Malden, MA It’s safe to say Malden is becoming a mecca for tech, gaming, and entertainment. Around the corner from Boda Borg, completed by Ironwood in 2015, 8D Room Escape & Board Games will occupy a 3,300 s/f in Malden Center and will open to the public early this summer. The concept was designed and developed by QB Entertainment of Quincy. 

The project began in October 2016 with a full conception to construction delivery model. Ironwood’s design build team, led by Molly Pidgeon, has worked side by side with QB Entertainment owners Derrick Zhao and Mo Liang, making the space visually intriguing and mentally stimulating. Upon stepping into the reception area, guests will feel they are in for a sensory experience. The textures and colors at the entry evoke a sense of drama and hint at the experiential environments beyond the archway.

Lead designer and project manager Resa Gray encountered many existing condition challenges impacting design and construction, including low ceiling heights, floor elevation changes, and the overall condition of the space due to it being vacant for so long. She said, “8D will be a welcome addition to the social scene in Malden. The current and planned downtown revitalization projects are expected to draw many more people to the city, and 8D will provide another great option for recreation, joining Boda Borg and the developing project E-Den Gamers Paradise.”

8D planned to begin game testing by invitation at the end of May