Storyland Studios

Our Chief Innovation Officer Matt Ferguson gave a guest lecture to a Sports & Hospitality class at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on the Power of Storytelling in Sports Experiences. More and more sports venues and facilities are coming to Storyland for help elevating their experiences. It was an honor to share our story in such an iconic place for sports—the home of Michael Jordan, the Dean Dome, and so many national championships. It’s always a joy to help inspire the next generation of storytellers. Thanks to Dr. C.A. Tuggle for the opportunity! #sports #sportsvenues #sportsfacilities #stadiums #arenas #storytelling #experiencedesign

Storyland Heroes: Jeff Damron - The Architectural Titan

 Meet Jeff Damron, a true titan in the world of architectural storytelling! With a portfolio that spans four continents and includes some of the world's most iconic landmarks! 🛠️

 From the grandeur of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Monarch Beach to the wonder of Tokyo DisneySea’s Hotel MiraCosta, Jeff has been shaping extraordinary experiences that leave lasting impressions. His architectural prowess has helped bring to life not only Disney parks but Universal Studios Super Nintendo World and Warner Bros. World in Abu Dhabi.

 With a career that reads like an epic adventure, Jeff’s work transcends boundaries, creating spaces where stories come to life in the most awe-inspiring ways. As Senior Vice President of Master Planning & Design, he leads with the vision of a true storyteller. 🏗️✨ 



#storylandheroes #architecturaltitan #storylandstudios #architecture

Still feeling inspired after an incredible evening at the 2025 THEA Awards Gala! It was an honor to gather alongside so many passionate creatives and industry leaders, all dedicated to the art of immersive storytelling and themed entertainment. We’re always grateful for opportunities to celebrate the work that has shaped our industry—and even more so when we get to connect with the people who continue to push it forward. Here’s to the visionaries, the dreamers, and the makers. What a night to remember! #storylandstudios #theas2025 #themedentertainmentassociation #immersivestorytelling #theaawards #themedentertainment #experiencedesign #industrycelebration #tea

Storyland Heroes: Matt Molsberry - Architect Man An inventive architectural creative, Matt Molsberry crafts immersive environments that inspire and engage! 🏗️ As a Principal Architect at Storyland Studios, Matt leads the design and development of master plans and themed spaces that push the boundaries of creativity. A Cal Poly alumnus, Matt’s studies include VR and Augmented Reality, a valuable skill stashed in his architectural toolbox. 🧰 Before joining Storyland, Matt honed his skills at AECOM, contributing to iconic projects like Warner Brothers Movie World in Madrid, Disneyland, and Disney’s California Adventure. Matt’s dedication to innovative architecture has shaped spaces that merge storytelling with functionality, from global theme parks to groundbreaking cultural spaces. His work embodies seamless integration of design and imagination. 🌍🌟 

#storylandheroes #architectman #storylandstudios #architecturalinnovation

Peter McGowan and Matt Ferguson had the honor of speaking at SXSW 2025, sharing insights on the creative process and the power of technology to shape meaningful experiences. The event week was full of captivating talks and insightful conversations! #SXSW2025 #StorylandStudios #CreativityAndInnovation

Storyland Heroes: Rob Moffat - Landscape Design Champion

 A landscape design master, his creativity and vision shape some of the most dynamic and sustainable environments across the globe! 🌍

 As Director of Landscape and Area Development, Rob specializes in master planning and landscape architecture that blends quality design with sustainable development for world-class resorts, cities, and real estate destinations. His portfolio spans the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, where he has designed resorts, visitor destinations, new communities, and theme parks. 🌿🏙️ 

Rob’s approach goes beyond aesthetics; he creates places that connect people and enhance experiences, turning spaces into thriving, memorable destinations. From resorts to master-planned communities, Rob's work transforms landscapes into vibrant stories of nature and innovation. With over 20 years of experience, he continues to lead the charge in sustainable and impactful design. 🌱🏆 

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storylandheroes #landscapelegend #storylandstudios #landscapearchitecture

✨Revisiting a project that revitalized a corner of Knott's Berry Farm! 🍇 🎭 Sitting on the site where Walter Knott's theater prop shop once stood, the Prop Shop Pizzeria projects an architectural design that seamlessly blends the charm of the 1920s-30s with the feel of industry and speakeasies, creating a unique dining experience. With collaboration from our team and top industry executives, the Italian Kitchen opened to the public in July 2022, successfully adding to the Knott’s Berry Farm legacy of top-notch food and entertainment. 🎉 Read the full story on our website: https://hubs.la/Q03bPsLH0 #KnottsBerryFarm #PropShopPizzeria #DesignExcellence #InspiredArchitecture

Storyland Heroes: Mel McGowan - Creative Chief A master of immersive storytelling, Mel McGowan’s visionary work transforms spaces into unforgettable experiences! 🎥✨ As the creative leader of Storyland Studios’ Spatial Storytelling, Mel integrates master planning, conceptual development, architecture, and interior and production design to craft environments that captivate and inspire. Drawing from his film background and decade at the Walt Disney Company, Mel has built a multidisciplinary team echoing Disney’s Imagineers. 🏰🌟 Mel’s passion for creating compelling experiences has shaped projects like the Disneyland Resort renewal along with museums, theme parks, and non-profits around the globe. Post-Disney, he co-founded Visioneering and PlainJoe Studios, earning recognition with his architectural teams. He’s also an author, podcast host, and an adjunct professor at CBU. 📚🎙️ #storylandheroes #creativechief #storylandstudios #creativedesign

What happens when you take an abandoned shopping mall and reimagine it from the ground up as a vibrant, mixed-use district? 🤔 You get a vibrant, story-driven destination where people can live, shop, and gather! 🎉 Storyland Studios partnered with the visionary team behind the Crossroads Mall project to redesign the space with a story-driven master plan—blending residential, retail, and entertainment into an engaging community destination. 🏡🛍️🎭 🚀 Explore how this transformation is shaping up and how we’ve helped bring new life to this space! 🔗 Read more: https://hubs.la/Q039_dfH0 #storylandstudios #placemaking #urbanrevitalization #experiencedesign #masterplanning #crossroadsmall