Okay Humans
Location
Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Year
2021
Size
2,150
sf
Photography
Clark Dugger Photography
Okay Humans
The project consisted of the concept design and first location implementation for a new, industry disrupting talk therapy concept. The design goals were to create a welcoming and dynamic space to help support a unique and updated therapy experience. The 2,150 SF project located in Brentwood, LA included reception, retail, lounge, treatment suites and BOH support spaces.
experience.
From the moment you enter, okay human’s core mission is clearly reinforced — this is not your parents’ therapy office and the experience has been improved at every step. The bright and open reception area features carefully curated and displayed retail items that can help support emotional wellness. From there, clients move around a curved wall to find a protected inner lounge that features comfortable seating and a tea service area. The path from storefront door to the lounge is an intentional journey that allows clients to begin to transition from the hustle and bustle of the outside street to a calmer and quieter environment conducive to therapy. The treatment suites are the end destination of the transformation and feature calm, comfortable interiors that reinforce a sense of safety and privacy.
design.
Okay humans is exactly the kind of project we love – partnering with a client who is intentionally trying to disrupt an industry and create something entirely new and ownable. While this led us to carefully consider all aspects of the client experience, the therapy suites where the clients would spend the majority of their time were an important focus. The core of the suite design was a continuous curved, textured, felt wall panel that was nicknamed “the hug”. In addition to its practical acoustical function, the hug conceptually holds and connects the therapist and client together creating a safe and private space for conversation that envelops and unifies the separate seating elements.
brand.
Okay humans presented a great opportunity to develop a physical design concept in parallel with the evolution of the overall brand and graphic identities. Through close collaboration, core elements of the identity which are featured in their print, web, and collateral materials were seamlessly integrated into the interior design in colors, materials, graphic patterns and signage. One of the overall goals of the brand is to make something traditionally dreaded – a trip to the therapist – a more enjoyable and positive experience. Incorporating the branding elements was a key tool in building the desired playfulness and whimsy into the interior environment. One good example would be the use of text that becomes a surprise and delight moment in the bathroom and client area of the treatment suites.
Project Team
Josh Heitler, Kimberly Coca, Nicole Elman, Evan Kotzen, Carol Zhang
