Tessellate is a NYC studio specializing in Narrative Architecture and Experience Strategy.

We synchronize physical space and digital storytelling to author immersive, high-impact environments for global cultural institutions. By fusing spatial design with creative technology, we evolve complex narratives into intuitive, human-centric experiences that provoke curiosity and invite visitor engagement.

DESIGN Leadership

Emily Conrad

President / Co-Founder

As President of Tessellate, Emily leads the firm’s strategic vision, orchestrating the integration of narrative architecture, spatial UX, and creative technology. With over 20 years of expertise as a principal design manager and activator of space, she oversees the entire project lifecycle—from master planning and experience strategy to technical installation. Emily specializes in defining the overarching vision for each project, ensuring that spatial narratives align with institutional goals and transform complex data into meaningful human connections. Recent leadership roles include Project Lead for the National Women’s History Museum inaugural exhibit and the Tower of Faces Augmented Reality Experience at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Emily is an adjunct instructor at NYU’s ITP and earned an MPS from NYU and a BA from Earlham College.

Joseph Karadin - Executive Creative Director & Co-founder of Tessellate, an exhibition design company nyc

Joseph Karadin

Executive Creative Director / Co-Founder

As Co-Founder of Tessellate, Joe leads the firm’s creative and spatial vision, architecting immersive environments that bridge the physical and digital worlds. A highly experienced architect and exhibit designer with over 25 years of expertise, he oversees the complex interconnections between narrative and spatial arrangements. Joe specializes in exploring innovative methodologies for communicating story through physical design and integrated media. His award-winning portfolio includes the AT&T GNOC, the Edward M. Kennedy Institute (while at ESI Design), and the World Trade Center Memorial design competition. Joe holds a B.Arch degree from Cornell University.

1. Narrative Architecture & Strategic Planning

We define the story, the flow, and the institutional goals before the first wall is built.

  • Strategic Planning: Strategic roadmapping for complex content and educational goals.

  • Experience Strategy: Aligning goals and visitor impact through spatial storytelling.

  • Narrative Discovery: Research and content development that unearths the "Big Idea."

  • User Journey Mapping: Data-driven modeling of visitor flow and emotional touchpoints.

  • Fundraising Support: High-fidelity visualizations and concept packages for donor engagement.

2. Spatial Design & Immersive Environments

We fuse physical architecture with the story to create world-class destinations.

  • Exhibit & Environmental Design: Designing museums, exhibits, brand centers, and public installations.

  • Interior Architecture: Defining the structural "look and feel" and high-end scenic environments.

  • Narrative Design: Creating 3D environments where the story is integrated into the architecture.

  • Spatial Simulations: Advanced 3D modeling and immersive VR/AR pre-visualizations.

3. Experience Technology & Creative Delivery

We build the future. We integrate digital and physical layers to create seamless, "invisible" technology.

  • Spatial UX & Interaction Design: Designing intuitive digital-physical interfaces for 3D spaces.

  • AR, VR & Mixed Reality: Developing high-fidelity digital layers for physical environments.

  • Generative Art & Data Media: Creating real-time, responsive environments.

  • Integrated DX (Digital Experience) Architecture: Building custom software, CMS, and hardware ecosystems when needed.

  • Design-Build Oversight: Technical management of production, fabrication, and site installation.

SERVICES PROVIDED

Tessellate is certified WBENC, WOSB, and WBE 

UEI: Z31UFQMN9F53 | CAGE: 7Y7K4

WOSB: WOSB190261 | WBENC: WBE1801114

NAICS: 541490 (Primary) 712110, 541430

NYC SBS: MWCERT2017-764 | NYS ESD: 63476

Clients: Past and Present

Select Cultural & Academic Institutions

American Museum of Natural History  |  August Wilson House  |  BioBus  |  California Academy of Sciences  |  Earlham College  |  The Funk Music Hall of Fame  |  The History Center in Tompkins County  |  National Airmail Museum  |  National Parks Service  |  National Women’s History Museum  |  REED Foundation/Greens Do Good  |  Summit Metro Parks  |  Port of Long Beach | Tesla Science Center  |  UNIS  |  United States Holocaust Memorial Museum | Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation | National Scenic Visitors Center

Health & Wellness

YO1 | Sparrow Hospital

Corporate & Business

AT&T  |  Bank of America  |  Best Buy  |  Columbia Property Trust  |  Comcast  |  eBay  |  GE  |  HP  |  Johnson & Johnson  |  NYPA  |  PNC Bank  |  PURE Insurance

Workplace Strategy

Balansett | Cushman Wakefield

Entertainment Centers

Scene75