CLIENT

Kiva Confections

Agency

Campfire Agency

3CS Productions

THE CHALLENGE

In 2020, Kiva Confections made a bold statement at the Outside Lands festival with an unforgettable confectionery installation that blended creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. The space featured a flowing chocolate wall—a mesmerizing display of molten chocolate cascading in perfect harmony. Towering gumball machines offered playful interaction, delivering curated care packages with a turn of the knob. Surrounding it all were stunning displays showcasing Kiva’s premium products, each element thoughtfully designed to reflect the brand’s signature sophistication. The installation was crowned by a striking corrugated aluminum roof, an architectural feature as unique and captivating as the experience itself.

The development of a fluid-flow display wall involves the integration of fluid dynamics, structural engineering, and materials science to create an immersive visual and sensory experience. For a wall where a pump circulates a fluid designed to mimic the appearance and behavior of molten chocolate, the technical design process involved the following considerations:

1. Fluid Properties and Behavior

• The fluid was carefully engineered to achieve the desired viscosity, density, and flow characteristics, closely resembling molten chocolate. Thickeners and colorants were added to achieve the appropriate texture, color, and opacity while ensuring long-term stability and ease of circulation.

• The fluid had to remain non-reactive with the materials of the system to prevent degradation or contamination.

2. Pumping and Circulation System

• A high-performance pump system was selected to maintain a consistent flow rate and pressure, ensuring a smooth, even spill over the top edge of the wall.

• The system incorporated a reservoir for fluid storage, a filtration mechanism to remove debris, and heating elements to control fluid consistency.

3. Wall and Spillway Design

• The wall surface was engineered with precision to allow for a uniform sheet flow of the fluid without interruptions or drips. This involved using non-porous materials with a smooth finish and specific surface coatings to minimize friction.

• The spillway at the top of the wall was designed with a gentle curve and precise tolerances to control the distribution of the fluid across the width of the wall.

4. Structural and Mechanical Considerations

• The wall’s framework was designed to support the fluid load, the circulation system, and any associated equipment while remaining stable and safe for public interaction.

• Accessibility for maintenance, including cleaning and fluid replenishment, was integrated into the structural and mechanical design.

5. Closed-Loop System

• The design incorporated a closed-loop system to collect the fluid at the base of the wall and channel it back to the pump for recirculation. A sump and filtration system ensured debris-free operation, extending the life of the fluid and reducing downtime.

6. Electrical and Control Systems

• The system was controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC) or equivalent to regulate pump speed, flow rate, and any heating or lighting elements. Sensors monitored fluid levels, viscosity, and temperature, ensuring consistent performance.

*Optional interactive features, such as synchronized lighting or touchless controls, could enhance user engagement.

7. Aesthetic and Safety Enhancements

• Safety measures include spill containment, non-slip flooring near the display, and protective barriers as needed for public installations.

This approach ensured a reliable, visually striking, and low-maintenance installation that aligns with both technical and aesthetic requirements.

By investing in such an imaginative activation, Kiva Confections aimed to transcend traditional branding and immerse festival-goers in a world that celebrated indulgence and delight. The installation captured attention, sparked curiosity, and left a lasting impression—strengthening Kiva’s connection with its audience while reinforcing its reputation as a leader in both product quality and innovative marketing.

Technical Design & Engineering

• Fluid Dynamics

• CNC

• Staging and Trussing

• Metal Fabrication

• Graphic Production & Installation

PRESS & AWARDS

• Featured in Variety, SDCC Unoffical Blog, Pop-Culturalist, Syfy and many more