Bad Influence Tattoo, Orange County

By Lily Nguyen

 

Bad Influence Tattoo, a shop located in Orange County opened in 2005 to cater those who wanted some forever ink, or to accessorize the body with piercings. Recently, the shop went under for a facelift in February of this year. Many changes were made to the interior design. Bob Nguyen, the owner wanted a change in the shop to modernize it and bring it up to date.

 

Flooring

The old flooring consisted of custom vinyl tiles, and now have been changed to a dark wood laminate to keep with the industrial look. For esthetics, this laminate flooring is an easy step to changing the look. Also, because these floors only have a medium-traffic, they will not be worn down or susceptible to damages that may occur.

Lighting

Being a tattoo shop, lighting is critical within the space. The majority of lights were changed out to LED florescent light bulbs. There are many pros to switching out these lights, other than the fact that they will last approximately 15 years without having to change the bulb in the ceiling. Although they can be costly at an already discounted price of $35 per tube, the benefits weight that out. The bulbs do not cause a heat build-up, which is a benefit to the artist, when a source of light is essential to complete work. Similar lights can be found here LED U Bulb website.

 The pendants hanging in the front end of the shop also provide LED lighting.

 

There are uses of track lighting aid in lighting and showcasing the “art gallery” wall. This wall includes paintings of various artists, and by using the track lights, the light can be adjusted to the changing wall.

 

Paint

 

Painting the walls is a very simple and cost-effective way to change the look of a space. With an industrial theme in mind, the walls of the shop were painted with grey tones. Investing in paint is a must, as you will get your bang for the buck when applying the coats at a minimal. This particular brand of paint used features low odour and zero vocs, which can be found at your local home depot store.

 

Wood

 

Wood is a durable source, so it makes sense to recycle it wherever possible. Reclaimed timber is environmentally friendly and considered a green building material. Being strong, and durable, the use of recycled woods affect our environment by preserving our natural resources and lessening the burden on our landfills. Some of the shelving in the store uses reclaimed wood. By doing so, it adds a rustic look, while having sustainable properties. In a conversation with the owner, Bob would like to add some more shelving using reclaimed wood.

 

Mirrors

The use of mirrors throughout the shop provides the space with a more open feeling. With three large mirrors hung against the wall of the shop, it provides more light to be reflected. The illusion of space a mirror creates enhances the source of light in the shop. In addition to creating new dimensions to the space, it also brings out features of the room, without making dramatic change, making it appear larger.

 

Metal

 

Going for the industrial look, it is essential to showcase metal products in the interior. There are various metal accents throughout the space. One main use of metal is for some of the shelving in the shop to hold ink. The purpose for these metal shelving is for the feature that it is non-porous. Being a tattoo shop, it is important that the workspace remains sanitary at all times. By the use of the stainless steel shelving, makes it easier for the artist to clean and wipe down.

Similarly used in place of wall shelving brackets, the shop uses metal pipes for the towel holders as well as support for the shelving. This is a definite cost-effective, while depicting the whole industrial theme.

Another feature of the stainless steel is on the toe kick of the display counter. In addition to its esthetics, the use of stainless steel makes it easy to wipe down and clean.

Lastly, instead of using wood cabinetry, the shop uses steel cabinets manufactured by Husky. Opting for these steel cabinets are a good idea for the industrial look, as well as sanitary reasons. These can be found at your local hardware store.   

 

Metal, being quite durable is an excellent product to use in this commercial space, especially for a tattoo shop, as it meets expectations for sanitary codes for easy cleaning.

Glass

 

With the office and piercing room being separated from the tattoo area, glass windows help to incorporate those spaces to the rest of the shop, and blinds are used when the privacy is needed. Another section of the owner’s office uses windows that are mirrored for his own privacy, while being able to see what is going on outside.

 

The whole front face of the shop is all glass ceiling to floor. No curtains and blinds are put into place, because it is not needed. Because of the orientation of the shop, the glare of then sun is not a problem, and if anything, it is a plus to have all that natural light in for tattooing.

 Glass display cabinets provide for optimal showcase of goods for the store.