The following description comes from the event organizer.

Join us on April 18th at 5:30 PM at the Seattle Public Library for a talk with Kendall Latham, Glossier's Head of Retail Design. Latham is renowned for his innovative approach to blending architecture with immersive retail experiences, pushing the boundaries of how we interact with spaces.

In this lecture, Latham will tackle the overused and often misunderstood concept of "immersive" design. Far from being limited to trendy spaces, true immersive design encompasses a wide array of environments, each unified by the dynamic interaction between people and place. Latham will explore the rich interplay between history, anthropology, and retail design, demonstrating how human behavior has informed these spaces throughout time. From Disney World to McDonald’s, and the classic department store, he will show how these typologies offer invaluable insights into designing retail environments that resonate deeply with today's consumers.

Latham's goal is to redefine our understanding of immersive design, proposing it as a form of designed anthropology that examines how spaces can reflect and shape our cultural and personal narratives. Latham promises to offer a deep dive into creating spaces that are not just physically engaging but also culturally and emotionally resonant, asking us to consider what truly draws us into a space and "If You Build It, Will They Come”?

ABOUT KENDALL
Kendall Latham's role as the head of retail design at Glossier has established him as a paragon in the confluence of architecture and retail branding. His approach to design transcends mere aesthetics, merging the tactile allure of materials with the ephemeral desires of the consumer. Latham's work is characterized by an eloquent simplicity and a profound understanding of spatial dynamics, qualities that have garnered him numerous accolades.

Latham’s journey began with an education from the University of Kentucky College of Architecture, and has seen his creative prowess sharpened at prestigious design firms, culminating in his current tenure at Glossier. Here, his vision comes to life in the brand's physical stores, which are more than mere structures; they are sensory experiences that resonate with the modern consumer's yearning for connection and authenticity.

His designs are not created in a vacuum but are a response to the narrative of the brand, translated into a physical lexicon that speaks through form, texture, and light. The Glossier Seattle store stands as a testament to this philosophy, an embodiment of the city’s spirit and the brand's ethos in a seamless blend that invites, surprises, and delights.

Within the industry, Latham is recognized not just for his creative acumen but also for his forward-thinking strategies in client management, fabrication, and material sourcing. His work, featured in revered publications such as Forbes and Architectural Digest, captures the zeitgeist of contemporary retail design, signifying a future where spaces not only sell but also tell a compelling story.

After the lecture, join us for a happy hour at LMN's The Shop just a few blocks away from the library to meet Kendall and other attendees and discuss the lecture! Merch, drinks, and snacks are available for purchase.