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BlackSwan Studio
By : Entre Quatre Murs
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Interior Design
Categories : Commercial Space / Beauty/Cosmetics : Platinum Winner
Categories : Special Awards / Low Cost Design : Gold Certification
Newly established in the Mile-Ex neighborhood at the heart of Montreal, BlackSwan Studio aligns itself with its surroundings: understated in appearance yet boasting distinctive elements that grant it a unique character, thus becoming the new focal point for Montreal tattoo enthusiasts.
In an era of increasing tattoo democratization, alongside a rising desire for personal affirmation and ownership of one’s body, the tattoo salon offering has continuously expanded, aiming to differentiate itself from the sometimes intimidating allure associated with such establishments. Seeking to reinvent the traditional image of the tattoo parlor, the client approached the designers with a desire to foster a soft and sophisticated aesthetic.
The primary objective was to create a space imbued with confident elegance, attracting a clientele in search of a unique experience. Capitalizing on the features of the existing space and incorporating strong conceptual interventions imbued with a contemporary artistic spirit, an approach centered on raw and singular materiality was favored.
Upon entering the space, the harmony of materials and textures immediately captures attention. In the foreground, the plaster covered reception desk, with its meticulously crafted texture, stands out against a sinuous metal sculpture superposed with a sheer curtain filtering the soft natural light. Veritable work of art, this delicately undulating ribbon of raw steel elegantly envelops the entrance furniture. An eclectic mix of materials, such as the concrete floor, the textiles of the carpet and visitor chairs, and the scattered mirrors, enriches this singular composition that welcomes visitors into a truly unique universe.
Like a tattoo on the skin, the integration of dark elements into a lighter decor was a fundamental pillar of the design. Thus, a black architectural cube elegantly houses all the utility functions of the studio, including storage, changing rooms, kitchen, and sales displays.
At the heart of the project, the lounge area offers a flexible and welcoming space, characterized by curved furniture and a vibrant plum color accent, contrasting with the surrounding greenery. Illuminated by abundant natural light, this space brings tattoo artists and clients together for enriching collaborations. Three black arches, marking the entrance to the tattoo area subtly echo the curves of the studio’s logo and provide a view of the artists in action from the lounge area.
The work area’s minimalist design fosters a clean and pristine ambiance, directing all attention towards the ongoing tattooing process. By deliberately eschewing customized workstations, the owner avoids imposing a specific artistic identity on the space, thus allowing the focus to remain solely on the artwork being created on the client’s body. At the heart of the tattooing section lies a captivating light installation reminiscent of the graceful unfolding of a swan’s wings, echoing the studio’s distinctive graphic identity.
Working closely with the client, the designers leveraged sought-after tactile materiality, singular elements, and powerful contrasts to create a strong identity anchored with the values of this new Montreal tattoo studio.
Collaboration
Interior Designer : Entre Quatre Murs
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