Project Location: Houston, Texas
STRATEGY
Coterie Spark was enlisted by a real estate investment firm to plan and execute an interactive roundtable experience with the goal of strengthening relationships with their partners, while continuing to be innovative industry thought leaders. One of Coterie Spark’s main objectives was to ensure that the client’s overall strategy was met by the design of the meeting, which was guided by one question: How do we create an environment of equals that avoids presenting to the partners from stage, but rather provides a platform for open dialogue and meaningful conversation?
PLANNING
Working within the space constraints was a challenge, as the meeting, originally designed for 50 participants, blossomed into a group of 80. For a successful event design, creating a thought-provoking atmosphere that strategically facilitated discussions was crucial to the success of the program. Coterie Spark utilized a roundtable layout in the event design that featured swivel chairs at varying heights, with lower seats in the center and higher seats around the outer edges. This layout allowed 
for open discussions where moderators, panelists and attendees could engage in meaningful face-to-face dialog. Set in the middle of the space was a series of custom-designed art walls that featured the client’s renderings of current and upcoming projects. The walls served as conversation pieces, as well as a barrier between the meeting space and the meal area.
EXECUTION
While onsite, Coterie Spark producers executed all aspects of the meeting including: facility communication, audio visual, rentals, catering, VIP amenities and the offsite event. In order to capture the essence of the dialog, a graphic recorder created thought maps of the facilitated discussions. This was crucial, as the visuals captured the organic dialogue of moderators, panelist and attendees while they connected with one another. The graphics helped guests to visualize the content and provided record of the discussion. After the event concluded, the client gathered positive feedback that the attendees engaged in meaningful industry discussions, and as a result, the client’s firm reached their goal of strengthening relationships and provided a platform for being innovative leaders in their industry.
