You searched for furniture | Hospitality Design

Thomas Heatherwick Reimagines Longchamp’s Soho Flagship

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:55:49 +0000

Longchamp has unveiled its reimagined Soho flagship in New York.

The project reunites the French luxury brand with Thomas Heatherwick, founder of London-based design firm Heatherwick Studio, nearly two decades after he first brought the downtown destination to life as La Maison Unique.

Staying close to the roots

Staying true to the space’s original architectural spirit, the refreshed boutique introduces a bold, contemporary identity shaped by the brand’s commitment to creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

At its core is a striking reinterpretation of Heatherwick’s signature staircase—now rendered in Longchamp’s vibrant Energy Green. Cascading like a steel ribbon, the form guides guests upward in a gentle, promenade-like ascent.

“At Heatherwick Studio, every project begins with a question,” says Neil Hubbard, partner and group leader of Heatherwick Studio. “For the Soho boutique, it was simple: how do we encourage people to journey upward from such a narrow entrance? The answer became a kind of architectural landscape—a staircase that feels like a gentle promenade, with sculptural shelving as a reward once you arrive at the top. It’s a concept sparked years ago during our work on La Maison Unique, and it’s thrilling to see how ideas can evolve over time.”

A lived-in experience at Longchamp

The second-floor retail area takes on the warmth of a thoughtfully curated living room that’s layered with tactile details. Swirling green carpets seem to spill from ceiling to floor, exposed brick nods to Soho’s industrial past, and sculptural furnishings including Raphaël Raffel’s vintage 1970s croissant couch are on display. Contemporary artworks—like ceramics and sculptures by David Nash, Tanaka Tomomi, and Dorothée Loriquet—layer the boutique with texture and reflect Longchamp’s material ethos as well.

Throughout, the design invites guests to linger. Playful details, like a glowing neon rider logo and poetic graffiti by artist André, animate the space, while midcentury modern pieces and archival Longchamp objects—such as leather-trimmed game boards and wooden pipes—anchor the store in the maison’s rich heritage.

“Retail moves fast, but architecture should last,” Hubbard adds. “We wanted to create something bold and joyful, yet warm and timeless—an apartment-like space that invites people to stay. From the swirling green rugs under green-carpeted columns to curved furniture that feels custom but lived-in, everything was designed to feel unified and human. Even the red brick walls downstairs, set to host rotating installations, help ground the space in Soho’s industrial roots while creating room for surprise.”

The post Thomas Heatherwick Reimagines Longchamp’s Soho Flagship appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Accor’s Emblems Collection Debuts Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:29:44 +0000

Accor’s Emblems Collection has debuted its first flagship property: the iconic Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa on the English countryside.

Slated to join the brand’s Heritage category later this year, the celebrated estate near Bath will mark the inaugural property for the growing portfolio of singular luxury destinations.

An English countryside experience

Set across 500 acres of manicured lawns, woodlands, and walled gardens, the historic 42-room hotel offers a quintessentially British escape. Nine cottages—ranging from the sprawling four-bedroom Squire’s Cottage to the recently added Apple Tree and Pear Tree two-bedroom retreats—are nestled across the estate, each crafted with residential comfort and charm.

Grand Master Suites feature four-poster beds and sweeping views of the tree-lined driveway, while soft furnishings and log-burning fireplaces define the cozy cottage interiors.

Offerings at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa

Lucknam Park also features standout culinary and wellness offerings. Restaurant Hywel Jones, which celebrated 20 consecutive Michelin stars in 2025, leads a robust dining program alongside the all-day Walled Garden Restaurant.

Meanwhile, the onsite spa comprises an indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool, thermal cabins, a treatment suite, and a skincare mixology bar.

A dedicated family area, known as the Hideaway, and an equestrian center with 12 resident horses round out the multifaceted experience.

The post Accor’s Emblems Collection Debuts Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa appeared first on Hospitality Design.

