NEW YORK, NY (October 30, 2025)

Boutique Design New York (BDNY), the leading trade fair and conference for the boutique hospitality design community, returns to the Jacob K. