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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Cruise lines contend with new fees on carbon emissions, Coachella transforms the desert with immersive art installations, and all-inclusive resorts embrace off-property adventures. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Is it the meal or the mood?

Photo courtesy of Pexels

At PapaSan in Manhattan, the vibe hits before the food does—think neon-orange signage, branded merch, and a pink spiral staircase. Across the U.S., restaurants are embracing hyper-stylized branding and immersive interiors: flying saucers and alien mascots at Chicago’s Sharpies or a $200,000 investment in music, lighting, and menu design at Midtown’s Golden Hof and NY Kimchi, reports The New York Times. Aesthetics have become central to the dining experience, sometimes more important than the food itself. Thanks to tools like Canva and a design-savvy audience, even small restaurants are prioritizing aesthetics, treating visual identity as essential to both brand and bottom line.

Cruise lines face carbon fees under new regulations

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Cruise lines will pay for carbon emissions under a new global framework from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), reports Skift. Taking effect by 2028, the rules apply to ships more than 5,000 tonnes, including cruise vessels, and could cost operators up to $380 per ton of CO₂ unless they reduce emissions. By 2035, ships must slash emissions by 43 percent or face penalties. The $10 billion in projected annual revenue will support the development of cleaner fuels. While the U.S. withdrew from negotiations, countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia backed a compromise. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), representing major cruise brands, said it’s reviewing the rules, stressing the importance of avoiding double taxation and calling for greater support in scaling zero-emissions fuels.

Coachella’s art scene is surreal and kinetic

Uchronia’s Le Grand Bouquet installation at Coachella 2025, consisting large inflatable flowers; photo by Lance Gerber, courtesy Coachella

As Coachella’s second weekend kicks off, large-scale art installations once again share the spotlight with the music, transforming the Southern California desert landscape into a gallery of immersive experiences. Curated by Public Art Company (PAC) in collaboration with Goldenvoice’s Paul Clemente, the works embrace movement, illusion, and the ephemeral, writes Designboom. Highlights include Taffy by Stephanie Lin, series of towering mesh-wrapped cylinders that double as shaded seating; Take Flight, an installation of wind-powered turbines inspired by 19th-century flying machines by London’s Isabel + Helen Studio; and Uchronia’s Le Grand Bouquet, a larger-than-life burst of candy-colored inflatable blooms.

All-inclusives are going beyond the buffet

Paddleboarding in a mangrove; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Today’s all-inclusive resorts are catering to travelers who want more than just unlimited meals and cocktails. As the BBC reports, properties like Nay Palad Hideaway in the Philippines builds activities like surfing and mangrove paddleboarding into its nightly rates. Sandals Royal Curaçao’s Island Inclusive program lets select guests dine at local restaurants with a $250 dining credit and included transfers—soon to expand brand-wide. Ikos Resorts has initiatives that allows guests to rent a car to explore destinations like the Costa del Sol and includes free entry to sites like the Akrani winery on Kos, while Paradisus by Meliá packages premium stays with guided hikes and museum trips.

Addressing tariffs and more at HD Expo + Conference

The Social Hub at HD Expo + Conference, designed by Flick Mars; rendering by Vision Republic

With shifting tariff policies impacting everything from materials to sourcing, industry leaders are gearing up to address these challenges at HD Expo + Conference 2025, taking place May 6-8th at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Among more than 30 conference sessions, panels like Industry Outlook: What Factors Will Impact Hospitality, What Owners Want: Real Talk with Clients, and Meet the Purchasers: Bridging the Gap Between Vision and Execution will dive into how global policies affect design decisions. The show will also feature 600-plus exhibitors (including 130 first-timers), four designed spaces, and networking events that inform and inspire. See the full conference schedule and register today!

