Planet One

COO designed a mixed reality playground for Shanghai’s community of tech-savvy millennials. This 1,250 m2 entertainment destination presents a hyper-connected and technology-driven lifestyle through shared real-world experiences and social activities.

Introduction

COO created a mixed reality hub that provides entertainment, leisure and excitement for the variety-craving millennials in China. Planet One showcases a digital-centred lifestyle in a 1,250 m2 space located at a prominent location in downtown Shanghai. The space offers multiple opportunities for live gaming contests, lectures, coding workshops and events. As a versatile and flexible platform, this venue actively engages customers both online and offline, blurring the boundary between the virtual realm and reality.

The design adopts an aesthetic that captures the integration of virtual experience into real-world social activities. Raw materials such as copper, aluminium and glass are used throughout the venue, adding a touch of authenticity to the futuristic space populated with dynamic digital surfaces. Perforated and corrugated aluminium walls reflect the lights and colours from the LED walls, evoking an ethereal mood that connects the digital and physical environment. Transparent foldable LED walls surrounding the main stage allow visibility between customers in different areas and visually connect the activities’ spectators and participants. The combination of warm colour blocks on the PVC floor serve as visual guidance and distinction of different regions of the space.

A system of LED light lines on the ceiling runs throughout the venue. Pulsating with dynamic colours, this ceiling light installation navigates guests in the space. The LED light lines form an impactful grid structure at the main stage, giving the area an undeniable focal point. The setting of the main stage offers a variety of activities, ranging from shows to live-streaming e-sport tournaments, from Yoga classes to coding workshops. Integrated with a stage, large LED walls and comfortable seatings, this area is where different communities can gather and meet.

Not limited to a simple ‘playground’, a curated collection of offline digital experiences aims to attract excitement-craving young crowds. A range of popular programs satisfy customers with different interests. A laser tag arena presents various scenarios with mesmerising light effects. VR game stations are equipped with hanging screens that allows spectators to enjoy the games with third-person perspectives. There are also drone simulators as well as indoor flights for the adventurous players. Aside from providing some of the most cutting-edge facilities, the restaurant area also features a cutting-edge ‘robobar’ that fits into the overarching narrative of a hi-tech playground. An array of eye-catching light installations in the shape of a moon perching on top of the counter further elevates the futuristic atmosphere. 

COO created an engaging journey at this multifunctional entertainment hub, attracting a community of technology-driven lifestyles in Shanghai.

Facts

Type:
Entertainment & Restaurant

Location:
Sinar Mas Plaza F1
Shanghai, China

Assignment:
Concept Design
Design Supervision

Extent:
1,250 m2

Year:
2021

Team:
Tilman Thürmer
Gui Qi
Francesca Inchingolo
Yu Yin

Client:
Planet O Shanghai

Photos:
COO
Charlie Xia