Wasbar: A Unique Blend of Laundromat and Bar

An Eclectic Mix of Vintage Furniture and Custom Objects

Wasbar, a combination of a bar and a laundry salon, offers a unique experience for twenty- and thirtysomethings to do their laundry while socializing and meeting new people. Designed by Pinkeye, this innovative concept required an equally unique setting, resulting in a delightful mix of vintage furniture, custom objects, and exposed washing machines.

The inspiration behind Wasbar was to create a space that felt like a cozy living room, incorporating elements related to laundry. Pinkeye wanted to embrace the upcycling trend and opted for second-hand furniture. They transformed the cheapest metal cloth hangers into custom-made lamp shades and repurposed old cabinet drawers from thrift stores as frames for objects and menu boards.

One of the challenges faced during the design process was the need to hide the extensive plumbing required for a laundromat. Pinkeye successfully concealed the plumbing, ensuring a clean and visually appealing space. Additionally, they recognized the importance of establishing a strong identity for Wasbar to prevent others from replicating the concept. Pinkeye created the graphic identity, incorporating a pastel color palette and upcycled drawer frames, to give Wasbar a unique and recognizable look.

The design of Wasbar features a restored original wooden floor, Winckelmans tiles for the bar area, and painted second-hand chairs, tables, and sofas. The vintage furniture adds character and charm to the space, while the upcycled drawer frames serve as eye-catching wall decorations.

Aside from doing laundry and enjoying a coffee or a beer, visitors to Wasbar can also get their hair done by the local hairdresser in one of the back rooms. This additional service adds to the overall experience and makes Wasbar a one-stop destination for relaxation and socializing.

Pinkeye's innovative design for Wasbar was recognized with the Silver A' Design Award in 2013. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. Wasbar's unique concept, combined with its visually appealing and functional design, truly sets it apart from traditional laundromats.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Ruud Belmans
Image Credits: Ruud Belmans
Project Team Members: Pinkeye
Project Name: Wasbar
Project Client: Ruud Belmans


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