Tiebreakers

This project is located in a highly visible and thriving shopping district of the city that was developed and constructed in the early 1990s. Our goal was to create a memorable, exciting, and entertaining environment for all ages. The concept of the new façade was to make a design statement that would establish the brand and transform the archetype of the existing shopping center. The futuristic design of the space begins in the parking lot and carries throughout the interior spaces. As the flagship location, our goal was to establish a standard that would carry through to the future expansion of the company. The façade was designed to attach and conceal the existing dated brick veneer without removing it. Our approach to the façade was both environmental and economical; reducing construction waste and shortening the overall time it would take to install the new façade. The existing tower was enclosed with ACM panels to give the project a unique feature that would be easily seen and recognizable from North Roan Street, a major corridor through the city. The energy efficiency of the building was a significant focus early in the project, as the demand of the new use of the building would stress the outdated systems in place. The efficiency of the building was increased by replacing the electrical system, installing a new white TPO roof, replacing existing mechanical with new energy-efficient HVAC RTUs, and covering the ceiling with closed-cell spray foam. All decorative and task lighting chosen throughout were LEDs, keeping energy efficiency in mind. Minimal lighting was designed in the gaming area, due to the game systems providing ample lighting without the need for any supplementary decorative.

Framework for Design Excellence

Design for Integration:
To create a memorable environment for both children and adults, the design focused on more forward-thinking and mature lines while embracing bright colors and playing with scale. As this business caters to all demographics, it was important to design, keeping that in mind. The sharp lines on the façade contrast with the striking curves strategically placed on the floor plan. Both main curves are located at major traffic areas as well as points of sales, aiding in visual wayfinding. The largest structural design feature is the curved entrance of the Redemption area, making it a focal point of the project and subconsciously drawing the attention of patrons to their potential rewards. Also aiding in wayfinding was the LED signage, stylishly labeling the different areas of the project.

Visually and physically engaging materials were selected to enhance the personal experience for the guests. The use of iridescent and tinted acrylic, reflective surfaces, and lighting all added to the multisensory experience of Tiebreakers. While the main materials selected were kept to a more subdued color palette, these were specifically chosen to reflect the changeable RGB colors that were installed with lighting. The white walls, pearlescent upholstery, and bright white epoxy flooring allow for variability in the design, especially in the sense of controlling the mood and feeling of the space. The playfulness in the details encourages patrons to be excited and enthusiastic about their experience. The Redemption area exhibits subtle and whimsical details, while overall, not distracting from the displayed prizes. RGB lighting strategically placed against acrylic panels in hidden recesses create a futuristic glow and playful details, while the iridescent colored flecks in the white epoxy floor play to the imaginative side.