© Ralf Strathmann
© Ralf Strathmann
Sonos Studio, designed by RA-DA, is a new showroom in the La Brea Art and Design District of Los Angeles that fits right into the cultural landscape of contemporary art, design and music. The client, Sonos - a wireless speak company - commissioned this space to transform into a nighttime music venue. The goal of the design, and the vision that guided the conceptual framework for the project, was to showcase the best possible listening experience for a range of programs from lectures and workshops to film screenings, concerts, listening parties and dance parties.
© Ralf Strathmann
The 4,000 square foot venue includes design features such as seven-degree slanted gallery walls and acoustic ceiling tiles that enhance the sound within the space. It took several schematic iterations to develop the ideas and methods for the best acoustic quality. RA-DA experimented with all types of acoustically rated materials such as felt, foam panels and hanging baffles. One such iteration was a wave-like form that undulated through the ceiling of the space. The final design features red and black foam tile prisms that can be read as a heat map that guides users through the different areas of the studio.
Reflected Ceiling Plan; Courtesy of RA-DA
But sound is not the studio's only concern. The mixed use space also features a gourmet coffee bar, art installations, and skateboard lending library. It is a space that caters to the eyes, ears and tastes of Los Angeles. The variety its uses allows it to be a community space that is open to a range of users. The space is carefully designed and laid out with custom-built furniture. The front of the gallery is an open area plan that features a media display wall, several lounge spaces, conference table, pantry and coffee bar, skateboard lending library and gallery wall that makes for a mix of formal and informal programming use. A separate room feature a demo/listening area. Towards the back are restrooms, offices and storage areas.