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Salone del Mobile and Milan Design Week dazzle with standout collaborations and design debuts, Trump’s tariffs cause tumult in the travel and hotel industries, and the HD Awards to celebrate three at upcoming ceremony in Las Vegas. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Highlights from Milan Design Week 2025

Designer Tara Bernerd and Frette collaborated on Disrupting Architecture, a new textile collection that debuted at Salone del Mobile; photo courtesy of Frette by Tara Bernerd

This week, Milan Design Week 2025 and the 63rd edition of Salone del Mobile have impressed with captivating installations and product launches. Highlights include designer Stephen Burks’ travel-inspired wallpapers for Calico, Tara Bernerd’s vibrant textiles and furniture for Frette and Medea 1905, and Philippe Malouin’s cozy Great Sofa for Hem, writes Galerie magazine. Additionally, Flos introduced the modular SuperWire lighting by Formafantasma, while Studio KO’s Moroccan-style rugs for Beni Rugs celebrated traditional craftsmanship. Another notable installation, Casa Cork by David Rockwell, honored cork’s sustainable potential. The event also attracted major fashion houses. Loewe showcased artistic teapots celebrating tea rituals, Prada Frames explored the concept of transit, and Louis Vuitton launched its first home collection, reports Elle. La DoubleJ’s 10th anniversary, meanwhile, brought tarot and sound healing into its new HQ, while Gucci spotlighted its iconic bamboo heritage. Plus, check out HD editor in chief Stacy Shoemaker Rauen’s recap on TikTok. 

The industry braces for Trump’s tariffs

Courtesy of Adobe Stock

The fluctuating tariff policies under the Trump administration will have a significant impact on the travel and hotel industry. A recent 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs has temporarily stabilized the market, but uncertainty persists. The hospitality sector, specifically, faces hurtles as hotels are threatened with higher operating costs, labor shortages, and a slowdown in renovations and new construction as costs rise, writes The New York Times. Meanwhile, Michelle Russo—founder and CEO of asset management company HotelAVE, which oversees a $12 billion portfolio of hotels—told Skift she has seen a slowdown in bookings and delays in business travel approvals due to reduced travel confidence. Russo predicts a potential 5 percent drop in revenue per available room (RevPAR) this year and advises cost-cutting measures like limiting key card distribution, efficient overtime management, and adjusting F&B prices in response to tariff-induced import cost increases. “That’s not me giving a forecast to the industry, and hopefully, things won’t be that bad,” she says, “but I want cost containment plans that assume that scenario.”

Are nightclub closures a recession indicator?

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

A wave of nightclub closures are hitting Brooklyn neighborhoods like Bushwick and Williamsburg, as venues face mounting challenges including rising rents, skyrocketing insurance premiums, and shifting consumer habits, reports The New York Times. Paragon, a popular dance club in Bushwick, is among those shutting down despite steady crowds. Freehold, a hybrid café and nightclub in Williamsburg, saw its rent triple after a landlord arbitration ruling. Commercial insurance costs have also become a financial burden for venues like TBA Brooklyn, where premiums increased fivefold over 12 years. Compounding these issues is a generational shift in alcohol consumption, with young people drinking less than in previous years. While some clubs, like Gabriela in Williamsburg, found limited success through quality programming, the rising costs across the board make the future of the New York nightlife scene uncertain.

A new mosque for women redefines spiritual space

 

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Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R) and led by Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui, a scholar of Islamic Studies at Georgetown University, the LEED Gold-certified Al-Mujadilah in Doha marks the world’s first contemporary mosque for women. Serving as both a spiritual sanctuary and an intellectual hub, it hosts programs like daily prayers, educational workshops, and the Jadal summit, which focuses on the role of Muslim women in public life. The mosque’s design symbolizes openness and connection to nature. A large perforated roof diffuses natural light into the space, while two olive trees pierce through the roof, embodying peace and continuity. The mosque’s prayer hall features a reimagined Turkish carpet and accommodates up to 750 worshippers, extendable to 1,300 during Ramadan. “As a woman, the project was a special opportunity for me to design a space exclusively for women that is flexible and responsive to real-time, everyday needs,” Elizabeth Diller, partner at DS+R told Designboom.

HD Awards to celebrate three individuals during live ceremony

Karie and Julian Brittano, recipients of the HDAC Awards of Excellence; photo courtesy of the Brittanos

Hospitality Design announced two significant industry honors this week. The Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) presented its fifth annual Awards of Excellence to Julian and Karie Brittano. The dynamic husband-and-wife duo began their entrepreneurial journey in 2018 with the launch of the Brittano Group, a development venture based in High Point, North Carolina. They “exemplify a forward-thinking strategy that leverages hospitality projects as catalysts for positive change,” says HDAC member Archit Sawhney.

The HD/West Elm Student Product Design Competition announced Calvin Ma of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona as the winner of the seventh annual contest for his design of the midcentury-inspired Martin dining chair.

