Actor and entrepreneur Ryan Reynolds’ office for his Maximum Effort production company is decidedly more coastal casual than Hollywood glamor. Michelle Toney, principal of Studio Paul Toney, envisioned a new workplace that prioritizes comfort in a residential-style setting.
The designer set out to transform the space, which was previously the headquarters of a law firm that lacked the warmth and special details that bring added appeal. Toney looked to the company’s culture of collaboration for inspiration to present a totally different, relaxed vibe that resonates with today’s young creatives.
The team produces everything from television content to marketing campaigns, and even though they embrace remote work, Reynolds still requested an office adaptable for hosting events. “They wanted a home base that they could use for typical work functions and social activities,” says Toney.
A large central gathering and kitchen zone boasts farm tables and abstract artwork by Edwin Marcelin, in charcoal and gray tones. Instead of a fireplace anchoring this sector, a sleek bar is the focal point, perfect for cocktail parties and impromptu happy hours with colleagues. The glazed tiles reference the Aviation Gin glass bottle’s vertical ribs (another brand in the Reynolds’ portfolio).
Housed in a 1930s Art Deco building, a welcoming tone is set as soon as guests enter the spacious, open-plan workspace that spans two levels. Sunlight filters in through the windows, which emphasizes a refined color palette featuring hues of camel and rust, plus vibrant greens and pinks. From the burnished metals to the painted reclaimed wood, there’s a mix of industrial and rustic elements that make each section feel lived-in, never pretentious.
Toney partnered with Room & Board on the project, offering a curated selection of furnishings with style yet suitable for commercial environments. Rather than harsh divisions, there’s a seamless flow between one area to another, which allows staff to congregate in almost any room easily.
Televisions are stationed in certain spots for viewing the company’s latest shows. Toney wanted to bring texture to the concrete flooring, so she included wool rugs from Morrow Soft Goods, a company she co-founded. Throw pillows from the same brand sit atop plush sofas and lounge chairs, serving as cozy finishing touches.
Workstations consist of unassigned, moveable desks that give staff greater flexibility. A suite of private offices are also available, where executives can take Zoom calls or have scheduled one-on-one meetings. Surrounded by glass, there’s just enough transparency to keep this sector airy. The disparate facets meld together in a harmonious way that still delights Toney. “This office has the possibility to be many things, but it’s balanced,” she notes. “People appreciate that.”
For more information on Studio Paul Toney, visit studiopaultoney.com.
Photography by Kacie Tomita.
