Irene Vogelsong, Managing Principal, Perkins&Will
Irene Vogelsong, Managing Principal at Perkins&Will, sat down with Invest: to discuss exciting projects coming online, how the modern workplace is being structured, how she anticipates Charlotte will continue to evolve in the next five years, generative AI’s role in design and more.
What element of the traditional workplace is becoming obsolete?
The idea that a singular design fits all is becoming obsolete. Seas of workstations in generic work settings that lack character, brand identity, or any aspects of placemaking are outdated. The architectural and design trends we are investing in are the opposite of that. We are investing in the opposite trend: actively engaging with diversity to tailor spaces that meet the needs of different groups. Our goal is to design inclusive spaces where all employees can participate and enjoy.
What untraditional models are appearing?
With hybrid and remote work here to stay, companies are seeking to have workplaces that attract people to come in person to connect and engage. That means we are designing more amenity spaces for employers now. The goal is to facilitate conversations that wouldn’t happen while working remotely. Examples include spaces centered around food and beverage and access to outdoor areas suitable for work and team meetings. We are blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, with programming to support their use.
Charlotte has seen in recent years dramatic growth in third spaces, like coffee shops and other types of gathering places. Workplace amenity spaces act as a bridge to these third spaces, encouraging employees to come together before interacting with others in the community. Charlotte’s accessible neighborhoods are fostering this growth in third spaces.
How are you navigating changing markets while designing projects?
Flexibility is key as we collaborate with clients, contractors, vendors, and other partners to refine decisions as projects move forward. We work with our clients to deeply understand their project vision and budget. Budget transparency and clear vision alignment are crucial, especially with the market’s frequent changes. Without being attuned to market dynamics and shifts, it’s challenging to stay within budget. Strong partnerships and flexibility are key in adapting designs to ever-changing market conditions.
How is generative AI affecting design elements in your industry?
AI presents exciting possibilities to enhance team efficiency and project delivery. We are exploring how we might leverage various AI solutions to integrate into our work, especially. to enhance team efficiency and project delivery. Although technology is still young, it’s evolving rapidly. Our discussion next year could be very different in how we use AI in our projects and daily operations.
Where will Charlotte be in the next five years, having reflected on the past five?
Charlotte has experienced significant growth in the past five years. I remain optimistic about growth for the next five years bolstered by a robust sports environment and a strong pipeline of education and research. Public-private partnerships, like those emerging from The Pearl Innovation District, will continue to develop. Charlotte’s combination of research, development, manufacturing, healthcare, higher education, finance, and technology positions our City for continued success.
What projects are you working on that are moving the needle in Charlotte?
One notable project is the Reimagine Spectrum Center. It’s an exciting project that aligns perfectly with Charlotte’s upcoming economic and population growth cycle. This project aims to enhance our city’s assets, making it a premier venue for sports, entertainment, and community events. It will also become a more inclusive space for the community.
Additionally, we have projects with financial clients focusing on employee health, wellbeing, and engagement set to open later this summer. These projects highlight our clients’ commitment to their employees, and we are thrilled to be a part of these initiatives.
