The International Interior Design Association (IIDA), in partnership with Hospitality Design magazine, announced the winners of the 28th annual IIDA/HD Expo Product Design Awards in Las Vegas on May 7th.

This competition recognizes products that excel in seven different criteria: aesthetics, cost and value, design innovation, environmental responsibility, need, technical advancements, and usage.

This year’s jury of design professionals included Derek Chen, project manager at LPA; Peter Harrison, president of the IIDA Oregon Chapter; and Michelle Widner, senior interior designer and project manager at Architects West.

“Exceptional hospitality environments are built on product design that doesn’t just meet expectations, but instead redefines them,” says Cheryl S. Durst, CEO and executive vice president of IIDA. “This year’s winners exemplify this, pushing the boundaries through innovation and remarkable craftsmanship that is boldly leading the industry into an era of elevated experiential environments.”

The winners of the 2025 IIDA/HD Expo Product Design Awards are:

Eric Engstrom Best of Competition Award
Ocean Master MAX Bolero: Ombré Blossom from Tuuci

Applied Finishes/Materials – Laminates, Stone/Marble, Tile, Specialty
Fluida from Arizona Tile

Bath/Spa – Equipment, Whirlpool/Saunas, Fitness, Wellness
Elvari Washroom Accessories Collection from Bradley

Electronics and Technology – Audio/Visual, Charging Stations, Apps
Kinetic from Astek

Fabrics/Textiles — Upholstery
Company: Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering
Product: Glint + Glimmer Collection

Fixtures and Hardware – Decorative Metals, Plastics, Hardware
Trendline Kerdi-Line and Kerdi-Line-Vario from Schluter Systems

Flooring – Carpets and Rugs
Tufted Manchaha from Jaipur Living

Freestanding Furniture/Casegoods – Group/Series
Ocean Master MAX Bolero: Ombré Blossom from Tuuci

Freestanding Furniture/Casegoods – Individual
Carrello from Vertical Ledge

Lighting – Group/Series, and Systems
Cape Wall Sconce from Kalco Lighting

Lighting – Individual Fixtures, Ceiling Fans, and Individual Lighting Devices
Melt Chandelier from Arteriors Contract

Seating – Outdoor Group/Series
Luca Sofa from Brown Jordan

Seating – Lounge Individual
Avalon from KFI Studios

Seating – Outdoor Individual
Iggy Outdoor Chair from Arteriors Contract

Sustainability – Recycled Materials and Green Products
Ultraleggera from Zieta Prozessdesign

Wallcoverings – Wallpapers
Modern Muse from Phillip Jeffries

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London-based studio Holloway Li has been appointed by tourism and hospitality group Tripolers to develop the interior design strategy for its debut boutique spa-hotel amidst the Singing Sand Dunes of Dunhuang, China.

Nestled within a natural oasis along the historic Silk Road, Tripolers Oasis Hotel will draw inspiration from dramatic desert vistas and the nearby UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves.

The resort—positioned in a lush, working vineyard at the edge of the dunes—will feature 15 private villas strategically placed along the edge of the site to maximize privacy and offer views of the surrounding dunes. Two-story suite blocks, boasting roof terraces with uninterrupted vistas, will be situated deeper within the vineyard.

Holloway Li’s design concept aims to create a transformative guest experience that reflects a physical and spiritual journey.

The arrival experience

Upon arrival, guests will enter a serene drop-off area comprising four intimate single-story pavilions housing the reception area, lounge, boutique shop, bar, and refreshment deck. These pavilions will be thoughtfully arranged to symbolize a gesture of embrace to further extend a warm welcome onsite.

A courtyard will feature naturally sculpted stone and a weathered Huyang tree—both shaped by the desert climate—that emphasize the hotel’s philosophy of celebrating nature in its purest form.

An array of amenities

Public spaces—including a restaurant, bar and lounge, chef’s table, and luxurious spa rooms—will be connected by golden sandy courtyards that lead to a tranquil outdoor pool with panoramic views of the Singing Sand Dunes.

A fire-pit area, meanwhile, extends into the desert, to provide a unique setting for private dining or stargazing.

Design details of Tripolers Oasis Hotel

Inspired by wabi-sabi philosophy, the design emphasizes simplicity, imperfection, and the passage of time. Reclaimed materials, for example, will be employed to create spaces that feel both rustic and refined.

Earthy tones and natural materials—like clay, teak, and stone—will add warmth to the interiors, while carefully curated furniture and artwork will celebrate the beauty of local craftsmanship and the rich cultural history of the area.

The design of the guestrooms will be rooted in the local heritage of Dunhuang, influenced by the traditional murals found in the Mogao Caves, where monks, merchants, and travelers have sought rest for centuries. The color schemes are guided by the three primary pigments—Tubai (clary white), Shashi (sandy yellow), and Zhusha (earthy red)—reinforcing a deep connection between the guest experience and the region’s legacy.

