Renowned for its warm and tactile approach to design, multidisciplinary studio Cúpla has opened a new office space bridging the gap between commercial and residential interiors.
With workplace interiors becoming closer in aesthetic to those of residential developments, Cúpla’s new studio is a great example of how to find the right balance of functionality and style. Staying true to its warm and sensorial approach to design, the interior is reminiscent of a luxurious apartment, making it an inviting place to work and visit. Added to this, with clients able to drop by, it immediately offers a snapshot of the studio’s creative identity – a real-life, visual portfolio, if you will.
Located in the historic Mission Hall of Brackenbury, which after being built in the 1880s as a Sunday School went on to become a working men’s club and then an artist’s studio, the compact space has been optimised through the team’s creative expertise to become a hub for the interior and product design projects the team are working on. “I envisioned the studio as a reflection of our vibrant and warm approach,” states Cúpla’s Founder and Creative Director, Gemma McCloskey. “With its eclectic mix of art and objects, much like what you might encounter when stepping into someone’s home, it has become a canvas to express our visual identity and create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone – far from the concept of a traditional office.”
The space has an inviting ambience thanks to the layers of texture, colour and pattern that complement the period features of the building itself. Warm lighting exists throughout, thanks to the studio’s recently launched Caramella lighting collection, with soft textiles such as rugs and curtains adding comfort. The interior also seamlessly blends a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces from external designers and brands. Rugs from Nordic Knots ground the space while sleek red chairs from HAY and vintage office chairs by Matteo Grassi add depth and colour and a wall-hung tapestry by Jules Pansu elevates the space even further.
With the Caramella collection immersed within, it allows visitors to easily visualise their application within a space and how they can be styled. “I carefully chose furniture that was both functional and aligned with our aesthetic,” says Gemma while explaining the reasons behind her design selections. “For storage, I wanted something timeless and adaptable hence I chose the USM modular system which will evolve with us as we grow.” The office desks within the space are dining tables that have been customised to incorporate cable trays and grommets for functionality. “The use of residential furniture helps to keep the space functional while giving it a lived-in and homely feel,” she continues.
Looking ahead, Gemma envisions the space to be utilised in many ways while also facilitating the launch of Club Cúpla – a series of supper clubs and events bringing together like-minded creatives and individuals. “Our studio is the ideal setting for these intimate gatherings while offering a welcoming atmosphere that reflects who we are and provides a unique way to socialise,” she explains. “It has also given the Cúpla team a place they truly want to be. While remote working has become the norm, we understand the importance of us coming together as often as possible, so I wanted the studio to feel special and a space people are excited to come to.” And, in seeing the meticulous curation within the space, we’re inclined to agree – it certainly is a special place to work. Hoping to grow at a rate that aligns with the studio’s sensitive approach, Gemma concludes, “It provides us a strong foundation to collaborate closely and work hands-on with each project, ensuring we stay true to our vision.”
Images courtesy of Cúpla.
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