Bake: A Unique Cheese Tartlet Shop

A Curved Glass Facade That Leaves a Lasting Impression

An underground arcade in Fukuoka, Japan is home to a long row of specialty shops. Among them stands Bake, a cheese tartlet specialty shop that captivates passersby with its unique design. Designed by Gaku Takasu, Bake features a large curved glass facade that evokes the shape of a cake showcase, creating a sense of wonderment and novelty.

The inspiration behind Bake's design was to use simple forms to create an inspiring space that would leave a lasting impression. The entire shop appears to exist within a showcase, thanks to the large R-shaped floor-to-ceiling glass facade. This design element visualizes Bake's brand image and effectively attracts customers inside.

One of the standout features of Bake is the lightweight mortar used for the tartlet counter. This surprising and novel design creates the perception that a heavy mortar countertop is almost floating atop a very thin metal frame. It adds an element of intrigue and further enhances the unique atmosphere of the shop.

The design team, led by Gaku Takasu and interior designer Sayo Teshima, focused their efforts on creating something that would excite and entice passersby. The larger than life curved glass facade combines a sense of wonderment and novelty, effectively attracting customers inside. The shop covers an area of 66.1 square meters and is located in Fukuoka, Japan.

Bake's design not only stands out among the other shops in the arcade but also garnered recognition in the design world. In 2019, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements.

With its unique design and captivating atmosphere, Bake is not just a cheese tartlet shop; it is an experience that delights customers and showcases the creativity and innovation of Gaku Takasu and his team.