Studio Hug and Rachele Monti wrap Swiss laundry building in printed textile installation

In Mendrisio, Switzerland, the former laundry building of Villa Argentina has been transformed by Studio Hug and artist Rachele Monti through a temporary installation titled 'Waiting Surfaces.' This initiative, commissioned by the City of Mendrisio, revitalizes the historic site ahead of its upcoming restoration. The installation features large-scale printed surfaces positioned behind existing windows, railings, and structural components, introducing a fresh visual element while preserving the building's historical integrity. The imagery draws inspiration from textiles linked to the building's past, delving into themes of photography, color, surface, and memory. Utilizing reversible black-painted timber frames secured with wire, the project avoids permanent changes. It was executed by the municipal infrastructure team alongside Studio Emmanuel Urban and will remain visible until restoration commences, engaging the public in the site's narrative and future evolution. Photographs by Luca Piffaretti.