Italian Charm Meets Modern Artistry at Bitter Sweetie Dessert Shop by All Design Studio.

In the heart of the Tianjin Italian Style Quarter, Bitter Sweetie dessert shop is a blend of history, art and culinary delight. Designed by All Design Studio (ADS), this charming space captures the essence of Italian architecture infused with contemporary artistic touches inspired by desserts and paintings.

The shop is located in a classic red brick arch building, a hallmark of historical architecture in the area. The facade seamlessly integrates with the urban historical context, maintaining the integrity and charm of the original structure. The entrance, with its arched doors, serves as a transition point between the exterior and interior, adapting to seasonal changes with ease.

Inside, the design philosophy shines through with a colour scheme inspired by dessert palettes. Pistachio-coloured door panels contrast against the red brick, creating a harmonious balance. The use of natural materials like terrazzo flooring and Italian marble adds a touch of playful sophistication. The saffron-coloured ceiling and sponge cake-like wooden veneers further enhance the vibrant ambience.

Like Layers of Pastry: Kyeokyeoi Bakery in Seoul by Workment.

This tiny bakery in Seoul specialising in croissants is inspired by layers of pastry. A a masterful execution of a singular concept. Extreme love!

The design team at ADS have incorporated painting techniques that draw from Renaissance frescoes and French deconstructionism. This artistic approach reconfigures the relationship between art and commercial environments, presenting unique scenes that resonate with historical textures and modern life. Hand-painted European-style lines on the wainscoting and delicately decorated windowsills evoke a nostalgic charm, immersing guests in an era gone by while providing a contemporary experience.

The cake display counter, designed to resemble a block of butter, features patterns that echo the texture of baked desserts. This design choice not only immerses visitors in a soft, creamy world but also aligns with the small marble tiles on the floor, creating a cohesive narrative.

Signor Lievito Bakery in Milan by Hannes Peer.

Inside this petite bakery in Milan, Hannes Peer maximized the use of space by making everything made to measure and integrated into the architecture—from the layout to the furnishings.

Venturing further, a half-open doorway leads to a more private living space. Here, wooden veneers cascade delicately like flowing cream, defying traditional design norms and radiating infinite energy. A mirror wall expands the perception of space, concealing a small storage area behind it. Enormous dangling candy sculptures and arched ceilings transform the living room into a whimsical sugar-coated paradise.

A seamless blend of desserts and art, Bitter Sweetie delivers an enchanting Italian-style living room for pastry chefs returning from Europe, offering an immersive experience that transcends mere indulgence. The thoughtful design, from the architectural integrity of the red brick building to the playful and sophisticated interior, ensures that every visit is a journey through history and creativity, touching the soul with every bite.

Like Inside of a Coffee Bean: Ido & Friends Cafe by Aurora Design.

Like inside of a coffee bean, this café in Yunnan offers a humble retreat into the world of coffee.

[Photography by Yuuuunstudio.]