Long before casinos became architectural masterpieces with flashy interiors, they were regular saloons with basic designs. Over centuries, betting clubs have continued to create grand structures with various themes and elements. Even iGaming platforms are not left out of this evolution. Since the pandemic in 2020, iGaming platforms have become more aesthetically pleasing with the integration of historical pieces and artworks in their design.
While the industry appears to be attracting a larger audience with its evolving architecture and design, very little is known about the functionality of these aesthetic features. In this piece, we will discuss the factors that have influenced architectural trends and the need for a balance between art and functionality.
Architectural Styles
The appearance of gambling houses has always been a reflection of the societal perception of gambling. In the 17th century, gambling was perceived as an immoral venture for drunks. Thus, players would gather at local salons in dark alleys to play and drink. There was barely anything aesthetically pleasing about this gambling house.
The architectural evolution of gaming houses began in the 19th century, when noble men began to gather to play casino games. To reflect the nobility of their players, many gambling houses, like Casino de Monte-Carlo, made improvements to the overall structure of their casinos.
Groundbreaking architectural designs and the foundation for contemporary designs began in the 20th century. The famous “gambling capital,” Las Vegas, became the headquarters of themed cultural, historical, and futuristic casinos. iGaming platforms have also caught on to these trends, with the best online pokies mirroring these thematic trends in their designs and layouts.
Artistic Elements
The famous Bellagio casino in Las Vegas is a perfect example of how betting clubs can successfully incorporate artistic elements into their aesthetics. The betting house is dedicated to displaying international pieces from both historic and contemporary artists in its collection of sculptures, murals, and ornaments. With artworks from two of the world’s most famous artists, Monet and Picasso, Bellagio has become one of the most famous tourist destinations in Las Vegas.
The Bellagio casino is a clear example of how casinos have evolved from being regular betting clubs to valuable economic and cultural assets. These casinos bridge the gap between historic and future art. They also create a sense of community among players. With a fine display of artwork, these casinos encourage more art lovers to visit and place a bet or two. This in turn creates an opportunity for new players to bond with other players over their love for art and gambling.
iGaming platforms have also been working overtime to include various artistic pieces in their designs. This is particularly useful to players who cannot travel to physical casinos, as they can get a feel for the cultural and historic representation on the online platforms. Thanks to live gaming features, players in different parts of the world can also build a strong community from the comfort of their homes.
Functional Aesthetics
Artworks may be aesthetically pleasing when they are being observed, but as an incorporation into a casino layout, they should be functional. A functional artwork is not only artistically appealing; it is also useful, which makes it more valuable. A functional art piece can improve the user experience in many ways.
On iGaning platforms, for example, artworks can indicate the rules of a game, payouts, and betting requirements. Subtle details like the typography can help the user navigate the gaming platform. Functional utility and operational efficiency, in tandem with the visual appeal of incorporated art, are the bedrock for a more engaging gaming experience.
Conclusion
Despite the progress made thus far in architectural trends, the industry’s growth is tilting towards futuristic and sustainable designs. Contemporary gaming platforms are attempting to use energy-efficient power sources, green roofs, and water conservation structures to increase sustainability. This is a step towards creating spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, and resilient.
