ajhdesigns
The Playlist Lounge
Project Type:
Brand Design
Advertising Design
UX/UI Design
Software Used:
Project Brief:
A gaming and jazz lounge designed as a third space where young adults can connect through their love of gaming and music. The project explores how design can create pathways to connection and belonging through three touch points: signal, invitation, and follow-through.
Project Solution:
Created a game-inspired visual identity, event flyers, and a mobile app to turn interest into participation. Through the app, guests can discover events, RSVP, make reservations, and engage with live experiences through features like The Queue, which allows guests to request songs from the in-house band.
Naomi Barnes, Xavier Santiago, and Parker Lane represent the diverse interests and social needs of Playlist Lounge’s target audience: Gen Z and Millennial adults ages 21–35. While each engages with gaming, music, and community differently, they share a desire to build meaningful connections through common interests. Whether seeking cozy, low-pressure social experiences, a convenient place to gather with friends, or opportunities to bring online communities together in person, Playlist Lounge provides a welcoming environment to connect, play, and build community.
Meet the Players
The Signal
The visual identity serves as the first signal of what Playlist Lounge is and who the space is for. Through gaming-inspired colors, nostalgic imagery, photography, and messaging, the brand uses familiar visual and emotional cues to capture attention and help people recognize something that connects with their own interests and experiences.
The Invitation
Event promotions turn the initial interest created by the visual identity into a reason to participate. Each event is designed around specific interests within the larger gaming and music community, using familiar imagery, references, and experiences to help different audiences recognize an opportunity that feels relevant to them.
The Follow-Through
The mobile app provides a direct path from interest to participation. Users can download the app, explore upcoming events and gaming tournaments, and RSVP to them. Even the smallest UI details promote this idea of connection. CTA buttons like "Game With Us" or "Save My Spot" imply that community is on the other side of signing up for these experiences. The mobile experience continues beyond registration through features like The Queue. Guests can actively participate during Friday Night Queue events by browsing in the mobile app for their favorite gaming soundtracks and submitting song requests to the in-house band to play live.
Naomi registers for Speed Crossing, turning her interest in Animal Crossing into an opportunity to meet and play alongside others who share it.
Xavier reserves the Green Room for his friends, giving them a dedicated space to game together outside of their usual online setup.
Parker uses the app during the Friday Night Queue to request songs, turning a date night into an experience she and her boyfriend can actively participate in.