Insights

RSP INSIGHTS is a collection of our perspectives and thoughts on current trends impacting the markets and clients we serve.

Crowd Simulations in Architectural Research: How the Latest Data Collection Tools are Making Architecture Smarter

RSP’s Derek McCallum and University of Minnesota master’s student Mariangel Meza are unlocking the potential of crowd simulations, paving the way for a more data-driven, user-focused approach to architecture. Architects have long relied on experience, intuition, and user feedback to shape the built environment. But what if high-tech design tools could add a new dimension […]

Historic Campus Transformation: Turning Dated University Buildings into Modern Research Hubs

RSP’s Neal Cross and David Serrano discuss historic campus transformation, blending tradition with innovation to meet the future needs of higher education at the University of Minnesota and beyond *Topic originally presented at the 2024 SCUP North Central Conference According to recent data, the estimated replacement cost for college campuses across the United States comes […]

Resilient Retail: Design Strategies to Protect Stores from Climate Change

Following his presentation at ICSC Centerbuild on resilient retail design strategies, RSP’s Kyle Tornow goes in depth on what some of the largest retailers are doing to resist the effects of climate change. As climate change drives more frequent and severe weather, resilient retail design has become a top priority. High-wind events like hurricanes are […]

Hybrid Work: Balancing Flexibility and Connection Across Offices

Megan Petraszak, Senior Project Interior Designer at RSP, shares her unique perspective on hybrid work and how it helps her understand client challenges more deeply. Pictured Above: Confidential Utility Client Work Café, Phoenix, AZ | Photography: Jason Roehner When we think about the hybrid work model, it’s clear that what started as a necessity has become […]

Inclusive Design: Environment, Language and Belonging

RSP’s Liz Taylor examines inclusive design and the convergence of graphic design, interiors and language to bring communities together and heighten their sense of belonging. The idea of belonging is foundational to experiential design. It defines my work on every project, both professional and personal. Ultimately, we want to include more people, but also deeply […]

AI and Design: Through the Looking Glass

RSP’s Victor Irizarry addresses the pros, cons and implications of the evolving relationship between AI and design. *Pictured: Left: Hand-drawn sketch, created in 15 minutes. Right: Chat GPT 4o rendering based on Victor’s sketch with new concept, created in one minute. “Imagination is the only weapon in the war against reality.”― Lewis Carroll The intersection of […]