Tracee ellis ross curates midcentury modern oasis for haircare brand

West Hollywood's design scene just got a major upgrade. Actress and producer Tracee Ellis Ross has meticulously crafted a workspace for her haircare brand, PATTERN Beauty, drawing inspiration from the iconic midcentury modern era. But transforming a space brimming with potential into a curated collection of design classics proved to be a unique challenge.

A personal collection across decades

Design Within Reach (DWR) was the key to realizing Ross’ vision. The retailer specializes in reproducing pieces from legendary midcentury brands like Knoll, Herman Miller, and Louis Poulsen – the very pieces that defined the era. DWR's commitment to authenticity was a major factor in Ross’ decision to enlist their expertise for the PATTERN Beauty office, which also houses Joy Mill Entertainment, her production company.

The office, nestled in West Hollywood, already boasts a wealth of midcentury architectural gems. However, the interior itself presented a blank canvas. “The space needed a lot of work,” admits Alyssa Lewis, lead designer on the project. “It was quite cold, and besides keeping some of the structural elements, such as the glass walls in the executive offices, conference rooms, and meeting spaces, we invested in a lot of touches that warmed up the environment.”

That involved a full kitchen renovation spearheaded by Reform, alongside new lighting and flooring. But the overall design wasn't a simple recreation of a vintage scene. Instead, Ross and Lewis opted for a thoughtful blend of pieces spanning the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, alongside contemporary designs. The result is a surprisingly cohesive and personal collection.

“The variety is what makes this project especially unique to DWR. It’s a deeply personal assortment of pieces from so many different decades,” Lewis explained. Ross, known for her impeccable fashion sense, was immediately drawn to the New Canaan Leatherwrap desk by Geiger, a furniture company founded in 1964. The art, sourced from PATTERN Beauty’s own campaign imagery, further cemented the brand's identity within the office.

The kitchen, centrally located and minimalist in design, reflects the era's rejection of excessive ornamentation. Featuring organic wood cabinetry, a Reform island, and HAY stools, it acts as a quiet celebration of midcentury simplicity. The lounge, adjacent to the cafe, offers a more relaxed space for employees. A projector embedded in the ceiling adds a modern touch, transforming the area into a dynamic hub for brainstorming and presentations.

The conference room, however, prioritized functionality with expansive windows softened by Maharam fabric, creating a focused environment. Lewis emphasized the importance of lighting, drapery, and rich organic tones in achieving a sense of calm and inspiration. Even the entrance area, designed to evoke a warm, residential feel, sets the tone for the entire workspace.

The color palette, rooted in ochre, caramel, toffee, mustard, sand, and tobacco hues, complemented by navy accents and Carrara marble, reinforces the brand's identity. The overall effect is not a nostalgic revival, but a vibrant, contemporary space that honors the spirit of midcentury modern design. Ross didn’t just create an office; she built a reflection of her brand’s ethos – a blend of heritage and forward-thinking vision.

The space isn't just visually appealing; it’s a testament to the enduring power of well-considered design. It’s a reminder that timeless style isn’t about replicating the past, but about weaving it into a narrative for the future.

The carefully curated collection—a testament to thoughtful design—is a statement in itself.