The July Opens in London With a Colorful, Layered Design

Stephanie Chen — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 13:30:49 +0000

Blurring the lines between residence and retreat, Amsterdam-born apartment-hotel brand the July is making its international debut in London.

Located in the heart of Victoria, the property comprises 114 guestrooms, two residential-style apartments, a wellness area, gym, event space, and dining options (including all-day restaurant the Idler, a bar, and deli).

Drawing on Art Deco heritage

The July London Victoria’s design, conceptualized by the brand’s in-house team and Fettle, pays homage to the area’s Art Deco heritage.

Subtle nods to the 1930s can be found in the building’s rich material palette, which features oak, recycled timber terrazzo, textured glass blocks, and natural marbles. Thoughtful layouts and bespoke furniture add a residential warmth to public spaces and guestrooms alike.

The color palette is inspired by the lush neighboring royal parks, with hues of refined greens complemented by warm timber floors and vibrant accents.

Guestrooms at the July

Accommodations—with spaces to relax, dine, and work—balance functionality and charm.

The bright interiors feature Art Deco-inspired details, vibrant furniture, and bespoke lighting paired with a mixed material palette of oak, recycled timber terrazzo, textured glass blocks, and natural marbles.

The post The July Opens in London With a Colorful, Layered Design appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Method Co. Unveils the Nickel Hotel in Charleston

Stephanie Chen — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 18:19:10 +0000

Method Co. has announced the opening of the Nickel Hotel, a 50-key boutique property on Charleston’s King Street.

The debut marks the company’s second project in the city—following the success of the Pinch—and is a collaboration with New York-based Morris Adjmi Architects; Method’s in-house design team, Method Studios; and real estate investment firm Capital Square.

Located in the city’s vibrant Cannonborough neighborhood, the hotel is a modern nod to Charleston’s rich architectural heritage. Interiors draw inspiration from traditional Southern townhomes, and feature tactile finishes, custom furnishings, and a range of inviting communal spaces—from a tranquil courtyard and library to a guest-only cocktail bar and rooftop lounge Rosemary Rose (the latter will open to the public later this summer).

A standout first impression

The lobby makes a striking first impression with a hand-clipped European marble mosaic sign, checkerboard honed marble floors, and porcelain plaster walls and ceilings. A dramatic antique French tapestry rounds out the atmosphere.

A lush, European-inspired courtyard—framed by three tiers of ornate wrought iron balconies, copper gas lanterns, a wood-burning fireplace, and a two-tiered fountain—serves as the heart of the hotel.

Event spaces and F&B at the Nickel Hotel

Above the courtyard, the Parlour is a sophisticated listening lounge and private event space outfitted with oak herringbone flooring, leather shelving, a curated vinyl collection, and a wraparound balcony.

Other F&B options include Bar Daniel, a guest-only lounge named after Cannonborough’s founder, and Rosemary Rose, a soon-to-open rooftop bar with 360-degree views of Charleston. Taking cues from the French Riviera, the indoor-outdoor space features hacienda-style iron furniture, Moroccan zellige tile, and custom banquettes beneath an arched bar.

Extended stay guestrooms

Designed to accommodate extended stays, guestrooms boast full kitchens and ample lounge and dining space. Each room blends elegance and comfort through details like honed marble countertops and custom oak furniture. Meanwhile, bathrooms are elevated with hand-glazed green porcelain tiles and encaustic-style floors.

Many rooms offer private balconies overlooking King Street or the courtyard, too.

“The Nickel Hotel is located in the Cannonborough neighborhood, which is filled with great restaurants, cool coffee shops, and independent stores,” says Randall Cook, CEO of Method Co. “It’s exciting to be in the center of this area with so many creatives and young people—both locals and visitors alike.”

The post Method Co. Unveils the Nickel Hotel in Charleston appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Historic Venice Post Office Transforms Into a Creative Haven

Stephanie Chen — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:40:38 +0000

Located a block from California’s Venice Beach Boardwalk, the Lighthouse breathes new life into the historic Venice Post Office, originally built in 1939 as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA).

