Luxury and Learning in the Digital Realm

Luxury and Learning in the Digital Realm.

What is this about?

In a world where travel and experiences are increasingly digital, brands and institutions harness virtual technology to deliver immersive experiences that rival reality. From the Vatican's AI-powered digital twin of St. Peter's Basilica to Meta's VR-based "metaversities," these innovations are blurring the lines between physical and virtual realms, creating accessible, interactive spaces for education, culture, and luxury shopping.

Why is it interesting?

This movement isn't just about making experiences more accessible — it's about crafting rich, interactive environments that go beyond simple online browsing.

Microsoft's digital twin of St. Peter's Basilica offers a highly detailed, photo-realistic tour that allows anyone to explore the iconic structure's architecture from anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, Meta's virtual campuses, co-developed with leading universities, redefine distance learning, bringing classes to life with VR and mixed-reality tools.

Luxury brands are also diving into Jaden Smith's Harper Collective, which uses PS5 graphics to create an immersive store experience where users can watch artisans craft sustainable goods. Rimowa's virtual boutique allows consumers to interactively explore new releases and the brand's heritage. With companies like Obsess reporting that immersive digital stores drive increased sales and customer engagement, the digital experience is a valuable investment.

So what?

Whether you're a luxury brand or an educational institution, the digital realm offers a new way to break with tradition, from telling old stories in new ways to breaking boundaries in online shopping.

In short, it's about bringing the world—and more of it—even closer to consumers' fingertips.

How might your brand create immersive digital experiences that redefine accessibility and engagement?

Just Imagine…

A near future…
…Where Hermès virtual atelier lets customers personalize their Birkins in real-time. They can choose leathers, colours, and hardware finishes while watching artisans craft their designs via the Hermès app.

A mid future…
…Where Michelin-starred chefs offer metaverse cooking classes, allowing users to experience the smells and textures of each dish as if they were cooking alongside them.

A Far future…
…Where the Louvre uses AR to let users feel the brushstrokes through haptic feedback and immerse themselves in the historical ambience of each piece to merge physical and virtual art experiences.