“We were stunned by the incredible site for Tripolers Oasis Hotel and the opportunity to create a truly world-class offering,” says Na Li, managing director of Holloway Li. “We are excited to work alongside our long-term local collaborators GAD and Z’scape to bring this breathtaking scheme to life.”

Tripolers Oasis Hotel is slated for completion in 2026.

More from HD:
7 Destinations Where Hotel Development Is Booming
Denver’s Populus Hotel Moves the Needle on Sustainability
What I’ve Learned Podcast: Jacu Strauss, Lore Group

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Banyan Tree has officially opened its first resort in Singapore.

Set amidst the lush greenery of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Mandai Rainforest Resort features 338 guestrooms and suites (including 24 treehouses), two signature dining experiences, a rooftop pool with unobstructed views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir, and a Banyan Tree Spa.

A biophilic design

Spanning 11 acres, the resort was designed by WOW Architects with an emphasis on biophilia that blends architecture with its natural surroundings. Mature trees have been preserved onsite, and the resort’s elevated wings allow native wildlife to move freely beneath them.

Upon arrival, guests encounter two towering trees that anchor the property’s commitment to harmonizing with nature. A 40-foot-tall Rain Tree (Samanea saman) takes centerstage with its expansive umbrella-shaped canopy, evoking the serene atmosphere of a rainforest.

Meanwhile, an Indian Beech tree (Millettia pinnata), known for its soil-enriching properties and ability to nurture local biodiversity, stands on the other side of the entrance, symbolizing balance and sustainability.

Mandai Rainforest Resort’s lobby enhances this connection with the environment via bespoke furniture crafted from upcycled wood and organic-inspired lighting features that create a warm and welcoming ambiance.

Accommodations at Mandai Rainforest Resort

The resort comprises 24 elevated treehouses and a five-story main building with 314 rooms and suites.

The treehouses, resembling seed pods, offer a private retreat that hovers above the ground and boasts its own patio. The main building, which rises vertically through the forest layers, provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding rainforest, gardens, and nearby reservoir.

Meanwhile, the interior design concept pays homage to the rainforest’s complexity. Artwork illustrates the forest’s distinct layers—from the forest floor to the emergent canopy. Antique lithographs of native wildlife—including the lesser mousedeer, white-collared kingfisher, and grey-headed fish eagle— celebrate Singapore’s unique biodiversity.

A commitment to sustainability

Sustainability is a guiding principle throughout the resort. Rooms feature windows that fully open for natural ventilation as well as temperature regulation that mimics the rainforest’s cool atmosphere.

An interactive display is installed in each room to track energy usage, while rainwater harvesting systems provide water for flushing.

These efforts have earned the property Singapore’s first Green Mark Platinum recognition as a Super Low Energy (SLE) resort.

Additional amenities

The resort’s 300-seat Meranti Ballroom draws inspiration from the mysteries of the forest floor, with a design centered on the Bridal Veil Stinkhorn, a tropical mushroom with a striking hexagonal motif.

Furthermore, the Banyan Tree Spa features three treatment pods inspired by the Sunda pangolin, with exteriors that mimic the pangolin’s protective scales.

More from HD:
Boutique Motels Are Redefining Route 66
What I’ve Learned Podcast: Jacu Strauss, Lore Group
A New Era of Airport Design Is Underway

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Waterworks reimagines its Flatiron showroom, Tarkett Hospitality appoints a divisional vice president of sales, Ben Soleimani opens a Manhattan flagship, and more. Here is the latest news to know from manufacturers across the globe:

Ben Soleimani opens New York flagship

Luxury home furnishings designer Ben Soleimani has unveiled a new flagship showroom in New York’s design district. Spanning three townhouse-inspired floors, the 3,540-square-foot space features the BESPOKE by Ben Soleimani collection—which spans rugs, furniture, lighting, and décor—along with an expansive rug sample display, a custom rug design studio, and a curated selection of antique rugs. Designed for the industry, the space fosters creativity and collaboration in a warm, refined setting just steps from the Decoration & Design (D&D) Building and the Architects & Designers (A&D) Building.

Eaton Fine Art promotes Roberta Carter

Eaton Fine Art has named Roberta Carter as general manager. Formerly director of operations, Carter (who “has been instrumental in shaping Eaton Fine Art’s success over the last 18 years,” says Terry Eaton, president and chief curator of Eaton Fine Art.) has played a pivotal role in streamlining internal processes and enhancing communication with purchasing agents. In her new position, she will lead strategic collaborations with hotel brands, design firms, and procurement agencies. “Her dedication, expertise, and passion for supporting our team and collaborators have made a lasting impact,” Eaton adds. “Robert and I are thrilled to see her take on this well-deserved role and look forward to the continued innovation she will bring.”

