Openings: Birkenstock, CardVault, Hotel Chocolat

Some noteworthy new retail spaces:

Birkenstock has opened second store in Paris. Located at 4 Rue de Sèvres in the city’s 6th arrondissement, the new, 900-square-foot store is in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a neighborhood that served as home to world-famous writers, philosophers, and jazz musicians over the years.

Birkenstock’s second store in Paris. Photo: Courtesy of Birkenstock

A news release on the project highlighted several of its design features, including:

• “Clay-plastered walls, a concrete floor and a light beige ceiling that help set a warm and inviting tone, while natural materials—cork, leather, and dark-stained oak wood—underscore the brand’s craftsmanship while reflecting some of the brand’s most iconic design elements. Bright silver aluminum displays with a natural matte finish introduce a modern contrast.

• “At the heart of the space is a library-inspired feature wall made of dark-stained oak wood that pays homage to the district’s literary legacy… A central seating area, crafted from rich leather, invites visitors to relax and explore the footwear. Large mirrors amplify the sense of openness, while sharp-edged metal coffee tables add a modern twist. A huge mirror wall wraps around the corner, enhancing additional depth and dimension.

• “The cash desk with its elegantly curved design seamlessly integrates a dedicated care essentials and socks display, while a large illuminated visual behind it serves as a striking focal point. Throughout the space, original shoe lasts—a nod to Birkenstock’s craftsmanship—are displayed, emphasizing the detail behind every pair.

• “At the back of the store, a round light box in the ceiling floods the space with natural brightness. Beneath it, a dedicated centerpiece display highlights the Birkenstock 1774 premium collection, offering a contemporary take on the brand’s signature designs.

The brand’s first Paris store opened last year in the Marais district last year.

Cardvault by Tom Brady will soon take the wraps off a flagship store at the American Dream shopping destination in E. Rutherford, N.J. This will be the first CardVault store outside the Boston area and the first fully branded store since famed NFL quarterback Tom Brady acquired an ownership stake in the business.

Opening April 11, the 1200-square-foot store will feature a custom-designed steel vault showcasing some of the most sought-after collectibles, Fanatics Approved memorabilia, sports-centric murals, and a one-of-a-kind sculpture by Southern California artist Brett Crawford.

Hotel Chocolat (Royston, England) is opening two retail locations in Chicago. The chocolatier launches today (April 3) at 3334 N. Southport in Lakeview and later this month at 900 W. Armitage in Lincoln Park.