In a mid-century Santa Monica warehouse, Los Angeles-based architecture firm 22RE applied its signature style to give golf clothing brand Malbon a new HQ
Los Angeles-based architecture and design practice 22RE is making waves far beyond its native West Coast. Known for a meticulous approach to materiality and a distinct, hyper-refined visual language, the practice has quickly garnered a worldwide reputation, partnering with acclaimed brands such as womenswear label Miaou and media company Ceremony of Roses.
The figurehead steering the studio’s bold ambition is Dean Levin, who founded 22RE in 2021. Since then, the practice has produced exquisitely designed interiors, and the firm’s latest creative endeavour in Santa Monica for chic golf clothing brand Malbon is no different. Impressed with 22RE’s signature style and bespoke detailing, Malbon tapped it for the creation of the company’s workspace in LA (the studio has also designed several of Malbon’s stores).
Levin describes the mid-century factory building, nestled west of the city, as having “great bones to work with”. The factory had lain untouched since 1968, but today it incorporates elements that reflect modern sensibilities and traditional craftsmanship, notably in the interior’s custom millwork, travertine features and mix of bespoke and vintage furniture.
“The office sits within the Santa Monica industrial area,” explains Levin. “While it still carries the raw, functional energy of the surrounding architecture, its proximity to the beach brings in the classic California coastal feel that Santa Monica is known for.”
The renovations began in 2004, when 22RE was tasked with designing a workspace that would promote a culture of collaboration and teamwork. Having undergone major alterations internally and externally over the years, the structure was in disrepair, but the architects sought to restore the mid-century building to its original glory.
“We leaned into the open, industrial feel of the space,” explains Levin. “It gave us a great foundation to create an environment that fosters collaboration, while also carving out pockets for focused, more intimate work.”
Inside, the office is arranged across five elegant workspaces, with bespoke desks and built-in shelving all courtesy of 22RE. A custom central unit caters to everyday office needs with a printing station and call room, while a vibrant lounge area features cosy, plush seating and offers a collaborative space for social interactions. Cocooned in warm woods with rich walnut detailing, the interior feels calm and considered, with curated inspiration and reference materials woven into the space to appeal to both employees and visitors. Built-in bench seating invites quiet reading, while accents of stainless steel, aluminium and travertine add a modern twist.
“Malbon sits at the intersection of heritage and modernity,” explains Levin. “The brand is rooted in classic golf culture, yet constantly pushing its style forward into new territory. We reflected this in our material choices: custom millwork, rich fabrics and metal detailing. We wanted it to feel familiar, yet with unexpected moments, and for the space to turn out as a distillation of the brand’s ethos.”
Illuminated with modernist classics and well-loved design icons – think Philippe Starck’s Desk Lamp, Tobia Scarpa’s Abatina and Joe Colombo’s Globe Table Lamp for Oluce – 22RE layered in a selection of exquisite vintage finds. Many pieces were sourced from a close-knit network of friends, international dealers and small boutique showrooms around Los Angeles. Other objects were found through 1stDibs and auction houses.
“Sourcing is always a very hands-on, organic process,” shares Levin of the studio’s approach to curating the distinctive mix of furniture and lighting. “The idea was to reflect a kind of West Coast eclecticism, something that feels both refined and relaxed. We imagined someone well-travelled returning home, filling the space with pieces that had inspired them along the way. Even though it’s an office space, we wanted to maintain an element of familiarity and comfort. We wanted to strike a note that’s elegant, personal and effortlessly mixed.”
Balancing the demands of a contemporary workplace with the character of a modernist factory in a historic part of town, 22RE has beautifully paired the building’s industrial bones with a softer, tactile interior. The result is a thoughtfully crafted and mellow space, merging the sentiments of mid-century modern with natural materials. Designed to bring people together and support a more considered way of working, Malbon’s new home reflects the natural ease and soulful warmth of the West Coast with plenty of laid-back charm.
Photography by Yoshihiro Makino
This story was originally featured in OnOffice 172, Autumn 2025. Discover similar stories by subscribing to our weekly newsletter here
