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Case Study: Acoustic Transformation at Mychal’s Café, Redondo Beach, CA

Arktura recently partnered with Mychal’s Café to enhance the acoustic quality of their new location in Redondo Beach, CA. Mychal’s Café is a social enterprise run by Mychal’s Learning Place, a local non-profit organization that provides valuable employment opportunities to youth with developmental disabilities while creating a warm, welcoming dining experience for the community.
As a workplace for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, Mychal’s Café needed an environment that fosters clear communication and a comfortable dining atmosphere. The challenge was to improve acoustics without disrupting the functionality or aesthetic appeal of the space. Arktura applied its expertise in architectural acoustics to address these needs, resulting in a space that is both functional and visually pleasing.

To achieve this, Arktura selected its SoftGrid® Rosette acoustic ceiling system, a biophilic design made from the proprietary Soft Sound® material. The system, shaped like a floral arrangement, was chosen for its ability to complement the existing design of the café. Installed in a Duo-Color finish, pairing clean white with a natural wood-look texture, the acoustic clouds provided much-needed sound absorption while enhancing the visual appeal of the café.
Arktura supported the project from start to finish, creating layout plans and 3D visualizations to ensure that the space had optimal coverage and acoustic performance. The installation process was seamless, and the results were immediate. Baristas and café staff reported a noticeable improvement in communication with customers, which significantly improved the overall atmosphere for both employees and patrons.
"Before Arktura installed the modules, our baristas couldn’t hear customers across the counter from them, but now it’s the perfect place to connect with friends and see how capable and able our staff truly is,” – Page Sacks, Development Director – Mychal’s Learning Place.
This transformation improved working conditions for the staff, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, while also enhancing the dining experience for customers. The result is a space that is not only acoustically optimized but also more inviting and enjoyable.


At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Ed Lynch, Executive Director and Founder of Mychal’s Learning Place, emphasized the importance of the organization’s mission—to support youth and young adults with developmental disabilities by providing a safe, inclusive environment for building independence and achieving personal goals. Mychal’s offers programs for youths aged 13-22 to develop social and independent living skills, as well as job training and employment opportunities for young adults aged 18-30.

Visit Mychal’s Café:

2302 Artesia Blvd.
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Learn more about Mychal’s Café at www.mychals.org/mychals-cafe/ and find out more about Mychal’s Learning Place, including ways to donate or volunteer, at www.mychals.org.
Source: Arktura
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Case Study: Acoustic Transformation at Mychal’s Café, Redondo Beach, CA

By Workscape Designs
Arktura recently partnered with Mychal’s Café to enhance the acoustic quality of their new location in Redondo Beach, CA. Mychal’s Café is a social enterprise run by Mychal’s Learning Place, a local non-profit organization that provides valuable employment opportunities to youth with developmental disabilities while creating a warm, welcoming dining experience for the community.
As a workplace for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, Mychal’s Café needed an environment that fosters clear communication and a comfortable dining atmosphere. The challenge was to improve acoustics without disrupting the functionality or aesthetic appeal of the space. Arktura applied its expertise in architectural acoustics to address these needs, resulting in a space that is both functional and visually pleasing.

To achieve this, Arktura selected its SoftGrid® Rosette acoustic ceiling system, a biophilic design made from the proprietary Soft Sound® material. The system, shaped like a floral arrangement, was chosen for its ability to complement the existing design of the café. Installed in a Duo-Color finish, pairing clean white with a natural wood-look texture, the acoustic clouds provided much-needed sound absorption while enhancing the visual appeal of the café.
Arktura supported the project from start to finish, creating layout plans and 3D visualizations to ensure that the space had optimal coverage and acoustic performance. The installation process was seamless, and the results were immediate. Baristas and café staff reported a noticeable improvement in communication with customers, which significantly improved the overall atmosphere for both employees and patrons.
"Before Arktura installed the modules, our baristas couldn’t hear customers across the counter from them, but now it’s the perfect place to connect with friends and see how capable and able our staff truly is,” – Page Sacks, Development Director – Mychal’s Learning Place.
This transformation improved working conditions for the staff, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, while also enhancing the dining experience for customers. The result is a space that is not only acoustically optimized but also more inviting and enjoyable.


