Nestled on the east side of Austin, this cupcake shop is the second location of Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop, a local Austin bakery. They’re best known for their beautiful custom cakes, delicious cupcakes and other sweet treats (along with winning Cupcake Wars!), but their Eastside shop also offers cheeseboards, wine, cocktails, and beer on tap. Although this project was largely budget-driven, we think the final result turned out super sweet.

Several tricks were used to keep this project budget-friendly. While VCT tiles don’t always have the best reputation in the design world, they can be a good low-cost option when used creatively. This gingham pattern is a throwback to 1950s retro diner-style and the checkerboard floors of the original Sugar Mama’s. It’s also super low maintenance which is a huge bonus for this family friendly establishment.

In the back of the space, we used a fun chandelier to add a little pop of their signature cherry red color as a focal point in the dining area. All lighting is LED and compact fluorescent to keep up with the City of Austin’s energy efficiency standards, which also helps the owners save on their electricity costs. Also adding to the interior light is the transom window in the back of the space; it was almost omitted, but we were determined to keep it in! We think it highlights the art and texture on the back wall just perfectly.

Some of the design was sourced by the owners themselves, who hired a local graphic designer to create a custom graphic and exterior neon sign. A local furniture fabricator also designed the cute wood-turned tables, and we sourced the Vienna Chairs from Crate & Barrel as an attractive, affordable option for the dining space. If you live in Austin, be sure to stop by Sugar Mama’s East for one of their beautiful and delectable desserts and drinks; they’re open until 10pm almost every day. Many thanks to Mario Carlin Management for helping us make their new little bakery beautiful!

Design: Allison Burke Interior Design
Photography: Hannah Berryhill