Harlem’s Studio Museum shows off its new home, Chicago O’Hare could soon welcome the country’s first airport gay bar, and rising tensions in the Middle East are causing widespread flight disruptions. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

The Studio Museum in Harlem reveals new details ahead of fall reopening

The Studio Museum in Harlem’s new building; photo by Dror Baldinger FAIA, courtesy of Studio Museum in Harlem

The Studio Museum in Harlem has unveiled details for its fall 2025 reopening, highlighting a bold lineup of exhibitions and installations in its new 82,000-square-foot building, which was designed by Adjaye Associates in collaboration with Cooper Robertson. Visitors will encounter a major presentation of Tom Lloyd—whose 1968 show inaugurated the museum—and a dynamic rotating display from the permanent collection that spans two centuries of art by creators of African descent. The opening will also feature archival photography and ephemera tracing the museum’s 56-year history, alongside a new works-on-paper installation by more than 100 alumni of its Artist‑in‑Residence program. Site-specific commissions by Camille Norment (sonic sculptural passageway), Christopher Myers (metal installation in the Education Center), and Kapwani Kiwanga will join longterm works by David Hammons, Glenn Ligon, and Houston Conwill. The launch coincides with a $300 million capital campaign milestone, and includes a rooftop terrace by Studio Zewde, flexible galleries, and a café operated by local restaurant Settepani.

Design competition reimagines unused lots in LA

An interior rendering of Twin Court by wowowoworkshop for the Small Lots, Big Impact design competition; courtesy of wowowoworkshop

A recently design competition challenged architects to think small, but with big results. The Los Angeles Small Lots, Big Ideas design competition—organized by the City of Los Angeles, CityLab-UCLA, and nonprofit LA4LA—called on architects to propose creative infill housing for narrow, underused plots across the city to address its housing needs. Winning projects were selected across two broad categories: Gentle Density (small-scale multifamily homes) and Shared Futures (low-rise multifamily developments). Dwell highlights a few, including the Growing Together prototype by Outpost Office, designed for multigenerational living; and wowowoworkshop’s Twin Court, a dual-home model that fosters micro-communities with shared courtyards. The competition’s phase one concludes with these visionary designs, before the next step to bring the concepts to life through developer RFQ and legislative backing.

Sidetrack proposes first U.S. airport gay bar at O’Hare

A walkway tunnel at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Iconic LGBTQIA+ bar Sidetrack, a staple in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood since 1982, may expand to a new location—O’Hare International Airport. Co-owners Art Johnston and José “Pepe” Peña, in partnership with restaurateur Germán González of Somos Hospitality Group, have submitted a proposal for what would be the first gay bar at a U.S. airport, according to Chicago Tribune. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, signature cocktails, and vibrant events, Sidetrack has long served as a community hub for celebration and advocacy. If approved, the airport location in Terminal 1 could act as both a beacon of inclusion and the perfect billboard for LGBTQIA+ advancement. While the city’s decision on the bid remains months away, Gonzalez and Johnston underscore the importance of representation during a time when LGBTQIA+ rights face mounting challenges.

Flights disrupted amid tensions in the Middle East

Image courtesy of Adobe Stock

Airlines are scrambling to adapt as the U.S. escalates its involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. Following airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, major carriers like British Airways, Lufthansa, and Delta have canceled or diverted flights to and over the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, and Israel. According to Skift, airspace closures have forced extended routes, with disruptions expected to last into July. A Qantas flight to Paris, for instance, returned to Australia mid-flight after nearly 15 hours in the air, a striking example of the chaos, reports Business Insider. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways and Air India diverted or canceled flights as hub airports like Doha experienced mounting delays. This situation highlights the ripple effects geopolitical instability can have on global travel, particularly in such a crucial transit region.

A wellness-focused summer at Hospitality Design

Lumina Spa at Namia River Retreat—designed by T3 Architects and Kanopea Architecture Studio—featured in HD’s upcoming July issue; photo courtesy of Namia River Retreat

As wellness continues to shape the future of hospitality, Hospitality Design is dedicating its July issue to the booming industry—covering everything from neuroinclusive spaces to longevity-focused programming and adaptive reuse hotels. In the lead-up, a new report from the Global Wellness Institute forecasts the wellness real estate market will surpass $1 trillion by 2029, pointing to increased demand for built environments that support holistic wellbeing. For more insights, listen to our recent podcast with Sarah Klymson and Simon Marxer, who are envisioning the future of Hyatt’s wellness-focused brand Miraval through design and programming. Plus, hear from Dr. Jonathan Leary, founder of Remedy Place, who’s redefining the social wellness club experience with a focus on immersive, communal healing (he also appears in the upcoming July issue). Stay tuned for more!

The post Five on Friday: June 27th, 2025 appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Say goodbye to the free hotel breakfast, Los Angeles’ independent restaurants unite for survival, and Boom Supersonic eyes a new era of air travel. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Herzog & de Meuron reimagine a New York icon for Sotheby’s

A rendering of the Herzog & de Meuron-designed Sotheby’s in New York; rendering courtesy of Sotheby’s

Switzerland-based Herzog & de Meuron is revamping one of New York’s most recognizable structures: the Breuer Building on Madison Avenue. Originally designed in 1966 by Marcel Breuer and Associates as the Whitney Museum of American Art, this Brutalist landmark was later home to the Met Breuer and more recently the Frick Madison. As reported by Wallpaper, the architecture firm is currently reimagining the space as the new global headquarters for Sotheby’s auction house. Although the majority of alterations will be subtle, some significant updates are planned including additional exhibition spaces, mechanical and lighting system upgrades, as well as the transformation of the lobby’s built-in benches and seating into display cases for art and objects. The reopening is scheduled for fall 2025.

