Design-Space: Intimate Conversations and Global Impact

We believe in the transformational power of design.

With roots in a family business that date back over 100 years, Tishman Speyer has leveraged innovative architectural design and the power of where to positively impact not only neighborhoods and communities, but the well-being of the people who bring them to life.

To honor that legacy, our team at ZO—Tishman Speyer's global network, providing members access to world-class spaces, experiences and amenities—has partnered with Architectural Digest to launch a traveling salon of panels and activations. These events celebrate the past, present, and future of design and how it’s redefined workplace culture to create a lasting impact on contemporary society.

"Our hope is you walk away from this evening with a renewed sense of how architecture can lift our spirits and improve our lives."

Sam Cochran, Global Features Director at Architectural Digest

What does the workplace of tomorrow look like?

As guests walked past the mesmerizing facade of 2050 M Street and into its newly renovated lobby, they were greeted with a colorful cocktail inspired by the building’s unique design and a thought-provoking question: “How did the exterior of the building influence how you felt once you made your way inside?” Upstairs on the rooftop lounge, moderator Sam Cochran of Architectural Digest, and panelists Joshua Ramus, Principal at Rex, and Tishman Speyer’s Managing Director for Design and Construction, Rustom Cowasjee, answered similar questions: How can architecture affect human behavior? And more importantly, how can great design be used to shift our perspectives, enhance everyday life and spark untapped inspiration?

Uniquely positioned as both investor and user

Throughout the conversation, Cowasjee and Ramus spoke about the impact of natural light on mood, a return to functional architecture, and how a harmony between interior and exterior design languages makes for a more holistic experience.

2050 M Street

2050 M Street 2022 Event

Bridging generations of design at Rockefeller Center

How do you redevelop a historic complex, honoring Rockefeller’s original vision, while addressing the needs of today? Our second ZO Design/Space salon focused on years of ongoing redevelopment efforts and how placemaking elements have been infused at Rockefeller Center. How do we bring this landmark into the future while staying true to its art deco roots?

Rockefeller Center

Through the lens of innovation

Andre Mellone, principal of Studio Mellone, Julia Watson, Designer for Watson Salembier, and Pebble Bar partner Matt Kliegman shared their insights on modern placemaking, the importance of sustainable design, and the secret to creating spaces that stand the test of time.

"In the past, we would’ve been talking about ‘changing the footprint’ of a neighborhood… but today, we’re talking about the human experience and how spaces make us feel."

Sam Cochran, Global Features Director at Architectural Digest

100 years. One vision.

Whether 100 years ago, today, or 100 years from now, our vision remains the same: redefining the ways we build, think about and design space to create deeper bonds between global communities and their people. Fostering lasting partnerships with organizations just as passionate about nurturing a more sustainable and equitable future. And delivering a degree of hospitality that resonates with a feeling of comfort.

A fresh way to express ourselves, while inspiring others.

Our mission to infuse this vision into the DNA of all our buildings can be clarified through the lens of ZO Design/Space. Each event is curated with a specific property and objective, featuring key elements of the building’s redevelopment and its impact on society. This is your invitation into our world so that you may take an intimate look into the profound influence architecture and design can have on our moods, productivity, and overall well-being.