Baker Bleu, Hawksburn

Baker Bleu challenges the perception of bread as simply ‘ordinary’. It is elevated to be aligned with the values and principles on which the bread and pastries are made—as artisan—and therefore as art.

Baker Bleu, Hawksburn storefront with a blue awning and modern design elements.
Modern bakery interior with marble counter and metallic shelves at Baker Bleu, Hawksburn.

In four short years, Baker Bleu has established itself as a destination for quality sourdough bread. With a strong emphasis on a specialised retail offer and an expanded menu, the space looks to re-engage existing customers, attract local residents and provide a new and exciting experience every visit.

2021
Prahran, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Land

Floor Area

97m²

Utilising a raw, minimal, textural aesthetic, we have tightly focused the lens by which the products are viewed - eliminating the random and instead creating a rigid system by which to display and increase overall efficiencies of the business operation from baker through to server. We have used the tight footprint of the tenancy to our advantage, creating a flow of movement that takes the customer through the full offering of fresh baked-goods and curated pairings.

Interior of Baker Bleu, Hawksburn showcasing a marble counter and shelves filled with various breads.
Modern bakery interior with a marble counter and menu board at Baker Bleu, Hawksburn.
Baker Bleu, Hawksburn: Health Crackers and bottled beverages on a stylish marble counter.

The space reflects the authenticity and quality of the product, using materials and gestures that feel familiar but are elevated through the accentuation of space, simplicity, and detailed execution. With a strong and devoted customer base, it was important to express the essence of Baker Bleu and speak to their motto of ‘Bread for Sharing’.

Shelves of assorted bread and bagels at Baker Bleu, Hawksburn.
Assorted artisan breads on display at Baker Bleu, Hawksburn.

The interior is given a contemporary edge with a palette that includes natural stone, stained timber, rough cast render and galvanised steel; materials that speak to the individuality of the bakery and that will patinate over time, adding character and personality.

Interior of Baker Bleu, Hawksburn, featuring shelves of artisan bread and a marble counter.
Minimalist bakery interior with marble counter and bread display at Baker Bleu, Hawksburn.

The materiality of each retail display has been designed to contrast with the product it is displaying, therefore highlighting the items available for purchase. The space provides Baker Bleu with the opportunity to entice customers, new and old, further into the fold. A place that exudes restraint, timeless authenticity, and character.

"Baker Bleu, Hawksburn: Freshly baked artisan breads and bagels displayed on metal shelves."
Entrance of Baker Bleu, Hawksburn, featuring modern design and product displays.
Interior of Baker Bleu, Hawksburn featuring shelves with products and modern design elements.

Unexpected materials present throughout the space create tactile touchpoints for retail customers. The vantage point from every retail display has been considered, assuring a layered and multidimensional experience for every customer.

"Baker Bleu, Hawksburn: Shelves with assorted jars and cans against a textured white wall."
"Baker Bleu, Hawksburn showcases minimalist shelves with artisanal food products and ambient lighting."
"Baker Bleu, Hawksburn features a minimalist wooden table with shelves of gourmet products."
Exterior view of Baker Bleu, Hawksburn with blue awning and glass entrance.
Baker Bleu, Hawksburn signage with text: "Bread for sharing. Online order? Step inside!"

Circular cut-outs in translucent vinyl offer carefully curated views into the retail space and production areas, playfully revealing the activity behind. This sense of exploration and discovery engages patrons and keeps them coming back for more. Always hinting at something beyond, Baker bleu is a reward for curiosity.

  • Architectural layout for Baker Bleu, Hawksburn, featuring detailed design elements and structural plans.

Recognition

  • Eat Drink Design Awards 2022 →

    Winner
    Best Retail Design

    This winning bakery project is significant for the success of its integration of interior and product. There is a great sense of utility about the placement and aesthetics of the bakery product here – the interior experience has struck a careful balance between the minimalism of fittings, finishes and materials and the earthy aesthetics of the actual baked goods as an integrated presentation. In a setting characterised by industrial galvanised metal and sleek minimalism, the bread and other products impart a balancing warmth. A high level of detailing in the resolution of the interior combined with excellent visual branding has resulted in a very resolved, modern setting – specifically designed for the product, easy to clean and serving its core function effectively and expressively.

  • Australian Interior Design Awards 2022 →

    Commendation
    Retail Design

Credits

Photography: Sharyn Cairns
Branding: Studio Round
Contractor: SCR Construction

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