Overview
When Broadway scenic designer David Korins needed a dramatic entrance for Cannabition, he called Smash Design. Cannabition is an interactive immersive experience inside Planet 13, the world’s largest cannabis store.
Our team used scenic fabrication to bring the concept to life. The goal was bold. We needed to build a glowing vortex that visitors could walk through.
As a result, the entrance transforms a normal retail space into a surreal, otherworldly environment. Visitors step through the portal and immediately enter the Cannabition experience.
Scenic Fabrication Process
David Korins designed the entrance using Cannabition’s squared vortex logo. However, the challenge was turning that graphic symbol into a physical structure.
At the same time, the installation had to handle thousands of visitors every day. Therefore, our scenic fabrication approach focused on both visual impact and structural durability.
Our team completed the project in several stages.
Structural Foam Fabrication
First, we built the vortex structure using precision-cut EPS foam segments. Each piece created the illusion of motion within the spiral design.
In addition, the foam structure allowed us to sculpt complex curves and dimensional depth. This method also kept the structure lightweight and efficient to install.
Integrated Lighting Design
Next, we added integrated lighting channels throughout the structure. These channels hold neon-style lighting that creates the vortex’s glowing green effect.
Meanwhile, our team worked closely with lighting designers to ensure perfect placement. As a result, the light follows the spiral form and strengthens the portal illusion.
Surface Finishing
After fabrication, we applied specialized coatings to strengthen the foam surface. These finishes also prepared the structure for long-term public use.
In addition, we carefully selected colors and textures to enhance the lighting effects. This combination creates depth, dimension, and durability.
On-Site Installation
Finally, the Smash Design team transported the finished installation from our Texas studio to Las Vegas.
We then coordinated with Planet 13’s operations team to complete installation. Because the store remained open, our crew worked efficiently to integrate the structure into the existing environment.
Result: An Immersive Entrance Experience
Today, the vortex entrance attracts attention as soon as visitors walk inside Planet 13. Naturally, it has become a popular photo and selfie location.
In addition, the glowing portal creates a powerful visual transition into the Cannabition experience. Visitors feel the shift from retail space to immersive attraction.
Most importantly, the project demonstrates how scenic fabrication can transform a creative vision into a functional environment.
Scenic Fabrication for Experiential Environments
This project highlights Smash Design’s expertise in scenic fabrication for immersive spaces.
We regularly help artists, brands, and designers turn ambitious ideas into physical environments. For example, we fabricate large installations for experiential retail, public art, and branded activations.
Ultimately, our team combines design, engineering, and fabrication to build experiences people remember.
Sometimes that means creating a glowing vortex inside the world’s largest cannabis store.