News & Stories

Catch the Starbucks Melbourne Central mural

If you’ve been to our newly renovated Melbourne Central store recently, your eye is sure to have caught a bold splash of colour inside.

This awe-inspiring Starbucks Australia mural was created by the talented artist and local RMIT student, Ananya Ohja. Read on to discover the inspiration behind the piece, learn how Starbucks Australia engages with local communities, and explore some of the other incredible art Melbourne has to offer.

Have you seen the Starbucks Australia mural in Melbourne?

It’s been on socials, it’s irl. So if you’re yet to get a glimpse of the colourful graphic at our Melbourne Central store, get yourself there ASAP.

Meet the artist behind the Starbucks Melbourne Central mural

A self-professed whimsical artist and avid coffee lover, Ananya Ohja is no stranger to Starbucks Melbourne Central. Completing her Masters in Communication Design at nearby RMIT University, she’s a regular at the store. (Go to order: A hand-crafted Mocha Frappuccino®.)

But this summer, her trips to Melbourne Central Starbucks weren’t solely for Refreshers and Cold Brews. Instead, she was bringing to life a bold, fresh and colour-filled piece of street art. Introducing, A City in Bloom.

How the mural came to life: Ananya Ohja’s creative vision

Ananya says her inspiration came largely from observing the surroundings of Starbucks Melbourne Central.

“Because of its location, surrounded by RMIT, the State Library of Victoria and major tram lines, the area is constantly alive,” she says.

To her, the mural captures a diversity of experiences – students finishing assignments, commuters rushing for the tram, workers leaving or heading to corporate offices, and others simply pausing for rest.

“Everyone is engaged in their own world, yet connected by that single shared moment in the city. The mural mirrors this by depicting figures dispersed throughout the composition.”

“Together, they capture the layered, collective energy that defines Melbourne Central.”

But that’s not all. See the Australiana native flower design? “Their fluid curves echo the movement of the space, while the coffee plant forms the siren’s hair,” says Ananya.

She explains, “The core concept represents Melbourne’s culture, energy and student life in a way that feels welcoming, contextual and reflective of the community that inhabits this location.”

Starbucks community engagement brings the city to life

Whether it’s partner-led initiatives, local grant programs, investing in under-resourced areas or other purpose-based activities, we love serving our communities more than just quality coffee. Community engagement is at the heart of what we do.

This mural is a real-life extension of that commitment. It’s an authentic and creative way to brighten a public space while celebrating Melbourne’s vibrant culture.

Where is the Starbucks Australia mural in Melbourne?

Spanning two walls at our Melbourne Central store (near the entrance to Melbourne Central Train Station), it’s an excellent place to grab a hit of caffeine, pick up a mouthwatering snack, and admire the view.

Take a snap and don’t forget to tag us on socials at @starbucksau!

Beyond Starbucks artwork – other Melbourne murals to check out

You’ve heard it before: Melbourne’s art scene is next-level creative.

So, while you’re admiring the Melbourne Central Starbucks mural, why not check out some of the other iconic street art scenes? There’s plenty to pick from!

When it comes to street art, Melbourne takes the cake caramel slice

Within a few minutes of our Melbourne Central store, Drewery Lane is covered in colourful murals and Hosier Lane features ever-changing graffiti.

Just around the corner, see if you can find one of the final Banksy rats among the ginormous designs of Duckboard Place, then admire the mesmerising urban jungle of Meyers Place.

Beyond that there’s Mornane Place, Bullens Lane, Blender Lane, and so many more.

We’d recommend starting at the new Starbucks Melbourne Central mural, picking up your favourite blended beverage and making a day of sightseeing around this art-filled and lively city.

The next time you’re in the CBD, head to the Melbourne Central Starbucks store to glimpse this stunning mural. Enjoy it alongside your favourite hand-crafted beverage and with a friend or two!

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