Airi Isoda and Ryan Upton of wrk-shp are a California-based multidisciplinary duo, designing and producing everything from small home goods and accessories to clothing, lighting, furniture, and architectural projects. With architectural training as their foundation, Airi and Ryan met while working at an architecture firm, eventually joining forces to bring their unique creative visions to life.

We joined them at How’s It Going to End, a cafe in up-and-coming Montrose, which they designed in an abandoned gas station. The cafe features clean lines and an open, airy feel, striking a serene yet warm and inviting balance.

Unexpected materials—like [material to be added] introduce texture and depth, while a striking boulder sits quietly in the middle of the cafe—a dynamic, raw element that is somehow seamlessly integrated into the harmonious design.

After enjoying some treats, we visited their home—a newly completed two-story home with native landscaping that they designed and built from scratch—mirroring the cafe’s signature aesthetic of minimalism balanced with warmth. The home’s clean lines and openness invite the eye to explore its thoughtful details—a variety of shapes and materials converge in unexpected ways, creating depth and adding a distinct Japanese flavor to the space.

The trio’s frequent visits Japan, where Airi’s family resides, allow them to stay deeply connected to her cultural roots, which they cherish and share with their daughter, Kenzo. For her, they selected the Randoseru Lite in Medallion Yellow, a cheerful, friendly color that blends in seamlessly with her room and style. The bag’s many functional pockets and sturdy build promise to accompany Kenzo on many adventures to come.

Ryan wears the Ruffle Drawstring Pouch, which he prefers for its sleek, minimalist silhouette, and functional design, perfect for keeping essentials close. Airi enjoys the Black Nume Oval Shoulder—a chic addition that adds a playful element to her look—“It’s like a big round dot!”