Bake Cheese Tart Store in Kyoto designed by Yusuke Seki fuses traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern design, creating a space that bridges local culture and global appeal.
Set in the heart of Kyoto, a city renowned for its deep historical roots and rich cultural heritage, this project reflects a thoughtful integration of local customs with a universal appeal. The store is not just a place to purchase freshly baked cheese tarts; it is an experience that bridges the gap between the local and the global, traditional craftsmanship, and modern design sensibilities.
Central to Seki’s design is the use of materials and techniques that speak to both Kyoto’s heritage and its evolving cultural landscape. The counter, constructed from Lego blocks, becomes a metaphor for the playful and universal nature of contemporary design. It serves as a visual and tactile experience that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, resonating with visitors of all ages and backgrounds. This choice of material speaks to the malleability of tradition in a globalized context, suggesting that even the most local customs can find new expressions in a modern world.
The walls of the Bake Cheese Tart Store employ the traditional “Shitaji-Mado” technique, a nod to the age-old practices of Japanese teahouse construction. This method, characterized by a delicate lattice framework, is imbued with a sense of authenticity and regional specificity. By leaving these walls partially exposed, Seki allows for a dialogue between the store’s contemporary interior and the traditional exterior, encouraging customers to engage with the space in a meaningful way. This interaction fosters a deeper connection to Kyoto’s architectural heritage, offering a fresh perspective on the city’s enduring cultural narrative.
In this project, Yusuke Seki demonstrates a profound understanding of Kyoto’s cultural essence, utilizing design as a medium to explore the dynamic interplay between past and present, local and global. The Bake Cheese Tart Store is not merely a commercial space but a thoughtful homage to Kyoto’s rich traditions, reimagined for a contemporary audience.
