5 ROWS x 32 COLUMNS
34.2″ x 93.4″ x 5”
Black Sheet Metal Casing
Stock Font and Custom Logo Flaps
Stock Software
Installed 2024
When the historic Helms Bakery reopened in Culver City, it marked the return of a cherished local icon. First established in 1931, Helms was renowned for its fresh-baked goods delivered door-to-door in distinctive yellow coaches. After closing its doors in 1969, the bakery remained a symbol of community and craftsmanship, remembered fondly by generations. Its revival is led by Chef and Restauranteur, Chef Sang Yoon, honoring the bakery’s legacy, bringing back the spirit of Helms Bakery while reimagining it for a new era.
The redesign of the bakery’s space blends timeless charm with modern elegance, offering an inviting atmosphere that reflects Helms’ storied past. Anchored by an open kitchen, the space draws guests into the baking process, creating a sense of connection and anticipation. Every detail, from the mid-century, industrial coffee house aesthetic to the thoughtful layout, is designed to honor the bakery’s heritage while ensuring it feels fresh and relevant to today’s patrons.
At the heart of the space is our custom Split Flap display, designed to add a layer of interaction and nostalgia that resonates with the bakery’s mission. Suspended above the open kitchen, the display announces what’s emerging from the ovens, from warm sourdough loaves to seasonal pies. Helms also uses the sign to display info about the bakery’s history, promote their branding, and boost their social media channels. The rhythmic “click-clack” of the flaps turning adds a sensory dimension that draws guests’ attention and enhances the experience of visiting Helms Bakery.
The Split Flap is more than just a sign – it’s a dynamic storytelling device that blends functionality with delight. Its timeless design evokes the nostalgia of vintage departure boards while captivating a younger audience unfamiliar with its origins.
The Split Flap display at Helms Bakery is a celebration of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of a space that honors its history while looking forward. By connecting patrons to the sights, sounds, and stories of Helms Bakery, the display transforms every visit into a moment worth savoring.
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