DC Drybar
Designing an Immersive Bar Experience for Pocketed Comic Fans
Designed a physical bar experience to cater to fans who feel isolated by the nature of comic-related discourse on social media and in-person.
Project Summary
A research plan and findings, 3D design, logo design, in-bar experiential design and end-user testing
Deliverables
See the full project breakdown below. ⬇️
Navigation Hub
My Role
Researcher & UX Designer
Google Forms & End-User Interviewing
My Research Tools
Figma, SketchUp, Twinmotion
My Design Tools
1 Year & 4 Months
Timeframe
Comic fans often struggle to find respectful, insightful conversations, as online spaces are riddled with toxicity and gatekeeping. As fandom shifts further into digital spaces, the absence of real-world community hubs has left many feeling disconnected.
Enter the DC Drybar, an innovative social space that saves fans from isolation.
It’s not a bar. It’s not Comic-Con. It’s the DC Drybar.
The Context
The Ask
How might we design a physical space for comic fans seeking positive community interactions?
My research objective was to understand the positive and negative experiences of DC Comics fans online.
My research extended to a five question survey and separate responses pulled from Reddit discussions.
View my research plan below. ⬇️
Research Findings
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Project Title: DC Drybar
Client: DC Comics; DC Entertainment
Background
DC Comics, a cornerstone of the comic book industry since the 1930s, is known for introducing iconic superheroes during the Golden Age of Comics. In 2024, the company held 16.4% of the market share, generating $329.7 million in revenue. Its success is rooted in legendary characters like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, as well as its expanding portfolio of live-action and animated films. Because of this, DC has become a cultural pillar for comic fans, fostering passionate communities and fulfilling its mission of “truth, justice, and a better tomorrow.”
Yet, while comics themselves inspire heroism, hope, and imagination, the spaces where fans engage in discourse have become increasingly divisive. Online discussions often devolve into hostility, making it difficult for comic lovers to find welcoming, respectful conversations. As fandom becomes more digital, the lack of positive, real-world gathering spaces has left many fans feeling isolated or disengaged.
The DC Drybar is designed to bridge this gap. More than a themed venue, it’s an innovative social space—both in-app and in-person—where fans can connect, share ideas, and engage in meaningful comic book discussions without the toxicity of online platforms.
It’s not a bar.
It’s not Comic-Con.
It’s the DC Drybar.
Goals & Objectives
Foster Positive Fan Engagement – Strengthen DC’s relationship with diverse fan communities by creating a welcoming space for respectful and meaningful discourse.
Reignite Passion for the DC Brand – Increase engagement with DC Comics’ stories, merchandise, and experiences by providing a unique, interactive social environment.
Establish DC as a Community-Driven Brand – Position DC Comics & DC Entertainment as a leader in fostering inclusive, in-person fan communities—offering an alternative to the divisiveness of online spaces.
Participant Recruitment
Fans disillusioned by online discourse – Comic enthusiasts who are active on social media but feel fatigued by the negativity and hostility in online discussions.
Fans seeking community – Individuals who love comics but struggle with social isolation and are looking for a welcoming, in-person space to connect.
Detail-oriented comic fans – Readers who deeply engage with comics by analyzing storytelling, artwork, and thematic elements, valuing in-depth discussions.
Research Methodology
In-Person Interviews – Conduct one-on-one interviews with comic fans to gain deep insights into their experiences, frustrations, and desires for a more positive community space.
Surveys & Online Feedback – Collect quantitative and qualitative data from comic book fans on social media to understand broader trends in fandom engagement and discourse.
End-User Concept Testing – Gather participant feedback on physical mockup designs, VR experience concepts, and other creative prototypes to refine the DC Drybar experience.
Research Questions
In-person interviewing/survey questions:
What aspects of comics do you enjoy the most?
Do you believe comic book discussions contribute to a stronger fan community? Why or why not?
How would you describe your experience with comic book discussions online? (Scale: Very negative, Somewhat negative, Neutral, Somewhat positive, Very positive)
How often do you engage in debates or disagreements with other comic fans online? (A few times a year, A few times a month, A few times a week, A few times a day)
What typically leads to disagreements in comic book discussions?
End-user Concept Testing
Does the DC Drybar feel like a welcoming and positive space for comic book discussions? Why or why not?
On a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = Not appealing, 5 = Highly appealing), how appealing do you find the DC Drybar concept?
What aspects of the DC Drybar concept do you find most exciting or valuable?
What would you change or improve about the DC Drybar experience?
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Survey Type: Google Form
Survey Title: Comic Book Conversations: Exploring Fandom & Online Discourse
✅ 40 responses
Research Context & Participant Reach:
r/DCcomics
r/Superman
r/WonderWoman
Survey Results
Survey data revealed that most participants have had positive experiences with online comic-related discussions—48% rated their experiences as somewhat positive, and 13% as very positive.
Over 75% engage in discourse regularly, debating with fellow fans at least a few times a month.
How would you describe your experience with comic book discussions online?
How often do you engage in debates or disagreements with other comic fans online?
Main Insight
Online and In-Person, Fans’ Experiences Are Positive, But Pocketed*
Reddit users confirmed that while they enjoy talking about comics, they often avoid online discussions that feel repetitive or shallow. In-person spaces don’t always offer much better — one user shared that even her local comic shop limits deeper conversations, pushing her toward more mainstream topics.
This highlights a clear gap: fans want spaces that support thoughtful, niche comic discussions.