Hotels reconsider free breakfast

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Some well-known hotel brands are reconsidering and replacing complimentary breakfast with alternative benefits such as discounts and extra loyalty points, writes Fortune. For example, Hyatt Place—which launched a pilot program with more than 40 U.S. properties back in November—has been discreetly phasing out this popular perk at several properties. Notably, the St. Regis Macao has also been testing out the trend. Experiments with these new models are being driven by rising costs as well as guest preferences for flexibility. However, for now, free breakfast will continue to be a staple for several hotel brands since many travelers still consider the amenity desirable when selecting where to stay.

Boom Supersonic aims to halve transatlantic flight times

A rendering of Boom Overture; photo courtesy of Boom Supersonic

Decades after the Concorde’s final flight, supersonic air travel may be poised for a comeback. As The Wall Street Journal reports, Boom Supersonic—led by CEO Blake Scholl—is racing to bring faster-than-sound jets back to the skies. In fact, Boom’s Overture jet aims to cut transatlantic flight times in half, with a goal of test flights projected to take off toward the end of this decade. The engine’s manufacturing prototype is underway and the jet will be built in a recently constructed factory in Greensboro, North Carolina. Despite doubters, like Delta CEO Ed Bastian, who believe cost and traveler capacity are significant issues, Scholl is still backed by industry visionaries including OpenAI founder Sam Altman and former United CEO Oscar Munoz. Preliminary orders for future planes have been made by United, American, and Japan Airlines. If successful, these jets could reignite the dream of reaching London from New York in under four hours.

LA restaurants band together for industry reform

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Facing rising costs, shrinking margins, staffing struggles, natural disasters, and a challenging political landscape, a group of Los Angeles restaurateurs has joined forces to form the Independent Hospitality Coalition. According to The New York Times, the grassroots organization strives to provide small, independent restaurants a powerful collective voice. Their mission: to advocate for industry-friendly policies, from tax relief to better labor laws, while also advancing peer support and resource sharing. The coalition arrives at a crucial moment as the hospitality industry faces mounting pressure from inflation and shifting consumer habits. By organizing, these restaurant owners hope to create longterm resilience not just for themselves, but for the LA’s dining culture as a whole.

Welcome to Workplace Design, where the future of work begins

Tokyo’s Museum Tower Kyobashi lobby lounge, designed by I IN Studio; photo by Tomooki Kengaku

Brought to you by Emerald’s Design Group—producers of HD Expo + Conference, BDNY, ICFF, EDspaces, and more, as well as the team behind leading design publications like Hospitality Design and Healthcare Design (and once upon a time, Contract)—Workplace Design is your new go-to destination for everything shaping the future of the modern workplace. The website will connect and inspire designers, architects, developers and more to create smarter, more dynamic office environments. Subscribe to Workplace Design’s bimonthly newsletter and join a community of forward-thinkers and changemakers transforming workspaces one bold idea at a time.

The post Five on Friday: June 20th, 2025 appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Designer Brandon Blackwood brings bold fashion to the skies, Tadao Ando reveals Naoshima New Museum of Art in Japan, and restaurants are reviving old-school hospitality. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Designer Brandon Blackwood teams up with American Airlines

The Brandon Blackwood Premium Economy Kit; photo courtesy of Lexi Lambro/American Airlines

American Airlines is elevating its in-flight experience this summer with a limited-edition collection of amenity kits designed by fashion designer Brandon Blackwood, whose statement-making pieces have been worn by stars like Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion. Blackwood brings his style to the skies with three exclusive pouch designs, which will be available from mid-June through September. Premium economy travelers will receive a blue-and-white checkered pouch, while those in business class will be treated to a black pouch with red accents. First-class passengers will be gifted a denim mini Portmore bag—a homage to the style that helped define Blackwood’s brand 10 years ago. “Being a first to do something is always such a milestone, especially at this scale,” Blackwood told Travel + Leisure of the opportunity as a Black designer to work with a brand like American Airlines. “Every first my brand has done has helped spotlight other brands of those that look like myself. It gives hope, spreads awareness, and shows that there is so much overlooked talent that’s waiting to show up and show out.”

Tadao Ando unveils a cultural landmark in Japan

Naoshima New Museum of Art; photo by GION

The Naoshima New Museum of Art is the latest addition to Benesse Art Site Naoshima, a cultural initiative spanning more than three dozen museums and projects across the islands of Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, writes Wallpaper. Designed by Tadao Ando, the museum is the first dedicated to contemporary Asian art and is meant to highlight Japan’s cultural and geopolitical ties to Asia. Set partly underground and clad in materials that reference local architectural traditions—such as black plaster inspired by burned-cedar and pebble walls reminiscent of Honmura village homes—the museum is designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape. A dramatic central staircase, strategically placed skylights, and a sea-view café further enhance the visitor experience. The museum launches with From the Origin to the Future, an exhibition featuring works by 12 artists and collectives, including notable names like Cai Guo-Qiang, Takashi Murakami, Do Ho Suh, and Pannaphan Yodmanee.

Old-school hospitality makes a comeback

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

In London’s King’s Cross, the Yellow Bittern defies modern dining norms with an unapologetic analog approach. Run by Hugh Corcoran, the 18-seat cash-only restaurant has two lunchtime seatings, weekdays only. Reservations are required, and they must be made by phone or postcard, writes Food & Wine. Corcoran’s Dickensian charm and hands-on style, along with support from business partner Lady Frances von Hofmannsthal and bookshop curator Oisín Davis, creates an atmosphere of intimate hospitality that’s nostalgic and rare. Across the pond, Eulalie in New York’s Tribeca neighborhood echoes the same ethos. Owners Chip Smith and Tina Vaughn maintain handwritten reservations and focus solely on dinner service, favoring relaxed pacing over table turnover. Despite slim profit margins, they prioritize human connection. “We are here to take care of you,” Vaughn says.

