Self Service Laundry in Amarante, Portugal by Stu.dere.

Some may think the humble laundromat is a thing of the past. Its metallic surfaces and neon lights now nothing but a fossilised memory in a world where washers and dryers are increasingly integrated into homes. Portuguese studio Stu.dere obviously doesn’t agree. It’s Lavandaria Morinha in Amarante, Portugal revives the social aspect of collective washing. This self-service laundry delivers a contemporary space that speaks to the tradition while also being responsive to the changing needs of an evolving world.

The 200 square metre interior combines two former stores, which now house washing and drying facilities as well as a separate specialised studio for alterations, dry cleaning, repairs and ironing. A large brass gate sits at the threshold of both zones, aligning seamlessly with the gridded language of the adjacent finishes. This junction forms a carefully-detailed moment of separation and connection.

The square grid continues with green ceramic tiles that clad the walls. The handmade feature, coupled with suspended plants, creates a light and airy atmosphere nodding to the traditional ceramics of old wash houses.

Colour green dominates the space, becoming a loud gesture amongst an otherwise mostly neutral palette of timber, brass, and crisp white surfaces. The red glow of a neon sign acts as a single warm counterbalance to the cool-toned interior.

A micro cement floor suits the contemporary interior aesthetic, while also creating a waterproof surface perfect for a high traffic space. Oversized circular portholes mimic the mouth of a washing machine, adding a playful tone that proves every space, including spatial underdogs, can be fun to be in.

Stu.dere’s laundry brings design thinking to a program whose spatial potential has largely been neglected, celebrating a movement of designer laundromats – a movement we didn’t know we needed, but are definitely happy about!

Related: Not Your Average Laundromats.

[Photography by Ivo Tavares Studio.]