Retroverse

(2025)

Description

The Retroverse Boutique Hostel is a playful and design-forward hospitality brand in the heart of Athens, offering affordable, stylish accommodation for young travelers. The goal of this project was to create a vibrant, user-friendly website that reflects the hostel’s retro-inspired personality while engaging Gen Z visitors through interactive features and a seamless booking experience.

Services

UX/UI DESIGN

, CREATIVE DIRECTION

, CONTENT CREATION

Platform

Custom WordPress build using Bootstrap framework

Design Approach

The design captures the Playful – Effortless – Urban – Nostalgic spirit of the brand by blending retro game aesthetics with a clean, modern layout. Inspired by classics like Pac-Man, Tetris, and Space Invaders, the interface reimagines nostalgic visuals through a contemporary lens — fun, expressive, and accessible to a wide audience beyond gaming culture.

VHS textures, sticker-style elements, and outlined grid layouts were used to create a distinct visual language, while keeping the user journey simple and intuitive. The typography system combines Impact and Press Start 2P for a retro flair, paired with Montserrat and Lato for clarity and balance.

VISUAL SYSTEM & DIRECTION

  • Grid-based layout with outlined sections and interactive cards.

  • VHS-inspired visuals and transitions for a nostalgic touch.

  • Playful sticker and emoji elements for energy and personality.

  • Clean, responsive UI optimized for all devices.

  • Friendly and concise tone of voice, with balanced Gen Z slang.

OUTCOME
The result is a bold, retro-futuristic website that positions The Retroverse as one of the few boutique hostels in Athens with a true design identity. It speaks directly to young travelers — energetic, creative, and social — and turns every visit into a memorable, game-like experience.