Luxury airport hotels take off

Grand Hyatt at SFO by BraytonHughes Design Studios (now DLR Group); photo by Paul Dyer

Luxury airport hotels, like the Grand Hyatt SFO and Westin Denver International, are seeing growing demand as travelers prioritize convenience, comfort, and elevated amenities—despite hefty nightly rates often approaching $500, reports The Wall Street Journal. Offering more than just proximity to airport terminals, the properties boast features like upscale dining, plush bathrobes, craft cocktails, and runway views, appealing to both business and leisure travelers. The Grand Hyatt SFO, for example, recently posted its highest occupancy and ADR since opening in 2019, outperforming the wider San Francisco hotel market. The Westin Denver has also seen rate increases and high occupancy. In Dallas, the 20-year-old Grand Hyatt DFW begins its $34 million renovation in July. Casper van Eldik Thieme, GM of the Grand Hyatt, says the hotel’s location, triple-pane windows, blackout curtains, F&B attract repeat customers. “You say, this is how I want to travel,’’ he points out.

Enter the 2025 Gold Key Awards!

The Rockwell Group-designed Coqodaq, a finalist in the Upscale Restaurant category in the 44th annual Gold Key Awards; photo by Jason Varney

Boutique Design magazine is now accepting entries for the 45th annual Gold Key Awards. Celebrating exceptional design across 24 categories, the competition recognizes innovation in hotel, restaurant, wellness, and specialty spaces, including areas like Design at Sea and Next-Gen Housing. The entry deadline is August 1st, with a $235 fee. Learn more and enter today! Winners will be revealed and finalists will celebrated at a gala event on November 10th held at Cipriani 42nd Street during BDNY. The evening will also highlight special honors such as the Judges’ So Cool award and Designer of the Year, along with the 2025 Boutique 18 class and BD’s Up-and-Coming Hotelier of the Year. Tickets for the event will go on sale this summer.

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Barry Sternlicht has a warning for big hotel chains, Egypt readies to move ahead on Red Sea bridge, and ‘shoebox’ guestrooms entice solo travelers without cutting corners on style. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Hidden design gems elevate New York’s showroom scene

The bar at Quarters; photo by William Jess Laird

New York’s high-end furniture scene is embracing a quieter, more curated approach, trading street-level storefronts for discreet lofts, warehouses, and repurposed apartments, writes The New York Times. From Alan Eckstein’s speakeasy-style Somerset House in Long Island City to the cocktail-ready Quarters in Lower Manhattan, these hidden showrooms offer design lovers a personalized, immersive experience. West Coast transplants like Lawson-Fenning and Nickey Kehoe bring their signature style to subtly marked Manhattan spaces, while Temple Studio and West Out East add texture and functionality in reimagined lofts. This new wave of retail is less about foot traffic and more about discovery, intimacy, and narrative-rich environments. “We’re not hitting you over the head with design,” said Glenn Lawson, founder of Lawson-Fenning.

Barry Sternlicht sounds off on hospitality’s future

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, part of Barry Sternlicht’s Starwood Hotels; photo by AVABLU

At this week’s NYU Hospitality Investment Conference, Barry Sternlicht—founder of Starwood Hotels—warned that big hotel chains are losing ground to agile indie brands, Skift reports. Drawing parallels to fashion and cosmetics, Sternlicht pointed out that personalization and authenticity are beating out sameness and scale. He criticized the industry’s habit of “flag trading” and urged brands to differentiate through design, service, and storytelling. While praising players like Accor for snapping up indie labels, he emphasized that real loyalty comes from great people and strong products. As for his next moves? Starwood Hotels is officially back—but he’s playing his cards close.

Linking continents: Red Sea bridge project to move ahead

A proposed bridge would link Egypt and Saudi Arabia over the Red Sea; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Plans for a long-anticipated bridge connecting Egypt and Saudi Arabia across the Red Sea are gaining momentum, Dezeen writes. Egypt’s transport minister Kamel al-Wazir confirmed the project, which will link Sharm El-Sheikh to Ras Alsheikh Hamid via Tiran Island, is ready for execution. Envisioned as a high-speed rail corridor, the $4 billion venture aims to boost trade and tourism between Africa and Asia, while complementing Saudi Arabia’s expansive Neom development. First proposed in 2016, the bridge aligns with regional mega-projects like Egypt’s New Administrative Capital and the Line in Neom—raising the stakes for cross-continental infrastructure and futuristic urban design.

Compact hotel rooms hit high-end hotels

The Hoxton, Vienna offers single-occupancy ‘Snug’ rooms ranging from 137 to 141 square feet

Solo travelers are on the rise, and so are hotel rooms designed just for them, according to The Wall Street Journal. From Kimpton Fitzroy’s compact-yet-chic City Single accommodations in London to AlmaLusa Alfama’s smartly designed 161-square-foot hideaways in Lisbon, these pint-sized spaces offer style, savings, and just the right amount of solitude. Firmdale’s Kit Kemp-designed singles brim with charm across less than 90 square feet, while Hoxton’s “Shoebox” rooms pack a playful punch across the U.S. and Europe. Even boutique properties like Hotel 850 SVB in West Hollywood are getting in on the action, proving that cozy can still be cool—and never means compromising on design. “A single-occupancy bedroom can have just as much style as a bigger one. It’s all about how you use the space,” says Charlie North, global vice president of design of Ennismore, Hoxton’s parent company.

