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The Hettema Group and Themespace are to combine their talents to form a single independent creative studio known as THG
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 23 Apr 2022
In its new form, Phil Hettema (left) will serve as THG CEO, while Erik Neergaard (right) will act as chief creative officer and COO Credit: THG
Design firms The Hettema Group and Themespace have announced a major merger, which will see the two companies combine to form one independent creative studio.
Called THG, the new company will see the internationally-acclaimed experiential design studios join forces to create jaw-dropping attractions and experiences around the world.
The new studio, based in Pasadena, California, US, will see THG continue to create world-class themed experiences, working across a number of areas including theme parks, destination attractions, rides, resorts, museums, casinos, sporting events, and brand experiences.
With their now combined might, THG boasts a number of high-profile clients, including Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, DreamWorks, Sony, Paramount, Nickelodeon and more.
Led by industry legend and IAAPA Hall of Famer Phil Hettema, The Hettema Group is responsible for some of the world’s most stunning attractions, such as the One World Observatory at the top of the One World Trade Center in New York, US.
Themespace, meanwhile, is known for its equally popular and revered designs. Recently, company CEO Erik Neergaard was brought on to act as senior creative consultant, working with Meraas on the development of Dubai Parks and Resorts.
The merger of the two companies was announced by Hettema and Neergaard at the Themed Entertainment Association’s Summit, which is currently taking place in Anaheim, California. In its new form, Hettema will serve as CEO, while Neergaard will act as chief creative officer and COO.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Themespace,” said Hettema. “I have long been inspired by Erik’s creativity and innovative spirit, and I believe he will be the perfect partner as we embark on this new chapter. As an independent agency, we will specialise in close partnerships with our clients, to help them realise their goals and turn their dreams into destinations. Through our holistic approach combining both the creative and business sides of a project, we have the ability to create incredible experiences from concept all the way through execution.”
Neergaard added: “It’s incredible to be working alongside a revered titan of the experiential entertainment industry like Phil. Together we’ve assembled an even deeper team of talent, combining our expert industry veterans to offer a broader array of world-class services. This will enable spectacular options for envisioning and bringing to completion guest-centric projects that touch, move, and amaze.”
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