A former carpentry workshop, thoughtfully converted into an industrial-style art and screen printing studio.
Nestled between the Opañel and Comillas neighborhoods of the Carabanchel district in Madrid, Spain, La Calor is a newly opened screen printing and artist studio. Local architecture practice KAL A redesigned the space for artists Bruno del Giúdice and Candela Sotos. Formerly a carpentry workshop, the property comprises a spacious work area and a large back garden. The clients’ brief included the need for extra creative work space and a complete redesign of the interior.
To create a better connection between the studio and the garden, the architects partly demolished the back façade. Now, instead of a small door that limited both access and light, the interior opens to the garden via a new double door. When completely open, it creates a seamless transition between the workshop and the outdoors. At the same time, this larger opening brings in more natural light and eliminates the need to use electrical lighting during the day.
A wood and steel structure now organizes the screen printing area and also creates a studio space on the second floor. The team replaced the old hefty staircase that occupied too much space with a slender spiral staircase. In the intermediate space, a new room will house storage areas, toilets, and a kitchen. Finally, the mobile washing cabin and the drying rack allow for extra flexibility.
The studio used a light palette throughout the interior. Apart from white floors, walls, and ceilings, La Calor also features light steel structures and natural timber surfaces. Additionally, the architects painted the wood furniture and carpentry detailing in metallic colors. Incredibly bright and airy, this workshop and artist studio encourages creativity and efficiency in a space that will slowly change and develop a distinct character over time. Photography © Knu Kim.
