Arches and Portal, SAGA Bakery by Upper Room Collaborative Studio

Saga Bakery, a family business in Jayapura for three generations, recently rebranded its flagship location to become a city icon, and aims to be Papua’s first national-class bakery while staying familiar to loyal customers. Located at a mall entrance, its glass façade and prime position make it a standout. The design features arches and portals inspired by classical architecture, symbolizing the brand’s historic strength, but reimagined in a sleek, colorful, modern style.

These architectural elements optimize sunlight while protecting bakery products. Zoning uses portals for display and flow, guiding customers through sequential spaces to the main pastry area. The interior contrasts bright red, brick, wood, and stone, bending these rigid materials into fluid arches. Due to limited local expertise, the bakery was fabricated in Jakarta, shipped, and assembled in Jayapura in four weeks. Since reopening, profits have risen by 50%, and Saga Bakery is now recognized as a modern city icon.