headquarters on Sarphatistraat from the very beginning. Not only as a designer, but also as a strategic thinker: "We don't just design an office. We create a world in which the brand comes into its own – from the front door to the interior. "For example, the cabinets in the showroom are inspired by the profile of the iconic Birkenstock sole." That brand feeling is carried through in every detail: the classic staircase was restored and balcony railings were designed to aesthetically match the oval shapes of the front door. "These kinds of choices make all the difference. They take the design to a higher level and create calm and unity in the space."
The Aesthetics of Sustainability
Sustainability beyond technology and energy labels. It is also about aesthetics, choices that last for generations, materials that are preserved and brought back to life. Vivian Hartog, brand strategist and interior designer at Griffe Studio, brings this sustainable vision to life in collaboration with DME and Broersma Werken. Together, they form a powerful trio in which branding, development, and commerce elevate each other to great heights.
The top floor is a place to unwind. Here you will find Verpan's 'Welle' benches — playfully shaped and upholstered in various shades of Birkenstock blue. They invite you to make a phone call, work, or simply relax.
Conscious choices are sustainable
Vivian advocates Sustainability aesthetics and quality. "Sustainability not just about recycling and installing a heat pump. It's also about designing something that is future-proof: high-quality wooden floors, marble countertops, wood carvings that you restore Location demolishing. Reuse, preservation, and finishing are all part of that vision." You could say: "Back to the first shell, the foundation, and how we can preserve and recreate it. With the goal of restoring its monumental status Amsterdam allure."
A balance between classic and modern
The interior deliberately seeks to play with the contrast between old and new. Monumental elements and artistic forms are combined with light colors, natural materials, and the characteristic Birkenstock blue. That blue pops up in unexpected places—and gives each room a bright accent. The furniture, fabrics, and accessories have been carefully selected: think open-weave jute curtains, cork details, wool carpets, and custom cabinets in the shape of the famous Birkenstock sole. Everything exudes craftsmanship, simplicity, and quality. Exactly what the brand stands for.
Organic and inviting
On the first floor, the dining table forms the heart of the space. Not just any table, but a design by Charlotte Perriand: sculptural, organic, and finished in deep blue lacquer that subtly references Birkenstock blue.
Surrounding it are custom-made benches, shaped to match the lines of the table. Soft, round, inviting. This gives the space an informal and warm feel, like a place to get together, discuss things, or just relax for a moment.
In a separate meeting room are Elbow Chairs by Carl Hansen — chairs in oiled oak with dark brown leather. Timeless design with comfort, which can also be used flexibly with other tables in the showroom.
The upholstery plays an important role: the walls are covered with natural fabrics, the curtains have an open structure — almost like linen or jute. Everything feels airy and natural, matching Birkenstock's no-nonsense look.
Art hangs throughout the building. About 80% is by Dutch artists, supplemented by a few strong works from the rest of Europe.
Showroom – A calm foundation, time and time again
The collection is presented in a tailor-made way. Literally. The so-called fixture system is inspired by cubism — with clean lines and modular volumes. This creates an exciting contrast in the monumental space: modern and classic reinforce each other here.
This system is designed to move flexibly with the seasons. A shelf in a different color, a display case to highlight a collaboration — the stage for the shoes changes with the collection. Felt, glass, and wood are the basic materials. The result is a space that can be reinterpreted again and again without losing its tranquility.
Credits:
Photography: Maarten Willemstein for Birkenstock