Barbados Concorde Experience
Overview
Visitors experience the power of the famous Concorde jet airliner, from interactive controls to experience the rush of take-off to a multimedia show complete with sonic boom.
Details
- Client
- Barbados Tourism Investment Inc.
- Project
- The Concorde Experience, Grantley Adams International Airport
- Size
- 20,000 sq. ft.
- Project Delivery
- Design-Build
- Scope
- Exhibit Design - Aviation
- Location
- Grantley Adams International Airport, Christchurch, Barbados
- Year Completed
- 2007
The
Goal
Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. asked R&P to develop a dynamic exhibit and new tourist destination that would pay tribute to the evolution of supersonic flight, its history, and aviation innovations with the British Airways iconic Concorde 212 G-BOAE as the star attraction.
The
Design
Once a privilege reserved for the rich and famous, visitors enjoyed the full experience of a Concorde flight, from the charm of the reconstructed waiting lounge to an introduction to the flight crew. Taking on the role of the pilot, guests ‘flew’ the plane using simulator cockpit consoles. On board the aircraft, a tour guide and various media described the excitement and celebratory atmosphere that once welcomed VIP passengers.
As a centerpiece of the hangar, the sound and light show ‘Engineered for Speed’, produced by Science
North, was projected onto the fuselage of the aircraft. The show dramatized the amazing feat of engineering that produced this sleek and beautiful aircraft. Sound-effects simulated the famous sonic boom of take-off that lifted visitors out of their seats. Brightly colored banners hung throughout the hangar, their design inspired by both the vapor trails created by the supersonic aircraft blasting through the sky as well as the character of the tropical location.
The
Result
The Barbados Concorde Experience was a resounding success for over 10 years as a beloved tourist destination and sought-after events space.
Marketing
Collateral
R&P mentored the Barbados team throughout the design process. This collaboration resulted in a unique exhibition driven by an experienced design-build team with design sensibility, and the enthusiasm of local designers and craftsmen. R&P developed a custom marketing logo that was applied to a number of collateral to attract tourists and locals, which complemented the exhibit graphics using the same look and feel.
