BEAM Aesthetic Lounge - Project Reveal
We could not be more excited about the reveal of our very first commercial project, BEAM Aesthetic Lounge. My client and good friend, Lizette Ludwig, originally brought me on to select lighting and reception seating. Once the space planning team started putting together their recommendations and the need for selections began adding up, Lizette asked if I would take on a larger role in the project. I was flattered she was willing to give this newer designer a chance at a project so special to her and was equal parts terrified that I might completely screw it up. What did I know about medical spas and commercial codes? Of course, I was going to make it happen. Lizette's faith in me and the incredible team at SoCal Tenant Improvements made this project one I will never forget.
Lizette wanted a space that felt calming and serene; a space her clients would look forward to visiting. She wanted minimalism with a bit of glam and very little "stuff". Not overly styled, simply a space that was the style all on its own. We utilized texture and form in lieu of art. A space that intersects functionality and aesthetics. BEAM Aesthetic Lounge is a space of its own and one we are incredibly proud of.
The Concept:
- Make the space feel larger than it is. At just 720 square feet, we got creative to make the best use of every square inch.
- Create 3 treatment rooms, one nurse's station, a break room as well as a comfortable and inviting reception area.
- Add custom elements that are not only aesthetically pleasing but functional as well.
- Keep things minimal but not empty.
The Process:
- This space was used as storage and overflow for the neighboring dental practice, so it really wasn't built out at all. We first knocked down every wall and opened the space up as much as possible. We spent weeks creating a solution to get the ceilings up to nearly 9 feet; THIS WAS NO EASY TASK. Commercial spaces require a completely different setup for HVAC, fire safety, plumbing, electrical and lighting. Fortunately, our contractors were as solution focused as we were and found a way to bring the ceilings up as high as possible. This made the biggest difference in creating a more spacious feel throughout the space.
- We made decisions at the structural level to create the illusion of a larger space. For instance, we opted for pocket doors which would go all the way up to the ceiling to create the illusion of a larger space. We chose oversized door hardware for this same purpose.
- We wanted arches in the space, yet did not want to sacrifice any of the height we had gained bringing the ceilings up. Instead, we worked with our cabinet fabricator to custom make a built in bookshelf with an arched design.
- We designed a reception desk with fluted wood details and had our fabricator continue those details on the sides of the large, built-in cabinet for a cohesive look.
- We designed a floating oak bench for the reception area with channel tufted upholstery, made from Crypton fabric for maximum durability.
- We worked with Walls Republic to find the most perfect, textured wallpaper for our feature wall above the floating bench.
- Knowing we did not want much art on the walls, we selected a limewash paint from Portola Paints to create texture and dimension.
- We removed the existing carpet and refinished the concrete floors for a truly natural finish.
Check out some images of the space before and during construction!
We could go on and on about the details of this beautiful space!
Our vision for BEAM was inspired by the fusion of nature's rejuvenating elements and the sophistication of contemporary design. Drawing inspiration from the calming hues of nature, we curated a palette of soft neutrals, texture and organic materials to evoke a sense of tranquility.
This space is one you really have to experience yourself. If you're local to the Manhattan Beach area, check out BEAM Aesthetic Lounge! Tell Lizette we sent you ;)