Waterworks redesigns Flatiron showroom

Waterworks has unveiled a major expansion of its Flatiron showroom in New York. Now spanning 7,800 square feet across three floors of a historic early-1900s building, the refreshed space features elevated product displays and a new focal point: a tiled mural by artist Christoph Niemann titled Rainy Day in NYC. Crafted entirely from Waterworks tile, the art piece—complete with a cameo of CEO and creative director Peter Sallick’s dachshund, Peaches—anchors a striking staircase connecting the main levels. “We envisioned the mural as a moment of artful surprise and a celebration of New York,” says Sallick. Additional updates include a revamped fittings wall, expanded kitchen displays, and a reimagined Surfaces by Color section bathed in natural light.

Tarkett Hospitality names Michelle Harpole sales VP

Tarkett Hospitality has appointed Michelle Harpole as divisional vice president of sales. With 20 years of experience in the flooring industry, Harpole has progressed from hands-on installation to executive leadership. Having joined Tarkett’s commercial division nine years ago, Harpole now aims to drive growth and build high-performing teams in her new role. “[Michelle’s] deep industry knowledge, combined with her proven leadership skills and unwavering commitment to success, make her an ideal fit to lead our sales team,” says Kim Drautz, president of Tarkett Hospitality. “We are confident that Michelle’s passion and expertise will be a tremendous asset to Tarkett Hospitality as we continue to provide innovative flooring solutions to the hospitality industry.”

Samuelson Furniture celebrates 90 years

This year marks the 90th anniversary of Samuelson Furniture, a fourth-generation, family-owned furniture manufacturer serving the hospitality and senior living industries. Under the leadership of president Lawrence Chalfin, who joined the business in 1974, the company has remained rooted in the values of quality and innovation established by his father and grandfather in 1935. Originally founded as Invincible Parlor Frame Co. in Paterson, New Jersey, Samuelson has grown into a global brand with clients including Rosewood, Four Seasons, Disney, and top-tier senior living communities.

More from HD:
7 Destinations Where Hotel Development Is Booming
Denver’s Populus Hotel Moves the Needle on Sustainability
What I’ve Learned Podcast: Suchi Reddy, Reddymade

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A collaboration between Cooper Carry and Muza Lab, the revitalization of the historic Palm House hotel in Palm Beach, Florida blends timeless charm with modern luxury.

Bernhardt Hospitality played a crucial role in the five-year project by providing custom casegoods, seating, and outdoor furniture that seamlessly integrate with the hotel’s elegant design.

The vision for the Palm House hotel was to create a space that honors its rich heritage while embracing contemporary sophistication. The design evokes a sense of classic beauty, allowing guests to experience the grandeur of the past.

Bernhardt Hospitality was selected for its expertise in crafting high-quality, custom furniture. Their contributions to the renovation include:

• Custom Casegoods: Bespoke casegoods reflecting the hotel’s historical elegance, complementing architectural details and period-specific elements.
• Seating Solutions: Luxurious fabrics, ergonomic designs, and attention to detail ensure comfort and aesthetic appeal.
• Outdoor Furniture: Durable materials and sophisticated designs transform outdoor spaces into inviting areas for guests.

Challenges and Solutions

Integrating historical elements with modern amenities without compromising authenticity was a primary challenge. Bernhardt Hospitality addressed this by:

• Collaborative Design Process: Working closely with the hotel’s design team to meet aesthetic and functional requirements.
• Material Selection: Choosing luxurious and durable materials to ensure longevity and elegance.
• Attention to Detail: Crafting each piece with precision to reflect the hotel’s commitment to quality.

Impact and Success

The collaboration resulted in a space that merges the old with the new. Guests are welcomed into an environment that exudes a bespoke charm and luxurious comfort, making their stay memorable and unique.

Bernhardt Hospitality’s expertise and dedication in the Palm House hotel project exemplifies its ability to deliver exceptional custom furniture that aligned with the team’s vision of creating spaces that honor tradition while embracing modern sophistication.

Photos by Ryan Loco | This sponsored content was created collaboratively by Bernhardt Hospitality and HD.

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Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, part of Hilton’s LXR Hotels & Resorts collection, will launch a comprehensive multimillion-dollar renovation in June.

Overseen by London-based Bryan O’Sullivan Studio (BOS), the phased transformation will reimagine the 38-story property’s guestrooms and suites, public spaces, dining venues, and wellness areas. The hotel will remain operational throughout the renovation, which is slated for completion in Q2 2026

The design vision, with support from Brooklyn-based Guerin Glass Architects, will balance heritage and modernity, drawing on the building’s original architecture while incorporating globally inspired details.

Guestrooms at Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach

Custom furniture and locally influenced materials will infuse the hotel with a sense of place.

Guestrooms and suites will be outfitted in creamy hues and plush textures, complemented with handcrafted furniture and colorful ceramics. Light oak paneling, Tajimi tiles, marble countertops, and bespoke furnishings will introduce an element of warmth.

Revamped public areas

The refined, organic palette will carry into the public areas, which will be defined by neutral tones, rich wood accents, and artisanal finishes.

The redesigned lobby will center around a newly introduced bar. Both signature restaurants, the spa, and the fitness center will be also upgraded, and enhancements to the pool area will include new chairs and cabanas.

