Nestled within a tiny space in the heart of Travestere in Rome, Roman record label, Sounds Familiar opens its storefront dedicated to vinyl lovers, celebrating ten years of the brand. The boutique transforms an old garage into a hip records emporium by local architecture practice, Studiotamat.
The limited footprint of 40sqm demanded flexibility while disallowing any major masonry interventions. An open layout creates space for a vinyl-listening booth during the day that transforms into a meeting point and stage to host performances and DJ at night.
The solid walls of the former garage were investigated to reveal large wooden beams behind the false ceiling, restored and cleaned to their former glory. All the furniture pieces are made of an iron structure, powder-coloured in a bright red shade, establishing uniformity throughout the room. The bold colour scheme is complemented by the delicate blending of textures and finishes, pairing warm, embracing hues with cooler tones, like the indigo of the walls.
At the heart of the space lies a versatile counter with diverse uses. It serves as a place to hang sweaters and sweatshirts, doubles as a changing room, and even transforms into a console for live performances. The listening stations, shelving, and disc racks allow different spatial configurations through simple rearrangement. These flexible furnishings, both integrated and mobile, enable easy assembly and positioning to suit various needs. For example, the vinyl cubes can be stacked next to the console, while the perforated sheet metal bench can be placed near the vinyl racks or in front of the double-height console, offering a playful interplay of proportions and possibilities.
The contrast between the metal elements and the wood of the ceiling beams and accessories, along with the texture and colour of the flooring and curtains, all contribute to the overall aesthetic of the space. The use of ice-coloured fringes throughout the design adds a unique textural element that partially echoes the tone of the plastered walls. Every detail comes together creatively, resulting in a space that is functional and visually stunning.
