John Higgs
Principal, Creative Design Service Director of MediaLab
Dallas, Texas USA
Beginning in the mid-1990s, when animation and computer rendering were new on the scene, Corgan was searching for ways to better show its design concepts and tell the stories behind our buildings. Working from the premise that “Informed people make better decisions — Inspired people take action,” John parlayed his design skills and melded it with his passion for radio-TV-film to co-create MediaLab. Since then, MediaLab has grown into a state-of-the-art multi-media and in-house production studio that uses the latest tools and technology to produce content and live broadcasts.
An architect turned videographer, John educates and inspires people through visual storytelling. “A building tells you something about the people who reside within,” says John. “We bring our design stories to life as a catalyst in the three-dimensional realm to show our clients what we can do pre-and post-production to bring their vision to life and find value in the physical space.”
For several years, MediaLab produced animation and renderings for clients, but it has evolved to produce short-form documentaries, YouTube content, live broadcasts, and 3D renderings to market and promote Corgan’s architecture and design services. MediaLab has grown to nearly 25 full-time employees and numerous consultants who create special effects, VFX, VR, animation, CGI motion graphics, 3D renderings, and film. “The fun part is discovering the story the architect wants to tell and then giving it a visual representation to communicate his ideas to the client,” says John.
John takes the same approach to education and inspiration in helping guide other creative design services at Corgan. He is currently mentoring leadership for Hugo, Corgan’s research studio and The Shop, Corgan’s model and fabrication studio.
After hours, John can be found playing in pickleball tournaments, enjoying Napa and Sonoma Valley wines, aging bourbon in barrels, or touring the South of France with his wife, where the couple plans to retire.