Designed by the architects of MT.A Studio, Tarô combines a café, concept store and tattoo studio within a compact three-level interior in the historic district of Alfama, Lisbon. The architects were commissioned to transform a heritage building located near one of the city’s oldest surviving houses, working under strict preservation regulations that limited structural intervention, mechanical systems and acoustic impact.
The architects developed an interior strategy focused on spatial continuity rather than separating the three programs. A sculptural deep-green architectural volume becomes the central element of the project, extending across levels to form the coffee counter, seating and display surfaces while organizing circulation throughout the compact plan.
Material choices balance restraint and warmth. A neutral grey-beige envelope frames saturated accents, including the green counter, yellow stair details and natural wood display units with woven rattan fronts. This palette blends references to European retail interiors with textures associated with Brazilian craft, reflecting the cultural background of the founders.
Due to acoustic restrictions in Alfama, conventional air-conditioning systems were not permitted. Instead, ceiling and wall-mounted fans support natural ventilation while contributing to the relaxed atmosphere of the interior.
The upper floor is dedicated to tattooing, accommodating six stations and a lounge area. Semi-translucent amber panels soften the limited natural light, while sliding sheer curtains introduce adjustable privacy. Throughout the project, the architects integrated branding elements subtly, including a custom pendant light composed of tarot-card clips, allowing the interior to maintain a flexible identity while reinforcing the character of the space.
