Eclipse Records

Originally opened near the date of a total solar eclipse on August 11th 1999, but closed in 2003, Eclipse Records gained a loyal following not just as an eclectic cd and record shop, but particularly for its all ages performance venue, lounge, and retro arcade. Reopened at a new location during the winter of 2006 we helped to develop a series of new furniture-like inserts for a point of sale / merchandise display area, storefront window -display-armature, enclosed performance venue, and arcade space.

Our design solution attempts to walk the line between a rigorous organizing framework of built elements and the eclectic organic nature of a traditional record shop - constantly being recreated with new found objects. We designed a system of overlapping translucent and opaque polypropylene panels which simultaneously transmit and reflect light and shadow at different locations. In addition to serving as a visual reference to the light and shadow qualities occurring in a solar eclipse, the polypro panels also serve as smooth surface for attaching and removing the multitude of ever-changing record company promotional materials. As the primary focus of the store, the arcade and performance space are given visual prominence in the design. The volume of the performance space is clad in reflective black panels. Black panels peel away from the performance space to create a dark interior lining for the arcade space, which is then enveloped by a translucent light emitting white shroud.