commercial Spaces
Fete Bistro by Slay
The Build Firm partnered with Theresa Fatino Designs to bring Chef David Slay’s vision of a French bistro to life, creating a space that feels both timeless and intimately connected to the heart of Downtown Manhattan Beach. The design centers around meticulously crafted millwork and custom glasswork, forming a spanning framed mirror wall that captures the warm energy of the dining room. At the bar, bespoke shelving designed and built by Matthew Clawson becomes a sculptural focal point, balancing craftsmanship with function. Hidden just out of sight, a layer of funky-monkey wallpaper adds a playful, mischievous touch—an inside secret that infuses the space with personality. Hand-selected marble countertops, finished with custom bullnose detailing and intentionally left unsealed, inviting the natural patina of daily life, echoing the character of a neighborhood bistro tucked along a Parisian street. The result is a dining environment that feels lived-in, loved, and distinctly crafted for the rhythm of community gathering.
X Speakeasy
The Build Firm partnered with a local restaurateur group to create a hidden destination in Downtown Manhattan Beach where an evening easily slips into a night of secrecy. Beyond the velvety curtains of Fête lies X Speakeasy, a refined hideaway designed to feel both theatrical and intimately concealed. Custom mirrors line the walls in striking leopard-print upholstered frames, catching the glow of the room and hinting at the mischief unfolding inside. Along the perimeter, soft fabric wall coverings depict a Japanese temple scene with wildlife emerging from the shadows—an unexpected texture that invites guests to trace their hands along the surface and discover yet another layer of intrigue. Throughout the space, bespoke millwork, specialty glasswork, and artisanal finishes shape the moody atmosphere, while cleverly concealed storage blends seamlessly into the architecture, preserving the speakeasy’s uninterrupted aesthetic. Massive quartz countertops anchor the bar, offering a modern counterpoint to the room’s eclectic character—and if you look closely, you may even find a pineapple or two, waiting as subtle symbols of welcome and whimsy. This project delivers a richly immersive environment designed for whispered conversations, dimly lit corners, and the irresistible feeling of stepping into a secret worth keeping.
Bombo
The Build Firm partnered with an Australian restaurateur group to reimagine the well-known EP & LP interior space in West Hollywood, transforming it into the vibrant modern Mexican restaurant, Bombo, located along iconic La Cienega Boulevard in Los Angeles. The primary design undertaking centered on an Australian-inspired stucco rendering design applied throughout the building, introducing a warm, textural character that defines the restaurant’s contemporary identity. Custom archways were thoughtfully crafted across the open floor plan to frame pathways, create transitions, and shape intimate gathering areas, giving the space a fluid sense of movement and discovery that reflects the evolving dining culture of West Hollywood. At the La Cienega entrance, bespoke tile work—including hand-cut mosaic signage—creates a welcoming, visually striking first impression that sets the tone for the experience within. Together, these design elements blend international inspiration with local vibrancy, positioning Bombo as a dynamic standout in the Los Angeles hospitality scene.
