Why Designers Should Travel

Natural Pigment-Kyoto Japan

For 4 years, I stayed put and managed to be resourceful, diving down internet rabbit holes and cobbling together concepts from digital resources. With endless information at our fingertips, you might wonder why companies should invest in travel for their design teams. The answer lies in the irreplaceable magic of real-world, immersive experiences. I believe these shape creative thinking and fuel innovation.

Thankfully I was able to do some big trips in 2024 and discoverd some deep insights that were captured in the experiences and objects I found. My largest discoveries were on a trip to Japan with my “big boys”. Feel free to ask me about teen boys in Tokyo when we talk next. Anyhow, here are some of the stunning things I captured in photographs during my visit. I wish I could let you feel the soft damp moss in the zen garden and take a whiff of the delicate peach fragrance that showed up in the breeze like a phantom. However you’ll just have to go yourself and discover how aspirational the matcha donuts from 7/11 truly are.

Any way back to the point I am trying to make sure, e-commerce dominates retail now, but the most extraordinary discoveries still claim their throne in physical spaces. Take Liberty London. For me there's nothing quite like coming home to climbing their oak staircase to the home and interior floor. My heart swells as I peer over the balcony to discover what sensational installation awaits. Will it be a VW bug, a hot air balloon, or a tropical sculpture from Farm Rio? These moments create a vibe and lasting memory that we designers can summon in our mind's eye. The experience engages all our senses in ways digital just can't touch.

Natural light on architectural surfaces, the subtle fragrance rising from the beauty counters, the colors of artisan objects, the creaking of the wooden flooring, oh and the cake in the tea shop – these sensory experiences become part of our unique design tool kits. This is where magic is discovered. People experience these spaces uniquely. It is fluid unlike the flicker of a screen or an email blast. When designers immerse themselves in different markets and cultural experiences, they bring fresh perspectives home. This cross-pollination of ideas sparks innovations that would be entirely missed if confined to research online.

First-hand observation of international markets offers invaluable insights into global trends, consumer behaviors, and competitive landscapes. This knowledge helps companies anticipate market shifts and uncover new opportunities.

Not to mention team development. Travel experiences bond teams and create shared reference points that elevate collaboration. The excitement and challenges of exploring new environments together forge stronger working relationships. I still fondly recall the awe in one of my former VP’s eye as she bathed in the beauty of the Dior Museum in Paris. This was her city, she was having a moment, her happy place. Now that is what I call inspiration.

Here is also a curious fact. Travel prevents creative burnout! Ultimately resulting in better work and higher retention rates. Travel is an important investment for corporations. Hiring, on-boarding and having quality work all come with a $ value associated. It is an investment in competitive advantage. The insights, inspiration, and relationships built through travel consistently prove their worth.

IRL-Trend POP-IN

Speaking of getting away from your desk – I'm excited to announce my trend forecast Pop-in March 25-27th in Pioneer Square Seattle. This event is for design teams and leaders. I'll walk you through three macro trends stories, sharing captivating narratives, emotive imagery, color palettes, and surface design insights. My goal is to fill you with inspiration and create an opportunity to step away from your screens to build relationships. Spaces are limited and already filling up fast. please RSVP by March 14th to reserve your team's appointment.

www.annemariejackson.com/events

If you are not located in the Seattle area I will be hosting virtual appointments where I will share these macro forecasts. For enquiries please reach out.

info@annemariejackson.com

I look forward to connecting with you and co-creating better futures.

-Anne Marie Jackson