Stepping into the centre of Cape Town’s CBD, visitors are greeted with a refreshed take on retail space, affectionally considered the city’s new sneaker destination. Located in The Barracks on Bree Street, this project, spearheaded by TDC&Co in collaboration with Shelflife, explores and defines what new world heritage can look like.
The foundation of the design rests on three pivotal pillars: site, surroundings, and sub-culture. This has resulted in a space that transcends the typical retail experience. As you stride into the store, there is an immediate sense of belonging, an indication of the meticulous attention paid to every design detail. The result is a sophisticated commercial destination that relies greatly on its layered past while aligning with the modern vibrancy of the city.
Grit and shine
The 275-year-old heritage building has seen Cape Town in all its forms, from the sand and stone origins to the waves that once lapped its walls. Embracing the role as guardians of this site, TDC&Co committed to honouring its rich history while writing a new chapter in its story. Original stone walls, once weathered by the sea, now stand as proud sentinels, their rugged textures highlighted by clever lighting. This tribute to maritime heritage extends to the use of float boxes, salvaged from the Paarden Eiland shoreline and reimagined as striking wall cladding.
Cape Town’s unique urban wabi-sabi — where grit meets glamour — is reflected throughout the design. The city’s blend of historical charm with modern high-rises and serene beaches with industrial remnants provided the inspiration for the store’s aesthetic. The design merges Cape Town’s raw natural elements with its architectural evolution.
Custodians of a community
The central walkway, crafted from reclaimed railway sleepers, guides visitors through the store’s multi-level layout. Elements of the mountain, shore, and ocean are actively integrated, with large-scale Malmesbury slate rocks and solid 120 mm thick sandstone placed to echo the surrounding landscape. The most striking feature is the central dolos — a massive concrete structure typically used in breakwaters — housed in elegant resin. Serving both as a functional seating area and a bold artistic statement, it embodies Cape Town’s coastal context, leaving an impression on all who enter.
This project reflects a deep respect for street life, honouring local icons and styles while resisting the lure of overt commercialism. The store becomes a vibrant stage for community expression with local artisans at the heart of this transformation. A rising cement artist crafted bespoke planters, each weighing an impressive 400 kg. Manoeuvring these creations into the store was no small feat — it involved makeshift ramps and a dedicated team of seven.
On crafting experiences
Championing sustainability and local collaboration, TDC&Co created a sensory-rich environment that celebrates creative spirit. Murals adorn formerly utilitarian spaces, turning fitting rooms and bathrooms into Instagram worthy spots. A dynamic spray paint wall behind the tills pays homage to the graffiti roots of the many featured sneaker brands.
The store’s layout is a carefully choreographed journey, designed to encourage exploration and lingering. An exhibition space near the entrance sets the tone, while a history wall showcases Shelflife’s strategic brand partnerships. The addition of a coffee bar, complete with comfortable seating, invites customers to relax and soak in the atmosphere, doubling as a venue for brand launches and community gatherings. In a nod to the ever-evolving nature of street fashion, a dedicated ‘Designer of the Month’ space in the apparel area showcases emerging local talent.
In a world often dominated by fleeting trends, this project proudly announces that it is here to stay as a must-visit destination for sneaker enthusiasts, design aficionados, and anyone with an appreciation for thoughtful urban renewal. A new chapter in the building’s history has been cast in stone, creating a blueprint for what modern heritage can look like — a space where history and innovation coexist, where global trends meet local craftsmanship, and where every visit promises a journey of discovery.
Photography by Paris Brummer.
This Article is an extract from our October issue. Read the full issue here.
