Breadsong

When he couldn’t choose between opening a bakery or a steakhouse, Breadsong owner Hans Hess decided to open both. WRD Architects helped bring this dual-concept restaurant to life at the Carmel Crossroads. With only 2,100 square feet to work with, we created a charming space that functions as a casual bakery in the morning and transforms into a formal steakhouse in the evening.

The project involved a complete interior and exterior remodel. The outdated siding was replaced with straight-grain, clear pine, giving the building a natural and understated façade. Eccentric window casings were swapped for thin wooden trim, making the windows appear larger and allowing more light into the space.

Entering through the front, guests are greeted by display cases filled with bread and pastries, along with a sandwich counter and espresso station. Farther inside, a striking full-service bar connects the bakery to the indoor dining area. The dining space features cool marble tables and elevated leather booths, all crowned by a warped, mirrored ceiling that completes the experience.