Los Angeles design collective Mouthwash Studio (MW.S) has introduced its maiden office in Chinatown. MW.S enlisted fellow LA firm Aunt Studio to help realize an inspiring and authentic atmosphere grounded in a collaborative spirit. “We wanted a space that felt like an extension of ourselves—a place where creativity, collaboration, and community could thrive,” MW.S says in a statement to Workplace Design. “This neighborhood resonates with our studio’s spirit—it’s a creative hub that blends old and new, where history and culture mix in the most unexpected ways.”
Nearly a dozen local artists and designers contributed to the project—even former tenant PAA lent its support leaving behind focal points like an L-shaped counter and a wall divider of glass blocks. A triple-layer curtain heralds visitors into the cozy workplace, which includes a lounge on one end anchored by a richly textured coffee table and a five-legged side table. Opposite is a large walnut curio equipped with a phone booth, a platform, and oversized steps showcasing a range of sculptures and decor. “Every material serves to connect us to the broader design community and reflects the eclectic, yet thoughtful, energy that we strive to put into everything we create,” MW.S continues. “The art on the walls and the objects throughout the space are meant to spark conversation and ideas.”
Beside the living room, the dining room and bar are ensconced by the translucent glass blocks as well as a mirrored wall. A tasselled fabric pendant illuminates a round table also used for meetings, while the blue cylindrical bar imbues a pop of bold color. Reflective surfaces like steel and mirror engage a dialogue of light and texture in the kitchen, contrasted by antique copper fixtures. The juxtaposition of soft and hard materials defines the workspace, beyond which yellow theater curtains filter the afternoon sun into a warm crystalline glow piercing the dividing wall. “We approached the workspace with intentionality, keeping spaces small and cozy to encourage natural dialogue and collaboration. Creativity needs space to breathe, to wander, and to play—and that’s exactly what we’ve built,” says MW.S. “Each room has its own atmosphere, from the quiet focus of the phone booth to the relaxed vibe of the living room and bar area. The materials, colors, and textures in the space invite interaction, and the arrangement of the rooms encourages natural collaboration.”
