Odd One Out Tea’s Santa Monica Store: A Fusion of Design

Odd One Out Tea, a Taiwanese bubble tea brand, has made its mark in the U.S. with a bold and vibrant new location in Santa Monica. The store, designed by Wick Architecture & Design and LAND Design Studio, brings together elements from the company’s flagship store in Taipei while embracing the unique cultural context of Southern California. The design captures both the brand’s essence and the changing dynamics of one of Los Angeles’ most iconic pedestrian streets.

Blending Cultures in Design

Located on the bustling Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly area known for its mix of retail and food options, Odd One Out Tea’s Santa Monica store stands out with its colorful exterior and fresh take on traditional bubble tea culture. While the design team aimed to incorporate the brand’s signature orange tones, they also ensured that the structure felt in tune with the laid-back, sunny atmosphere of the California coast. The design negotiation process was extensive, with city regulations requiring careful consideration of the pavilion’s exterior appearance. This led to a unique solution where the building itself became the brand’s signage—a clear visual cue that merged form and function. The designers used ombre shades to create a vibrant, eye-catching exterior that stays within municipal guidelines, transforming the pavilion into a modern interpretation of the traditional kiosk-style business.

Navigating Restrictions and Creative Solutions

One of the most challenging aspects of this project was working with an existing structure that had strict municipal restrictions. City officials were wary of large alterations, especially concerning signage and roof modifications. This is where the collaboration between Wick Architecture & Design and LAND Design Studio proved invaluable. Both firms brought extensive experience working with Santa Monica’s regulations and a deep understanding of the area’s evolving needs. Their solution was to let the building itself become the sign, designing a striking exterior that served both as a marketing tool and a part of the streetscape’s visual identity. By placing smaller blade signs around the pavilion, the design cleverly sidestepped larger signage limitations, ensuring brand visibility without running afoul of city rules.

A Layered Interior Experience

Inside, the design continues to reflect the brand’s philosophy of blending craft with enjoyment. The pavilion’s open-plan layout encourages interaction between the space’s front-of-house operations and customers. One of the most notable features is the production kitchen, which is fully exposed behind a glass partition. This decision was inspired by Odd One Out Tea’s pride in its tea-making process, and the transparency invites customers to watch the creation of their beverages and gelato. Large windows were also punched into the pavilion’s exterior, allowing passersby to catch glimpses of the bustling kitchen, further creating a sense of connection with the brand.

In terms of aesthetics, the interior is a nod to the Taipei flagship, with cork ceilings and lush greenery helping to evoke the same warmth and welcoming atmosphere found in their home country. The designers ensured that the space felt fresh and modern, while also staying true to the brand’s roots. The challenge of working with an existing space was met with thoughtful design decisions, such as the addition of simple globe lighting, which helped guide attention toward the ordering station without overpowering the overall space.

Revitalizing Third Street Promenade

The Odd One Out Tea store in Santa Monica is more than just a bubble tea shop; it’s a vital part of the ongoing transformation of the Third Street Promenade. With consumer habits shifting post-pandemic, this new store brings a much-needed burst of energy to the area’s northern end, which had been struggling to attract foot traffic. The project contributes to the city’s efforts to refresh the promenade and attract more food and beverage concepts. As the store continues to attract locals and visitors alike, it stands as a symbol of how thoughtful design can rejuvenate a space, blend global influences, and create an environment that people want to visit time and time again.