aki hamada architects + kentaro fujimoto’s midi a midi blends books with pastries in japan

aki hamada architects’ midi a midi bakery blends books with pastries in japan
image © takumi ota

the designers at aki hamada architects and kentaro fujimoto describes the process of going to the bakery the same as going to the library, where they both involve the person choosing, taking it out and enjoying it in its context. for midi a midi bakery in kanagawa, japan, the interior approach highlights this bakery-meets-library experience which is highly appropriate as the pastry shop is adjoined to a bookshop. opposite the open kitchen, a bespoke timber shelving unit lines the wall- a distinctive feature, each square compartment is lit from within, highlighting the freshly baked goods while simultaneously evoking a feeling of accidental discovery. there are three types of seating available: the seating by the counter, on the long communal table and on the tatami styled movable platforms- this gives customers the freedom of choosing how they would prefer to dine depending on if they were by themselves or in a group.

the three types of seating is arranged in a linear format 
image © takumi ota

seating is available by the counter, on the table and on the tatami
image © takumi ota

the pastries displayed in the compartment and on the hatch itself
image © takumi ota

the bakery is open for everyone to view
image © takumi ota

customers are encouraged to go up and discover what they want to eat
image © takumi ota

the shelves were influenced by the process of going to the library
image © takumi ota

image © takumi ota

lighting detail
image © takumi ota

the bakery connects to a bookshop
image © takumi ota

the shelving unit with the lit shadow gap below
image © takumi ota