Designed by Mallol, Krume Bäcker is a new bakery in Costa del Este, Panama, that translates the brand’s core values into architecture: simplicity, quality, and Austrian roots. With its 193 sqm interior, the space combines architectural clarity with environmental responsibility, transforming the daily act of baking bread into an authentic and contemporary experience.
Local materials and craftsmanship
At the heart of the project is the use of compacted earth for the counter and walls, a technique developed by Aparato using untreated local soil. This low-energy solution reduces environmental impact while offering thermal stability, acoustic insulation, and a textured finish that defines the atmosphere. Working with local artisans not only enhanced traditional skills but also strengthened community ties.
Custom furniture and reclaimed wood
The furniture, designed by Mallol Lifestyle Studio and crafted by The Alma Studio, reflects a virtuous design process. The chosen material is native hardwood reclaimed from the Bayano Reservoir, where it had remained submerged for decades. Its extraction, carried out with the Guna Madugandí community using controlled techniques, ensures a sustainable and ecosystem-friendly approach. A long kiln-drying process guarantees durability, turning the wood into tables, chairs, and furnishings that add warmth and material depth to the space.
A fluid and welcoming layout
The layout emphasizes versatility, accommodating both quick visits and longer, convivial stays. Fluid circulation, flexible seating, and essential design create a calm, inviting atmosphere. Subtle, focused lighting celebrates the true protagonist of the space: freshly baked bread.
A model of social and environmental responsibility
In every detail, Krume Bäcker stands as a manifesto of environmental responsibility and social engagement. The use of local resources, low-impact construction methods, and artisanal finishes demonstrates how aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability can coexist. More than just a bakery, the project becomes a benchmark for contemporary retail attentive to community and territory.
Mallol Studio
Mallol is a Panamanian architecture firm and a leading practice in Latin America, recognized for its innovative and pioneering approach. The studio consistently combines aesthetic vision with practical solutions, addressing contemporary challenges with cultural sensitivity and a strong commitment to sustainability. Its portfolio spans residential, cultural, commercial, and institutional projects, each in dialogue with its local context while maintaining a global perspective. By pushing the boundaries of design and setting new standards, Mallol confirms its role as a key player in the evolution of contemporary architecture.
Location: Costa del Este, Panama City, Panama
Area: 193 sqm
Architects/Designers: Mallol
Design team: Mallol Lifestyle Studio
Photo credits: Mauricio Carvajal