At Pixl8, the futuristc bar is tended by a robot girl named Pixi. This concept allowed me to do one of my favorite things and use my wit to come up with creative themed drinks.

Some drinks are indicated as “multiplayer” so you can share with your friends. Each drink has a “Difficulty Level” to indicate how strong it is. Or if you can’t decide what to order, you can order “@!#?@!” a.k.a Qberts Drink of the Day. “—But we couldn’t understand him so you’ll have to ask the bartender. “

The exterior facade transforms a once ordinary urban brick building into a “Pixl8-ed” nerd haven station. References to video games such as the plumbing pipe bench-transhcan, the Tetris shapened hedges, and the “press-start” glowing signage above the push-button, automatic metal doors, straight from an intergalactic space station. In designing this arcade and nightlife experience, I intended not only for guests to feel like they were enter a video game universe, but that right when they press the start button and walk through the doors, they were becoming a part of the game.

Instead of the typical “restroom” sign, I felt the word “Pause” was more appropriate. Using custom lighting fixtures and environment signage, the composition mimics the retro arcade game “Pong”. Detail-orientated guests will notice the restroom door covered with joystick controller diagrams. Doors are covered with a collage of diagrams from old video equipment manuals.

Die 7 Times, Respawn 8

To mark guest that have left the building, but plan on returning that night, I created a stamp that would show they have already paid cover. Using invisible UV ink, the stamp will read “Respawn” under the blacklight.

Photo by Eric Vicaria, Pictured Skater: SKELetor