More from HD:
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What I’ve Learned Podcast: Architect Morris Adjmi

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As shifting tariff policies continue to disrupt global trade, hospitality developers and procurement teams are facing tough decisions when it comes to sourcing furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E).

Carl Long, president and CEO at Purchasing Management International (PMI), and Steven Bramson, CEO of U.S.-based outdoor furniture manufacturer DecoScape, share four key takeaways about the evolving landscape.

1. A broader, smarter supply chain emerges

After dominating hospitality manufacturing for two decades, China’s position may be weakening. With Trump’s proposed tariffs as high as 145 percent on certain Chinese imports, sourcing from the region now carries major cost and risk. 

Although Chinese factories and the government have attempted to soften the blow—offering rebates and accepting thinner margins—Long believes the shift away from China is overdue. “The Chinese government putting their thumb on the scale of their production makes it impossible for the international community to compete,” he explains. “There are some products that you can only get in China now because of the quality of the worker and finishing techniques and chemicals used. But having [China] be the only place, doesn’t make sense.”

Sourcing is diversifying. Countries like Italy, Portugal, Turkey, Colombia, and Indonesia are gaining ground, as are Canada and Mexico, remaining favorable under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which includes protections around furniture manufacturing. Long also points to a possible resurgence in U.S.-based manufacturing. “I think the end game is to open the market up for other manufacturers and open up the opportunity for manufacturers in the U.S.,” he shares.

That trend aligns with what Bramson is seeing on the ground. “We’re seeing a clear shift in client behavior toward domestic sources and simplified supply chains. It’s not just about cost savings—it’s about certainty,” he says. “Clients are actively seeking U.S.-based manufacturers who can offer consistent quality and predictable timelines.”

2. Uncertainty is the new cost driver

With policies changing by the day, many developers are choosing to delay rather than make potentially costly decisions. “This level of uncertainty is causing a slowdown in decision-making,” Long explains. “If orders aren’t already placed and if budgets aren’t already set and approved, you can’t pick a direction, budget, or allocate funds correctly.”

Bramson, meanwhile, is seeing that pressure play out on the manufacturing side. “Clients are clearly in a state of flux,” he says. “Everyone’s trying to navigate the instability, and we’re seeing a consistent trend: clients are looking to manufacturers to absorb as much of the tariff impact as possible before they can even consider passing it along to their customers. Many of them are pausing orders right now, not out of lack of interest, but because the environment is so unpredictable.”

However, the 90-day tariff pause has offered some short-term relief, prompting a race to get existing orders out the door before the tariffs potentially kick in. “If you can make it in the next 90 days, make it and get them on the boat,” Long says. “[As of April 10th], we have 88 days left of a tariff pause—if countries can’t reach a deal with the U.S. within that time, it reverts back.”

3. Understand every part of the supply chain

Understanding a product’s full supply chain is now essential. With tariffs applied not only by country but by component origin, manufacturers and procurement firms must stay agile and transparent. “If we’re buying a chair that uses U.S.-made springs, Mexican casters, and Canadian foam, but is assembled in China, our actual exposure to tariffs might be far less than it looks,” Long says. 

He emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong, transparent relationships with vendors. “It’s incumbent upon purchasing companies to take that extra step to talk with vendors to ask, ‘Where’s your biggest risk?’ Because it’s not just the furniture, it’s all the components that go into it.”

Long cautions clients to “be pragmatic and patient,” he says. “Don’t make snap decisions. Evaluate the impact on a vendor-by-vendor, country-by-country, product-by-product basis.”

4. A new price baseline is here

Even if policies stabilize, Long believes the hospitality industry is entering a new era of cost expectations after a 25-year run of relatively low-cost products from China. “I don’t see prices going down,” he says. “The bidding process will still happen—but set at a higher base.”

For developers, that means budget recalibrations across the board. “We’re going to roll into challenges of budgeting, where a $25 million project turns into a $30 million one. Where do we get that extra $5 million?” Those extra costs will likely end up trickling down to the consumer. 

Although higher costs are a challenge, there’s a potential for longterm benefit. “The new baseline of costs will be higher, but as manufacturing and alternate sources become more viable, those costs have a net benefit to everybody that touches it along the way,” he says. “So, in the short term, there will be heartburn. We feel it.” 

“Ultimately, an owner will [decide] if they’re going to increase room rates to cover increased costs,” Long adds. “If room rates are higher, and the overall operational cost is higher, a portion of that increased room rate would also go to staff to maintain this new furniture. It remains to be seen if it will work, but that is the hope—that it raises all boats.”

More from HD:
On the Move: Hospitality Industry Organizational Updates
Boutique Motels Are Redefining Route 66
Aimasia Villa Embraces the Rugged Terrain of Mykonos

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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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Hospitality Design’s Women in Design Awards breakfast returns to HD Expo + Conference in Las Vegas on May 6th. Celebrating five industry leaders for their inspirational achievements, the signature event is presented in partnership with NEWH. We chatted with the 2025 recipients about how they got their start, career-defining projects, obstacles, and more.

