Bottone Ragusa | DAAA Haus

Bottone, a pastry shop and laboratory located in the heart of Ragusa, a town in southern Sicily. The first store opened in Milan, whilst the store in Ragusa is the second one created by DAAA Haus for the brand. Having to coordinate the design with the Milan store but in a different environment and context, the design concept was maintained but the type of finishes and materials were varied and influenced by the new location. The main inspiration came from the search for materials that represent Sicily such as the lava stone which is expected from the island because of Etna, the most active volcano in Europe, hence why the use of black as the predominant color. This is expressed in various ways: in the black metal details used in the facade and signage, the black mirrors that enclose the lounge area and the tinted black glass that separate the store from the lab, where one can admire the craftsmanship and authenticity of the product. The flooring is a raw cement resin in a warm white colour to balance and contrast the dark colour tones used in the walls. The gold touch in the bookcase behind the display and in the suspension lighting adds elegance to the store while it recalls the Milan store, where the golden colour is dominant. The mix of all the colours, textures and materials used create a warm contemporary atmosphere. The most important thing about the store is the food that is being displayed. That's why the food takes centre stage and is placed in a light grey concrete perspective box, contrasted by the natural dark lava stone that dresses the display. The Lab is visible from both the store and the street. This means that the customer can admire the process and all the hard work that goes behind such flavoursome pastry. On the window facing the street one will find a black library to display the product, while people can still overlook the work being done by the pastry chefs. The travertine façade extends on two sides of the building and has four, large, profiled windows of matt black finish, joined by a black metal line that creates continuity. The entrance to the store is characterized by a "boutique" style curtain on which the Bottone signature is printed, adding a touch of class to this timeless shop.