ICYMI: The 2025 HD Awards celebration continues

The 2025 HD Awards trophies, designed by Yellow Goat Design; photo by PWP Studio

Last month, Hospitality Design revealed this year’s HD Awards project and product winners during a ceremony in Las Vegas. And the excitement doesn’t end there—our 2025 HD Awards magazine issue drops in less than two weeks, celebrating the finalists, winners, special award honorees (including Design Firm and Hotelier of the Year, HDAC Awards of Excellence, and the HD/West Elm Student Product Design Competition), and judges who made the 21st annual program possible. Dive into the stories behind the 34 project winners, and relive the prestigious event via our photo gallery.

The post Five on Friday: June 6th, 2025 appeared first on Hospitality Design.

International travel to the U.S. declines, Universal’s new theme park puts nature at the forefront, and luxury overtakes the Hamptons’ motel market. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

International tourism to the U.S. is shrinking

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Foreign tourism to the U.S. is on the decline, with Oxford Economics projecting a drop of $8.5 billion in international tourism spending this year, reports CNBC. A combination of factors—including strained trade and immigration policies under the Trump administration, a strong dollar, and weaker global economic growth—has made the U.S. less appealing to international travelers. Flight bookings between May and July are down 11 percent year over year, signaling a weak outlook. International arrivals are projected to decrease by 9 percent, and according to the U.S. Travel Association, each 1 percent drop in visitor spending results in $1.8 billion in lost revenue. At current rates, the country could see a staggering $21 billion in travel revenue losses by year-end.

A new Frida Kahlo museum to open in Mexico City

The new Frida Kahlo museum will open adjacent to Casa Azul (pictured), where the artist’s personal artifacts and art are now on display; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Frida Kahlo’s enduring legacy is set to expand with the September opening of Museo Casa Kahlo in Mexico City’s historic Coyoacán district. Located within the family’s Casa Roja estate, the new museum—designed by New York’s Rockwell Group—will focus on Kahlo’s early life and inspirations, showcasing pivotal figures and cultural movements in her development, along with rotating contemporary works by Mexican, Latin American, and women artists, writes ARTnews. Adjacent to the iconic Casa Azul, where Kahlo lived and worked with her husband and painter Diego Rivera, this space complements a collection of her personal artifacts and folk art. The house was gifted by the artist’s grandniece Mara Romeo Kahlo and is supported by Fundación Kahlo. “This is a dream long held by our family,” Romeo Kahlo said in a statement. “Frida’s legacy belongs to the world, but it begins here—on this land, in these homes, and in the culture that shaped her.” 

Epic Universe puts nature back into theme parks

The plant-filled Celestial Park greets visitors at Epic Universe; photo courtesy of Universal Studios

Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park opened this month with a surprising twist: nature comes first. Visitors are greeted not by concrete paths and gift shops, but by winding pathways and more than 400,000 plants, reports Fast Company. This new arrival experience, called Celestial Park, serves as the hub connecting Epic Universe’s four immersive worlds, including Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Ministry of Magic. “We’ve put the ‘park’ back in theme park,” says executive creative director Steve Tatham. Inspired by the grandeur and optimism of historical world’s fairs, Celestial Park offers something for everyone—even those seeking tranquility and natural beauty over thrill rides.

Hamptons motels get a luxury makeover

The Barn at Three Ducks in Westhampton Beach; photo by Glen Allsop

Long associated with lavish summer homes and celebrity sightings, the Hamptons is undergoing a new type of luxury makeover, as former roadside inns are replaced with high-end accommodations, reports The New York Times. The Westhampton Seabreeze Motel and Montauk’s Sands Motel—once known for quilted bedspreads and white microwaves—are being redeveloped into upscale destinations. Occupying the former Seabreeze site, the just-opened Three Ducks hotel offers local farm stand breakfasts and beach cruiser bicycles. Offshore Montauk, which will take the place of the Sands Motel, will include a yoga and Pilates studio and a cabana-lined pool. Several private clubs—including restaurants with paid memberships that guarantee a table—are also debuting this summer on the East End. While some residents are concerned about rising prices and a shift in the area’s character, others see the changes as a response to evolving lifestyles and a growing demand for more refined lodging experiences.

Get inspired by HD’s What I’ve Learned podcast

Dr. Jonathan Leary takes a deep dive into his wellness concept, Remedy Place, and the power of social connection on the latest What I’ve Learned episode

Hospitality Design’s What I’ve Learned podcast series highlights the creative forces shaping the industry today. The latest episode features Dr. Jonathan Leary, who shares his pioneering take on self-care at Remedy Place, where wellness is both social and transformative. Previous episodes include Caroline and Sabri Farouki, who reflect on storytelling through design at their New Orleans studio, and architect Suchi Reddy, who discusses the power of empathy and human connection in the spaces we inhabit. Don’t miss these candid conversations—explore the full podcast catalog.

The post Five on Friday: May 30th, 2025 appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Art Basel heads to Doha with its first fair in the Middle East, Vladimir Kanevsky’s Porcelain Garden dazzles at the Frick, and airport layovers get luxe with rooftop bars and outdoor lounges. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Art Basel Qatar to launch in Doha

M7 in Doha; photo courtesy of Art Basel

This week, Art Basel announced the launch of Art Basel Qatar, its first contemporary and modern art fair in the Middle East, set to debut in Doha in February 2026, reports The Art Newspaper. This initiative is a collaboration between Art Basel’s parent company MCH Group, Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), and strategic and creative collective QC+. The event will take place at the M7 creative hub and in downtown Msheireb’s Doha Design District and will feature a curated selection of leading regional artists and galleries. Art Basel Qatar aims to blend Qatar’s vibrant cultural landscape and the MENA region’s dynamic arts to showcase top talent from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and beyond. The initiative builds upon the country’s investment in cultural infrastructure, including the development of world-class museums and creative hubs. Additionally, Art Basel Qatar will offer educational programming, market development strategies, and public arts engagement with the aim of producing a growing network of collectors, galleries, and cultural leaders both regionally and globally.