Masako Fukuoka
Studio Director, CRÈME

Growing up surrounded by both science and art, Masako Fukuoka, was introduced to watercolor painting at a young age by her father, a dentist with a passion for the arts. Though he envisioned a different path for her, Fukuoka was captivated by design, inspired by the work of Tadao Ando. A Parsons graduate, she spent nearly 20 years as principal and design director at Jeffrey Beers International before joining Brooklyn, New York-based CRÈME in 2022. There, she has worked on projects like the Kimpton Hotel Theta in New York and is currently developing a ground-up luxury residential estate among other notable projects.

What are your earliest design memories?
When I was entering the 6th grade, my parents bought me a new set of bedroom furniture. I insisted on a round solid oak table and a solid oak chair instead of a typical study desk, and a gray modern sofa bed. They were so impractical. But I was interested in a multifunctional space where I could entertain a group of friends. I used to spend my Sundays rearranging furniture and planning the next party.

How did you get your start in the hospitality industry?
Stephen Alton, my thesis adviser at Parsons School of Design, was good friends with Allen Prusis, a managing principal at Rockwell Group. Stephen recommended me to Allan, and he and interior director Alice Yui gave me a job at Rockwell Group right out of school. It was a sink or swim situation. I remember asking an accountant there to teach me Microsoft Excel so I could do an FF&E budget.

Greenery backs the lobby at the Sheraton Kagoshima in Japan

Is there a defining project that shaped your design career?
Ironically, it came when I was working on the Chamber Hotel—my first hotel project at Rockwell Group. I was feeling a bit inadequate working on a hotel project not knowing anything about it. They sent me down to Miami to take a look at a potential project and put me up at the Delano, designed by Philippe Starck. I loved its serenity and simplicity, but it also had a very clear point of view. After that, I got a call from my [former] mentor, Suzanne Couture, who had gone to work for Ian Schrager Company and wanted me to [come work for her there]. It was the perfect opportunity to learn more about the hotel industry and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with Starck. I ended up working at Schrager for about four years, completing both the Hudson and Clift hotels [in New York and San Francisco, respectively].

What’s one lesson from your career that you wish you had known earlier?
At the end of the day, the relationship is everything. I wish I had known that so I could have done a better job keeping in touch with the people I met throughout my career.

What obstacles have you faced as a woman in the industry?
Trying to start a family. I had a hard time while working fulltime and managing multiple projects with a lot of stress. But my late mentor, Jeffrey Beers, and team were so supportive and got me through it.

What are you working on?
We are very excited about the Treehouse Hotel in Sunnyvale, California and the 1 Hotel in Akasaka, Japan, opening this year. On the boards, we have a luxury lifestyle hotel renovation in Hawaii, several urban hotels, a ground-up restaurant in a ski resort in Colorado, a modular beach hotel in Japan, and a ground-up cabin and a large residence for a private client in New York, to list a few. I am most excited about the cabin, as we have been working on building our architectural side. We have also been working with a Japanese furniture company to develop a line of office furniture influenced by hospitality design.

Marisol Fisher
Vice President, Design Services, Latin America + the Caribbean, Hyatt

Marisol Fisher has spent nearly two decades shaping hospitality design across Latin America and the Caribbean, overseeing new builds and renovations for Hyatt’s full-service brands. A registered architect in Colombia and a graduate of Los Andes University, she joined Hyatt in 2006 as a design coordinator and steadily rose through the ranks, bringing a global perspective to her work. Growing up with parents who were architects and engineers, Fisher was immersed in blueprints and construction sites from an early age, laying the foundation for her passion for design. She thrives on balancing creativity with practical execution, ensuring that each project is both memorable and functional.

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?
Design is in my DNA. Growing up in a home where both of my parents were professionals in architecture and civil engineering, I was constantly surrounded by blueprints, models, and construction sites. I remember playing with my mom’s architectural models as a child, laying the foundation of my passion for design.

How did you get your start in the industry?
It was a mix of serendipity and the right opportunities aligning at the right time. A friend who worked at Hyatt introduced me to the industry, and from my first exposure, I was captivated by the dynamic intersection of design, service, and experience that defines hospitality.

Is there a moment that shaped your approach to the industry?
The 2008 economic recession was a pivotal moment in my career. It forced the industry to redefine traditional notions of how we designed hotels and what luxury meant. That period prompted us to innovate, shifting from excess to intentionality and from conventional luxury to more meaningful, experience-driven design.

The light and airy bar at the Alila Mayakoba in Mexico, designed by Cuaik

Is there anyone you would like to elevate in the industry?
Is difficult to elevate just one, but Ana Ramirez, an architect and wellness hospitality expert, stands out. She is the cofounder of Ancestral Handmade Hotels, a concept that revives and celebrates ancestral wisdom at every stage, from building methods to wellness programming. I’d also highlight Angelica Acebedo-Frint, a hospitality branding expert whose creativity and strategic vision set her apart in the industry. As the branding lead at the Gettys Group, she is shaping the future of hospitality with an extraordinary ability to blend storytelling and design. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing her talent firsthand, not just as a leader in the field, but also as my sister.

