Australian jeweller Michael Hill has opened a new concept global flagship store in Chadstone, Melbourne, marking the start of an international rollout.
It comes a month after the business revealed a new brand identity, including a new logo and the brand’s first-ever brand ambassador.
Michael Hill CEO Daniel Bracken said the new flagship store took 18 months to complete - from concept to brick-and-mortar.
“The design philosophy behind our global flagship centres around a harmonious interplay of all the senses, from a signature scent to signature music,” Bracken said. “Our commitment to simplicity, craftsmanship and sustainability is evident in the clean lines, gentle curves, and use of natural materials throughout the store.”
Bracken said the store design allows customers to navigate through zones, which include individual consultation areas.
“To give you an idea of the level of craft and care taken in this store, the build, including the bespoke cabinetry, took over 4900 hours – not to mention the new brand mark that is meticulously etched by hand into the outside facia of the store.”
Founder Sir Michael Hill said since opening the brand’s first store in 1979, he and his wife Lady Christine Hill have focused on the store experience as key to the brand.
“We are absolutely thrilled with what Michael Hill has created in this first global flagship, as it embodies our passion for design and fine jewellery, paired with Lady Christine’s creativity and passion for storytelling through her window displays,” Hill said.
“I especially love the innovative concept of discovery, offering customers a sense of exploration, encouraging guests to wander and discover the store and product at their own pace, providing a more personalised and immersive experience.”
The global flagship design was a collaboration between the Michael Hill team and retail creative agency The General Store.
The Chadstone global flagship store is the first of the new concept stores anticipated across Michael Hill’s key markets Australia, New Zealand and Canada over the coming years.
Michael Hill hosted an evening opening event at the store last week, attended by Bracken, Sir Michael and Lady Christine Hill
Australian artist Dina Broadhurst unveiled an exclusive artwork titled ‘Infinity, 2024’ at the event, which will be displayed in the global flagship going forward.