DESIGN | Zen Den

DESIGN | Zen Den

17 JUN

Los Angeles-based Whitney Brown and Carlos Naude are partners in life and work. The creative minds behind Working Holiday Studio have recently completed their latest project, Zen Den, a serene residence and “shoppable” showroom.

The creative vision for the 1960s ranch-style home restoration was inspired by Japanese and Scandinavian design with Mexican influences. Partnering with brands aligned with their ethos and aesthetic, the space has been carefully curated with unique pieces that guests can purchase online or through an onsite iPad.

The black exterior of the Zen Den.
A before and after shot of the house.

Before and after of the Zen Den.

Are there any particular architectural or design styles you've taken cues from?

We are long time fans of Luis Barragan (Mexican architect) and Tadao Ando (Japanese architect). Both designers build bold, geometric spaces and play with natural light. We both have a love for post-modern and Japandi design.

The sleek black and grey kitchen.
2 images. 1: A bed dressed in the Linen Duvet Cover Set in Smoke Gray. Next to the bed is a ceramic vase with dried flowers and a sconce on the wall. Above the bed is an artwork. 2. A wooden console at the end of the bed against a wall. On the console is a few decor pieces including a gray and white lamp. There is also an artwork hanging above.

Shop the Look: Linen Duvet Cover Set in Smoke Gray.

How is the experience of transforming an existing space different from building one from scratch?

Transforming an existing space feels like you’re doing something commendable. You’re breathing new life into a space while preserving its history and extending its life.

Shop the Look: Twin Duvet Cover Set in Smoke Gray.

The living space. There is a window with sheer white curtains, a black fireplace, hanging widescreen tv above a long, black console. There is a white lounge chair in the corner and a round coffee table.
A moody shot of a bed dressed in the Linen Duvet Cover Set in Olive. Above the bed is a large tasseled artwork.

What does creativity mean to you and where do you source your inspiration?

I think creativity is using your own life experiences and influences to invent and make something using whatever devices are available to you. We mainly source our inspiration through travel and art. We love museums like Dia Beacon, Chi Chu and Louisiana in Copenhagen

1. A green tiled bathtub with a sky light above. 2. A sink on a terrazzo tiled bench. There is an archway mirror on the wall and the Pure Linen Hand Towel hanging on a small rail.

Shop the Look: Pure Linen Bath Towel and Hand Towel.

Shop the Look: Linen Waffle Robe in Black.

Outdoor seating of the Zen Den.

Visit Working Holiday Studio

@workingholidaystudio / @workingholidayspaces
www.workingholidaystudio.com

Shop Zen Den

www.zenden.house

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