THE NEON BISON
Project : Bar & Grill Facelift
Goal: Use the time the world is locked down to flip a bar with 30+ years of decay into a downtown destination for locals and business folks staying across the street at the Hotel Pierre Marquette.
My Roles: Name, Concept, Logo, Brand, Sign Design, Interior Design, Merch Design, Menu Design, Website, and Media Launch Package
To understand the full project see the images below of the Judges Chamber which was the bar as it sat prior to starting this project. It was everything a dingy dive bar is and then some… LOL!
Transformations are nothing without a before photo…right?
The Vision
Judges Chamber sat on Main St in a region that used to be a hub of nightlife for decades. With the option for other shotgun style bars to open next door the vision was set, Judges Chamber would become The Neon Bison. Somewhere between “Illinois Country” and “Nashville Bachelorette Weekend Tennessee Country” the idea formed for a live music shotgun style bar. Ironically during this discussion Peoria International Airport announced direct flights from PIA to NASH. It all just made sense.
Custom Vintage Sign
Working with the owners and city zoning I designed an attention grabbing retro neon marquee style sign. My long time motocross friend (Charlie Buffum) was able to source two old Marquee Tickers for the flashing bulbs and bring my concept to life. Signs are important for not only navigating but also for attracting and setting an overall expectation for the inside of a venue. After 30+ years of “The Judges Chamber” being in business this new sign would make sure those passing by on the road or sidewalk knew of the rebrand.
The longest running Downtown Peoria Bar is all new, inside and out with a new name and bringing a Nashville feel to Peoria, Illinois! The Former Judges Chamber is Now The Neon Bison. The Neon Bison is bright neon inside and out. A country /honky tonk/ sports/ all around good vibes bar.
With lots of TV’s and a great surround system it’s the perfect spot for sporting events, including NFL direct ticket on Sundays and Chicago Cubs and STL Cardinals baseball during the season. The newly built window front seating area transforms to a cozy country/rock stage at night for small intimate live music. Also our 6 brand new gaming machines moved into their own private gaming area and pay out big on a weekly basis! Come experience Nashville in Peoria.
Grand Opening Launch Materials
Deliverables: Wall Menus, Table Menus, Merch Design, Event Photography, Event Videography
The Neon Bison Launch video was produced by myself and Pat Clark.