The ground floor offers open workspaces, private offices, meeting rooms, a central café, living rooms, and a theater in a light, open environment meant to encourage interaction.

In contrast, the basement exudes a darker, industrial aesthetic, and houses the property’s production facilities such as podcast studios, a test kitchen, photo and music studios, and an analog studio.

Form meets function at the Lighthouse

Designed by Warkentin Associates, the 22,500-square-foot project combines meticulous historical preservation with contemporary design to create a dynamic two-floor campus tailored to creators.

The architectural style draws on Bauhaus principles, emphasizing functional design through a blend of analog and digital environments. A simple and functional material palette incorporating unadorned metals, wood, glass, and concrete. Pops of color appear through furniture, rugs, and accessories, while private office partitions feature muted green forbo panels.

Standout art pieces include Edward Biberman’s monumental 1941 painting Abbot Kinney and the Story of Venice, which is on display in historic lobby, and a site-specific rubber light installation by Brian Thoreen in the basement level.

The post Historic Venice Post Office Transforms Into a Creative Haven appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Fahid Island Brings Wellness-Focused Living to Abu Dhabi

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 15:13:57 +0000

Development company Aldar has revealed the masterplan for Fahid Island, a new luxury destination in Abu Dhabi that blends wellness, culture, and coastal living.

Positioned between the entertainment hub of Yas Island and the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, the mixed-use development will offer 2.8 miles of unspoiled beachfront on one side and tranquil mangrove forests on the other.

Residences at Fahid Island

Aldar has enlisted a roster of global design talent—including Japanese architects Kengo Kuma and Koichi Takada, London-based ACME, and Dubai-based NAGA Architects—to craft the island’s residential components. More than 6,000 units are planned, from apartments and townhouses to ultra-luxury villas.

The first release, Fahid Beach Residences, will introduce seven mid-rise buildings (housing 65 units each) defined by architecture that emphasizes privacy and refined beachfront living.

A design that centers wellness

Conceived as a sanctuary for wellbeing, more than 30 percent of the island will be dedicated to natural spaces, including green trails, lush gardens, and Berm Park, which will double as a wellness corridor. The landscaped park will feature shaded rest areas, water stations, fitness zones, and three cycling routes that link to Abu Dhabi’s larger cycle loop.

The island’s vibrant social hub will be its waterfront promenade, home to an eclectic mix of art, dining, and retail experiences. A boutique shopping street, Coral Drive, will include concept stores, galleries, cafés, and a ballet school, alongside curated street furniture and public art.

Aldar is also partnering with a leading global institution to introduce a school on Fahid Island.

Sustainability on Fahid Island

Fahid Island is the world’s first Fitwel-certified island and has received LEED Cities and Communities Platinum pre-certification, with a target for Estidama 3-Pearl rating.

Pedestrian-first design is central to the masterplan, with shaded walkways, bridges connecting the island’s two sides, and a mobility strategy aimed at reducing reliance on vehicles.

The post Fahid Island Brings Wellness-Focused Living to Abu Dhabi appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Five on Friday: June 6th, 2025

Caitlin St John — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 17:35:41 +0000

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.

El Royale Brings Cinematic Tex-Mex to Birmingham

Stephanie Chen — Wed, 21 May 2025 13:00:46 +0000

El Royale—a new Tex-Mex restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama—is the debut hospitality venture from Mobley & Partners, a creative trio comprising photographer Miller Mobley, hospitality expert Sol Andrews, and developer Carter Hughes.

Inspired by the richly layered Tex-Mex institutions of midcentury Texas and California, El Royale reinterprets the genre through a romantic, cinematic lens. Crafted by the group’s in-house studio, the interior design marries the charm of a European café with the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age.

“El Royale is not just one thing—it’s dynamic, soulful, and intentionally eclectic,” says Miller Mobley, CEO and creative director of Mobley & Partners.

Behind the design of El Royale

Guests are welcomed into a space where cherry-red leather banquettes and graphic checkered tablecloths nod to the past, while hand-finished millwork by local artisans lends warmth and tactile depth.

