Design Forecast 2016

Gensler Design Forecast 2016
Media
Supporting realtime
convergence
The media workplace puts a strong emphasis
on the speed and agility of production,
not least because of the unpredictability
introduced by new devices and channels, and
the fast-changing tastes of audiences that
self-direct and self-identify. Media facilities
need to accommodate this.
Gamification—the teamwork that online
games now require to be competitive—is
being adopted elsewhere to heighten engagement,
solve problems faster, and create
shared experiences. Meanwhile, online
games are a huge business, attracting a fan
base that could literally fill stadiums for
their championship matches. To grow and
compete, gaming companies will adopt
the most progressive space design strategies
of the media and technology sectors.
Spaces that are flexible yet tailored, communal
yet individualized, tech-heavy yet
human-centric will enable rapid innovation.
This revolution is ongoing; iPhones are now
part of the equipment mix. VR—virtual
reality—is a wild card that gives rise to the
creation of immersive experiences.
Integrating the digital and the physical is
one way to do it, and VR is another. But
media tend to converge, pulling disconnected
strands together to compel attention.
As the strands multiply, convergence
demands more: silos come down, innovation
ramps up.
right: Hyundai Capital Open Studio, Seoul
below: Condé Nast Headquarters, New York
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