Silver Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2026
Chuchulab Short Cakes Dessert Shop
by Hhhhsstudio Design Co.,Ltd.
- A' Design Award 2026 Silver Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2026
- CLIENT: Chuchulab
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 14,124
- Verification code 798B758B7C · Verify this award
About Chuchulab Short Cakes Dessert Shop
Chuchulab Short Cakes is the interior design of a short cake boutique in Shenzhen. The 125 square metre space draws on the Southern French coast, using curves that echo the motion of waves. Wood veneers, sintered stone slabs, handmade tiles and marble are combined with greenery to create an airy and calm ambiance. Soft lighting and neutral beige and grey tones support the restful mood. A central island bar serves dining areas on both sides and guides circulation, while semi enclosed seating offers privacy for guests.
Situated within the evolving discourse of contemporary hospitality design, hhhhsstudio DESlGN Co.,Ltd.'s Chuchulab Short Cakes Dessert Shop exemplifies the integration of biophilic principles with refined material sensibilities characteristic of current approaches to experiential retail environments. The work demonstrates masterful command of curvilinear architectural language, deploying sweeping soffit elements that suggest organic growth patterns while simultaneously functioning as sophisticated wayfinding mechanisms that guide visitors through the spatial sequence from threshold to transaction. The chromatic strategy appears deliberately restrained, establishing a tonal foundation of warm ivories, soft champagnes, and brushed bronze that creates a jewel-box atmosphere wherein the colorful confections themselves become the primary chromatic protagonists—a conceptual inversion that privileges product over environment while maintaining architectural distinction. Technical accomplishment manifests particularly in the seamless integration of concealed lighting systems within the curved ceiling plane, creating graduated luminosity that transitions from atmospheric softness in circulation zones to focused brilliance at merchandise displays, thus orchestrating attention without visible fixture presence. The central island element—a sculpted terrazzo form supporting a living tree—introduces both literal nature and symbolic renewal into the commercial transaction, perhaps suggesting that the ephemeral pleasure of confectionery connects to deeper cycles of growth, cultivation, and celebration. Material selections demonstrate sophisticated hierarchies: the warmth of bronze and wood tempers the coolness of stone and concrete, while polished floor surfaces multiply spatial perception through reflection. The design appears to engage with traditions of the Japanese tea house and the Continental patisserie salon, synthesizing Eastern spatial philosophy with Western retail convention. What role might such carefully cultivated environments play in transforming commercial exchange into moments of aesthetic contemplation and sensory appreciation?
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The interior design for chuchulab, a short cake boutique, offers a gentle refuge from fast paced city life, redefining the dessert experience with a soft, soothing aesthetic. Inspired by the laid back spirit of the Southern French coast, the design uses undulating curves to echo the sea waves, wrapping guests in a comforting embrace. The warmth of wood veneers meets the raw texture of sintered stone slabs and handmade tiles, enlivened by lush greenery to evoke an airy, serene ambiance.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- 125㎡
- Tags
- Interior Design for a Dessert Shop, Inspiration from the Southern French Coast, A Relaxed Ambiance, Sleek Curves, Fluid Rhythm, Natural Materials, Soft Lighting
- Production Technology
- Organic wood and panels with a soft sheen establish a gentle, natural foundation, while handmade tiles and marble conjure the imagery of seaside rocks, imbuing the serene atmosphere with a quiet yet steadfast presence. Mirrored accents are thoughtfully integrated to add a modern touch and enhance visual depth within the space.
- Design Challenge
- The key challenge lay in distilling the artistry and laid back spirit of the Southern French coast into a commercial space. To this end, the design features curves as its core element. Sleek arches and staggered volumes echo ocean swells, while the greenery at turns injects natural vibrancy. Tiles in gradient light blue mimic the shimmering sea surface, capturing the dynamic play of light. Soft illumination, paired with neutral tones like beige and gray, fosters a gentle, serene atmosphere.
- Project Duration
- The design work began in Shenzhen in July 2025, with the project debuting at the Ping An International Finance Centre that November.
- Operation Flow
- The spatial circulation prioritizes efficiency, featuring a central island bar that serves dining areas on both sides while naturally guiding guest traffic and seating arrangements. Implemented across most dining zones, the semi enclosed layout balances openness and seclusion, catering to white collar professionals and business groups who value privacy.
Surrealist paintings by Joan Miró are engraved onto sintered stone slabs, adding visual interest and creating an ethereal, artistic atmosphere. - Research
- Amid the hectic pace of urban life, people long for a brief respite to recharge both body and mind. Guided by this insight, the project transcends the ornate conventions typical of traditional dessert shops. Instead, it harmonizes natural materials, fluid curves, and soft lighting to create a space defined by contours that mimic undulating waves, enveloping every guest in comfort. The semi enclosed seating addresses privacy concerns for city dwellers, cultivating a deeply reassuring atmosphere.
- Inspiration
- Inspired by the Southern French coast, a celebrated retreat known for its sweeping beaches and warm climate, the design captures the laid back spirit of summer breezes and rolling waves to shape its visual identity. Fluid lines and an airy, rhythmic layout create a gentle rhythm reminiscent of the undulating ocean, offering guests a moment of serene relaxation and pure joy as they indulge in their desserts.