Client: Gensler

Overview

Client: Gensler
Collaborator: United by Design
Location: Gensler, Houston, TX
Date: 2022

“Work of Art” celebrates creativity, collaboration, and connectedness. Gensler, a global architecture, design, and planning firm, marked the 50th anniversary of its Houston office and honored the legacy of Art Gensler (1935-2021) with a breathtaking installation composed of 5,678 iridescent hoop rings. This 20×12 ft memorial, created in collaboration with United by Design, epitomizes the collaborative ethos that Art Gensler fostered with his innovative “one-firm firm” model. The installation celebrates the firm’s rich history while inspiring its future with a nod to Art’s famous saying that the firm is a “constellation of stars.”

Each ring in the installation was meticulously crafted by Gensler employees during team-building sessions, symbolizing the unity and interconnectedness of Gensler’s local and global footprint. This participatory approach not only reinforced team bonds but also ensured that the artwork truly embodies the collective spirit of the firm.

Adding a dynamic layer to the installation, a generative architectural projection mapping experience was introduced. This feature animates the mural, transforming its visual narrative throughout the day and creating an ever-changing

Goals

Integrating the artwork into this project had two main goals both rooted in celebrating and perpetuating Art Gensler's legacy - honor the 50th anniversary of the Gensler Houston office and foster connection and collaboration among employees during a critical time.

As the office celebrated the milestone anniversary, employees sought to commemorate the life and contributions of Art Gensler. By fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among Gensler employees through the participatory creation of the mural, the project embodies and reinforces the "one-firm firm" model that Art Gensler championed. The piece was also enjoyed during the 50th Anniversary celebration the office held for friends, family and partners of the firm.

With the group participation nature of the commissioned piece, the artwork served as a rallying moment post-pandemic. The installation created excitement and hope, encouraging employees to return to the office. The piece also serves as a reminder of Art’s charge for creativity and famous “make it fun” slogan.

Process

The process began with experimenting with iridescent materials and their implementation into various mediums. At the same time, the passing of the firm’s founder inspired an opportunity to create a memorial within the office. The design team continued to tinker with the iridescent tape and conceptualized a tribute that embodied Art Gensler’s “one-firm firm” model, emphasizing unity and collaboration.

The project centerpiece, a 20x12 ft mural composed of 5,678 iridescent hoop rings, was created through a series of intimate team-building sessions where Gensler employees constructed the rings. This participatory approach fostered a sense of togetherness, allowing each employee to contribute personally to the artwork.

Meticulous planning and coordination marked the creation phase, ensuring every detail aligned with the project's vision. Once assembled, the mural was installed in the Houston office, transforming the space with its vibrant and reflective surface. To enhance the installation, a generative architectural projection mapping experience was introduced, animating the mural and creating an evolving visual narrative throughout the day.
This dynamic element added depth and interactivity, making the installation a living tribute.