As a themed entertainment designer I want my generation to engage with new spaces, even when they have a historical facade. When The Portal Arcade, located at 408 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401, first moved in to a historical location, it wasn’t very clear that an exciting retro experience could be found inside. Hoping to bring this facade from a 3 to a 10, I took many photographs of the arcade on its grand opening day. As soon as I got home, I did a lot of brainstorming hoping to create an exterior that respects the building’s historical importance, yet clearly shares the adventures that await inside. My final designs meet with the business goals of being family friendly and being a clear read even during their late hours, while also riding on the recent 80’s nostalgia movement.
While the arcade may be brand new, their rare machines are kept in pristine condition. There's even a cafe in the back!
The facade of the arcade as of the opening day.
Using my photographs as reference, I drafted this elevation to scale using Adobe Photoshop, trying to keep all materials within a practical budget for the aspiring business. Many of these parts can be easily fabricated out of cheap metals, clay, pipes, and weather-proofed foam. Interactive elements, such as the glowing portal and small screens, can be simplified according to budget.
Daylight view of the design imposed on the historical facade. Even when approached from from the same of side of the street by the many guests that visit Broughton St. the retro Galaga-inspired spaceships provide a clear, intriguing read.
Night time view of my final design. Since The Portal has late hours, it was important that the facade be exciting to look at even at night. With the glowing signs and large purple aperture, this facade would make this arcade impossible to miss.
