What inspired the overall theme or aesthetic of the bakery’s interior?

The blank canvas I started with had high ceilings and breeze block walls which steered me towards a more industrial look, I wanted the space to feel calm, inspired by the simple interiors often found in the Copenhagen food scene. However, just like a home, the space has evolved over time to become more refined.

How does the interior design convey the artisanal nature of the patisserie’s products?

Our intention is for the space to convey craftsmanship and care just like the making process of our products, a thoughtful, slow approach, carefully choosing what and who we work with for each design element. Nothing can be done quickly when making pastries and sourdough and I've definitely opted for that approach with layering in the different design elements.

What visual elements (e.g. marble counters, brass finishes, hand-crafted shelving) are used to communicate luxury and craftsmanship?

The bread shelves, pastry counter and outside tables & benches are all bespoke, designed and handmade for us by a carpenter based in Frome, Arn Design, using a beautiful European Oak. All of which have been tailored to meet our needs and to fit with our brand.  We love our boucle striped cafe curtains, the fabric which comes from our neighbours on Portobello, The Cloth Shop. We have the most beautiful botanical picture that was given to us by a customer (House of Herbaria) who handmade the pressed gunnera leaf himself, which sits above the till at Layla and is one of the first things you're drawn to when entering the bakery. Our ceramics that we use everyday at the bakery are handmade for us by Lora Huws. Together we have designed a selection of plates and mugs to fit our menu of drinks and pastries. 

You used a mix of our design and plain tiles and also tile trims. What role do our custom tiles play in expressing your brand’s identity within the space?

They perfectly depict the playful, artisan elements of our brand identity and the tile trims provide a really clean finish.

How did you find working with us on your custom tiles? 

A complete dream. You brought our ideas to life and turned the whole project around in a very short space of time. A joy to work with.

What’s next for Layla? Anything exciting you’d like to share? 

We are about to open a new pastry kitchen across the road (which will be fitted with more bespoke, Petra Palumbo tiles) and a second site is in the pipeline for later on in the year.