Airports upgrade traveling with outdoor experiences

Designed by SOM, the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore was envisioned as a terminal in a garden; photo by Studio Recall

Airports are elevating the travel experience by introducing rooftop bars and open-air lounges with the goal of transforming terminals into destinations themselves, writes Bloomberg. This trend caters to modern travelers seeking relaxation and unique experiences during layovers. Post-security outdoor spaces, including observation decks and microbrewery-inspired bars, are becoming popular amenities. These venues provide travelers with the opportunity to unwind, take in panoramic views, and enjoy local food without leaving the airport. By adding these features, airports hope to enhance customer satisfaction and differentiate themselves in a competitive industry by creating more engaging and inviting airport environments.

RELATED: An Ethereal Speakeasy Lands at Portland International Airport

Vladimir Kanevsky’s Porcelain Garden is the hot pick at the Frick

Lilies of the Valley (2024-2025) installed in the Boucher Room of the Frick Collection, New York; photo by Joseph Coscia Jr. and courtesy of the artist

Ukrainian-born sculptor Vladimir Kanevsky’s lifelike porcelain flowers have become a highlight of the Frick Collection’s reopening after its $220 million renovation, according to The Wall Street Journal. His Porcelain Garden installation features more than 30 meticulously crafted floral sculptures, including tulips, lilacs, and black poppies, strategically placed throughout the museum echoing its 1935 debut when fresh blooms adorned the galleries. Kanevsky, a former architect who immigrated to New York in 1989, spent three years creating the pieces. Despite initial reservations about their market appeal, nearly all of them were sold before the public opening. The installation will remain on view at the museum for six months.

Heatherwick Studio and Aurelia Institute unveil Space Garden

Space Garden by Heatherwick Studio and the Aurelia Institute; photo by Nik Eagland

Space Garden, a near-Earth orbit project created by Heatherwick Studio and the Aurelia Institute, reimagines space habitats through the lens of wellbeing and sustainability. On view at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, the concept comes to life through an autonomous greenhouse in orbit, designed to grow plants that support mental health and life on Earth. The approximately 13-by-13-foot model features 30 plant pods, including a hero species—a pomegranate tree—and demonstrates how natural systems can be added into extreme environments. Designed with protective pods and photovoltaic surfaces, the structure promotes energy efficiency and resilience. Space Garden is part of a broader “Offworlding” initiative, exploring how transferring industrial processes to space might help restore Earth’s ecosystems.

Join us in London for HD CitySCENE and BD Match

The Standard, London; courtesy of the Standard

Hospitality Design heads to Europe next month with the launch of a joint HD CitySCENE and BD Match event in London. CitySCENE will take place June 25th at the Standard, London, offering a casual evening of cocktails and networking. BD Match follows on June 26–27th at the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, connecting top European hospitality professionals—designers, architects, purchasers, brand executives, and owners—for curated one-on-one meetings. Both events anticipate dynamic conversations and invaluable connections with emerging talent and seasoned leaders from across the industry. A+D community, register for CitySCENE and be part of the joint event’s exciting debut. Spots are limited.

The post Five on Friday: May 23rd, 2025 appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Disney announces first new park in 15 years, Airbnb bets big on major redesign, and NYCxDesign kicks off with myriad openings, exhibitions, and ICFF. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Disney unveils plans for Middle East theme park

A rendering of Disneyland Abu Dhabi; courtesy of Disneyland Abu Dhabi Disney/Miral

The Walt Disney Company has announced plans for Disneyland Abu Dhabi, its first new theme park in 15 years and its seventh global resort destination, writes CNN. Located on Yas Island (home to Seaworld Yas Island and Yas Waterworld), the resort marks Disney’s entry into the Middle East and will feature one theme park and multiple hotels, with Miral overseeing development and Disney Imagineers leading creative direction. Targeted for the early 2030s, the park will emphasize local culture and cutting-edge technology, including real-time gaming integrations and a unique waterfront castle design. Abu Dhabi’s strategic location and growing leisure infrastructure influenced Disney’s decision, despite past regional theme park struggles. The announcement comes amid strong earnings, with Disney reporting $23.6 billion in revenue and growth across its parks, streaming, and sports segments.

Airbnb’s $200 million reinvention

The updated app interface for both guests and hosts; courtesy of Airbnb

In late 2023, following Sam Altman’s return to OpenAI, Airbnb’s Brian Chesky experienced a burst of inspiration that catalyzed a major reimagining of his company. Alone during Thanksgiving weekend, Chesky drafted a manifesto to expand Airbnb beyond vacation rentals into a comprehensive platform for real-world services, according to a profile of the CEO in Wired. Now being implemented, the $200 million reinvention includes more than 10,000 vetted service vendors across 260 cities and a relaunch of Airbnb Experiences, offering thousands of curated local activities. Chesky envisions Airbnb profiles becoming digital IDs and the platform evolving into a trusted space for everything from hairstyling to tutoring. Design is central to the relaunch, with collaboration from former Apple designer Jony Ive. Enhanced trust, communication tools, and a deeper integration of AI are also key to the transformation. Chesky sees this as a pivotal moment to reshape Airbnb—and his own legacy—as a platform for everyday life, not just travel.

