Michael Hill launches new global flagship store opening at Chadstone via The General Store

Australian fine jewellery brand Michael Hill, last night hosted an intimate soiree in celebration of the opening of its new concept global flagship store at Chadstone, the heart of Australia’s fashion capital designed by Michael Hill and retail creative agency The General Store.

Marking a defining moment for the brand and its new vision of elevated heritage and contemporary nostalgia, the evening was hosted by chief executive officer, Daniel Bracken, alongside founders Sir Michael and Lady Christine Hill, whose love and creative partnership brought to life the Michael Hill brand over 45-years ago.

Rivalling other premium store openings in Chadstone over the past few months, the event was the first opportunity for guests to experience firsthand Michael Hill’s brand transformation. Guests included Anna Robards, Francesca Hung, Olympia Bellchambers, Rebecca Harding, Eleanor Pendleton and Dominique Elissa.

Says Bracken: “Our global flagship is a modern representation of our legacy and vision for the future. The global flagship, which took 18 months to come to fruition from concept to brick-and-mortar, is more than just a retail space, it’s a carefully crafted environment that invites customers to immerse themselves in the world of Michael Hill.

“The design philosophy behind our global flagship centres around a harmonious interplay of all the senses, from a signature scent to signature music. Our commitment to simplicity, craftsmanship and sustainability is evident in the clean lines, gentle curves, and use of natural materials throughout the store. These design elements not only reflect our brand ethos but also contribute to an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication.

“The store design allows customers to navigate easily through zones that each tell a different story, finishing with the beautifully curated diamond and engagement destination, with individual consultation areas for customers to relax and enjoy the experience.

“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.”

Says Sir Michael Hill, founder: “Since opening our first store in 1979, my wife and I have always ensured store experience remained at the centre of our 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.

“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.”

To mark the occasion, renowned Australian artist Dina Broadhurst unveiled an exclusive artwork displayed in the global flagship titled, ‘Infinity, 2024’. The artwork was commissioned to seamlessly encapsulate Michael Hill’s heritage and future – the true embodiment of contemporary nostalgia.

The global flagship design was a collaboration between the Michael Hill team and retail creative agency, The General Store. With every detail beautifully considered, the store design is aligned with the new brand design look and feel which was launched on 15 April.

The Chadstone global flagship store is the first of the new concept stores anticipated across Australia, New Zealand and Canada over the coming years. The global flagship is located on the Ground Floor in Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone, VIC 3148.