All three will be celebrated during the 21st annual HD Awards ceremony on May 6th at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, held in conjunction with HD Expo + Conference. Purchase tickets today!

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Trump rolls out risky new tariffs, Osaka readies for its second World Expo, and the man behind One World Trade Center dies. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

A preview of what’s in store at Expo 2025 Osaka

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Designboom takes an in-depth look at what’s to come at Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan. Kicking off April 13th, the World’s Fair will run for six months on the artificial island of Yumeshima, located southwest of Maishima island. The centerpiece of the exposition will be Sou Fujimoto’s monumental ring, which will become the world’s largest timber structure upon completion. Drawing from the architecture of ancient Japanese temples, the nearly 646,000-square-foot masterplan will house four event facilities tailored to diverse functions and feature an elevated observatory deck overlooking the site and Osaka Bay. Expo 2025 Osaka will also showcase a haystack-like dome from Hungary, an ocean-themed pavilion designed by Kengo Kuma for Portugal, and more.

Skyline-shaping architect David Childs dies

The 94-story One World Trade Center rises above Manhattan’s skyline; photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

American architect David Childs passed away last week on March 26th at age 83, Dezeen reports. After earning a master’s degree in architecture at Yale University, Childs was hired by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1971 to open its Washington, DC office. He went on to serve as SOM’s chairman from 1991 to 1993 and again from 1998 to 2000. (Childs is the only firm partner to ever hold the chairman title twice.) He then remained a consulting partner until his retirement in 2022. Among Child’s notable designs is One World Trade Center, the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere at 1,792 feet, built on the site of the World Trade Center complex after the 9/11 attacks. “We explored the infrastructural challenges because the proper solution would have to be compelling, not just beautiful,” Childs said of One WTC’s design. “The design does have great sculptural implications, and we fully understand the iconic importance of the tower, but it also has to be a highly efficient building. The discourse about Freedom Tower has often been limited to the symbolic, formal, and aesthetic aspects but we recognize that if this building doesn’t function well, if people don’t want to work and visit there, then we will have failed as architects.”

How Trump’s tariffs could impact the travel industry

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

President Trump’s recent tariff proposals—including a baseline of 10 percent import tax for trading partners and 25 percent on cars—could indirectly impact the U.S. travel industry. While tariffs don’t directly affect airfares or hotel prices, they could raise construction and equipment costs for the hotel sector and disrupt supply chains for airlines, Skift reports. Higher travel costs and political tensions may make the U.S. a less appealing destination, especially for international visitors. Additionally, the tariffs could slow hotel development and affect cross-border travel, as evidenced by a drop in Canadian tourists to the States. These developments add uncertainty to an already volatile market. “There’s lots of unintended consequences built in around what Trump is doing,” says Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary. “We honestly don’t know if it will be net-positive or net-negative—we’ll just have to wait and see.”

Wes Anderson retrospective visits Paris and London

Wes Anderson; copyright Searchlight Pictures/photo by Charlie Gray, courtesy of the Design Museum

Wes Anderson’s meticulous attention to detail and dedication to crafting immersive worlds is showcased in a new retrospective at Paris’ Cinémathèque Française, which will run through July before transferring to the Design Museum in London this fall. According to The New York Times, the exhibit, which features more than 500 iconic props from his films, emphasizes Anderson’s creative process—from his early days of safeguarding props to his deep involvement in every aspect of production. Notable items like the pink hotel model from The Grand Budapest Hotel and the handmade puppets in Isle of Dogs highlight his passion for design. The retrospective reveals how Anderson’s hands-on approach has shaped his distinctive visual style, influencing both film and popular culture.

150-plus leaders to speak at HD Expo in May

All CEU-accredited conference sessions will be hosted in the HD Park, designed by California-based firm EDG; rendering courtesy of EDG

HD Expo + Conference 2025 is less than five weeks away. The tradeshow, taking place May 6-8th at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, will offer 30-plus conference sessions featuring more than 150 distinguished leaders and rising stars from across the hospitality industry. (All CEU-accredited sessions will be hosted in the HD Park, designed by California firm EDG.) The robust speaker lineup includes Nadia Biski, Equinox; Nicole Dalton, Gensler; Gray Davis, Meyer Davis; Joe Faust, Dakota Development; Nicole Fournier, MGM Resorts; Matthew Goodrich, Goodrich; Helen Jorgensen, Host Hotels & Resorts; Greg Keffer, Rockwell Group; Danielle Khoo, Marriott; Leigh Salem, Post Company; Barry Sullivan, Hilton; Ron Swidler, the Gettys Group; and more. See the full conference schedule and register today!