Inside the high stakes restoration of Hagia Sophia

Inside the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Architect Hasan Fırat Diker is leading the restoration of Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, aiming to preserve the nearly 1,500-year-old structure amid rising seismic threats, reports The Guardian. Originally built in 537 AD under the Byzantine Empire, the Hagia Sophia has endured centuries of damage from earthquakes and successive repairs. Once a cathedral, then a mosque, and later a museum, it was reclassified as a mosque in 2020, prompting criticism, including from Unesco, which called the Hagia Sophia “an architectural masterpiece” and to reclassify it undermined “the universal nature of its heritage.” Diker’s team will address structural vulnerabilities, including fragile joints between the central dome and its surrounding semi-domes, the uneven supporting pillars, and subterranean foundations. With Istanbul situated on active fault lines and recent tremors highlighting the building’s fragility, the restoration is deemed urgent. Though the project has no fixed timeline, scaffolding will allow continued public access, with efforts made to protect both visitors and the historic structure throughout.

What to expect from NYCxDesign and ICFF

The Keff Joons installation from the Brooklyn show in April; photo courtesy of Cj Hendry Studio

In case you missed Cj Hendry’s Keff Joons installation in April, the artist is brining a mini version to ICFF next week, May 18-20th at the Javits Center in New York. Inspired by Jeff Koons but pushing into absurdism, the work features a sprawling inflatable labyrinth of oversized balloon forms in vivid colors. At the Brooklyn exhibit, visitors were able to climb through the structureless maze, which distorts perception and scale in a space that feels part bounce house, part Escher drawing. ICFF also coincides with NYCxDesign festival, which started Thursday, May 15th. Curbed shared its guide on everything from can’t-miss showroom openings to gallery exhibits. Highlights include the debut of Shelter, a Chelsea design fair by Afternoon Light; offbeat satellite shows like Forced Perspective in a Greenpoint radio station; Vitra’s Chinatown showroom reopening; and new lighting collections by In Common With.

AAPI leaders on heritage, authenticity, and representation

William Li moderated the Future of AAPI Representation in Hospitality panel at 53, featuring Nok Suntaranon, Saori Kawano, Mark Yu, and Ellen Yin; photo by Curated Saga

In celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a panel at 53 restaurant brought together leading AAPI voices in hospitality for a conversation on identity, authenticity, and representation, writes Hospitality Design’s Stephanie Chen, who attended the panel. Moderated by ELLE Decor’s William Li, with panelists including Mark Yu, Ellen Yin, Saori Kawano, and Nok Suntaranon, the discussion explored how food connects with personal heritage. Authenticity emerged as a key theme, with panelists emphasizing tradition, personal memory, and technique over external expectations. Suntaranon, chef-owner of Philadelphia’s Kalaya, shared how she cooks food rooted in her upbringing, while Yu, executive chef at 53, spoke of honoring legacy dim sum techniques. Yin, founder of High Street Hospitality, discussed how recent events reshaped her understanding of identity, leading to the creation of the Wonton Project to address AAPI discrimination. The conversation closed with reflections on mentorship and the importance of increasing AAPI representation in hospitality.

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Designs for Queen Elizabeth II’s memorial are unveiled, hotels are stepping up their game for sports tourism, and HD Expo + Conference wraps another edition in Las Vegas. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Hotels are catering to sports tourists

SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles; photo by Jeff Lewis

Sports tourism is quickly gaining ground, with its impact extending far beyond marquee events like the Super Bowl and Formula 1, reports Hotel Dive. According to UN Tourism, sports-related travel now accounts for 10 percent of global tourism spending, with projections showing a 17.5 percent growth from 2023 to 2030. Notably, the boom is benefiting more than just major metro areas—regional markets and smaller cities are seeing a steady rise in bookings driven by youth tournaments and family travel, with younger age groups on the move. To meet shifting expectations, brands like My Place Hotels are prioritizing practical amenities like laundry facilities, kitchenettes, and pet-friendly policies. In destination cities and college towns, hotels are leaning into the sports experience with gameday-ready perks—from themed décor and watch parties to stadium totes and exclusive post-game offers.

Architects Ma Yansong and Annabelle Selldorf make TIME100 list

Selldorf Architects designed an addition to the side of the Frick Collection mansion; photo of the Fragonard Room at the Frick Collection by Joseph Coscia Jr.

Architects Ma Yansong and Annabelle Selldorf have been named to TIME magazine’s 2025 TIME100 list, reports Dezeen. Yansong, founder of MAD Architects, is recognized for pushing architectural boundaries—from the sinuous Harbin Opera House and innovative Jiaxing train station in China to the canyon-inspired One River North in Denver and the soon-to-open Fenix Museum in Rotterdam. His mentor, George Lucas, praises Yansong’s ability to create work that “never cease(s) to amaze and inspire,” drawing comparisons to Zaha Hadid’s legacy of architectural transformation. Selldorf, founder of Selldorf Architects, is renowned for her sensitive approach to public spaces, as exemplified by her porcelain-clad Brooklyn skyscrapers and the thoughtful revamp of the Frick gallery in New York. Photographer Annie Leibovitz commended Selldorf’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, crafting environments where “art and life are not separate.”

