The Future of Sound and Space: How Audio Design is Transforming Our Homes and Beyond
At the bustling CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025 (https://www.commercialintegrator.com/?s=cedia+expo%2FCIX), amidst the vibrant energy of the show floor, a fascinating conversation unfolded inside the Volkswagen ID. Buzz “Podcast Van.” Jim Garrett, Senior Director of Product Strategy and Planning at Harman Luxury Audio (https://www.harman.com/), joined Convo by Design host Josh Cooperman to discuss the evolving landscape of audio design and its impact on both indoor and outdoor living spaces. But here's where it gets intriguing: Garrett, who oversees iconic brands like Arcam, JBL, JBL Synthesis, Revel, and Mark Levinson, revealed how Harman’s collaboration with parent company Samsung at this year’s expo symbolizes a larger industry shift toward seamless, unified ecosystems. This partnership resulted in one of the most expansive booths at the event, showcasing the future of integrated technology.
Garrett emphasized the critical role of open feedback from integrators in shaping Harman’s innovations. “They’re candid about what works and what doesn’t,” he explained. “This collaboration is essential—we succeed together, or not at all.” This feedback loop is particularly vital in addressing one of Garrett’s key priorities: balancing high-performance audio with sleek, unobtrusive design. “Technology should enhance the experience without dominating the space,” he noted, highlighting Harman’s efforts to combat what he humorously calls “wall acne”—those unsightly control panels and speaker grilles that disrupt meticulously designed interiors. The development of thinner, hidden, and even invisible speakers reflects a design evolution akin to the shift from bulky lighting fixtures to minimalist, discreet accents.
And this is the part most people miss: The pandemic has fundamentally changed how we use entertainment spaces. Garrett pointed out that outdoor areas are no longer just extensions of the home but are now central gathering hubs. Harman’s partnership with Samsung’s weather-resistant Terrace displays and JBL Professional landscape speakers exemplifies this trend, seamlessly integrating audio and video into gardens and patios. Whether indoors or out, the focus is on creating connected, immersive experiences rather than isolated entertainment zones.
“Many people don’t realize what truly exceptional audio sounds like because they’ve never experienced it,” Garrett observed. “CEDIA is about raising awareness—showcasing the possibilities in performance, design, and simplicity.” For both Cooperman and Garrett, the key takeaway was clear: modern technology isn’t just about sound and vision; it’s about crafting invisible, experiential connections that enhance our daily lives.
Controversial Question: As technology becomes increasingly invisible, are we losing the tactile, tangible connection to our devices, or does this invisibility actually deepen our engagement with the experiences they create? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Watch the full conversation between Jim Garrett and Josh Cooperman here, and don’t miss the insights that are shaping the future of audio design and entertainment spaces.
Editor’s note: This article originally appeared on our sister site, CEPRO.com (https://www.cepro.com/news/harmans-jim-garrett-talks-design-innovation-and-the-expanding-definition-of-home-entertainment-at-cedia-expo-cix-2025/623377/), and has been updated to cater to the commercial AV audience.
