The Portal

In Short:

The Portal is a striking artistic installation designed to guide patrons from a high-end Chicago restaurant to an even more exclusive VIP area upstairs. The installation features an intricate array of 83 uniquely crafted deep burgundy acrylic panels, assembled to conceal seams beneath a bronze powder-coated aluminum lattice. Adding to the elegance are 60 Italian handcrafted light sconces, each uniquely crafted and strategically positioned to avoid interference with the woven lattice. Spanning multiple walls and navigating complex obstacles around the grand staircase, this piece creates a visually captivating and cohesive transition between spaces.

This project was completed for Tavern on Rush, a client of the renowned design studio 555, where I had the privilege of contributing as part of a talented team. Guided by exceptional mentors and collaborative peers, this was a team effort that allowed me to grow and refine my craft within a supportive and inspiring environment.

Client

Category

Installation

Location

Chicago, Illinois

Year

2024

Skills Used

SolidWorks

Site analysis

Technical drawings

Concepting

Hand sketching

Rough prototypes

Adobe Photoshop

Procreate

Process

Initial site analysis

Beginning space

Beginning acrylic installation

Ensuring my cutouts matched up properly

Acrylic installation complete, onto lattice.

Lattice fabrication

Lattice installation

Custom lattice standoff

Helping with lattice installation

Finished installation

Finished installation

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Process

This website was designed and built by me.

And, unless otherwise cited, all content including photography, graphics, and products created by me.

Thank you for your time in reviewing my work! I would love to be in touch, and I hope you are having a wonderful day.


~ JD Byrne

This website was designed and built by me.

And, unless otherwise cited, all content including photography, graphics, and products created by me.

Thank you for your time in reviewing my work! I would love to be in touch, and I hope you are having a wonderful day.


~ JD Byrne

This website was designed and built by me.

And, unless otherwise cited, all content including photography, graphics, and products created by me.

Thank you for your time in reviewing my work! I would love to be in touch, and I hope you are having a wonderful day.


~ JD Byrne