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The Frick Collection in New York is reopening, countries issue advisories for travelers to the U.S., and a look into Severance’s unsettling, retro-futuristic architecture. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

The Frick Collection’s $220 million transformation

The Fragonard Room at the Frick Collection; photo by Joseph Coscia Jr.

After a five-year, $220 million renovation led by Selldorf Architects, Design Architects, and Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners, New York City’s Frick Collection will officially reopen on April 17th. Despite initial backlash from preservationists concerned that any intervention would disrupt the museum’s historic charm, the renovation ultimately honors the original 1914 home of Henry Clay Frick while enhancing the visitor experience, Bloomberg reports. While areas like the garden and West Gallery have been carefully preserved, new additions include a two-story overbuild and a 218-set auditorium. The project includes approximately 27,000 square feet of new construction and 60,000 square feet of repurposed space, nearly doubling the display area of the museum’s permanent collection. Notably, the second floor—once the Frick family’s private quarters—is now open to the public.

The role of architecture in the future of solar farms

An agrivoltaic system built over apple trees on the Bernhard fruit farm in Kressbronn, Germany; photo courtesy of Fraunhofer ISE

Agrivoltaics—the integration of solar panels into agricultural lands—is gaining traction as a dual-purpose solution to land competition and the rising demand for renewable energy. However, many current implementations lack architectural refinement, often appearing as purely functional, visually unappealing additions rather than fully integrated, multipurpose structures, writes Samantha Frew in Architzer. In Heggelbach, Germany, for example, solar panels are elevated above the fields to allow for farming below, yet such designs may not fully optimize spatial and material efficiencies. Architects have the opportunity to reimagine these setups, transforming panels into more than just energy producers. By incorporating features such as windbreaks, dynamic shading, and gathering spaces, agrivoltaic structures can help create “a new rural vernacular that is a mix of precision-engineered photovoltaics and low-tech, site-specific strategies that work with the land instead of against it,” says Frew.

Countries issue advisories for travelers to the U.S.

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Several European countries—including Germany, Denmark, and the UK—and Canada have issued travel advisories for their citizens planning to visit the U.S., according to NPR. These advisories cite concerns over strict immigration enforcement, with reports of travelers being detained or deported despite holding valid visas or travel authorizations. Some warnings also note that the State Department has suspended its policy allowing transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people to update the sex marker on their passports. These developments have raised concerns within the U.S. tourism industry, as visitors may reconsider their plans—potentially leading to an economic impact that the Daily Express reports could reach $64 billion this year.

Inside Severance’s dystopian design

Severance’s Lumon Industries leans on midcentury modernist architecture to create an eerie world; photo courtesy of Apple TV+

The Apple TV+ series Severance masterfully uses architectural design to create a world that is both familiar and unsettling. Filmed primarily at the Bell Works in New Jersey, a 1962 building designed by Eero Saarinen, the show’s setting embraces midcentury modernist architecture with a dystopian twist. Symmetrical layouts, minimalist furniture, and retro-futuristic technology are transformed into elements of cold uniformity, mirroring the show’s themes of control and detachment, Designboom reports. Color and materiality at Lumon Industries serve as a crucial storytelling devices: soft green carpeting contrasts against stark white corridors—while green is often associated with calm, at Lumon, it amplifies the eerie stillness of the space. Linoleum hallways that stretch beneath fluorescent lights evoke a sterile, institutional setting reminiscent of government facilities, while the absence of natural light on the Severed Floor makes space and time feel like an endless loop. (Even outside the Lumon office, the set design throughout Severance calls to its larger themes, including in the Todd Merrill Studio-designed home of Jame Eagan.)

Read the latest issue of Hospitality Design

Aimasia Villa, a six-room retreat in Mykonos with interiors by Tom Dixon, pictured on HD’s February/March cover; photo by Mike Kelley

The February/March issue of Hospitality Design takes an in-depth look at global hotel development—with a closer look at seven standout destinations, from Mexico and Dubai to Budapest and Bodrum. Additionally, the latest edition offers a sneak peek at what to expect at HD Expo + Conference this year, including product debuts, conference session highlights, and new places to discover in Las Vegas, where the tradeshow will take place May 6-8th. Plus, we take a look at a handful of new airports that are focusing on hospitality, sustainability, and immersive experiences. Read the issue now.