What obstacles have you faced as a woman in the industry?
As a Latina architect working in a predominantly male-dominated industry within an American corporation, I’ve encountered challenges and preconceived stereotypes related to both my gender and cultural background. Over time, I’ve learned that building authentic connections with people is the key to success. When I foster strong relationships within my teams, those initial biases fade, and my expertise and contributions become the focal point. Embracing my unique perspective and remaining authentic has proven to be a powerful tool in my leadership journey.

What’s one lesson from you wish you had known earlier?
Beyond staying up to date on design and hospitality trends, it’s essential to grasp the business side of hotels. Having an understanding of these financial and operational aspects makes you a more strategic and effective designer.

What advice would you give your younger self?
Every challenge you face will eventually resolve itself, so take a deep breath, embrace the present, and cherish every moment and person in your life.

Chantell Walsh
Vice President, Design + Construction, Strategic Hotels & Resorts

With a background in architecture, Chantell Walsh excels in design management, repositioning assets to enhance value and guest experience. Since joining Strategic in 2015, she’s been integral to overseeing capital deployment, aligning projects with investment goals, while also leading design teams to ensure top-tier standards. Her expertise in balancing creativity and financial strategy drives the transformation of high-end properties, where she directs the creative vision and development for the company’s luxury portfolio. “I’m privileged to work alongside incredibly talented teams,” Walsh says. “Together, we get to shape the guest experience through design.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?
Art has always been a passion of mine. In high school, I gravitated toward architecture and design classes, filling my electives with art courses. These experiences solidified my interest in creativity, and ultimately, inspired me to pursue a career in design.

How did you get your start in the hospitality industry?
With [my] background in architecture, I was introduced to the hospitality industry by an asset manager during a time when new construction had slowed significantly. After 2007, as the focus shifted toward interior renovations, I found myself immersed in hospitality design, shaping existing spaces to meet evolving needs.

What’s a recent project you’re proud of?
We had the rare and exciting opportunity to reposition the Regent Santa Monica [in California] into a luxury hotel by reducing the key count, expanding room sizes, and reflagging. The transformation was both challenging and rewarding, and it allowed us to significantly elevate the guest experience.

What do you like most about your job?
I have the best job. Every day brings something new to learn, and the challenges are endless, which keeps me engaged and adaptable.

The Regent Santa Monica Beach in California, a collaboration between Wimberly Interiors and AvroKO

How do you balance form and function?
It’s a dance. If the design doesn’t meet the needs of the guests or patrons, then the aesthetic doesn’t matter. The experience is compromised when the functionality fails. So, while it’s important to dream big, the functionality will always bring you back to reality.

Have you faced obstacles as a woman in the industry?
In any profession, strong women often face labels. But for me, it’s always been about staying authentic and focusing on the work. Leadership and decisiveness are expressions of clarity and vision. Over time, I’ve learned to tune out the noise.

How can the industry better support women?
The best way to support women in the industry is simply showing up. [Parker-Torres Design cofounder] Miriam Torres and I recently discussed the lack of mentorship for women. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to have mentors in their lives. Mentorship is crucial for navigating complex projects, developing leadership skills, guiding creative direction, and fostering confidence.

What’s one lesson you wish you had known earlier?
I wish I had known earlier the importance of embracing failure as part of the learning process. Some of the best lessons come from challenges and setbacks. They shape your problem-solving skills, resilience, and overall growth in ways success alone can’t.

What are you working on that you’re excited about?
We have several projects under construction, including the highly anticipated Waldorf Astoria New York and a renovation at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, both of which will be unveiled soon. We’re also preparing to launch a stunning new restaurant in San Francisco in the coming months. I’m particularly excited about a specialty suite conversion in New York that boasts a breathtaking panoramic view of Central Park.

Helen Jorgensen
1st Vice President, Host Hotels & Resorts

With more than 30 years in the industry, Helen Jorgensen has held key roles at Disney and Marriott before joining Host Hotels & Resorts, where she oversees nearly 100 properties. Her passion for design is deeply rooted in her early love of art, combined with a strategic, analytical mindset that allows her to balance creativity with functionality. She has played a key role in shaping projects like the Axiom in San Francisco and the Phoenician in Scottsdale and is currently overseeing luxury residential developments at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando and the Villas at the Canyon Suites at the Phoenician.

What are your earliest design memories?
My earliest memory of design is rooted in my love for art—I would spend hours drawing with pencil and charcoal as a young girl. The outdoors, especially animals and birds, were my greatest inspirations, fueling my creativity and shaping my artistic sense.

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?
I am inspired by the idea of solving problems in ways that are functional yet beautiful. Design involves finding solutions to operational and aesthetic concerns, and this approach expresses my creative and analytical personalities. Hospitality design offers a rich blend of strategy, collaboration, and creativity—so many layers that make it endlessly exciting.

