Balenciaga opens ‘raw architecture’ store at Sydney international airport

Luxury giant Balenciaga has just landed at the international airport in Sydney this month, offering customers a curated collection of women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and accessories.

The 81-square-metre space showcases Balenciaga’s ‘Raw Architecture’ concept, featuring concrete columns, rough concrete panels and intentionally unfinished and aged surfaces.

According to a statement from the brand, “Raw Architecture reacts to a structure’s surroundings, inner workings, and accumulated histories, leaving surfaces intentionally unrefined. The concept inherently creates unique, site-specific spaces that consume fewer virgin materials while meeting strict sustainability requisites.”

Inside the space are anodized aluminum and glass displays suspended from industrial racks, as well as faux-leather furniture and a bushed cement floor. A metal grate partially hides air ducts, electrical cables, and support beams and stained grey curtains hang from the glass panes.

Sydney international airport announced the reinvigoration of its luxury precinct last year, anchored by Louis Vuitton and welcomed several new brands, which have signed six-year lease terms through to 2027. These include Saint Laurent, Dior, Moncler, Loewe, Celine, Bottega Veneta, Prada, Balenciaga and Gentle Monster.

“The commitment of these brands demonstrates faith in the future of international travel and confidence that Sydney Airport will remain at the heart of Australia’s international aviation network,” CEO Geoff Culbert said in a statement last year.

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