Cadence in the Maze

Commercial · Experiential Live/Work

Cadence in the Maze

Type

Live/Work Skybox

Year

2020

Scale

4,200 sq ft

Awards

IDA · BLT · Bienenstock

Overview

A skybox where structure performs as music.

Cadence in the Maze is a private stadium skybox for a hip-hop label's recording artists — a place to retreat between performances. The brief was less a room than an atmosphere.

The design uses structure spatially, building three-dimensional forms that capture the rhythm and cadence of trap music to create a psychedelic, maze-like ambiance. Complex construction and varied textures shape a dark, mysterious space — part recording studio, part stage, part escape from reality.

An independent design, recognized at the 2023 IDA Design Awards (Interior Designer of the Year, Commercial — Honorable Mention), the 2023 BLT Built Design Awards (Winner, Commercial), and the 2021 Bienenstock Interior Design Competition (2nd Place).

Concept

Form as Rhythm
Concept boards — translating the cadence of trap music into maze-like three-dimensional form, with hip-hop cultural background.

Concept — the interior translates the cadence of trap music into three-dimensional, maze-like form; rooted in the cultural background of hip-hop, the space becomes a dark, mysterious escape.

The Maze

Entertainment Level
Maze-interior renders — brass-framed structure, terrazzo floors, and stadium views.

The maze — brass-framed structure, terrazzo floors, and stadium views shape the entertainment level: part lounge, part stage.

First Floor

Plan & Materials
First-floor plan with the material schedule.

First-floor plan — a 2,400 sq ft main level off the stadium concourse, with sustainable furnishings and a terrazzo, brass, and reclaimed-wood palette.

Main Entry

Bar & Wine Room
Main entry render with the bar elevation detail.

Main entry — the bar and wine room use mirrored ceilings for a maze-like effect while blocking direct sunlight, with a movable black-terrazzo bar and a laser-engraved logo.

Second Floor

Plan & Furnishings
Second-floor plan with relaxation, sleeping, and conference furnishings.

Second-floor plan and furnishings — relaxation, sleeping, and conference areas, with a “KEEP OFF” rug and custom millwork.

The Refuge

Sleeping Area
The sleeping area overlooking the field, with the brand logo in brass and a sneaker display.

The sleeping area — a private refuge overlooking the field, with the brand logo in brass, a sneaker display, and drapery for privacy.