French Kitsch III | TOUCH Architect
Phang Nga / Thailand / 2023
The main design concept of French Kitsch III is developed by interpreting its name; ‘French’ and ‘Kitsch’. Apart from being a specialized French patisserie, the owner’s love for French bulldogs also comes as brand identity, portraying a playful yet elegant image to the cafe. The design aims to enhance this image together with the concept of ‘Kitsch’, a form of art that appreciates imperfection through architecture elements and materials, which refers to an imperfect shape of ‘croissant’.
The French cathedral is taken as a primary reference to the design, where rhythmic arches are developed. Instead of symmetrical arches, imperfect arches of different scales are used. The design started from a perfect rectangular mass, rendered imperfect by carving out imperfect arches on the first level and inverted imperfect arches on the second level. On the first floor, these arches embrace visitors with their antique yet modern looks, creating shadows along the path. When light passes through the arched window, it creates reflections on the floor, similar to that of cathedral glass. The oversized, imperfect arch also creates a continuous space from the counter to the second floor, highlighting the full-function counter, allowing it to be seen from both floors. On the second floor, voids are carved into the inverted curves, allowing sunlight to enter while acting as a shading device.
By using textured concrete, it strengthens the concept of perfection of imperfection, where the wall is not completely smooth, but it reflects the authenticity of the material which can be beautiful by itself. Moreover, by using concrete as the main material, the furniture, decorations, and LED lights are made outstanding, emphasizing the imperfect arch curves within the tunnel space, creating a strong memorable image of the cafe.
Design Team: Pitchaya Tiyapitsanupaisal / Tanita Panjawongroj / Thanunya Deeprasittikul / Matucha Kanpai
Civil Engineer: Chittinat Wongmaneeprateep
M&E Engineer: Yodchai kornsiriwipha x Isarapap Rattanabumrung
Contractor: Samma Construction
Photography: Metipat Prommomate, Anan Naruphantawat

The main design concept of French Kitsch III is developed by interpreting its name; ‘French’ and ‘Kitsch’. Apart from being a specialized French patisserie, the owner’s love for French bulldogs also comes as brand identity, portraying a playful yet elegant image to the cafe. The design aims to enhance this image together with the concept of ‘Kitsch’, a form of art that appreciates imperfection through architecture elements and materials, which refers to...
- Year 2023
- Work started in 2022
- Work finished in 2023
- Status Completed works
- Type Bars/Cafés / Interior Design
- Websitehttp://www.toucharchitect.com/
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