Based in the old disused Biscuit Factory in Bermondsey, South London, YOKO has recently commissioned design studio Store & Archive to design and build a bespoke studio space.

 

The studio was conceived as a self contained making space unit that sits within the overall factory unit.

 

It was important for YOKO to have a custom built space that reflects the essential values of the company - a design led business, based on quality craftsmanship, and a timeless design.

 

This studio has been hand carved and built using strong influences of Japanese joinery techniques.

 

The timber unit makers space resembles a Japanese tea house structure or small pavilion.  Towards the front, a horizontal slot window frames the main activity within the unit - making, rolling, cutting treat mixtures - resisting the need to show faces it makes the viewing simply that of the making process.

 

The unit comprises of a storage space for equipment and raw ingredients, a space to make the treats, and a place to industrially dehydrate products.

 

The timber unit acts as a odour buffer to prevent food smells escaping beyond the unit into neighbouring studios.

 

Timber panels slot between the timber posts and are wrapped in untreated linen.  The sensitivity towards a material touch and the way light and shadow touch the surfaces represent the studios fascination with Japanese makers spaces.