Newsletter

State of La Union Newsletter - October 2025 Recap

Hello Friends,

As we settle in to Autumn, we find ourselves reflecting on seasons of growth in our work, our communities, and within La Union Studio itself. October marked our 7 year business anniversary, a milestone that fills us with deep gratitude for everyone who has walked this journey with us, clients, collaborators, and friends who continue to believe in the power of design.

Seven years in, and our purpose remains the same to create spaces that nurture belonging, and inspire connection. Thank you for being part of our story — and for helping us build not just spaces, but shared legacies.

With gratitude,

Sonia-Lynn + Sergio Max

Founders of La Union Studio

IN THIS NEWSLETTER

La Union Studio's 7 Year Anniversary Recap
Project Spotlight - Ayala Coffee
Client Spotlight - Laro Tayo
Connect With Us - Connect With Us

ANNOUNCEMENT

La Union Studio Turns 7!

La Union Studio sandwich board sign beside a colorful balloon garland at the building entrance

Last month, we hosted a studio open house to celebrate seven years of design, collaboration, and community, and what an unforgettable evening it was. Our space came alive with the laughter and warmth of clients, partners, and friends who have shaped our journey from the very beginning.

The night was filled with stories shared over light bites and wine, moments of reflection on how far we’ve come, and excitement for what lies ahead. We’re deeply grateful for everyone who joined us in marking this milestone and for all who continue to believe in the power of design to connect people, culture, and place.

Six people posing together and smiling inside La Union Studio during the open house event

Family of six posing together outdoors in front of the balloon-decorated entrance

Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to the next seven years of creating spaces that inspire belonging.

Guests chatting and mingling inside a studio space during the open house

Four people smiling together at the open house celebration — [row]

Group of four laughing and talking together at the event — [new-row]

Five people posing together and smiling at the open house — [row]

Three people posing together, smiling at the camera during the event — [new-row]

From heartfelt toasts to spontaneous reunions, these moments capture the joy and community spirit that define La Union Studio. Scroll through a few of our favorite highlights from the evening below each one a small reflection of the relationships that make our work possible.

See More Event Photos

PROJECT SPOTLIGHTS

From Seattle to New Jersey

Our First Visit to Ayala Coffee!

This month, our team traveled across the country to finally step inside Ayala Coffee—a space we help bringing to life from afar!

Interior of Ayala Coffee showing a curved tiled counter, warm wood shelving, pendant lighting, and a barista at work, with a customer walking through the space

Photo: Mike Hom

Warmth meets modern craft in this Filipino-owned coffee shop nestled in Union Township, New Jersey. But beyond its beautiful finishes and thoughtful textures, what struck us most was the energy of the place—the laughter, the aroma, and the sense of belonging that filled the room.

Ayala Coffee counter and wood-paneled display shelves styled with plants, books, and decor

For us, this visit was more than a site walk—it was a moment of reflection. Designing from Seattle for a community across the country taught us so much: how to listen deeply, communicate with trust, and design through the lens of shared values even when miles apart.

We’re endlessly grateful to our clients, Matthew and Trixie, for their vision and trust, and to our collaborators who helped bring this space to life. Here’s to more spaces that bridge distance through design, and to the stories that remind us—home can be built anywhere.

Two Ayala Coffee staff members smiling together behind the counter — [row]

Read More

CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS

Laro Tayo

“Laro Tayo” — Tagalog for let’s play! is Kent’s newest indoor play space.

Photo: Meredith Charaba

Designed in partnership with founder Joysha Fajardo, Laro Tayo is a vibrant, light-filled environment that celebrates imagination, connection, and Filipino culture. Every detail from hand-painted murals by artist Shayla Hufana to custom-built wooden playhouses was designed to foster creativity while honoring the Filipino value of bayanihan, the spirit of community and shared care.

The space features thoughtful play zones that spark curiosity and comfort alike: a mini café and bakery counter, a cozy animal hospital, and flexible areas for storytelling, classes, and quiet play. Beyond a place for children to explore, Laro Tayo serves as a cultural gathering space for families offering workshops, pop-ups with local makers, and opportunities for community connection.

For La Union Studio, this project embodies our mission to design spaces that nurture identity, joy, and belonging, where every corner tells a story of culture and care. We’re proud to see our client, Laro Tayo, featured on ParentMap.com, celebrating spaces that bring community and creativity together.