CONTEXT AND DETAILS
Principal Role(s): Creative Director & Experiential Designer (with Graphic Design, Production, and Installation)
Challenge: Designing a merch table for a multi-city national arena tour that stood out against standard setups while working across vastly different venues.
Opportunity: Build something both experiential and practical, designed for real-world use, repeated setup, and audience interaction.
Solution: Because every venue varies in size and layout, the system had to be modular. After studying typical merch tables, I drew inspiration from classic NYC newsstands, creating a concept that felt familiar, immersive, and visually distinct.
Execution: I led the project from concept to on-tour refinement:
Outcome: In a multi-artist arena tour environment, the setup became a clear standout.
It drew consistent attention, encouraged fan interaction, and turned the merch table into a destination, proving that thoughtful design can transform even functional spaces into memorable experiences.
Opportunity: Build something both experiential and practical, designed for real-world use, repeated setup, and audience interaction.
Solution: Because every venue varies in size and layout, the system had to be modular. After studying typical merch tables, I drew inspiration from classic NYC newsstands, creating a concept that felt familiar, immersive, and visually distinct.
Execution: I led the project from concept to on-tour refinement:
- Researched NYC newsstands to identify key visual elements to translate into the setup
- Consulted with an experienced merch manager to ensure practicality and ease of setup across venues
- Sourced print vendors, materials, and formats based on sizing and technical constraints
- Designed and prepared all production-ready assets
- Coordinated printing, delivery, and all physical components including structures and supports
- Implemented proper lighting solutions to adapt to darker venue placements
- Joined the tour to oversee setup, troubleshoot issues, and refine the experience
- Added thoughtful details like a NYC playlist, plush pigeon, and cat to enhance immersion
Outcome: In a multi-artist arena tour environment, the setup became a clear standout.
It drew consistent attention, encouraged fan interaction, and turned the merch table into a destination, proving that thoughtful design can transform even functional spaces into memorable experiences.