In an Australian-first, Adelaide’s Arkaba Hotel has unveiled a 360-degree wraparound LED screen, delivering an unprecedented audiovisual experience for sports enthusiasts.
With a circumference of 12.8m the LED screen is capable of showing up to six events at once, using a unique curved design to feature high-definition screens tapering at an angle to create a funnel effect and ensure that viewers never miss a moment of action wherever they are in the venue.
Custom designed for the Hurley Hotel Group (HHG) by leading digital screen technology company Big Screen Video (BSV), the screen floats above the main bar of the Arkaba’s newly renovated Sportys bar and creates an eye catching focal.
Anna Hurley, HHG project manager, spoke about the unparallelled sports-watching experience created by the installation of the new screen known as The Funnel.
“We think it’s really important to have a point of difference to get punters through the door. We need to provide an experience that is beyond what people can have in their homes.
“We recognise the need for a unique entertainment experience; not only excellent screens, but we’ve also installed a range of games as well as a broad range of drinks and delicious food,” stated Hurley.
“Our customers are loving the experience, it’s a real wow factor. We had our first big sporting event on Sunday, the UFC, and the atmosphere was incredible. You can see the vision from anywhere you stand. We can’t wait for more big events.”
The screen was unveiled to the public for the first time on Friday 8 December, and is one of multiple screens installed by BSV as part of the Arkaba’s renovation, including an internal wall-mounted screen and beer garden screen.
BSV Chief Executive Paul Ellery says the screen is a demonstration of the company’s focus on innovation, research and development and pushing the boundaries to deliver industry-leading entertainment solutions that bring spaces to life.
“The design is unique and the custom curve is the only one of its type in an Australian venue. Viewers will enjoy 360-degree sport viewing from any angle of the bar, including the balcony, and the pixel pitch chosen provides crystal clear picture even up close, with no broadcast altered or warped.
“BSV has a long relationship with the Hurley Hotel Group so we wanted to create a statement piece befitting for the Sportys’ reputation as a destination of choice for sport-hungry fans in South Australia.
“We are thrilled with the outcome which we believe will provide a memorable experience for patrons seeking the best live action on the highest-quality screens available.”
Check out the video below.