3rd Space is a creative gathering concept rooted in the spirit of historical community hubs—like French Salons, Chinese Tea Houses, and spiritual sanctuaries. But instead of replicating a specific form, we sought to recreate the feeling they offered: connection, curiosity, and cultural vitality.

Founded by Sophia and Jake, 3rd Space was designed as a warm, open environment for creative exchange—where unfamiliar faces quickly become familiar over shared meals, wine, and conversation. Here, artists, thinkers, and makers come together to explore ideas, tell stories, and admire each other’s work in a space that feels both energizing and comforting.

Whether you're a guest or collaborator, 3rd Space welcomes you into something bigger than a gathering—into a living, breathing community.

Experiential Design + Spatical Design

Volume XVI at Maxwell Social Club NYC

My Process ︎︎︎

Designing for 3rd Space at Maxwell Social was an exercise in balance—between old-world charm and modern refinement. I began by selecting a color palette that aligned with the brand’s sophisticated identity while softening the venue’s historically masculine, old-timey atmosphere. This meant bringing in earth tones, muted florals, and dipped gradient candles to bridge tradition with a contemporary edge.

Spatially, I experimented with height in the tablescape—layering florals, driftwood, and taper candles to create an organic ‘still life’ effect that felt both curated and intimate. From the printed materials wrapped in vellum to the scratch-off conversation cards and wax-sealed envelopes, every touchpoint was designed to feel intentional, tactile, and a little magical—elevating a shared dinner into a shared memory.

The Result

Images Courtesy of  Daylan Sparks @daylansparks & Shan Jarnoux  @shanjarnoux