HLGstudio Launches studioRIFF
HLGstudio Launches studioRIFF, An Experiential Design Studio Harmonizing Brand, Graphics, and Storytelling
Atlanta, Georgia & Nashville, Tennessee.
August 5th, 2026
HLGstudio, a leading interior architecture and design firm, today announced the launch of studioRIFF, its dedicated experiential branding studio. Led by Eric Morris, formerly of Skydesign, studioRIFF specializes in integrating brand identity, graphic design, sensory engagement and cohesive storytelling into space through environmental graphics, wayfinding, placemaking, art curation, signage, and interactive features.
The name “RIFF” draws from its musical roots - a phrase supporting improvisation, or a distinct variation.
“studioRIFF is our platform to expand how we connect stories to spaces,” said Matt Hayner, Managing Principal at HLGstudio. “In a world where environments must do more for people - we bring brand, identity, and experience into harmony. Whether through bold environmental graphics, intuitive wayfinding, or immersive installations, we partner with our clients to create places people remember. We are excited to have Eric Morris lead our new studio. He is a natural fit to our clients, culture and growth.”
What studioRIFF Delivers
studioRIFF offers a full suite of experiential design services, including:
Environmental graphics & wayfinding
ADA/room signage and code-compliant solutions
Art curation, sculpture, and installation art
Branding & identity (including logo design)
Placemaking, donor recognition, and commemorative elements
Display/exhibition design, leasing exhibits, timelines, and marketing collateral
Interactive features and sensory engagement strategies
The studio operates under clear naming conventions for seamless collaboration:
studioRIFF for branding and experiential scopes
HLGstudio for interiors-specific work
HLGstudioRIFF for fully integrated projects
This structure allows clients to engage the right expertise while benefiting from HLGstudio’s established capabilities in workplace, healthcare, education and restaurant environments.“We founded studioRIFF because great spaces deserve narrative, intention, and sensory resonance,” said Eric Morris. “We listen first, then lead with authentic solutions that make places unforgettable.”studioRIFF’s mission is to be in it for the long haul—to listen, learn, and lead; expand boundaries of design and fabrication; preserve originality; see challenge as opportunity; and connect stories to spaces.
The studio is now actively pursuing select new opportunities and partnerships. Early work highlights include custom environmental graphics, wayfinding systems, and branded installations that transform ordinary spaces into memorable experiences.
For project inquiries, collaborations, or media requests, visit www.HLGstudioRIFF.com or contact the team at mhayner@hlgstudio.com and emorris@hlgstudio.com | 404.760.7788.
About studioRIFF is the experiential design studio of HLGstudio, LLC, an Atlanta- and Nashville-based interior architecture and design firm. Specializing in the integration of brand, identity, space, and experience. studioRIFF creates environments that tell stories, engage the senses, and leave lasting impressions. It operates in close collaboration with HLGstudio to deliver holistic solutions for workplace, healthcare, education and restaurant clients.
About Eric Morris is an Atlanta-based designer and artist with a Master of Architecture from MIT and a B.S. in Architecture from Georgia Tech. As Senior Associate at HLGstudio, he leads studioRIFF, the firm’s Experiential Design discipline; integrating environmental graphics, branding, signage, wayfinding, and spatial identity into the built environment.