How did you get your start in the industry?
My career has been a journey of constant evolution. I began my professional career in contracting, working with a range of firms, but it was my first experience in hospitality with Marriott that captivated me. The energy and fast-paced nature of the industry made it exciting. The way procurement, design, and construction came together to bring a project to life perfectly aligned with my business background. Add to that the creativity and artistry of design, and I found myself completely hooked.

The reimagined Salt restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island in Florida, led by HBA

Is there a defining moment that has shaped your approach?
I don’t have a single defining moment, but rather a collection of moments that have shaped my approach. Over the years at Host, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible mentors whose guidance and inspiration have been invaluable. Working for an owner has provided me with the unique opportunity to engage in broader design approaches, collaborating closely with our design partners, whether from a design firm or brand. By embracing diverse perspectives and working together, the best designs and solutions naturally emerge.

Is there anyone in the industry you’d like to elevate?
I’ve had the privilege of working with many incredibly talented people throughout the years, and I would love to name them all. However, one person truly stands out. When she stepped into our renovation and Marriott Transformation Capital Program projects, she had Evelyn Harris’ big shoes to fill. Gina Tomczak, senior director, Marriott global design, filled those shoes effortlessly. She became an integral team member of our projects, fostering collaboration and assuring project success. Her design insights and feedback have consistently enhanced every project she’s been involved in. She’s a true partner, and I deeply value her creativity and design expertise.

What do you like most about your job?
This career has allowed me to work in a variety of industries, from which I built my skillsets. It has resulted in my meeting so many interesting people. It has allowed me to travel to so many exciting places around the world. Each project gave me an opportunity to learn and take risks.

What advice would you tell your younger self?
To not only pursue opportunities but also to create them. Remember, for new doors to open, you may need to take the initiative to build some yourself. By creating opportunities, you will have fresh avenues to present your ideas, gain valuable exposure, and engage with industry leaders.

Nina Grondin
Managing Partner + Cofounder, Curioso

Nina Grondin brings thoughtful leadership and strategic insight to Chicago- and Merida, Mexico-based Curioso, guiding business operations, creative direction, and client partnerships. With a background in business, economics, and finance, and nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, she marries analytical expertise with creative vision to deliver meaningful, human-centered design projects for brands such as IHG, Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton, as well as independent developers across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean.

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?
I was working in finance at a startup in Chapel Hill, North Carolina straight out of college, helping build the business from the ground up. I loved that part—solving problems, creating something out of nothing. But after a while, the work started feeling empty. Outside of work, I found myself drawn to more tactile, creative things. I had two close friends who ended up nudging me toward design without even trying. One was an attorney who was renovating his house. During the day he’d be demoing kitchen cabinets, and at night we’d use the doors he tore out as canvases for paintings. The other was an architect designing municipal buildings by day but moonlighting on these beautiful renderings for Tiffany’s stores that hadn’t been built yet. I remember being stunned that you could visualize something so clearly before it existed. That got my wheels turning about my career path. I wanted to be part of creating things that had a real, emotional presence in the world.

How did you get your start in the industry?
When I first moved to Chicago, I happened to walk into a restaurant on its opening day. I hit it off with the owner, and she offered me a job on the spot, so I took it. During those first few weeks, the designer of the restaurant was constantly in and out handling punchlist items, and I must have asked him a hundred questions. Eventually, he said, ‘You should go to design school. When you graduate, I’ll give you an internship.’ I never took him up on the internship, but I did enroll in design school a few months later. My favorite course was hospitality. I loved the idea of designing spaces that would become the backdrop to people’s memories. After graduation, I set my sights on hospitality firms in Chicago and landed an internship at the Gettys Group. It was where I first collaborated with my cofounder and business partner in Curioso, Daniel Pierce, and it kept building from there.

A verdant outdoor area at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich in Connecticut

Is there a defining project that shaped your career?
It was our first hotel project we worked on as Curioso: a lifestyle hotel in downtown El Paso. At the time, the area was hanging on the edge of revitalization. A lot of people were skeptical the hotel would even make it. But it thrived. Each visit, we saw the neighborhood come to life. [Former U.S. representative] Beto O’Rourke even started holding town hall-style meetings there. The staff spoke with such pride about the place. The chamber of commerce told us it helped define a new design identity for El Paso. That was the moment it clicked. Hospitality isn’t just about beautiful spaces or clever concepts, it can also bring dignity to a place, pride to the people who work there, and a sense of belonging to the community.

What do you like most about your job?
The people, the stories, and watching a simple idea turn into a real place.

Who would you like to elevate in the industry?
Women. People of color. Minorities. Hospitality is one of the most diverse industries in the world, but too often, that diversity is only visible at the lower levels. We need to see it reflected in leadership, ownership, and decision-making roles. We need more voices and more points of view at the table.

