NightOwl Entertainment are at the forefront of hospitality entertainment venues in Australia. We catch up with project manager Troy De Piazzi to discuss business and recent projects.
Can you tell us a little bit about your business and the history of NightOwl?
NightOwl Entertainment specialises in creating venues that are not just places to visit but experiences to immerse in. Our goal is to build, market, and operate venues that resonate on a personal level with our guests, ensuring that every interaction is authentic, engaging, and above all, fun.
What type of projects do you primarily work on?
I oversee the development of new venues within NightOwl Entertainment, focusing primarily on projects that merge hospitality with the latest technology and concepts in social competitiveness. My role involves ensuring that each venue not only meets but exceeds expectations, creating spaces where technology and entertainment seamlessly come together.
You have worked with MLP on several projects. How has the process been working with MLP?
Our relationship with MLP was firmly established from our very first interaction during a meeting with a new international partner. MLP delivered an exceptionally professional, knowledgeable, and technical presentation on the complex task of converting a UK lighting design and specification to an Australian one. Both our international partner and I were thoroughly impressed, and from that moment, our relationship with MLP has only continued to strengthen and grow.
In your opinion what makes a venue stand out from the crowd?
I believe that atmosphere and design are crucial elements shaping the customer journey in the social competitiveness space. Lighting plays a pivotal role in both aspects and is a major focus for our company. We make substantial investments in achieving optimal lighting, starting from the initial design stage through to a final inspection just before opening, conducted by one of our owners.
What excites you about the entertainment scene in Australia? What exciting things can we expect to see from NightOwl?
Australia’s entertainment scene is on the brink of something big, with the potential to rival international markets. NightOwl Entertainment is at the forefront of this evolution, bringing innovative concepts like Flight Club to Australian shores. Our venues are designed to offer experiences that are completely new and engaging, giving people a reason to get off the couch and join in the fun. As we continue to expand, expect to see more venues that push the boundaries of what’s possible in hospitality and entertainment.
Do you have a specific project you are especially proud of, and what you enjoyed about it?
Flight Club Perth is definitely up there. It was one of the first international concepts we introduced to Australia, and it was a significant risk, especially launching during a pandemic. The venue’s look and feel are so distinctive that I recall suppliers approaching me, trying to grasp what exactly they were tasked with designing and building. Every element presented its own challenge, and we were all anxious about getting it right. However, the investment of time and effort has truly paid off, and even 2.5 years later, people still tell me how much they love going there.
You have recently launched Flight Club in Sydney – Can you tell us about the approach to the lighting design?
Whilst each Flight Club design features signature elements like our bespoke ring lights, the design team knew Sydney had to be exceptional. The priority was to integrate lessons learned from previous projects, particularly considering the extensive lighting in the venue. Additionally, we ensured that lighting was a dedicated agenda item in every meeting to give it the attention it truly deserves. We treated lighting as if it were a mechanical, electrical, fire or hydraulic design, because that’s how important it is.
What lighting products were specified for the project and why?
For Flight Club Sydney, we selected a mix of decorative and technical lighting products to achieve the desired ambiance. The design team in the UK chose off-the-shelf decorative lights, while MLP provided more technical lighting solutions to bring the bespoke vision to life. 2200k LED was used extensively to create a warm, inviting feel throughout the venue, particularly around the dart boards and in the playing areas. MLP’s choices were made to ensure the lighting not only looked great but also functioned perfectly within the space.
How does the lighting enhance the experience of the space?
The lighting is integral to creating a comfortable and intimate experience that draws guests in. It’s designed to engage the senses subtly, enhancing the venue’s atmosphere without overwhelming it. The combination of vintage-style fixtures, warm LED lighting, and advanced control systems ensures that the space feels inviting and immersive.
What are the most important things you would like people to know about this project?
What truly makes a project like this special is the immense detail and effort that goes into every aspect of the design. From the intricate lighting systems to the vintage-inspired decor, every element is carefully crafted to ensure that guests have the best possible experience. It’s not just about the final product, but about the collaboration and dedication of everyone involved in bringing the vision to life.
How did MLP make the process go smoothly?
The team at MLP were instrumental in ensuring that the lighting met our high standards. Their practical expertise and deep product knowledge were key in delivering a lighting scheme that was both fit for purpose and aligned with our vision. By providing tailored solutions and working closely with our team, MLP made the complex process of integrating advanced lighting technology into a heritage building seamless and successful.
