Some products and brands can function with simple decor while other are more complex and require elaborate plans. Case in point, how would you create an understated afrocentric decor theme, with a touch of sophistication to launch a lifestyle brand?
Such was the brief for this particular project. If you’re familiar with afrocentric decor, you know that it’s hardly understated. The colors and props are pretty flamboyant.
This post shares our experience delivering this décor for Inverroche Gin as directed by the client, Agency 63.
About the project
Inverroche Gin has three variants: Gin Classic, Gin Amber and Gin Verdant.
Our task was therefore to complement the robust efforts of Beysix, the branding team and HomeBoyz, the audio-visual team. Their job was to execute the brand’s reveal. While ours was to bring the three variants to life through afrocentric decor.
The space
The first step was to understand the event space.
In this case, the venue was a residential mansion ‘made for parties’. And in the heart of it, was the perfect living room with Gin Amber’s name on it.
In the back, was a yard that would form the perfect setting for Gin Classic.
And to the front of this inimitable mansion, was a yard though unbalanced in its positioning, a fitting spot for Gin Verdant.
Finally, there was the entrance driveway to consider. A convenient convergence point for all guests to share a collective experience as they moved to the Gin Verdant space, which was the main event space.
The décor plan
The plan to bring these spaces to life would involve relevant, appropriate and suitably matched decor props (though not necessarily unique).
Also, due to the erratic weather (rainy showers), stretch tents were installed to provide cover for the outdoor spaces.
To brighten the stretch tents, festoon lights adorned them on the edges and specifically on the inside for the Gin Verdant space.
The pictures below show how furniture and décor props were applied to the different spaces to represent the three Inverroche Gin variants. Ultimately, setting the stage for an exhilarating experience.
The Gin Classic outdoor space
Outdoor lounge for Gin Verdant
Gin Amber indoor lounge
Gin Verdant cocktail and main event space
A walk through the decor layout
The Gin Classic space served as the guests holding area. This is was their first convergence point and where their brand experience actually began.
The coloring on these different sets of furniture and decor props came together perfectly to deliver a warm experiential space for Inverroche Gin.
All that was missing to complete the look and feel of this amazing room was some Inverroche gin and tonic.
To understand the THRILL of this walkway of light, you’d have to walk through it.
The mood!
This video by Sylvia Njoki, a travel and lifestyle expert aptly captures some of the mood at the magical Inverroche Gin launch event.
Conclusion
Clearly, afrocentric decor doesn’t need to be loud and flamboyant. Neither does it need to be heavy on a myriad of patterns. You can get ideas or draw inspiration from our land’s rich colors, vegetation and especially the African sunset.
Good luck, Inverroche Gin and welcome to Kenya!
Need some awesome customized decor props for your next event? Or, just ideas on how to apply them to a select theme? Talk to us today.
See you soon!
XOXO