Towering palms sprout from tiled planter walls, and dense greenery wraps the dining room in a garden-like embrace. Amber lighting and mirrored accents punctuate the space, layering in intimacy and an understated theatricality.

“The outdoor garden leans into effortless European restraint, with crushed limestone, collected furniture pieces, and a lush variety of plantings,” Mobley adds. “Inside, we aimed to transport: Neo-Gothic, Dutch, and French influences mingle with romantic lighting and storied finishes. To channel a sense of revelry, we introduced red neon accents that wash the bar in a warm, cinematic glow. El Royale invites you to linger a little longer.”

The post El Royale Brings Cinematic Tex-Mex to Birmingham appeared first on Hospitality Design.

Hotel Bellevue Cortina d’Ampezzo Channels Alpine Elegance

Stephanie Chen — Tue, 20 May 2025 12:30:19 +0000

Set to debut in late 2026 as part of Accor’s Emblems Collection, Hotel Bellevue Cortina d’Ampezzo will offer a refined take on luxury in the Italian Dolomites.

Alpine-inspired design at Hotel Bellevue Cortina d’Ampezzo

Envisioned by Tihany Design, the hotel’s interiors draw from the drama of Cortina’s mountain landscape and the convivial spirit of après-ski culture.

Nods to the town’s time as host of the 1956 Winter Olympics are woven throughout, with sculptural lighting, tailored upholstery, and elegant materials referencing the sophistication of midcentury Italian design.

A palette of earthy neutrals, mineral tones, and rich woods reflects the ever-changing hues of the surrounding peaks, while locally sourced Bianco Antico stone, warm oak, and handcrafted textiles add tactile richness. Custom furnishings echo the contours of the Dolomites to reinforce the property’s sense of place.

“We wanted to create an interior that feels both deeply rooted in place and elevated in experience—a design that evokes nostalgia for Cortina’s golden age while embracing modern luxury,” says Alessia Genova, principal at Tihany Design, who is originally from Italy. “By working with local artisans and materials native to the region, we sought to craft a space that reflects the textures, warmth, and spirit of the Dolomites.”

The post Hotel Bellevue Cortina d’Ampezzo Channels Alpine Elegance appeared first on Hospitality Design.

An Ethereal Speakeasy Lands at Portland International Airport

Stephanie Chen — Mon, 19 May 2025 16:55:23 +0000

As part of the reimagined Portland International Airport (PDX), speakeasy-style lounge Aurora has debuted to elevate the travel experience with a sense of wonder and retreat.

Designed by local firm ELK Collective and operated by ChefStable Group, the “space not only feels sophisticated and ethereal, but also challenges traditional design expectations,” notes Kelly OG, founder of ELK Collective. “The experience is an homage to femininity—soft yet powerful, refined yet daring—perfectly aligning with Portland’s creative and forward-thinking spirit.”

A celestial hideaway at Aurora

Tucked behind an unmarked entrance, Aurora preserves its mystique through a clever entry ritual: guests must first interact with the Loyal Legion bar staff to receive an access code.

Once inside, a celestial narrative unfolds. Silver-leafed ceilings reflect ambient light throughout the space, while a sinuous bar, crafted from white concrete and textured tiling, anchors the room.

A striking liquor display, framed in dichroic glass and mirrored tile, creates a dynamic play of color and reflection that shifts as guests move through the lounge.

Views of the tarmac from the Solarium

For those seeking added privacy, the Solarium offers a more intimate escape. Enclosed by a glass block wall, the sun-soaked space features a sculptural serpentine banquette and views of the runway.

“Our vision was to develop a unique space that serves as an accessible alternative to the exclusive executive lounges at the airport, offering a welcoming environment for all travelers who are curious enough to discover it,” says Kurt Huffman of ChefStable Group. “Aurora offers a moment of pause—a place to connect, sip something special, and feel inspired by the space around you.”

The post An Ethereal Speakeasy Lands at Portland International Airport appeared first on Hospitality Design.