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Parisian brand Printemps opens in New York, Lisa Vanderpump takes on hotels, and a new survey by the AIA highlights AI skepticism. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Printemps makes its U.S. debut

The Sneaker Room at Printemps in New York; photo by Gieves Anderson for Printemps New York

Printemps, the historic Parisian department store, has made its debut in the U.S. with a new store located on the ground floor of a residential skyscraper at One Wall Street in New York. This launch reflects the transformation of the city’s Financial District from a business hub to a dynamic neighborhood filled with high-end residential offerings, restaurants, and diverse industries, writes Fast Company. Unlike its sprawling Paris flagship, the New York store offers a more intimate experience. “We thought, what if Printemps had a pied-à-terre in New York,” says Laura Lendrum, CEO of Printemps America. “So we kind of took that idea literally and designed the store around the concept of an apartment.” To that end, French designer Laura Gonzalez created various rooms much like you would find in a home, including a walk-in closet for shoes and a bathroom-inspired beauty area with green-tiled walls. The home-like feel is deliberate, Lendrum continues, as consumers want an experience that goes beyond the transactional. Printemps also emphasizes community engagement with flexible spaces for pop-ups and events, alongside dining options created by James Beard award-winning chef Gregory Gourdet.

Get to know four architects redefining public libraries

The Arabian Library in Scottsdale; photo by Bill Timmerman

Toyo Ito’s Sendai Mediatheque, with its iconic tubular structural columns and futuristic design, served as a landmark for a new era of library architecture. Libraries have since transformed into multipurpose community hubs with captivating designs central to drawing visitors in our digital age. Cultured magazine writer Karen Wong talked to four architects about how they are creating libraries that combine aesthetics with functionality. Take Seattle Central Library, designed by OMA’s Rem Koolhaas and Joshua Ramus, which features a diamond steel-and-glass façade and a book spiral holding 800,000 volumes. Scottsdale’s Arabian Library by Richärd Kennedy Architects contrasts its corten steel exterior—modeled after nearby slot canyons—with a retail-inspired interior designed for easy access, even offering a drive-through window for book pickup. WORKac’s North Boulder Library in Colorado integrates colorful zoning, interactive public art, and whimsical elements like a tubular slide. Lastly, the Eastham Public Library by Oudens Ello Architecture blends historical and modern elements with warm, inviting interiors surrounded by nature, creating a tranquil retreat for its Massachusetts community.

Lisa Vanderpump takes on hotels

Lisa Vanderpump with her dogs; photos by Patrick Gray of Kabik Photo Group and courtesy Caesars Entertainment

TV personality and entrepreneur Lisa Vanderpump is expanding her hospitality empire by partnering with Caesars Entertainment to transform the Cromwell hotel on the Las Vegas Strip into the Vanderpump Hotel. This marks Vanderpump’s first hotel venture, building upon her successful restaurants and venues such as Vanderpump Cocktail Garden, Vanderpump à Paris, and WOLF by Vanderpump. Renovations are slated to begin this summer, with the reimagined hotel expected to launch in early 2026. The Vanderpump Hotel will feature Vanderpump’s distinctive style, blending luxury and whimsy across the 188-room property. “I am thrilled to once again be partnering with Caesars Entertainment, this time to venture into the hotel business,” says Vanderpump. “What an extraordinary opportunity to develop this iconic location into something unique, playful, and upscale. Hospitality has always been our passion, and our mission is to create something sumptuous with a unique atmosphere.” Hopefully, for Vanderpump Rules fans, Bravo execs are paying attention.

AIA study highlights skepticism about AI

Lake Bled Estate in Slovenia; renderings courtesy of Studio Tim Fu

A recent study by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) highlights the limited use of artificial intelligence (AI) in architectural practices across the U.S., reports Dezeen. While over half of individual architects surveyed (53.1 percent) have experimented with AI, only 6 percent of professionals report regular usage in their workflows. Larger firms account for the majority of studios integrating AI into their processes, yet concerns about the technology are widespread. Architects cited issues such as inaccuracy, unintended consequences, and privacy risks as primary worries, with nearly 90 percent of respondents expressing apprehension about AI adoption. However, as the industry evolves, understanding AI’s capabilities and limitations will remain pivotal in navigating this fast-changing landscape. Consider Studio Tim Fu’s Lake Bled Estate in Slovenia, which showcases AI’s role in architecture and design.

