Executive Design Director | KTGY
Philip Otto is a cultural designer and creative leader.
Philip is committed to an exploration of the intersection between design, architecture, art, and culture to create meaningful connection with communities. Concepts and adaptable systems that maximize purpose and value have been a hallmark of his work.
After completing his training in cultural anthropology at Stanford, Philip began working as an educator and creative director on projects for museums, retailers, and developers. Through these interrelated experiences Philip arrived at his unique approach to culturally based projects.
As a designer, Philip has had the privilege to work with some of the premier companies in the world, including Anthropologie, Coca-Cola International, Levi’s, Nike, Undefeated, The North Face, Free People, Urban Outfitters, REI Co-op, and Nintendo, as well as Carmel Partners, The Ratkovich Company and The Walton Family to name a few.
He has been a moderator and lecturer for ICSC, AIGA, SEGD, RDI, The Starwood Hotel Group, and Ingka Centres for IKEA. He is also an educator teaching on Trend, Design Issues, and Methodology in both undergraduate and graduate programs at the University of Cincinnati for the Design Architecture Art and Planning school.
Courses
Future Proofing the Destination
In a time of seemingly constant change, how can we as design professionals plan for the future effectively? Future Proofing is an approach that flows through every aspect of the project to organize all elements of the experience will a focus on human connection.
We will start a conversation around the advantages of investing less in fixed assets, instead putting the emphasis on programmable space that can host a range of uses from workplace to retail, edutainment to events, and gatherings of all types with equal ease.
In this discussion we will explore ways to listen, and learn from trends and culture, with an eye toward adaptability for everything from master plan to retail footprints, from touchpoints to memorable moments.
We will consider new ways to problem solve the creation of noteworthy destinations that connect emotionally with the community we want to engage. Hosted by the Retail and Entertainment Knowledge Community (REKC).
Course expires 12/18/2025