Creating an Inclusive and Nurturing Workplace for Mychal’s Cafe – Arktura Case Study

Our team recently proudly partnered with Mychal’s Cafe to provide much needed acoustic enhancement to their newest location in Redondo Beach, CA. Mychal’s Café is a social enterprise operated by Mychal’s Learning Place, a local 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. It provides employment opportunities for youth with developmental disabilities while offering a delightful dining experience for the community. 

Mychal’s is a workplace for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Creating a quiet, comfortable space that allows for clear communication and a warm dining atmosphere was essential. The challenge was to improve the acoustics without sacrificing the space’s functionality or aesthetic appeal. Arktura’s team used their expertise in architectural acoustics to meet these specific needs, resulting in a warmer, more welcoming environment for everyone. 

The recommendation of one of our newest acoustic ceiling modules, SoftGrid® Rosette was selected to complement the already existing aesthetic. This intricate biophilic acoustic cloud system is made of our proprietary Soft Sound® sound-absorbing material and shaped in a floral like arrangement as its name implies. These modules were configured in a bright, inviting Duo-Color finish pairing a clean white with a natural wood-look texture. These two-toned acoustic clouds seamlessly integrated functionality with aesthetic appeal to meet the unique needs of the cafe.  

Our team went beyond just shipping the modules; we supported the entire project from concept to completion. Arktura created layout plans and 3D visualizations of the cloud systems using the cafe’s blueprints to ensure the space had the right coverage and acoustic attenuation. The installation was quick, and the impact was immediate and significant. The cafe’s baristas noticed instant improvements in communication with customers, enhancing the overall experience for both employees and patrons. 

“Before Arktura installed the modules, our baristas couldn’t hear customers across the counter from them, but now it’s the perfect place to connect with friends and see how capable and able our staff truly is,” – Page Sacks, Development Director – Mychal’s Learning Place.

This transformation significantly improved the working environment for their staff, fostering a more supportive and inclusive atmosphere. It also enhanced the overall dining experience for customers, making the cafe a more inviting and enjoyable space.  

Ed Lynch, Executive Director / Founder at the ceremonial ribbon cutting of Mychal’s Cafe

Mychal’s Learning Place’s mission is to support youth and young adults with developmental disabilities by providing a safe and inclusive environment where they can build independence and pursue their goals. The organization offers programs for youth aged 13-22 to develop social and independent living skills, and for young adults aged 18-30 to gain daily living skills, job training, and employment opportunities.  

Mychal’s Cafe’s newest space is located at:

2302 Artesia Blvd.
Redondo Beach, CA 90278

Learn more about Mychal’s Café at www.mychals.org/mychals-cafe/  and visit https://www.mychals.org/ to find out more about the organization, including ways to donate and volunteer.

Have questions about SoftGrid® Rosette or any of our acoustic solutions? Contact your local rep to learn more.