London-based practice Universal Design Studio has designed a pastel sweet bakery in Shanghai, where the fitout almost steals the show from the sweets.

For a new patisserie and bakery concept in Shanghai’s Vanke Mall, London practice Universal Design Studio took inspiration from the products on display – intricately delicate cakes. The aesthetic at the newly opened Holiland is intentionally bright and youthful, while tempered by softer neutrals and natural finishes.

The material selection played a big part in the development of this project with their execution adding graphic impact and a clean backdrop to let the hand-crafted delicacies shine through. The palette is defined by a soft colour palette of oak wood, pink resin and two variations of terrazzo. Another key feature is the application of geometry. Curved and rectangular volumes pull the customer’s eye in with a particular focus on the recessed display niches.

The project for the retail concept encompassed designing all aspects of the interior as well as the facade. Space planning also played a major role with the layout across the 1100-square-foot space incorporating moments of retail theatre whereby customers can view the patisserie chefs as they make all of the delectable treats.

The curves are repeated throughout the space as a visual connector, but also soften what would be an otherwise a large white box. Graphic curved geometries dot the branding, while the terrazzo plinths feature chamfered edges. Making a dramatic impact is the curving, plywood-lined wall behind the counter. This envelopes the space and adds a sense of compression and release.

The bakery’s exterior allows customers to peruse the cake selection through an external kiosk, which is offset by outdoor seating populated by greenery and planters. The blurring between interior and exterior extends to the terrazzo tiled floor finish, intended to draw the customer’s eye into the space.

Photography by Seth Powers.

See other projects by Universal Design Studio. And join our mailing list for a weekly dose of design inspiration.