so last weekend the boys and i (minus danja, for he is still in the netherlands figuring out his visa. we miss you, danja!) came to the workspace all together for the first time; with the intent of doing work, that is. still collectively undecided regarding the primary function of the space beyond an atelier, we at least all came to the conclusion that it had to be stripped bare and cleaned. the fugly-ass wallpaper has gotta go!
using guido’s recommended technique of ‘making it wet’, emile, markus, guido and i proceeded to use those plastic spray gun thingys usually used for plants and attacked the walls like we were bombing subway cars (and with the same lack of skill and poor level of inaccuracy, i might add). here we have emile getting his hands dirty;
it didn’t take too long and was not terribly difficult to do. after an hour or so, the beautiful, water stained plaster began to reveal itself.
here we have markus demonstrating his perfect wallpaper peeling technique;
some plans for the space include a hybrid workspace plus (insert money making scheme here) or possibly a bar of some sort, since there are certain legal issues that can be avoided if one plans the environment appropriately. did you know that if you do not display a menu or fixed prices for drinks, you do not need to acquire a license to sell alcohol? also, if you have a limited number of pieces of furniture, you only need one toilet for both sexes? and if we don’t have a kitchen or serve food, we can avoid health inspections (always important if you don’t want to get sued for food poisoning)! these were some of the considerations taken to mind as we tore apart what will soon be our home away from home, away from home!
being of environmentally conscious minds, we had guido stuffing all the leftover wallpaper and compacting the paper into recycling bins. we filled up a couple but in the end, could not convince guido that it would be better for the environment if he just recycled himself too.
at the end of the night, we finished stripping to reveal a beautifully water-stained plaster and concrete facade that provides an ambiance that speaks… east german underground bunker! perfect for a workspace / wine bar / wedding reception hall, if anyone is interested in renting it out…
we are planning to consider the possibilities of maybe having a new years party, maybe. i will keep you all posted if this actually happens, and if it does, of course you are all invited! there will be booze and food and a small entrance fee, of course…
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