DC Drybar: Design Summary
The DC Drybar spans 6,000 sq. ft. and hosts up to 400 guests. Outside, custom LED-lit windows pay tribute to Bruce Timm’s animated style, casting a glowing comic book silhouette. Guests enter through an LED comic tunnel that sets the tone for the experience.
Inside, two spacious, accessible bathrooms feature expanded stalls to welcome all body types and costume sizes.
Out back, Poison Ivy’s Groovy Grotto adds 4,000 sq. ft. of lush outdoor space—a garden escape designed for connection and calm.
3D Designs Made with Sketchup & Twinmotion
DC Drybar Comic Tunnel in Twinmotion
DC Drybar Bathroom
DC Drybar: Table Tablet User Interface
Facilitates meaningful conversations with guided prompts and streamlines in-seat ordering.
Users can either select their own discussion topic or activate "Joker Mode" for a random, playful prompt.
DC Drybar Opening Screen
DC Drybar Topic Screen
DC Drybar: Garden UX
The 4,000 sq. ft. garden blends DC Comics and Arkham-inspired visuals, featuring high-top tables for conversation and iconic elements like the Arkham Asylum sign and fencing.
Built for flexibility, the space easily transforms for seasonal or character-themed events to keep the experience fresh and fan-focused.
DC Drybar Poison Ivy Garden Space in Twinmotion
DC Drybar: Immersive Menu
From mighty, heroic mixes to delicious, villainous vices, the DC Drybar serves up refreshments full of niche references and bold flavors.
Explore some of our saga-worthy selections below. ⬇️
"Cup of Hope" - Superman's Drink
"The Dark Knight Rises" - Batman's Drink
"Amazonia Colada" - Wonder Woman's Drink
"Bringing Lexy Back" - Lex Luthor's Drink
"The Killing Joke" - Joker's Drink
"Cold Heart" - Mr. Freeze's Drink
"The Manhunter" - Martian Manhunter's Drink
DC Drybar: Special Events
Throughout the year, the DC Drybar evolves to spotlight different corners of the DC Universe — bringing fans fresh themes, immersive moments, and signature drinks that keep them coming back.
Discover our rotating themes and attractions below. ⬇️
February: Black Superheroes’ Month
Celebrate iconic and unsung Black DC heroes with immersive nights of storytelling, community, and themed experiences—led by the ever-brilliant Mr. Terrific.
Don’t miss Terrific Tea, a bold limited-edition drink made with Twisted Tea.
DC Drybar x Twisted Tea Brand Collaboration
March: Wonder Womens’ Month
A month-long tribute to legendary and unsung DC heroines—featuring themed menus, immersive decor, and empowering storytelling. The garden becomes Themyscira, Wonder Woman’s iconic island sanctuary.
Themyscira Smoked S’mores
DC Drybar Garden Space during Wonder Women’s Month in Twinmotion
The Themyscira-fied garden space is also complete with outdoor grill stations for guests to heat their Themyscira Smoked S’mores.
June: In Brightest Month
This July, the DC Drybar ignites the full emotional spectrum with a Green Lantern takeover. Guests can sip their way through color-themed cocktails inspired by the Lantern Corps while the garden transforms into Sector 2814, home to Earth—and willpower itself. From the giant Yellow Lantern Dragon eating a Green Lantern to Star Sapphire’s broken heart, this garden is filled with attractions during the brightest month of the year.
Every themed drink comes with a complimentary candy ring.
The Fearless Floater - Green Lantern’s Drink
DC Drybar Garden Space during Scarecrow’s Halloween Takeover in Twinmotion
July: Superman Legacy Month
Celebrate the Man of Steel with a month-long tribute to Superman, featuring themed drinks, immersive decor, and a special indoor screening of the highly anticipated Superman (2025) film. Poison Ivy’s Groovy Grotto will transform into a radiant Fortress of Solitude, offering guests a fully immersive Kryptonian experience.
David Corenswet, star of the upcoming Superman film, will stop by to grab a drink and snap photos with fans.
The Pulitzer Prize - Lois Lane’s Drink
DC Drybar Garden Space during Superman Legacy Month in Twinmotion
October: Scarecrow’s Halloween Takeover
When the full moon rises on All Hallows’ Eve, the DC Drybar falls under the eerie influence of Jonathan Crane—better known as Scarecrow. His fear-inducing presence creeps through the entire space, including Poison Ivy’s Groovy Grotto Garden. Each table features a glowing jack-o’-lantern filled with Halloween candy for guests to enjoy... if they dare.
Scarecrow’s themed drink - the Fear Toxin will be sold during this month - along with a special sugar syringe.
Mwah ha ha ha ha!
The Fear Toxin - Scarecrow’s Drink
Scarecrow’s Fear Toxin is a twisted tribute to the villain’s infamous hallucinogenic gas — a drink that transforms before your eyes. What begins as a vibrant blend of lime soda, lemon bitters, and Midori takes a darker turn when guests inject a color-shifting sugar syrup infused with butterfly pea flower extract.
The result? A dramatic transformation in both color and flavor, echoing the slow descent into fear and madness.
DC Drybar Garden Space during Scarecrow’s Halloween Takeover in Twinmotion
I led every part of this project—from research planning and branding to 3D design and storytelling—without help from art directors or designers. It challenged me to blend UX research, visual design, and immersive worldbuilding into one cohesive experience.
Being a lifelong comic nerd finally paid off—professionally. 😄
Project Reflection
Check out my other projects below. ⬇️
