Lab Play expands to Los Angeles, merging workspace, library, and retail store under one innovative design
Fresh Take
Stepping into the world of multidisciplinary genius, PlayLab, we've got the scoop on their eye-catching new base in the heart of the LA Arts District. This creative powerhouse has collaborated with some heavy hitters - think A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and the late, great Virgil Abloh, just to name a few. They've also dabbled in partnerships with brand titans like Vans, Adidas, Louis Vuitton, and Fenty, to name a few.
With constant growth and evolution on their minds, the PlayLab crew has recently launched their stylish new digs. Archie Lee Coates IV, one of the co-founders, opens up about the inspiration behind their new space and the design journey they embarked upon.
The Story Behind the Space
W: What was the thought process behind building this new space? What makes it stand out?
ALC: At the end of the day, we wanted a studio that offered space to create, experiment, and grow. A place that felt enjoyable and motivating. We wanted the flexibility to move things around and adjust to our evolving needs. The final design combines a workshop area, a library, and a shop - all under one roof.
W: Who designed this unique space? Who was involved in the creative process?
ALC: Honestly, it was designed by the team here at PlayLab. We wanted to blend minimalist elegance with the potential for evolution and change. The result is an ever-adapting space that reflects our innovative spirit and boundary-pushing approach to design.
W: From the layout to furniture, can you give us a taste of what makes this space truly special?
ALC: One standout feature is the bar, which houses everything from bathrooms to storage, all neatly tucked away to service our flexible work area. The main work area is divided by massive bookshelves, where we store our archives. We also built a versatile wooden table that can double as a stage if needed.
Artwork from various projects, including select PlayLab furniture designs, inflatables from shoots with Louis Vuitton, and more, adorn the space. Our favorite piece? The Log, a relic that's traveled with us from studio to studio. It now has a prominent place on a beautiful plinth, surrounded by a painting of the log gifted by our friend Salehe Bembury.
There you have it - a peek into the design mastermind behind PlayLab's exciting new LA Arts District studio! As they continue to push boundaries and collaborate with the greatest in the industry, it's an experience worth checking out - be sure to stop by and soak up the creative energy for yourself.
1007 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, California 90021, US
- The PlayLab team designed their new studio, blending minimalist elegance and the potential for evolution, with a layout that includes a workshop area, a library, and a shop under one roof.
- The new PlayLab studio stands out for its unique features such as a multifunctional bar, versatile wooden table that can also serve as a stage, artwork from projects, and a repurposed relic called The Log, surrounded by a painting gifted by their friend Salehe Bembury.
