Client: Macerich
Sponsor: Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA
Architect: Ripbang Studios

Services

Experience Design
Placemaking
Environmental Graphics
Interactive Exhibits
Custom Signage

Samo’s Clubhouse was created as the family centerpiece of Santa Monica Place, transforming environmental education into an immersive play-and-learn destination for children and families.

Anchored by Samo, a 46-foot sculptural humpback whale, the experience combines imaginative play with messages of environmental stewardship, health, and personal well-being developed in collaboration with Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA. Custom artwork, interactive exhibits, and play elements crafted from natural and recycled materials encourage children to explore, discover, and become active participants in caring for themselves and the world around them.

The result is more than a children’s play area. It is a family destination that encourages longer visits, creates memorable shared experiences, and reinforces Santa Monica Place as a welcoming destination for families.