Ben Adams Studio, Los Angeles: Open, Bespoke, Enquiring.

What does a building mean culturally and socially? How and why do particular forms and typologies pervade? Why are particular materials appropriate while others are not? How does research inform policy and in return frame the limitations of architectural practice? These are the sorts of questions that fuel the dialogue at Ben Adams Studio. 

The practice likes handmade buildings. They immerse themselves in research, interrogating the potential of projects and staff. They employ architects who enjoy creating architecture that allows the stories of everyday life to be told. 

The firm recently exported its expertise honed by 15 years of working in central London to Los Angeles, a newer city that sits at a fulcrum in its history; from an extrovert and expansive beginning to a more intense, urban and uniquely Angelino future. “For us it’s just exciting to be part of a city where there’s still discussions about key factors that form a city like transport and density,” says Studio Director Charlotte Docherty. 

Currently located in a co-working space in Downtown LA, close to most of their prospective clients, technology has become king while the practice finds its feet on Californian soil. Agility is a company trait that is proving particularly useful while ideas flow digitally across different time zones. Staff members are encouraged to come to the table with their own designs, with regular project discussions to keep everyone aware of what’s going on. The ‘Friday lecture’ is another opportunity for staff to share in a broader culture that is of benefit to staff on both sides of the Atlantic.

With high-calibre clients like Nobu Hotels under its belt, which recently opened its first European outpost in London, the studio is in a strong position to make an impact on LA. Its experience working with existing buildings informs the core aspirations of its operations in Los Angeles. And with new materials and styles to consider, the firm is gearing up for the next level of freedom and expression as it flexes its creative muscles on the West Coast.