Lexus returns to Design Miami and collaborates with Germane Barnes and University of Miami


An immersive installation with the brand’s exploration of the electrified, carbon-neutral vision of the future.

Lexus LF-Z

With a commitment to innovation since 1989, it is with no doubt that Lexus continues to push the boundaries of technology and craft in an evolving luxury vehicle landscape. As a brand, Lexus is unwavering in its dedication to forward-looking, technologically advanced design and exceptional performance features, considering changing needs for transportation and lifestyles worldwide.

On recent news, Lexus just announced its return as the automotive partner and forthcoming collaboration for Design Miami/2021, partnering with the University of Miami. Led by Germane Barnes, Principal Architect at Studio Barnes, Assistant Professor at the University of Miami School of Architecture, and Director of the CHIL Lab, focusing on social and political impact of architecture. With an immersive installation on view at Design Miami/ 2021, its digital components will resonate globally. Entering its fourth year as the Automotive Partner of Design Miami/, this year’s partnership will focus on the LF-Z Electrified concept car, which symbolizes the next generation of Lexus.

Germane Barnes

“We’re excited to partner with Germane Barnes and the University of Miami for this year’s edition of Design Miami/, and we’re looking forward to seeing their vision for a more human-centric and carbon-neutral future come to life,” expresses Brian Bolain, Lexus’ global head of marketing. “The LF-Z Electrified represents the next chapter of Lexus, paving the way forward for the next generation. The installation will illuminate that vision from the perspective of future designers.”

Miami-based architect, designer, and educator Germane Barnes is widely recognized for his work exploring the intersections of identity and architecture. The collaboration will be directed by Barnes, with the School of Architecture’s Labs and Centers. Bringing together both his Studio Barnes team as well as students from the University, the project will use the car as a point of inspiration to explore the potential for an electrified, carbon-neutral, human-centered future that is just on the horizon.

Designed to engage audiences worldwide, this year’s physical installation will be complemented by a dynamic digital experience, engaging international content creators, and delivering compelling visuals at the Miami Beach Convention Center, from Dec. 1 to Dec. 5, 2021. Additional details on the installation will be shared in the coming weeks.

LF-Z Electrified Concept

“Lexus has long been an inspiration to my work, as a symbol of luxury, craftsmanship, and a vision of future potential that is recognized across cultures and communities as an icon of quality,” noted Barnes. “The opportunity to realize an installation that explores this heritage while celebrating the potential and vision represented by the LF-Z Electrified concept car is an incredible one, especially in coordination with my team at Studio Barnes and the students and faculty at the University of Miami School of Architecture labs. We’re so excited to show the world the potential that the future holds at this year’s Design Miami/ both through the exploration of Lexus’s next generation vehicle, and through the talent, energy, and vision of the next generation of designers working with me to realize this project.”

Withholding bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries worldwide.