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Female founders Emma Buckley and Dr Natalie Boffa present a new optical experience in their elegant architect-designed eyewear destination in central Melbourne – SIX SIX opened in early 2026

Located on Little Collins Street at the Paris end of Melbourne’s Central Business District, SIX SIX wanted to propose a new kind of optometry experience that brings together eye care, retail and hospitality. SIX SIX operates as an end-to-end eyewear and eye-care destination, offering a curated roster of leading international and independent brands alongside on-site optometry services for all vision needs within one seamless journey, from consultation and fitting through to aftercare. The experience unfolds within a considered architectural environment where colour, materiality and spatial sequencing are used to reshape expectations of what an optometry space can feel like.

Female founders, Emma Buckley and Dr Natalie Boffa combine more than 25 years of wholesale, retail and clinical optometry experience, bringing deep industry knowledge and clinical rigour to create a fresh model for optical retail.

“At SIX SIX, we wanted to create a new kind of optometry experience – one that is elevated and deeply considered, where eye care feels personal rather than transactional. It’s a space designed to slow things down, allowing time, care and connection to shape the experience,” said Dr Natalie Boffa, Co-Founder & Optometrist. Above: more like a gallery than a retail store: an imposing entrance with tall windows  – the interior was designed by Kennedy Nolan (www.kennedynolan.com.au)

Interior design features include the gold and yellow colour used throughout by Melbourne-based architecture studio Kennedy Nolan. The colour creates an immersive backdrop with warmth, intensity and what the founders describe as “a subtle sense of theatre throughout”. Carefully controlled lighting and moments of visual intrigue signal that this is not a conventional optometry setting, but a place where design, experience and eye care intersect.

Comprehensive eye examinations are available on site and are supported by advanced diagnostic technology, including OCT and ultra-widefield retinal imaging, diabetic and glaucoma eye exams, dry eye assessment and treatment, contact lens fitting and more. An in-store mini lab supports a faster, more flexible service model, with same-day lenses and custom tinting available in many cases. Lens options include premium AI-optimised designs, Japanese lenses and Australian-made CR lenses, ensuring performance, comfort and quality are prioritised without pressure or urgency.

The boutique is conceived as an immersive environment that signals a new approach to optical retail from the moment customers step inside. Carefully considered displays, mirrors and sightlines guide movement through the store, while lighting supports both styling and clinical needs. Diagnostic equipment is discreetly concealed, maintaining atmosphere and privacy while preserving the overall sense of luxury.

“Our aim was to design a space that immediately signals a different approach – one that feels immersive and memorable, using colour, light and theatre to shift expectations of what an optometry visit can be,” said Patrick Kennedy, Director, Kennedy Nolan.

SIX SIX is situated within one of Melbourne’s most dynamic commercial and cultural precincts, surrounded by luxury retailers, corporate offices and destination venues, while operating as a drawcard for style-conscious shoppers, professionals, visitors and students who value quality, service and considered design.

112 Little Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia / For more information visit www.sixsixstore.com

All images provided courtesy of SIX SIX via Kennedy Nolan / Photography by Anson Smart. All rights reserved. This feature was researched and written by Clodagh Norton.