Join the Icons and Innovators at HD Expo + Conference

AvroKO founders William Harris, Greg Bradshaw, Kristina O’Neal, and Adam Farmerie; photos by Jade and David

With a focus on fostering creativity and collaboration, the keynote speakers at this year’s HD Expo + Conference aim to inspire professionals at all levels. Dubbed the Icons and Innovators series, the exceptional lineup of speakers includes: Todd Avery-Lenahan, the creative force behind Wynn Design and Development, who will share how his team merges innovation with craftsmanship to create iconic spaces; the founding partners of AvroKO, who will come together for a rare discussion, reflecting on nearly 25 years of collaborative success in cultivating a global design powerhouse; Firmdale Hotels founder and visionary designer Kit Kemp will talk about fusing traditional elements with her signature use of patterns, art, and color; and Sam Nazarian, the trailblazing entrepreneur behind global lifestyle company sbe, will offer an exclusive look into the future of hospitality and travel. You won’t want to miss it. Register for HD Expo + Conference today!

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Visionary architect Ricardo Scofidio passes away at 89, social media reshapes architectural photography, and an immersive art experience takes root in Thailand’s Khao Yai Forest. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Remembering architect Ricardo Scofidio

The Bloomberg Building at Hudson Yards, which houses the Shed arts center, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Rockwell Group; photo by Anne Czichos, courtesy of Adobe Stock

Ricardo Scofidio, the visionary architect and cofounder of Diller Scofidio + Renfro, passed away last week at the age of 89, The New York Times reports. A pioneer in merging architecture with art and performance, Scofidio helped redefine urban spaces with projects like New York’s High Line, the Shed, and the transformation of Lincoln Center. Founded in 1979 with Elizabeth Diller, his wife of more than three decades, the firm grew from an East Village studio into a global force, shaping destinations from London’s Victoria & Albert Museum branch to an ambitious “company town” in Guangdong, China, and the 32-acre Zaryadye Park in Moscow—which features a striking, cantilevered promontory over the Moskva River. Scofidio challenged architectural conventions, leaving an indelible mark on the built environment and its relationship with culture and community.

Escape into art at Thailand’s Khao Yai Forest

Louise Bourgeois’ Maman (1999) installed at Khao Yai Art Forest in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, 2024. ©The Easton Foundation/VAGA at ARS, NY; photo by Krittawat Atthsis and Puttisin Choojesroom

A new creative retreat is taking shape in Thailand’s Khao Yai forest, offering an immersive experience through art and nature. The 161-acre site, the brainchild of philanthropist and art patron Marisa Chearavanont, features open-air installations that are embedded directly into the landscape, according to. Artnet. Highlights include Maman, Louise Bourgeois’ towering spider sculpture nestled on the edges of dense woodland, and Fog Forest by Japanese artist Fujiko Nakaya, which blankets rolling green hills in an ethereal mist. Chearavanont has been a driving force in Thailand’s art scene, which will welcome two new museums in Bangkok this year.

The Instagram effect on architectural photography

The 42-story Xadia Hotel in New York; rendering courtesy of Marin Architects

Social media is reshaping architectural photography, with vertical framing increasingly influencing how spaces are captured. As platforms like Instagram and TikTok favor portrait-oriented images and videos, Architizer’s Kalina Prelikj poses food for thought: “If the way we capture architecture is shifting, could that eventually influence the way we design it?” While architects have long considered online engagement—crafting spaces with Instagrammable moments in mind—could verticality become a driving factor? “This isn’t just a question for architects; it’s a question for how architecture is valued,” writes Prelikj. “If what gets seen gets remembered and what gets remembered gets prioritized, then how architecture is photographed matters more than ever.” 

Staffing remains hospitality’s biggest challenge

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

Staffing remains hospitality’s biggest challenge, according to a new study from Expert Market reported on by Hotel Business. Surveying more than 400 U.S. accommodation businesses, the study found that nearly half (48 percent) cited staffing shortages as their biggest operational risk over the next year, followed by rising labor costs (34 percent) and increasing maintenance expenses (27 percent). Housekeeping roles remain the hardest to fill, with 38 percent of businesses struggling to hire cleaning staff, followed by desk clerks (14 percent) and maintenance/janitorial staff (13 percent). To address the issue, operators are turning to higher wages, expanded training, and retention incentives—while others are embracing automation and self-service technology to bridge the gap.

