Designer Courtney Applebaum integrated important furnishings and artwork into Contrapposto’s interiors. PHOTO COURTESY OF CONTRAPPOSTO
Contrapposto, the newly opened aesthetic dermatology clinic nestled steps from Melrose Place, is redefining the Los Angeles beauty scene. Founded by Casey Axelrod-Welk, a nurse practitioner with extensive experience in cardiology, internal medicine and aesthetics, and his husband, creative entrepreneur Nick Axelrod-Welk, Contrapposto distinguishes itself through a personalized approach to aging gracefully.
A sunny treatment room at Contrapposto PHOTO COURTESY OF CONTRAPPOSTO
“In art history, contrapposto was championed by ancient Greeks for its ability to create visual balance, a sense of dynamic movement, and to better show off the organic beauty of the human form.”–CASEY AXELROD-WELK
“My goal is always to emphasize a patient’s individual beauty and to preserve a semblance of natural movement,” Casey explains. “I really value dynamism over the idea of ‘perfect symmetry’ or a ‘frozen’ face.’” Inspired by the ancient Greek term for balancing visual movement and organic beauty, Contrapposto merges artistic elegance with scientific precision. “We borrowed an art term because we felt it spoke to Casey’s approach and how he works,” Nick shares. Casey adds, “In art history, contrapposto was championed by ancient Greeks for its ability to create visual balance, a sense of dynamic movement, and to better show off the organic beauty of the human form.”
Casey Axelrod-Welk. PHOTO COURTESY OF CONTRAPPOSTO
The clinic occupies a restored 1930s John Elgin Woolf building designed with meticulous attention by interior designer Courtney Applebaum. The interiors reflect a sophisticated, welcoming atmosphere, more akin to an art gallery or a chic residence than a clinical environment. Notable pieces include original Jeanneret furniture and works by Jasper Johns. “We really wanted to create a space that was unlike any clinic we’d seen,” says Nick. “It feels more like a treasure.” Architect Dean Levin contributed stainless cabinetry and reconceptualized the layout, blending a modern aesthetic with warmth and character. “Coming to Contrapposto feels more like visiting someone’s home rather than even a spa or medical clinic,” Casey notes.
Contrapposto’s meticulous, evidence-based treatments emphasize subtle transformations over dramatic interventions, offering customized combinations of neuromodulators, fillers, lasers and innovative bio-regenerative therapies like exosomes and polynucleotides. “My approach is the opposite of ‘one size fits all,’” he emphasizes. “I create a treatment plan that’s more ‘low and slow’ as opposed to drastic changes.”
The clinic resides in a 1930s building by John Elgin Woolf. PHOTO COURTESY OF CONTRAPPOSTO
Nick, known for co-founding celebrated brands such as Nécessaire, Into The Gloss and Homecourt with Courteney Cox, brings an innovative entrepreneurial spirit to Contrapposto. Beyond personalized care, the clinic retails coveted skincare lines such as Biologique Recherche and Medical Beauty Research. Contrapposto also anticipates expanding into bespoke fragrance, capturing the essence of its refined, intimate environment. “I’m collaborating with probably the best working perfumers in the world,” Nick says, aiming to create limited-edition scents that enhance natural beauty rather than overwhelm it.
Looking forward, the Axelrod-Welks envision growing the Contrapposto brand both within and beyond Los Angeles. Yet, their core philosophy remains unchanged. “If I can make the aging process easier and help someone feel truly good about themselves,” Casey shares, “then I know I’ve done my job.”
Photography by: Courtesy of Contrapposto
