The Phoenix Lecture Series
An early exploration of design, technology, and presence
Client: University of Phoenix
New York Times Center · New York City · 2011
MODA Role
Creative Direction · Experiential Design · Custom Technology
(Project conceived, designed, and delivered through a founder-led studio practice)
Context
The Phoenix Lecture Series was developed as part of the New York Times Center’s School for Tomorrow program—an event focused on the future of education, learning, and emerging technology.
At the time, the challenge was clear: how to move beyond passive presentation and create an experience where technology enabled engagement rather than distraction.
This project marked an early moment in what would become a consistent throughline in MODA’s work—operating at the intersection of spatial design and custom-built technology.
The Idea
Design an interactive, technology-driven installation that could function simultaneously as:
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A physical environment
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A responsive media system
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A flexible platform for future use
Rather than relying on off-the-shelf solutions, the project required bespoke technology—designed specifically to support the intended experience.
Scope & Contribution
Working through reMADE—the first agency founded and led by MODA—this project combined custom technology development with environmental design.
The work included:
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Designing and producing an interactive mobile hologram installation
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Developing a custom solid-state video playback system
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Allowing users to trigger high-resolution video content instantaneously
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Engineering a system capable of last-minute content changes, reducing future setup time
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Designing and producing the surrounding physical environment to support interaction
Technology and space were designed as a single system, not separate layers.
Design + Technology
At the core of the installation was a purpose-built media engine—optimized for speed, reliability, and adaptability.
Visitors could directly control and trigger content in real time, while operators retained the ability to update or swap media with minimal preparation. This approach anticipated later MODA projects where flexibility, reuse, and responsiveness are fundamental design principles.
The technology never announced itself—it simply worked.
Outcome
The installation successfully engaged audiences at the New York Times Center—demonstrating how interactive systems could enhance educational environments through participation rather than spectacle.
More importantly, the project established a design philosophy that continues through MODA’s work today:
When technology is designed with intention, it becomes invisible—and the experience becomes the focus.
Attribution
This project was conceived, designed, and produced by reMADE, a founder-led studio established by MODA, for the University of Phoenix.