Have you ever wondered where flour came from? It is said that about 32,000 years ago, in the southern reaches of Italy, our ancestors were grinding grains into flour using rudimentary tools like pestles and grinders. This ancient tradition of flour-making is the foundation of the culinary world and also the inspiration behind the name of this café in Gurgaon. Designed by Vikrant Sharma, Mjöl Bakehouse blends Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies to offer foodies an exceptional dessert experience. After all, it’s not just the taste of the food that matters, but the ambiance as well.
When architects first encountered the name “Mjöl”—Swedish for flour—they were instantly inspired. Vikrant, the lead architect, envisioned a space that would reflect the deep-rooted tradition of flour-making while embodying the heartfelt sincerity of founders Manooshi Chandy and Amit Berwal. They aspired for Mjöl Bakehouse to be more than a bakery; they wanted it to be a sanctuary where every detail spoke of warmth, authenticity, and a connection to the age-old craft of baking.
Embracing the minimalist aesthetics of Scandinavian and Japanese design philosophies, Mjöl Bakehouse integrates simplicity and elegance into its architecture. This design approach is a modern nod to the ancient art of flour-making, focusing on creating a serene environment where every element serves to enhance the customer experience. The interplay of textures, finishes, and ambient lighting results in a space that feels both contemporary and timeless, inviting guests to savor not just the baked goods but the thoughtfully curated atmosphere.
In designing Mjöl Bakehouse, the focus was on optimizing space while celebrating the freshness of the bakery’s offerings. The central counter acts as the focal point where patrons can interact with the baking team and choose from a display of fresh delights. This layout highlights the craftsmanship behind the bakery’s creations, echoing the age-old tradition of transforming raw ingredients into cherished goods.
A distinctive feature of the bakehouse is the ‘chocolate room,’ strategically positioned in front of the seating area. This open design allows customers to observe the baking process, creating a visual connection to the ancient practice of flour-making and enriching the overall experience.
Despite spatial constraints, the design of Mjöl Bakehouse prioritizes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Combining indoor and outdoor seating options, the space accommodates a variety of visitors, fostering a relaxed environment. The interior design features brick walls and warm-toned furniture, with lights casting a cozy, uneven glow across the space. On a pastry run? Be prepared to linger; the brick walls and soothing sunlight at this dessert hub will make it hard to leave.
FACT FILE:
Project Name: Mjol Bakehouse
Design Team: Vikrant Sharma, Lead Architects; Manmohan Tripathi and Sarv Kamboj, Junior Architect
Location: Gurgaon
Area: 2400 sq ft
Photography courtesy: Abhay Khatri