BUMO
Location
Los Angeles, CA
Year
2021
Size
4.000
sf
BUMO
The project consisted of the development of a new, blended coworking and childcare concept. In some ways, it was two separate projects in one, with a focus on creating both best-in-class work and childcare environments. The real disruptive promise of Bumo was putting those two things together, and the design looked to maximize the advantages of this important adjacency.
The 4,000 SF project included an extensive storefront facade, shared reception, a variety of flexible work and conference spaces on the coworking side, as well as specialized infant, toddler and childcare support spaces.
experience.
From the moment you enter Bumo, the focus on member experience is apparent and extends to all members of Bumo – large and small. While most spaces in the world overlook the perspective of children (try kneeling in a crowded airport sometime), this project sought to design from their view (early design renderings were purposely done from toddler eye level). As a result, design attention was focused at lower levels on the care side – below the 48” high datum that runs throughout the space. This lower band of the space includes colorful, patterned, custom wainscotting in the transition areas that invite curiosity and exploration, as well as interactive play and sensory areas in the toddler and infant rooms. This datum concept is reversed on the work side, where brand colors define the upper soffits and ceilings. The two datums overlap at the shared reception – clearly illustrating the interlocking nature of the two parts of the program, while simultaneously providing a clear path for each group to follow.
design.
Bumo 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 Coworking and Childcare have been developed separately and occasionally thrown together as an afterthought, the design challenge was to maximize the potential of their close proximity without sacrificing the functioning of either. This meant carefully balancing security with easy access for nursing or a parent/child lunch break – providing those opportunities for connection without compromising the separation needed for focused work and concentration. In some ways, the two components of Bumo wanted to be both right next door and miles apart at the same time.
brand.
Bumo 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, including colors, materials, graphic patterns, and signage. One of the overall goals of the brand is to present a new spin on both childcare and coworking, and incorporating the branding elements was a key tool in building the desired freshness and whimsy into the interior environment.
Project Team
Josh Heitler, Kimberly M. Coca, Suncica Jasarovic, Monica Sidaross, Ali Dian, Cara Sy
