My Cake Theory
Vibrant Indulgence
Location
Eastern Market, Washington DC
Sector / Use
Commercial
Project Type
Assembly
Restaurant
Bistro
Scope
Alterations
Conversion
Date
2017
Construction Cost
$320K
Design Team
Architecture | RH+ARCH studio
Electrical Engineering | DDG Virginia
Mechanical & Plumbing Engineering | DDG Virginia
Role
Architect of Record
Project Designer
Services Provided
Pre-Design
Schematic Design
Construction Documentation
General Contractor Negation / Bidding
Permitting
Construction Administration
Project Narrative
Located in the historic Eastern Market district of Washington, DC, My Cake Theory reimagines a 1,600-square-foot ground-floor space within a late-19th-century townhouse as a vibrant, contemporary boutique bakery experience. The design transforms a compact, historically constrained interior into an inviting destination that reflects the energy, creativity, and delight of the brand.
Working within the limitations of the existing structure, the design approach embraced constraint as an opportunity—carefully reconfiguring the space to improve flow, visibility, and customer engagement while preserving the character of the historic shell. The result is a layout that feels open, intuitive, and highly experiential within a modest footprint.
Central to the concept is a bold and expressive color palette, used strategically to create a sense of warmth, playfulness, and visual identity. Saturated tones and layered textures animate the space, guiding movement and highlighting key moments—from display to ordering to seating. The interior becomes an extension of the product itself—bright, memorable, and crafted to evoke a sense of joy.
Material selections and detailing strike a balance between old and new, allowing the historic framework to remain legible while introducing contemporary elements that elevate the overall experience. Lighting, finishes, and display strategies work together to create a cohesive environment that enhances both functionality and brand presence.
The result is a dynamic retail environment that transforms a traditional townhouse into a lively neighborhood destination—where architecture and brand converge to create an experience as distinctive as the product it serves.
