Herzog & de Meuron to Transform Former Birkenstock Warehouse into Eames Institute Museum in Novato, California

Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron has unveiled plans to convert a former Birkenstock warehouse in Novato, California, into the new home of the Eames Institute. The project will transform the mid-century campus into a dynamic cultural destination featuring exhibition spaces, educational workshops, and public gardens. A sculptural concrete roof will unify the complex, creating a striking architectural landmark that honors the legacy of Charles and Ray Eames. The museum is slated to open in 2030, marking a significant expansion of the institute's mission to preserve and share the Eameses' design philosophy. The reimagined campus will provide a permanent venue for the institute's extensive collection of artifacts, prototypes, and archival materials, making it accessible to a global audience. By repurposing the existing warehouse, the project emphasizes adaptive reuse and sustainability, aligning with the Eameses' own ethos of problem-solving and innovation. The development is expected to draw design enthusiasts, scholars, and tourists to Marin County, boosting local cultural tourism. With Herzog & de Meuron's track record of creating iconic cultural buildings, the Eames Institute Museum is poised to become a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the intersection of design, architecture, and everyday life. The 2030 opening will mark a new chapter in celebrating one of the most influential design partnerships of the 20th century.