San Diego Spaces: Pura Vida Bracelets in their New La Jolla Headquarters

Inspired on a trip to Costa Rica in 2010, Founders Griffin Thall and Paul Goodman hatched an idea to start a company that would encourage people to appreciate the easy-going lifestyle of the locals they met along the way. What started with a product line of simple string bracelets handcrafted by Costa Rican artisans has evolved over the course of 8+ years into a model of entrepreneurial success. They have been at the forefront of social media marketing and remained on top of the e-commerce wave—employing more than 650 artisans worldwide and donating over $1.7M to 175+ partner charities.

From a grocery bag of bracelets on their bedroom floor to a newly minted HQ on the sunny cliffs overlooking La Jolla Cove, Pura Vida Bracelets has remained true to their founding ethos and is thriving in their new space. We are thrilled to share it with you.

Take a step off the elevator on the 4^th floor in one of La Jolla’s most notable buildings and you are greeted by a bright reception area, complete with product displays for the casual shopper, a warm smile from the person behind the white marble reception desk, and a custom “Pura Vida” graphic to offset their back-lit signage.

As you pass from reception into the office, the first thing you notice is the light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Looking past the contemporary open desking arrangement and interior private offices you’re presented with sweeping 180-degree ocean views.

A common feature is the maximized use of glass to foster an open and airy environment. Pura Vida wanted a space that reflected their culture and encouraged collaboration. Using a farm table and modern lighting in the conference room helped create a comfortable meeting place that supports creative planning.

“If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life” – that was Pura Vida’s inspiration for the new office. They wanted a place that brings their team together. By designing a kitchen that looks like it belongs in a beach bungalow, they created a welcoming space where employees can relax and bond over coffee or snacks.

Sometimes you need to have a private conversation or a quiet place to work uninterrupted. The booths next to the kitchen provide the perfect spot. Just grab a cup of the cold brew or kombucha on tap and slide the door shut behind you as you enter the quiet tranquility of the palm-print covered booths and cozy up on one of the bench seats.

At the end of the day, you’re likely to find the team trading serves in the ongoing battle for office champ on the ping pong table. Behind the competition though, is where all the hard work has led. Two all-glass private executive suites with stunning views that house the Founders. They’re probably busy coming up with a new surprise that will push Pura Vida to the next level, but if those desks happen to be empty, it’s probably because they’ve spotted some waves through the telescope during a routine surf check.

Congratulations to Pura Vida Bracelets for creating a new HQ that perfectly fits the company culture and will provide room for continued growth and success!