Nicole Fournier
Vice President of Interior Design, MGM Resorts International

Since January 2022, Nicole Fournier has led design management for all capital projects across MGM Resorts International’s 18 U.S. properties as vice president of interior design. A key figure at MGM since 2006, she has been instrumental in shaping immersive environments that blend entertainment, art, and cuisine, including spearheading the design for MGM National Harbor in Baltimore and MGM Springfield in Massachusetts, crafting dynamic casino, hotel, entertainment, retail, and dining spaces. Fournier’s passion for design dates back to childhood, and today she thrives on collaboration and mentorship, bringing visionary concepts to life while fostering lasting industry relationships.

What are your earliest design memories?
In the early ’80s, [I traveled] with my family to Cancun. We stayed at a resort with round bungalows, thatched-hut roofs, with mosquito nets over our beds. It formed such a memorable moment for me that I dreamed of creating such amazing spaces myself. In elementary school I rearranged and drew furniture plans while imagining color palettes with wallpaper accents. Additionally, my parents took us on vacations to various countries where we scoured local antique stores, flea markets, and toured historical and architectural buildings, which made me fall in love with furniture and the history of architecture. My dad taught me so much during those days that I still carry with me today.

How did you get your start in the hospitality industry?
Back in 1995 I had just moved to Las Vegas and was working for a high-end residential interior design firm. We worked on the original development of the Four Seasons Hotel and Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino back in the late ’90s. It was a time when implosions on the Strip were frequent and the request by the casino executives was to advance the Las Vegas hotel industry to feel more residential. In 2006, I was referred by a friend to MGM Resorts International and a project on the Strip called CityCenter, which is the Aria, Vdara, Veer Towers, and Waldorf Astoria campuses today. Riding on the manlift as each hotel floor was poured had me hooked for a lifetime of design and development as an owner representative.

Avenue Interior Design crafted Coraline’s restaurant in the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi

What obstacles have you faced as a woman in the industry?
Working in a large corporate structure for almost 19 years, I have learned how to present ideas to key executive stakeholders by listening to their input while quickly solving problems in a large room. You can’t be afraid to speak up and present ideas and thoughts to any level stakeholder. I am truly proud of our company and how it is embracing women in leadership roles. When I began with MGM Resorts Design and Development all the higher-level positions were held by men. We now have two women serving as vice presidents of design and one as the director of interior design.

What projects are you most excited about?
We continue to advance our final design and development of our Empire City Casino project in Yonkers, New York. We have been working on this project for almost three years, and we are finally advancing to the final RFA with complete venue flythroughs and full renderings. Maintaining a vision and passion for this project while working on our CapEx projects domestically has challenged our ingenuity to redefine our brand in this marketplace. Additionally, we are doing a lot of work at Aria Resort & Casino: restaurants, room remodels, villas, bars and lounges, and updated pool decks. The work is redefining that brand for the years to come. We’re also continuing with the design and development of the W brand to fully realize the partnership between Marriott and MGM Resorts International at the Mandalay Bay campus, an exciting new venture for us as a group. Lastly, the team is working on an exciting, secret CapEx project that will be unveiled for our Formula 1 weekend events this year at the Bellagio.

What advice would you give your younger self?
Enjoy the journey and be yourself. We are always evolving and growing, and some of the relationships you make will be life-changing and everlasting.

Hear more at HD Expo + Conference:
Women in Design Awards Breakfast
Tuesday, May 6th, 8:30–10:00 a.m.
Location: South Pacific Ballroom

Photos by Tanveer Badal, Grace Coudal, Regan Wood and courtesy of Avenue Interior Design, CRÈME, Curioso, Host, Hyatt, MGM, and Strategic

The post Meet the 2025 HD Women in Design Award Recipients appeared first on Hospitality Design.

StudioBom, a ceramic furniture company, has unveiled its first interior design project: BomBom patisserie in the heart of Lisbon’s residential Amoreiras district.

Situated on the ground floor of a modern building, the 1,614-square-foot patisserie features a vibrant interior that reflects the essence of the space.

StudioBom designed all of the project’s furniture, including a large mid-height table, two benches, a spacious display and grocery area, and a high counter table. These custom pieces are visible from both inside and outside the shop.

The furniture’s simple yet refined proportions, paired with geometric forms, balance functionality and aesthetics.

Color plays a key role in StudioBom’s design philosophy. “We were inspired by the playful and eccentric world of the Superstudio and Memphis movements,” says StudioBom cofounder Geoffrey Despierres. “We helped the client to push the color choices to their maximum to create a unique project. Bold colors combined with dynamic combinations are the studio’s recognizable signature.”

“Beyond the similarity of the names—StudioBom and BomBom [is] such a funny coincidence—this first interior project was very exciting,” adds cofounder Émeline Marlière. “We were approached for our creative vision but we also provided project management. Once again, the ongoing development of StudioBom is based on the trust of our clients, their enthusiasm, and their interest in our work.”

More from HD:
Aimasia Villa Embraces the Rugged Terrain of Mykonos
What I’ve Learned Podcast: Cathy O’Brien, Naturopathica
Boutique Motels Are Redefining Route 66

The post StudioBom Brings Playful Aesthetics to a Lisbon Patisserie appeared first on Hospitality Design.