Amber Lewis, a renowned interior designer, famously adverse to corporate office environments, has made a significant transformation in her approach due to her expanding team’s need for a new space. Originally located in a charming, 1,500-square-foot space in Calabasas, California, Lewis sought a new office that married corporate functionality with homey aesthetics. When she found a location that offered creative freedom in renovations, abundant natural light, and a wraparound deck, her perspective on corporate spaces shifted, finding a newfound appreciation for them.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Amber Lewis
Location: Calabasas, California
Paint: Dunn Edwards
Drapery: Interior Specialties
Rugs: Marc Phillips and Loloi
Furniture Collaboration: Four Hands
Upon securing the ideal location, Lewis embarked on a significant renovation to inject her signature relaxed style into the office. One of her first actions was to open up the ceilings, adding height and leaving the ductwork exposed, which imparted an informal energy to the space. The walls were painted a warm white using Pueblo by Dunn Edwards, and sheer drapery was utilized to add subtle depth to the stark architecture. To define different office zones, every door and piece of millwork were painted in Heather, another Dunn Edwards choice.
In designing her office’s living room, Lewis aimed for a space that echoed the coziness of a residential home. It serves as a casual hub for emails and client meetings, reminiscent of a home’s comfort rather than the sterility often associated with corporate settings. Similarly, the office kitchen was designed with home-inspired warmth, functioning as both a gathering spot and a visually pleasing work area. Starting from scratch, Lewis customized the kitchen with hidden, durable elements, paneled appliances, and marble countertops. An antique island, long stored in her warehouse, became a centerpiece, embodying her preference for pieces that improve with age.
The conference room received special attention to ensure it fostered a warm and inviting atmosphere, steering away from typical corporate coldness. With plush seating and expansive views, it offers a serene setting for meetings. To enhance its cozy appeal, Lewis incorporated textiles and drapery from Interior Specialties to soften the space. Nearby, she positioned the sample library strategically opposite floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring natural light floods the area for accurate color and material viewing. Custom cabinetry and an island facilitate easy exploration and creative experimentation for both her team and clients.
Balancing her love for vintage with modern functionality, Lewis innovatively designed “the pit,” an area filled with custom wooden desks secured to the floor. These cleverly conceal all computer chargers and cords, maintaining a clutter-free environment—an integral aspect of Lewis’s design ethos. The rolling chairs, a result of her collaboration with Four Hands, add to the space’s homely feel. Her personal office, a spacious room at the back, echoes this home-away-from-home philosophy by incorporating a large dining table as her desk and ample seating for her team to gather, underscoring her approachability and open-door policy.
Throughout her office, Lewis thoughtfully uses sheer drapes to soften windows and diffuse lighting, creating a consistent, calming ambience. Rugs from Marc Phillips and Loloi further accentuate the office’s warmth and personality, underscoring her commitment to creating an inviting workplace that blends residential comfort with corporate efficiency. Her adept combination of practicality, aesthetics, and personal style transforms her workspace into a reflection of her unique design sensibilities, suggesting that the corporate realm can indeed feel personal and welcoming.