At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Ed Lynch, Executive Director and Founder of Mychal’s Learning Place, emphasized the importance of the organization’s mission—to support youth and young adults with developmental disabilities by providing a safe, inclusive environment for building independence and achieving personal goals. Mychal’s offers programs for youths aged 13-22 to develop social and independent living skills, as well as job training and employment opportunities for young adults aged 18-30.

Visit Mychal’s Café:

2302 Artesia Blvd.
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Learn more about Mychal’s Café at www.mychals.org/mychals-cafe/ and find out more about Mychal’s Learning Place, including ways to donate or volunteer, at www.mychals.org.
Source: Arktura
1. The Power of First Impressions
Ever walked into a place and thought, "Whoa, these folks are in the future!"? That's what a modern workspace can do. It sets the stage, impressing potential clients and partners before you’ve even shaken hands. Remember that chic startup office with stunning lobby art and cutting-edge tech in every corner? Bet you instantly associated them with innovation and success.
2. Promoting Employee Well-being
Now, let's get to the real champs – your employees. Offering them a swanky break room or an ergonomic chair isn’t just a cool perk. It’s a message that you care. An investment in their well-being. Happy, relaxed minds are productivity powerhouses, after all.
Our team recently worked on a workspace redesign, and the changes we saw post-revamp were nothing short of extraordinary. Employees were more relaxed, took fewer sick days, and collaboration spiked. The key? We made well-being a design priority, considering every element – from natural lighting to spacious desk setups.
Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
Open spaces, colorful breakout zones, and comfy couch corners – what do they all have in common? They’re collaboration goldmines. Casual spaces often spark the most unexpected and brilliant brainstorming sessions. Imagine two team members casually chatting over coffee, and BAM! The next big idea is born.
Flexibility and Scalability
Growing fast? Congratulations! But is your office growing with you? Modern workspaces understand the dynamic nature of businesses today. They’re modular, adaptable, and can easily adjust to the changing tides of business. And if you ever need to pivot or diversify, a flexible workspace has got your back.
Integrating Technology Seamlessly
Tech is our trusty sidekick. But is tech embedded elegantly into your workspace? Now that's a superhero duo. Modern designs seamlessly integrate technology. So whether it's video conferencing tools, state-of-the-art presentation tech, or even advanced security systems, they’re all a part of the office ecosystem.
Reflecting on Brand Identity and Culture
Your workspace is more than just a place where work happens. It's a canvas, portraying your brand story. Incorporating brand colors, logos, and design motifs can make employees feel more connected. When a new recruit walks in, they should immediately feel your brand's vibes.
Sustainability: Good for Business and the Planet
Speaking of green, did you know that eco-friendly workspaces can be a reputation booster? Clients, partners, and employees are increasingly valuing sustainability. So when your office shouts, "We care for the planet!", you're not just saving on energy bills but also striking a chord with stakeholders.
Safety and Accessibility
Safety might sound boring, but it's non-negotiable. Modern office designs go beyond fire exits and first-aid kits. They factor in natural calamities, health outbreaks, and even everyday incidents. Plus, inclusivity is the name of the game. Ramps, wide corridors, accessible restrooms – because every employee deserves to feel comfortable and safe.
Wrapping Up
If there’s a single takeaway from our chat today, let it be this: Your workspace is a powerhouse. It’s not just about aesthetics or the latest trends. It’s about creating an environment that fuels business success, impresses stakeholders, and takes care of its inhabitants.
Next time you stroll through your office, give a thought to its potential. Is it just a space? Or is it the secret weapon waiting to catapult your business to greater heights?
Here's to spaces that inspire, empower, and succeed! Cheers!
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