Time is running out! HDAC Awards of Excellence nominations close next week

HDAC board members with Groom Guy cofounders Matthew Sears and Darius Davie (center) at the 21st annual HD Awards ceremony; photo by PWP Studio

The deadline for Hospitality Diversity Action Council’s (HDAC) fifth annual Awards of Excellence program has been extended to Friday, March 21st. The program honors individuals and companies across the hospitality industry—from ownership and management to design, branding, and vendors—who are driving progress through the promotion of diversity, inclusion, and equity. Selected by a jury of current HDAC board members, the winner will be recognized at the 21st annual HD Awards on May 6th at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino during HD Expo + Conference. Don’t miss the chance to highlight industry changemakers—submit your nomination today! 

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How Trump’s tariffs could impact travel, hotels are going above and beyond for pets, and Gelephu International Airport celebrates Bhutanese culture. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Hotels extend the luxury experience to pets

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

As demand for pet-friendly travel options grows, luxury hotels are rolling out the red carpet for four-legged guests, reports The New York Times. From custom bedding and gourmet meals to dog-sitting services and wilderness hikes, properties like the NH Collection New York Madison Avenue and Pan Pacific London cater to pets’ needs, offering unique activities including guided hikes at Mountain View Grand Resort in New Hampshire or custom-made robes and luxury packages at Manhattan’s iconic Plaza Hotel. With travel statistics showing more pet owners hitting the road, the hospitality industry is increasingly prioritizing tailored, upscale experiences for both guests and their canine companions.

BIG crafts Bhutan’s airport with locally, sustainably sourced timber

Rendering courtesy of BIG

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has revealed its design for the Gelephu International Airport in Bhutan. Part of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) masterplan, the airport will span nearly 732,000 square feet and handle 123 daily flights. Bhutan’s second international airport, set against a backdrop of the Himalayas, will feature a modular diagrid structure made of locally sourced glulam timber adorned with painted carvings. “We wanted to create an experience that feels deeply Bhutanese—calm, welcoming, and connected to nature,” says BIG partner Frederik Lyng. “The design not only honors Bhutan’s rich culture but also sets a new standard for mindful, adaptable architecture that will grow with the country’s future while being rooted in its past.” Gelephu International Airport is set to open in 2029.

Should fine-dining restaurants be child-free?

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

The debate over children in fine dining establishments is intensifying, with opinions divided among restaurateurs and patrons, writes Bon Appétit. Some chefs, like Michael Muser of Chicago’s two-Michelin-starred Ever, actively welcome families, offering amenities such as private spaces and engaging activities to ensure a memorable experience for both children and adults. In contrast, others like Dave Beran of Seline in Santa Monica, maintain an adult-centric ambiance, subtly discouraging young children by not providing high chairs or stroller access. This divergence highlights the industry’s evolving approach to balancing upscale dining experiences with family inclusivity.

How Trump’s tariffs could affect travelers

Photo courtesy of Chris Allan/Adobe Stock

President Trump’s recent tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China could have longterm effects on the travel industry. While business travel is expected to experience an immediate decline, the tariffs could also lead to fewer group trips and conventions, which would impact hotel bookings and flight demand, according to USA Today. Although airfares and hotel prices won’t see immediate changes, increased costs from tariffs on aircraft parts may eventually drive prices up. The U.S. dollar’s strength could benefit American travelers, but international visitors may find U.S. travel even more expensive. Additionally, the tariffs could create a psychological divide, making some American tourists feel less welcome abroad.

Inspiration unlocked: Join us at HD Expo 2025 in Las Vegas

AvroKO partners William Harris, Greg Bradshaw, Kristina O’Neal, and Adam Farmerie are among the keynote speakers coming to HD Expo 2025; photo by Jade and David

HD Expo + Conference is less than nine weeks away! Taking place May 6-8th at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, the tradeshow will kick off with the third annual HD University, a pre-conference day dedicated to product specification, followed by three days of product exploration, education, and networking. Don’t miss engaging keynote sessions, including Tuesday’s talk with the AvroKO partners, hosted at the EDG-designed HD Park. Plus, preview the many new product debuts that will be showcased on the show floor. Register for #HDExpo2025 today!

