Winsome

Housed in William Perreira’s mid-century building, Winsome is the public’s entrance into an iconic Los Angeles architect’s work. Working in close collaboration with the owners, Med Abrous and Marc Rose, our intent was to create a space that we felt could have existed there in the 60’s and 70’s but in an updated and, hopefully, timeless manner. Winsome is meant to be a café where one can come any time of day and feel comfortable in a space that feels warm, welcoming and unpretentious while also being interesting. To achieve this we focused on warmer material choices such as white oak, burnished brass, glazed brick and artisan-created cement tile. Taking cues from the large 1970s ceramic installation and tiles from the building’s original café, we commissioned custom handmade tiles on the outdoor tables by artist Tony Brown. We also created a lower curved bar with fixed stools echoing the lunch counters of old Hollywood. Furthering this diner inspiration, the built-in fixtures incorporate mid-century modern furniture design elements and indoor tabletops in Formica, selected for it’s humble character and durability. Finally, the outdoor patio is cozy and lush, surrounded by vines, greenery and a bonsai centerpiece, appointed by landscape designer, Tory Palone.