Work & Sea: Bringing Playful Elegance to Your Walls

Arica Paisley
Apr 9
3 min read

At MICHI Patterns, we are thrilled to partner with Work & Sea, a multidisciplinary design studio based in Los Angeles, California, lead by artist Lara Apponyi, known for her bold, creative, and inspired designs. Specializing in custom mural design, Work & Sea brings a distinctive and undeniable energy to every project they touch. We are excited to share their exceptional work with our clients and invite you to reach out to us at info@michipatterns.com for samples or to schedule a visit to our showroom in Columbus, Ohio.

A Philosophy Rooted in Originality

Work & Sea’s design philosophy is anchored in Lara's love for vibrant, rich, original patterns that make a statement. Whether it's striking wallpaper collections or beautiful unique fabrics, each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and creative exploration. Lara's unique perspective refreshes any space, offering innovative designs that stand out in both residential and commercial settings. Combining artistic flair with high-quality materials, she creates pieces that are nothing short of inspiring. Her work is wonderfully offbeat and irreverent—almost as if it were born of a playful French elegance, where charm meets subtle, carefree sophistication.

Wallpaper That Evokes Emotion

One of the standout features of Work & Sea’s offerings is their grasscloth mural collection. Inspired by nature, architecture, and the world around us, these print designs are full of life and texture. From geometric shapes to organic forms, each wallpaper is designed to evoke emotion, adding depth and scale to your space. It’s not just about making walls look beautiful—it’s about creating environments that stir the imagination and spark conversation. Whether designing a chic office, a moody restaurant or a cozy home, Work & Sea’s wallpapers transform walls into works of art.

Pushing Boundaries in Design

Work & Sea’s commitment to creativity and innovation is evident in everything they do. Their work consistently challenges traditional design concepts, pushing boundaries with bold patterns that are both timeless and contemporary. Their designs fit seamlessly into a variety of interior styles, striking a perfect balance between playfulness and sophistication. It’s this ability to blend the old with the new that makes Lara's creations suitable for a range of design aesthetics.

The Beauty of Painterly Lines in Textiles

Painterly stripes are a defining characteristic of Work & Sea’s textile designs. These expressive, hand-drawn strokes bring a sense of movement and energy to fabrics, making them feel alive and dynamic. Unlike rigid, mechanical patterns, painterly lines add a human touch, celebrating the imperfections and fluidity of artistic expression. When incorporated into textiles, they introduce an organic rhythm to interiors, softening spaces while still making a bold statement. Whether used in upholstery, drapery, or accent pillows, these designs exude an effortless sophistication that blends art with function.

Make a Statement with Every Piece

At MICHI Patterns, we believe that choosing fabric, wallpaper, or rugs for your space is more than just a design decision—it's an investment in your personality and vision for your environment. Work & Sea’s designs allow you to make a statement, elevating any room with a fresh take on classic elements and adding dimension to your space. Their work brings a unique energy to any room, whether in a home or office, making it feel inviting and full of character.

WORK + SEA - Roses for Charlie - Lemongrass Fabric

Explore Work & Sea at MICHI Patterns

We are proud to showcase Work & Sea’s stunning creations at MICHI Patterns. Their passion for design is infectious, and we are always inspired by how they blend boldness with elegance. Whether you’re a designer looking for that perfect statement piece or someone eager to infuse your home with creativity, Work & Sea’s designs will help you bring your vision to life.

If you’re ready to explore the incredible Work & Sea collections in person, we invite you to schedule a visit to our Columbus showroom. Our showroom provides a hands-on experience where you can feel the textures, see the colors, and explore the possibilities of these unique materials. Reach out to info@michipatterns.com to book your appointment today!