say architects clads angelot patisserie in hangzhou in a curved tile façade

say architects has clad the angelot patisserie in the xiasha district of hangzhou in a curved façade covered in customized tiles. its exterior gently ushers guests through the curved entry route, which is designed like an opening pushed back from the main façade, and into the 150 sqm space that comprises an ordering and display area, as well as a dining area which appears gradually.all images courtesy of say architects

say architects has embraced the original site’s multiple disadvantages, such as a basement shaft that blocked almost 1/3 of the storefront, or the storefront being recessed from the architectural façade, connecting them through a simple design concept characterized by a gradually disclosed sense of ritual. the chinese architecture studio arranged the patisserie exterior as a curved route leading to the entrance door and into the first space, the ordering and display area, and through towards the most important space, the dining area, which appears gradually.

the curved exterior of angelot allows it to stand out from its surroundings, and transforms the architectural façade of the building above into a frame for the storefront. covered in customized curve tiles, the exterior gradually leads towards the entrance, which appears as if it has been pushed open from the façade, and gently leads guests into the patisserie. additionally, say architects also designed the space with changing heights, where the entry level is at the lowest height, and the dining area, located far back, is at the highest. this change in heights enhances the atmosphere of the space, resembling a path leading towards a secret garden which slowly unfolds spaces to guests.

project info:

name: angelot

architect: say architects

client: private

location: hangzhou, china

total floor area: 150 sqm