Le Sucre-Coeur: A Bakery Oasis in the Heart of Osaka

Shinya Hirata's Award-Winning Design Transforms Bakery Shopping into an Outdoor Experience

Le Sucre-Coeur stands out for its unique design properties. The bakery is situated in a location that feels far removed from the bustling city center, surrounded by greenery. The use of large glass walls and an interior adorned with wood and bricks creates a feeling of shopping outdoors. The ceiling height rises towards the outside of the shop, further enhancing the sense of openness and connection with the outside world.

The realization of this design required careful consideration of several factors. The separation of the kitchen, sales area, and the exterior was addressed by using glass where necessary. Compliance with the Japanese Building Standards Act required the integration of shutters and evacuation doors, which were made to harmonize with the interior materials through an aging process. The visual connection of all areas was emphasized by using wood cement boards for all ceilings, including the kitchen's, which also facilitated the reproduction of yeast necessary for bread baking. The kitchen walls were coated with TOSA stucco, a natural material that does not inhibit bacterial growth and provides a soft color, creating a pleasant work environment for the bakery workers.

The design of Le Sucre-Coeur was a response to the lifestyle of the local area. Research revealed a bias in the diet due to lack of time, leading to the decision to create a store that would cater to such needs. The shop area was divided into six sections: bread, café, cake, coffee, ingredients, and gift, to streamline the shopping experience. The use of earth tones and avoidance of wasteful shaping on fixtures further enhanced the focus on the products.

The design process was not without challenges. The bakery is located in a business area where people often resort to convenience stores or supplements for lunch. The aim was to create a place where people could enjoy their lunch, see how their food was made, and know who made it. The goal was to transform the place into a community of farmers and city dwellers, rather than a community of shops and customers. This sentiment was difficult to encapsulate in the design, but was ultimately achieved.

Le Sucre-Coeur is a testament to the transformative power of design. It is a bakery that not only sells bread but also offers an experience, a break from the urban hustle, and a connection with nature. The design was recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018, a testament to its innovation and excellence. Le Sucre-Coeur is a shining example of how design can elevate everyday experiences and create spaces that resonate with people's lifestyles and needs.