Originally operating online, Over the Stove has successfully carved a name for itself with a wide range of artisanal breads, pastries, rolls, sandwiches, jams. sauces and other food products which have become highly popular with the local foodie community. As of late, the company has expanded offline and inaugurated its first brick-and-mortar location, a café and bakery, in the Changning district of Shanghai. Situated on Lixi Lu, a narrow thoroughfare lined with historic buildings which has seen a huge transformation in the past few months, so-called l’Atelier Over Bakery occupies an 80 sqm. (861 sq.ft.) unit on the ground floor of a former warehouse, the venue sees an interior design by local architecture and design practice Atelier tao+c.
The interior design takes cues from the area’s urban fabric, social cohesion, and last but not least, the existing spatial dimensions and architectural elements. The original façade, window and doors have been retained and enlarged to suit the location’s new purpose. The cargo door has been replaced by floor-to-window glass, while the window and front door now form an intermediate gate to the recessed new entrance. Given the expansive glass front, natural light floods the premises, creating a concave mirror effect and lighting up the whole space. The redevelopment has literally opened up the building, allowing an interaction with the neighbourhood. Furnishings are few and simple, comprising wooden tables, chairs and benches,, in addition to a large counter. A series of potted plants add a homey touch to the setting.
l’Atelier Over Bakery
152 Lixi Lu, Building 5, Unit 104 (Changning)
200031 Shanghai
Publishers Note
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