The family-run bakery has been satisfying Pittsburgh’s sweet tooth since 1988, and after 30 years of serving the community with fresh breads, pastries, pies and more, the bakery owners upgraded from their 1,200-square-foot facility to a dramatically larger 18,000-square-foot space.
When Desmone Architects set out to design the new space, its goal was to create a clean and simple space that would allow the bakery’s treats to really shine. Additionally, the firm set out to meet the existing needs of the bakery’s customers while adding in new details and features that would enhance customer comfort and shopping ease throughout the facility. From the equipment, storage, and display cases, to a number of increased point of sale stations, customer seating, cafe offerings, line formations, etc., they created a monochromatic design that is both functional and beautiful.
The long, rectangular shape of the first floor with its high ceilings, exposed steel and colorful display cases makes a welcoming and lasting first impression. The family owners of the Oakmont Bakery have offices on the mezzanine level, overlooking a light-filled atrium, which connects them to the high energy of the customer activity on the main floor.
Natural light and occupant comfort were two important considerations in the development of the bakery. YKK AP America’s YES 45 TU storefront system was selected to provide a sleek, functional entry into the bakery while its YCW 750 OG curtain wall system with high thermal performance was selected to provide floor-to-ceiling views, flooding the bakery with natural light, and keeping customers comfortable, while they scanned the bakery or gazed out the window at the Allegheny River Valley.
Today, the bakery’s more than 200 sweet-seeking customers per hour are treated to a warm, welcoming space with an open layout and a simple design that allows them to seek and find the perfect sweet treat. And it must be working. Because Oakmont Bakery was recently named the “Best Place to Buy Happiness” by the Pittsburgh City Paper.
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