If all laundromats looked like Portugal’s Lavandaria Morinha, laundry day wouldn’t be such a chore. This facility in Amarante’s Vila Mea offers the local community a space that replaces the self-service laundry’s antiseptic, austere aesthetics for a contemporary one. The project was spearheaded by Portugese architectural studio stu.dere, who took a fresh take on all the usual elements: swapping white tiles for bright green ones, and harsh fluorescents for comforting bulbs and spotlights. The street-facing entrance leads to a row of laundry machines to one side and a waiting area equipped with a vending machine. Venturing further into the space reveals more washers and dryers, and a long table for sorting and organising one’s clothes.
Another unique feature is the shop’s self-repair area, equipped with a sewing machine and other necessary tools for mending clothes. Softening the laundromat’s sleek, modern look are overhanging plants arranged along modern lighting features.
Photography © Ivo Tavares Studio