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The Hyatt family grows with a new upper-midscale brand, resorts celebrate their imperfections, and fatal air accidents are on the rise. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.

Hyatt adds a new upper-midscale hotel brand

Hyatt Select rendering; courtesy of Hyatt

On the heels of its acquisition of all-inclusive owner and operator Playa Hotels & Resorts, the Hyatt family of brands is growing, writes The Points Guy. Hyatt has announced Hyatt Select, a new upper-midscale, select-service brand launching in the Americas. Designed for short-term travelers, Hyatt Select will offer complimentary breakfast, a 24-hour market, and efficient, comfortable guestrooms with workspaces and high-speed internet. It will join Hyatt’s Essentials portfolio, alongside Caption by Hyatt, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, and the newly launched Hyatt Studios, which caters to extended-stay travelers. Hyatt Select is also positioned as an owner-friendly brand that’s cost-efficient and flexible—a boon for developers looking to build a new hotel from the ground up or convert an existing property. “For Hyatt, launching a new brand is never just about adding to our portfolio—it’s about strengthening our network in a way that benefits both owners and guests,” says Jim Chu, Hyatt’s chief growth officer.

Airline safety report reveals rise in fatal accidents

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

A new International Air Transport Association (IATA) report highlights a significant increase in fatal air accidents in 2024, reports Skift. Seven fatal crashes resulted in 244 onboard deaths, compared to just one in 2023 with 72 fatalities. However, the five-year average of 144 deaths per year offers broader context, with 2024’s fatality risk index at 0.06, still below the five-year average of 0.10. IATA also noted a 175 percent surge in global navigation satellite system (GNSS) interference and a 500 percent rise in GPS spoofing incidents, particularly in Turkey, Iraq, and Egypt. The all-accident rate was 1.3 per million flights, slightly worse than 2023 but better than the five-year average. Despite these challenges, IATA maintains that commercial air travel remains the safest form of transport.

Zaha Hadid Architects reveals winning masterplan for Napoli Porta Est

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Napoli Porta Est masterplan; rendering courtesy of BrickVisual

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has unveiled the Napoli Porta Est masterplan, a transformative project aimed at revitalizing eastern Naples in Italy, reports Designboom. The ambitious plan seeks to reconnect the city’s fragmented urban fabric by converting more than 74 acres of derelict industrial land into vibrant public spaces, including a new urban park and repurposed railway yards. Central to the design are two fluid-form towers—integrated with public amenities such as a conference center, cinema, and commercial areas—housing the new Campania Region headquarters. Collaborating with landscape architect Martha Schwartz, ZHA plans to introduce extensive green spaces featuring native vegetation to enhance biodiversity and promote sustainability.

Resorts embrace their natural landscapes

Playa Viva in Mexico; photo courtesy of Playa Viva

Luxury resorts are shifting away from artificial beachscapes and embracing native ecosystems for sustainability and resilience, according to The New York Times. The idea of a pristine white sandy beach is often entirely manufactured. But now, several resorts are celebrating their imperfections. Take Mexico’s Playa Viva, where a native beachscape has always been part of the property’s ethos. Here, bungalows are set within a more natural landscape featuring sea grape, which offers a robust root system. Meanwhile, at Song Saa in Cambodia, the team replanted and regrew everything, including mangroves, using samples from nearby islands. “These forests are vital to the surrounding ecosystems, as they are one of the most effective carbon-capture ecosystems on earth, plus they stop erosion of the coastlines,” says Song Saa owner Melita Koulmandas.

ICYMI: Hospitality Design announces Design Firm and Hotelier of the Year

Warren Street Hotel in New York, designed by hotelier Kit Kemp, HD’s Hotelier of the Year; photo by Simon Brown Photography

Meyer Davis has been named Hospitality Design’s 2025 Design Firm of the Year. Known for their sophisticated yet timeless approach, the studio, helmed by Will Meyer and Gray Davis, has elevated projects for brands like Four Seasons, Auberge Resorts, and recently Arlo. Kit Kemp of Firmdale Hotels has been named Hotelier of the Year. Alongside her husband, Tim, Kemp has created a portfolio of eclectic, design-driven, and art-infused hotels in London and New York, including the recently opened Warren Street Hotel in Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood. Both will be honored as part of the 21st annual HD Awards program, held on May 6th at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas during HD Expo + Conference. (Register today!)

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