Shop, Drink and Stay at Keoma

Keoma is by Marcel and Manuela Goerke. The couple runs a wholesale business from their office on Brunswick Street, importing footwear and bags from Europe to sell locally. In the retail space downstairs, they sell mostly sustainable and ethically produced labels.

There’s denim by Amsterdam label Kings of Indigo, messenger bags from Jost in Germany, organic cotton shoes by EKN, and Birkenstocks (the couple also operates Birkenstock Australia). For the sporting inclined, there’s imported Butterfly brand table-tennis equipment from Japan.

There's a repair service on offer for many of their products, too, and the pair hopes customers will spend time in the store simply enjoying the space. They offer Rushmore cold brew on tap, and in the coming months plan to open a pop-up cafe, with a rotating selection of up-and-coming chefs in the kitchen for three months at a time.

The space is filled with plants, creating a comfortable domestic atmosphere that entices you to linger. The interiors were designed in collaboration with carpenter Robert Lendingham.

“Knowing that a majority of retail spaces update their fit-outs every five years … we were very conscious of using repurposed materials, as well as creating a fit that is timeless, modular and able to be repurposed further when it has outlived its place in the store,” says Marcel.

They used mainly recycled and reclaimed materials – the table-tennis table in the centre of the store is made from an old basketball court.

“We use recycled chip wood and vintage furniture, and we’re so proud of our display table,” Marcel says. “During the day it serves as a centrepiece for the shop and on Friday nights it becomes our get-together entertainment.”

Upstairs, there’s a light and airy two-bedroom apartment, available to book on Airbnb. The cost can vary based on demand, but starts at $174 per night.

“It was vital for us to make every square inch of the area work effectively,” says Marcel. “We hope our customers and neighbours will follow us through the journey.”

Keoma
266 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
(03) 9948 7872

Hours:
Mon to Fri 10am–6pm
Sat & Sun 10am–6pm

keoma.com.au