Brooklyn’s go-to sports center is boasting the Nets’ first private label merchandise storefront, designed by local, family-run design firm The Brooklyn Home Company.
Berō, pronounced “borough,” opened at the center’s entrance last December and has since offered an exclusive collection of luxury-style hoodies, cardigans, hats and more to die-hard fans. Designers had the challenge of transforming a 200-square-foot concession stand into a moody retail store that reflects the creative culture of Brooklyn.
According to Stacey Walters, director of architecture for TBHCo, her team wanted to capture a shopping experience that’s familiar to Brooklynites, rather than design a storefront that felt out of place.
“When you look around that neighborhood, you’re going to see a Brooklyn storefront. Throw a stone in any direction and you’ll see one,” she told Brooklyn Paper. “We wanted people to get the real feel of Brooklyn. Since some people only come to Brooklyn because they are attending an event at Barclays Center, you want to give them an opportunity to see what it’s like to walk down a Brooklyn street.”
Dimly lit scones, marble countertops, black limestone floors and brass finishes all aim to provide an elevated shopping experience, according to designers.
“It should feel more like a home, a really cozy, but well-crafted and well-designed space that is immersive,” Walters said. “It’s also nice that we are able to pay homage to the beautiful city and surroundings that the Barclays Center sits in.”
Basketball die-hards can now shop the Berō collection online or during one of their visits to the venue.
