The Bakery by Joost Arijs: A Minimalist Culinary Space Designed by Glenn Sestig Architects in Ghent

Located in the vibrant city of Ghent, The Bakery by Joost Arijs is a refined architectural intervention that merges culinary craftsmanship with minimalist spatial design. Conceived by Glenn Sestig Architects and led by Glenn Sestig, this compact 124 m² bakery redefines the contemporary bakery experience through precision, materiality, and spatial clarity.

Opened in December 2022 by renowned chocolatier Joost Arijs, the bakery is strategically positioned next to his existing viennoiserie on Vlaanderenstraat. The project reflects a seamless collaboration between two creative disciplines—architecture and gastronomy—resulting in a space where product, process, and presentation coexist harmoniously.

A Functionalist Approach to Bakery Design

At the core of the design lies a strong functionalist philosophy, where every element serves a purpose while contributing to a cohesive aesthetic language. The bakery is not merely a retail space but a curated environment that celebrates artisanal production. The layout emphasizes openness and transparency, allowing visitors to visually engage with the baking process through a visible workshop.

This design strategy transforms the bakery into an immersive experience, reinforcing authenticity and craftsmanship—key values in contemporary food-oriented architecture.

Material Palette: Subtle Luxury Meets Industrial Precision

The material selection plays a crucial role in defining the bakery’s identity. A terrazzo floor establishes a durable yet elegant foundation, complemented by refined natural stone details that add depth and texture. The central counter, crafted in brushed stainless steel, introduces an industrial edge while maintaining a sleek, modern appearance.

Warmth is carefully introduced through walnut bread shelving, balancing the cooler tones of metal and stone. This contrast creates a harmonious interplay between natural and industrial materials, reinforcing the minimalist concept while ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.

Spatial Experience and Visual Hierarchy

The interior design is meticulously composed to prioritize the products. Bread and pastries are presented as focal elements, with architectural features acting as a subtle backdrop. Clean lines, uncluttered surfaces, and restrained detailing guide the visitor’s attention toward the artisanal goods.

Lighting further enhances this visual hierarchy, accentuating textures and materials while maintaining a soft, inviting ambiance. The result is a bakery interior that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Architecture as a Branding Tool

The Bakery by Joost Arijs exemplifies how architecture can serve as a powerful branding instrument. The minimalist design language aligns perfectly with the brand’s emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and refinement. Every design decision—from material choices to spatial organization—reinforces the identity of the bakery as a premium culinary destination.

This project also highlights the growing trend of experiential retail design, where customers seek more than just products—they seek environments that tell a story and engage the senses.

A Contemporary Benchmark in Bakery Architecture

By combining functionalist principles with a refined material palette, Glenn Sestig Architects has created a space that transcends traditional bakery design. The project stands as a benchmark for small-scale commercial interiors, demonstrating how thoughtful architecture can elevate everyday experiences.

In The Bakery by Joost Arijs, simplicity becomes sophistication, and craftsmanship—both culinary and architectural—takes center stage.

All photographs are works of  Jean-Pierre Gabriel