Queen Elizabeth II Memorial design proposals unveiled

A series of overlapping bridges for the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial proposed by WilkinsonEyre; rendering courtesy of WilkinsonEyre and Malcolm Reading Consultants

Five proposals for the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial near Buckingham Palace have been revealed, offering a glimpse into how design teams envision a lasting tribute to the monarch’s seven-decade reign. Among the shortlist, as reported in Archinect, is Heatherwick Studio’s Bridge of Togetherness, a sculptural walkway adorned with a statue of the Queen beneath eight stylized lilies. Foster + Partners, drawing from John Nash’s historic park plan, presents the Unity Bridge, integrating gardens and art sculptures to foster reflection on the Queen’s role in a diverse United Kingdom. WilkinsonEyre proposes a pair of overlapping bridges, conceived as threads gently woven through St James’s Park, while Tom Stuart-Smith’s design centers on a cast of an oak from Windsor Great Park, symbolizing strength and endurance. Rounding out the selections, J&L Gibbons’ scheme consists of a stone bridge and pathway that honors the Queen as the nation’s bedrock.

How marketing teams are harnessing AI

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Travel researchers and planners are turning to large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Llama for personalized travel itinerary suggestions, reports CoStar. These AI tools allow travelers to input specific preferences, resulting in faster and more tailored recommendations. Experts highlight the importance of optimized digital content to engage LLMs effectively. David Solomito of Sage Hospitality emphasizes the need for detailed, high-quality web copy such as FAQs, which often align with travelers’ searches. “Just a simple tweak like that can be the difference of being one of the recommended hotels or places to stop on an itinerary versus not,” he said in the interview. Additionally, leveraging platforms like Expedia or TripAdvisor with LLM partnerships can ensure a stronger presence in AI-generated search results. 

That’s a wrap on HD Expo + Conference 2025!

Hosted Buyers walk the show floor at HD Expo + Conference; photo courtesy of PWP Studio

What an incredible three days of product innovation, thought-provoking conversations, and dynamic networking at this year’s HD Expo + Conference. Among the standout moments: the unveiling of the 2025 HD Awards project and product winners—selected from more than 1,300 entries—during a special ceremony at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino on May 6th. Additional honors included the Best Booth Award, chosen by a panel of judges who walked the show floor of 600-plus exhibitors for the most eye-catching and creative displays, as well as the IIDA/HD Product Design Award winners. Attendees also gathered at HD Park on the conference floor to hear candid insights from this year’s keynote speakers, who brought fresh perspectives to the future of hospitality design. See more scenes from Las Vegas on Hospitality Design’s Instagram page.

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The Met explores the history of Black dandyism, 3D printing proves its value in architecture, and hotels takes cues from art museums. All that and more this week’s Five on Friday.

The Met’s new exhibition celebrates Black dandyism

From left: Ensemble by Pharrell Williams for Louis Vuitton, “Maya Angelou Passport” ensemble by Foday Dumbuya for LABRUM London, ensemble by Virgil Abloh for Louis Vuitton on display at the Met’s Superfine: Tailoring Black Style press conference; photo courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, BFA.com/Zach Hilty

The first Monday in May has become synonymous with the Met Gala, known for its dazzling celebrity fashions, but it also marks the launch of Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, an exhibition put on by the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute that spans 300 years of Black dandyism. Professor Monica L. Miller of Barnard College, whose book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity inspired the exhibit, which opens on May 10th. Featuring more than 200 pieces, the showcase illustrates how Black dandies have used clothing as a statement of identity and a means of navigating cultural and political moments. “Dandyism is a practice that’s not just about clothing, dress, accessories,” Miller told The New York Times. “It’s often about the strategic use of those things in particular political moments, around particular cultural nodes.” A modern icon who is closely related to dandyism is Dapper Dan, who told HD in 2022 that he uses clothes to adapt to the “different people I like being around. Clothes is my business, so I like to impress [people].”

Hotels are looking more like art museums

With public spaces by Hufft, 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis features O by Serkan Özkaya, an orb filled with distilled water, in the lobby; photo courtesy of 21c Museum Hotels

Art in hotels has undergone a transformation, replacing generic prints and replicas with museum-worthy pieces that define spaces as must-visit destinations, writes Fast Company. This shift aligns with evolving traveler preferences, especially for Millennials and Gen Z, who seek immersive, cultural experiences. Hotels such as Denver’s Art Hotel, which showcases a 22,000-piece LED light installation by Leo Villareal, and the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, with its Damien Hirst-designed Empathy suite, integrate high-caliber art as a distinguishing feature. At the forefront of this evolution is 21c Museum Hotels, which sees itself as a contemporary art museum first and a hotel second, inviting passersby into the property to view the artwork on display. “When you walk into a 21c, you’re walking into a hotel lobby, but you’re also walking into a museum gallery,” says Alice Gray Stites, chief curator for 21c Museum Hotels.

Creative partnerships spark unforgettable guest experiences

The Down the Rabbit Hole interactive carousel installation at the PUBLIC Hotel in New York; photo courtesy of PUBLIC Hotel

Hotels are elevating the hospitality game with creative collaborations and one-of-a-kind experiences that offer guests more than just a place to stay. Take Hotel Anna & Bel in Philadelphia. The property partnered with Anthropologie Home to create the Anna suite, a curated space showcasing Anthropologie’s signature eclectic style. Kimpton Hotel Eventi in New York is tapping into pop culture by partnering with Netflix’s Squid Game: The Experience. Guests can extend their adventure with a themed stay that includes challenge-inspired games and an F&B credit to enjoy the hotel’s dining spots. Visual storytelling comes to life at New York’s PUBLIC Hotel, where Down the Rabbit Hole, an interactive carousel installation by Chicago-based artist Pose, takes cues from the city’s iconic street art scene. Meanwhile, Walker Hotel Tribeca, in collaboration with Marimekko and Blue Bottle Coffee, explores Scandinavian minimalism and global coffee culture through an immersive décor-led themed room.

