Header: Scott Walsh
Located on a busy street in downtown Toronto, this cookie shop was designed to be practical and visually striking. The goal was to create a space that supports a smooth customer experience while keeping the fast-paced bakery operations separate but still visible. The grab-and-go concept allows for efficiency, ensuring that customers can move quickly from browsing to ordering without disrupting the work happening behind the scenes.
How form dictates the flow
One of the most noticeable elements in the design is a large curved structure that defines the layout of the space. This shape is not just decorative; it serves a purpose. Positioned to align with the side walls, it naturally guides customers through each visit step, from checking out the menu to placing an order, making a payment, and picking up their treats. Instead of using signage or barriers, the form directs the flow of movement.
Above the counter, a curved bulkhead mirrors the main shape, creating a sense of balance in the space. This feature also helps define the area where customers and staff interact, making the service counter feel more personal and inviting.
Custom design inspired by the shop’s brand identity
The shop’s material choices also play a big role in the design. The curved elements are covered in plywood and finished with a custom pink stain created by Studio AC, which ties into the shop’s overall branding. The soft pink contrasts with the stainless-steel counter and soffit, clearly distinguishing between the front-of-house customer area and the back-of-house bakery. This contrast highlights the difference between the warm, inviting space where customers order and the professional, high-functioning workspace where the cookies are made.
Even the packaging was designed to reinforce the brand’s identity. The cookie boxes feature a pink gradient that complements the interior design, creating a cohesive look. When stacked on the counter or shelves, the boxes contribute to the shop’s overall aesthetic, making them functional and part of the visual experience.
This carefully considered design transforms a small, functional space into something that feels intentional and engaging. By using simple but bold shapes, contrasting materials, and a color palette that extends from the interior to the branding, the shop creates a memorable experience for customers while supporting the fast-paced needs of a busy bakery.
Project info
Architect: Studio AC
Design Team: Sarah Reid, Jennifer Kudlats, Andrew Hill
Construction: Canfield & Co.
Photo credit: Scott Walsh
Source: v2com-newswire
