XAARCHIVE shapes Tattoo Studio as Industrial ‘Anti-Hospital’ Space
BLOK, a tattoo studio designed by XAARCHIVE Studio in Badalona, Barcelona, reexamines the spatial and aesthetic qualities of clinical environments. Conceived under the concept ‘The Anti-Hospital: Rethinking Sterile Spaces,’ the project translates the visual language of medical precision into an industrial context.
The 80-sqm warehouse conversion employs polished concrete, locally sourced stainless steel, and handcrafted PVC curtains to define a flexible interior that shifts between transparency and opacity. The existing ceiling structure was exposed to reveal its original framework, while linear LED fixtures accentuate the geometry of the space and introduce a controlled, uniform illumination. The studio accommodates up to four artists simultaneously within a modular plan that supports multiple configurations. Mobile partitions and adjustable lighting systems enable the workspace to adapt to various functions, from tattooing to exhibition and consultation.
all images by Simone Marcolin unless stated otherwise
Industrial interiors define BLOK hybrid Tattoo Studio and gallery
Fabrication and material sourcing were carried out locally in Badalona and the surrounding metropolitan area, reinforcing the project’s commitment to regional production. Central to the space is the Canova Table, a custom piece designed by XAARCHIVE Studio through 3D scanning and binary encoding. This element extends the studio’s research into the intersections of data, materiality, and digital precision.
BLOK functions as a hybrid environment, part workshop, part laboratory, and part gallery, where architecture operates as a tool for examining the relationship between care, craft, and the human body. The project presents a systematic, locally grounded approach to spatial design that balances technical rigor with adaptability.
modular partitions allow fluid transitions between tattooing, painting, and resting
soft PVC curtains filter light and movement, transforming space through degrees of opacity
minimal furniture and polished concrete floor emphasize functional calm and precision
custom-made metal tables reflect both the technical and creative layers of the studio
tattoo station framed by translucent curtains defining intimate zones within an open plan
concrete ceiling and exposed wiring reveal the industrial shell that hosts the studio
BLOK tattoo studio functions as both a workshop and a laboratory
low table made of concrete blocks and a steel top expresses the studio’s raw and modular character
custom lighting detail highlights precision and material contrast within the industrial setting
raw materials like steel, concrete, and polycarbonate compose a flexible and durable environment
artworks and tools coexist within a mutable interior conceived for creation and rest | image by Sofía Suárez
at night, warm light softens the industrial character of the space, revealing its quiet rhythm | image by Sofía Suárez
red light diffuses through translucent curtains, softening the industrial space into a warm glow | image by Sofía Suárez
project info:
name: BLOK
architect: XAARCHIVE Studio | @xaarchive____
lead designers: Nayla Cefarelli, Sofía Lorenzo
location: Badalona, Barcelona
photographers: Simone Marcolin | @simoneemarcolin, Sofía Suárez
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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