by ibby
The Eames Institute to transform former Birkenstock campus into a world-class design destination featuring exhibits, archives, and public creative spaces.
In a bold move that bridges legacy and innovation, the Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity has announced plans to transform the former Birkenstock campus in Marin County into a world-class museum for art and design. With architecture by Herzog & de Meuron and support from San Francisco’s EHDD, the new cultural hub will celebrate the enduring legacy of Ray and Charles Eames—designers who helped redefine modern creativity.
A Modernist Canvas, Reimagined
Located just north of San Francisco in Novato, the 88.5-acre site features iconic mid-century modern architecture originally designed by John Savage Bolles in the 1960s. Known for projects like Candlestick Park and IBM’s San Jose campus, Bolles’ undulating warehouse roof and modernist lines will be adapted into a new architectural narrative, led by the same team behind London’s Tate Modern and San Francisco’s de Young Museum.
The vision? An expansive design campus housing immersive exhibitions, makerspaces, workshops, and culinary and retail experiences—with a portion of the Eames Collection and archives on display. The site will also include open space accessible to the public, seamlessly blending architecture, landscape, and community.
To share my grandparents’ vision with the world is the honor of a lifetime,” says Llisa Demetrios, Chief Curator of the Eames Institute. “This expansion lets us bring that legacy to life in ways we’ve only imagined.
Creative Economy, Local Impact
The project isn’t just cultural. Officials from Novato and Marin County see the museum as a major economic driver, creating jobs, boosting tourism, and reactivating a site that’s been dormant since Birkenstock vacated in 2019. It aligns with the city’s long-term vision to build a cultural destination that reflects the creative energy of Northern California.
The Eames legacy is a cultural treasure,” said David C. Howse, President of California College of the Arts. “This new campus will inspire the public and offer students an unparalleled learning experience.
A Living Legacy of Design
Since launching publicly in 2022, the Eames Institute has worked to extend the reach of the Eameses’ philosophy: that design is a tool for problem-solving, curiosity is a superpower, and great ideas can come from anywhere. Through digital storytelling, exhibitions, and stewardship of William Stout Architectural Books and Lars Müller Publishers, the Institute has already made its mark.
This museum represents the next chapter—one grounded in place, purpose, and public access.
Stay tuned as the Eames Institute unveils more details on programming and design. The future of creative exploration in Northern California just got a whole lot more exciting. Location: 8171 Redwood Blvd., Novato, CA. Discover the full announcement from the Eames Institute: eamesinstitute.org
