Tessellate is a NYC studio specializing in EXHIBIT AND EXPERIENCE DESIGN.

We synchronize physical space and storytelling to tell immersive, high-impact environments for our clients. Turning 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

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.

Planning and Design: Strategic roadmapping for each design phse.
Experience Strategy: Aligning goals and visitor impact through spatial storytelling.
Narrative Discovery: Research and content development to develop and support the central narrative.
User Journey Mapping: Modeling of visitor flow and high-impact touchpoints.

2. Spatial Design & Immersive Environments

We fuse physical space, visual design, and technology touchpoints with the story to create world-class destinations.

Exhibit & Environmental Design: Designing museums, exhibits, brand centers, and public installations.
Narrative Design: Design of environments where the story is integrated into the architecture.
Spatial Simulations: Advanced 3D modeling and walkthrough 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 specialized environments.
AR, VR & Mixed Reality: Developing high-fidelity digital layers for physical environments.
Generative Art & Data Media

SERVICES PROVIDED

Clients: Past and Present

Select Cultural & Academic Institutions

Science & Nature Centers

National Park Service | Summit Metro Parks | Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation | National Scenic Visitors Center

Health & Wellness

Indiana University Health | Sparrow Hospital

Corporate & Business

Commercial Real Estate

Columbia Property Trust | Cushman Wakefield

Entertainment Centers

Scene75