At the April 2024 KC Global Design Innovation Shop Talk, attendees heard from thought leaders on how design and technology can be harnessed to create immersive experiences that foster human connection.
The top takeaways:
Storytelling Through Art
American Century Investments | Megan Arndt, ACI
ACI’s innovative renovation focuses on creating opportunities for interactivity throughout its design. This includes using more than 25 augmented reality touchpoints to communicate the firm’s history and culture playfully rather than having a static diorama. For example, users can “grow” a virtual tree in their space to learn more about ACI’s sustainability initiatives. The lobby’s Cultivation Wall — a 15-foot kinetic LED display that is equal parts art piece and communication center — commemorates employees and the community.
Frictionless Fan Experiences
CPKC Stadium | Jack Schwartz, Generator Studio
The KC Current Stadium opened in March 2024 and is the first in the world designed for a professional women’s sports team. The goal of the stadium’s design was to create a highly intentional social experience. Every seat is placed within 100 feet of the pitch, and no dividing rails between each suite encourage communal gathering. Technology, including frictionless mobile entry and automated food service, creates a streamlined experience with less distraction for attendees, allowing more social interaction with fellow fans.
Future-Proofing Through Design
Woodside Health & Tennis Club | Jeffrey Kloch, Hufft
Trends in health and wellness are constantly shifting — this was a critical priority when designing the Woodside Health & Tennis Club, a hospitality-forward fitness destination. Acoustically treated panels in the cafe absorb sound, allowing remote workers to utilize the space between workouts. Gym spaces were designed to accommodate changes in equipment as the newest trends hit the market. And light and sound innovations are used to create dynamic experiences, from the soothing nature of the Pilates space to the intense, high-energy environment of the Spin studio.
Thank you to Josh Harrold, principal at BNIM and KC Global Design Advisory Board member, for welcoming the group and introducing this new version of the innovation sessions, and to Chad Hutson, chief strategy officer at Dimensional Innovations, for moderating the panel and hosting the event.
For more information on upcoming Shop Talks, contact us.
About KC Global Design Innovation Shop Talks
Shop Talk discussions bring together thought leadership to stimulate innovative design thinking across KC’s A/E/C industry. Previous topics include Adaptive Reuse and Provocations Within the Industry.