Ann Morrow Johnson is an industry leader in entertainment design, currently heading Gensler‘s global entertainment and experience design practice. She is an experience architect who creates compelling, meaningful spaces and experiences, blending design and placemaking expertise with strategic and operational knowledge to find opportunities that matter.
As an accomplished creative and design director, Johnson combines a deep understanding of architecture, world-building, and design with business acumen to envision and create unique experiences that immerse, engage, and excite guests worldwide.
Known for her innovative work in immersive environments, Johnson previously held a significant role as the global head of creative development at Walt Disney Imagineering, where she worked on projects like the ambitious Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. This immersive experience combined role-play and detailed environments to offer guests a unique two-day Star Wars experience.
At Gensler, Ann Morrow Johnson is helping to push boundaries in immersive design by integrating her extensive experience in architecture, storytelling, and entertainment. Her move to Gensler also reunites her with former Disney Imagineering president Bob Weis, bringing together two seasoned experts in experiential entertainment.
“Ann Morrow Johnson is the creative leader the Gensler entertainment practice needs at this moment as we continue to see exciting growth and momentum,” said Weis, speaking after her appointment. “Her extensive global experience in immersive experience design and storytelling, coupled with a solid foundation in development strategy and architecture makes her one of the industry’s most sought-after leaders.”
Johnson’s background spans over 60 major projects in the US, Europe, and Asia, and her insights are expected to drive Gensler’s strategies in blending physical and digital environments for urban spaces, hospitality, and entertainment ventures globally. In addition to her architectural expertise, Johnson has collaborated with high-profile cultural institutions like National Geographic and the Royal Shakespeare Company, blending traditional engagement with cutting-edge experience design to innovate within urban and commercial spaces worldwide.