The subtle art of 3D printing

A rendering of a 3D-printed villa at the Canyon Club in Lake Travis, Texas; rendering courtesy of the Canyon Club

Rather than disrupting architecture outright, 3D printing has quietly integrated into the field, enhancing small-scale designs that provide texture, identity, and complexity, writes Architizer. This reflects broader shifts toward localized materials, circular design, and digital workflows. From tiles responsive to daylight patterns to parametric joints, its value lies in adaptability and finesse. Future innovations will likely build on this success, as architects find even more creative, sustainable uses for the technology. Take the Canyon Club, a resort community in Lake Travis, Texas featuring five 3D-printed houses by ICON with interiors from Kempt Studio that have been crafted for energy efficiency and longterm durability. ICON is also behind Liz Lambert’s second iteration of El Cosmico, where the veteran hotelier, alongside BIG, is building the world’s first 3D-printed hotel in West Texas.

The countdown is on for HD Expo + Conference

Party by the Pool at HD Expo + Conference 2024; photo by PWP Studio

From product debuts from more than 600-plus exhibitors to thought-provoking conference sessions from veterans and emerging talents alike, get ready for an action-packed few days of networking, candid conversations, educational panel discussions, and more when HD Expo + Conference lands in Las Vegas next week, May 6-8th. If you haven’t, register for the trade show today.

We are also bringing our HD Awards celebration back to Vegas for a second year. The 21st annual HD Awards was one of our most competitive yet, with nearly 1,300 submissions across product and project categories. Winners from more than 150 finalists will be revealed on Tuesday, May 6th at the Bellagio in what is surely to be a night to remember. You won’t want to miss it. Buy tickets here.

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Sustainable wood skyscrapers redefine U.S. skylines, Gen Z and millennials are booking more cruises, and Windham Mountain Club aims to become a year-round destination. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Young travelers lean into cruising

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Cruise lines are putting more focus on attracting Gen Z and millennials travelers, who now represent a significant portion of the cruise market. According to USA Today, Royal Caribbean reports that half of its passengers fall within these demographics, which represent the brand’s fastest-growing segment. This shift is driven by the appeal of shorter, more flexible itineraries—such as two- to five-night cruises—which cater to the preferences of younger consumers seeking convenience and variety. Additionally, cruise lines are enhancing onboard experiences with diverse dining options, social media-friendly activities, and entertainment that resonates with a younger audience. “There’s this outdated idea of cruising only appealing to older demographics, but there’s a product within the industry for everyone,” says Michelle Bentubo, chief operating officer at Virgin Voyages.

The rise of mass timber

The BIG-designed Makers’ KUbe, a mass timber learning hub at the KU School of Architecture & Design; rendering courtesy of Bjarke Ingels Group + Kilograph

Mass timber is reshaping America’s skylines, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials. Developers and architects are increasingly opting to use mass timber for its environmental benefits, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal, Metropolis writes. Notably, the T3 series of buildings, developed by Hines and designed by DLR Group, showcase this trend. These projects, located in transit-connected neighborhoods, blend modern wood structures with local history and craftsmanship. The upcoming 32-story Edison building in Milwaukee, meanwhile, aims to become the tallest mass timber structure in the Western Hemisphere, highlighting the growing ambition in timber architecture. As building codes evolve, mass timber is poised to play a significant role in sustainable urban development.

Windham Mountain’s luxe-yet-controversial $70 million revamp

Windham Mountain in New York; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

The former Windham Mountain and Windham Mountain Resort, now Windham Mountain Club, is amidst a major reinvention. Acquired in 2023 by Kemmons Wilson Jr., whose father founded Holiday Inn, and Sandy Beall, founder of the Ruby Tuesday restaurant chain and Tennessee’s Blackberry Farm, the Upstate New York property is undergoing a $70 million capital improvement plan that would position it as a year-round, semiprivate resort with an abundance of luxury amenities. Backlash ensued following the project’s announcement, largely due to the rollout of a $200,000 initiation fee and $9,000 annual dues—a drastically higher price point than its predecessor, reports Bloomberg. Ownership has responded by enhancing its public programming and committing to donate $100,000 annually to the Windham Foundation and other local nonprofits while expansion and enhancements are simultaneously rolled out, including the 5,000-square-foot spa that debuted in December.

Baby boomers boost the hospitality workforce

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

In the UK, a growing number of over-50s, like former prison director Trevor Wilson Smith, are returning to work in hospitality, drawn by flexible hours, social interaction, and the chance to stay active. Wilson Smith, now a concierge at Swinton Park Hotel, exemplifies this trend, working two eight-hour shifts a week, according to Financial Times. The sector, once known for its demanding culture, is evolving to accommodate older workers, offering roles with less physical strain and more variety. Companies like Fuller’s and London Rock Partners are adapting recruitment strategies to attract this demographic, finding older staff boost retention, customer service, and intergenerational team dynamics.

Specifying 101: HD University returns to Las Vegas for its third year

Dionne Jefferson, Marriott, was part of the casegoods module at HD University 2024; Photo by PWP Studio

HD Expo + Conference 2025 is just around the corner! Head to Las Vegas a day early to take part in HD University, an annual pre-conference day designed to help attendees spec smarter. In collaboration with the International Society of Hospitality Purchasers (ISHP), the product bootcamp features five training modules with leading executives representing the entire scope of a project—A&D, brand, ownership, purchasing, and manufacturers—who will delve into the ins and outs of specifying casegoods, fabric, flooring, lighting, and surfaces. Learn more and register now.

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