Dynamic Bar Menu transforms a traditional bar environment into an interactive, co-created space, inviting patrons to influence their surroundings through collective decision-making. Designed for Crypto Cafe & Bar via Digital Architecture Lab, this installation uses light, NFC-enabled tokens, and real-time voting mechanisms to create a dynamic drink menu determined by its participants.

The project examines the interplay between individuals and shared spaces. Inspired by the ethos of collective governance, the installation allows patrons to actively shape their environment, combining physical and social layers of a space. By creating a responsive, participatory system, the installation makes the typically invisible dynamics of shared decision-making visible and tangible.

The LED lamp at the center of the experiment acts as a dynamic display, reflecting the current collective choice of the “special event drink.” Through voting with NFC tokens, patrons influence the color of the lamp and, in turn, the drink available at the bar. This process also sparks playful collaboration by encouraging patrons to engage with each other to shape their shared experience.

Materials / Technology:

• Hardware:
  • Raspberry Pi 4B: Controls the LED lamp and voting system, runs Python scripts for real-time interaction.
  • Addressable LEDs (WS2812B): Display the winning drink option through dynamic color changes.
  • NFC Chips (Mifare and NTAG215): Custom-designed tokens distributed to patrons for voting.
  • PN532 NFC Reader: Authenticates and registers votes.
  • Arcade Buttons: Allow patrons to interact directly with the voting interface.
  • Raspberry Pi 7-inch Touch Screen: Provides real-time feedback on voting status.
  • Custom 3D-printed cases: Protect and organize the NFC reader, Raspberry Pi, and arcade buttons.
  • Custom PCB Board: Simplifies wiring and enhances the installation's aesthetic finish.
• Software:
  • Python: Handles real-time vote processing and LED control.
  • Airtable: Serves as a database to store and tally votes.
  • KiCad: Used to design the custom PCB board.

The installation succeeded in creating a more interactive and socially engaging bar environment:

• Social Interaction: The voting system encouraged patrons to connect with one another, fostering spontaneous conversations and teamwork.
• Playful Engagement: The responsive nature of the LED lamp added a delightful feedback loop, making participation feel both impactful and fun.
• Collaborative Dynamics: By allowing votes to be updated, the system sustained engagement throughout the night, enabling patrons to influence the space in real time.

Initial write-up published here.