Gensler book Design for a Radically Changing World shows design as a tool to impact society
New insights from Andy Cohen and Diane Hoskins, Global Co-Chairs of the world’s most influential architecture firm, on the role of design in transforming global challenges into opportunities for positive change.
Global design and architecture powerhouse Gensler announced earlier this year the official launch of the book Design for a Radically Changing World, co-authored by the firm’s Global Co-Chairs Andy Cohen and Diane Hoskins and published by Oro Editions. The new title offers a transformative perspective on design as a tool for societal and environmental impact that can shape a brighter future for all.
Design for a Radically Changing World is a powerful manifesto for building vibrant cities, revitalizing communities, and enhancing well-being. The book shows how design can transcend aesthetics to confront such formidable global challenges climate change, inadequate urban infrastructure, and social injustice.
In Design for a Radically Changing World, we delve into the profound impact that design has on our daily live. As architects and designers, we have the privilege of creating impactful spaces where life’s most meaningful moments unfold. Our cities, now home to most of the global population, are at the forefront of this design revolution. The challenges they face, from climate change to the housing crisis, demand innovative design solutions that are both globally impactful and locally resonant. This book is our call to action to embrace design as a vital tool in shaping a humane and sustainable future.
Andy Cohen, global co-chair at Gensler
Our journey in co-writing this book began amidst a world grappling with overlapping crises — from the Covid-19 pandemic and social injustice issues. These challenges underscore the need for a new approach to design with optimism at its core. At Gensler, we’ve always believed in embracing change positively, and this book reflects that ethos. We share our experiences of leading through adversity, demonstrating how design can be a force for good in times of radical change. Our goal is to inspire a shift in how we perceive and tackle the challenges our times, using design as a cornerstone for building a better, more resilient world.
Diane Hoskins, global co-chair at Gensler
Andy Cohen and Diane Hoskins bring their unparalleled experience as leaders of Gensler. Their insights stem from their successful co-leadership of the firm for close to 20 years, showing Gensler’s collaborative philosophy and reflecting a shared commitment to innovation and sustainable design.
Bringing together research, case studies, personal narratives, expert analysis and stunning photography, Design for a Radically Changing World offers inspiration and actionable advice through the following chapters:
- The Crisis Multiplier: Understanding design as a holistic solution to the world’s multiplying, interconnected crises
- Design Transformation: A unique perspective on factors altering the fundamentals of design
- Reclaiming the Human Experience: A new framework for understanding why people are placing a higher premium than ever on experience
- Climate Change: Centering the powerful role design has in reducing embodied and operational carbon in the built environment
- Social and Racial Justice: Strategies for using design to promote equity and inclusion
- Global and Local: The synergy between global perspectives and local expertise in design
- Health and Wellness: Making the case for why wellness must permeate every design decision we make, from healthcare settings to workplaces and city plans
- The Future of Work: Insights into creating adaptive, human-centered work environments
- The Future of Lifestyle: A deeper look at why unique, participatory, and visceral experiences will be the most highly valued in the future
- The Future of Mobility: Learn why reclaiming our streets for people and creating 20-minute neighborhoods will be transformative
- The Future of Cities: An exploration of how cities can be redesigned for human connection and environmental sustainability
- The Future of Design: A rallying cry to rise to this moment to capture the innovation opportunity that our cities represent
Design for a Radically Changing World is not just a book for designers; it’s a call to action for everyone to engage with and appreciate the role of design in our lives. With a truly global perspective, the book illustrates how design is integral to our daily experiences and the betterment of our communities. The book will be available in all major bookstores and online platforms. It promises to be an influential read for business leaders, policy makers, and anyone interested in the transformative power of design.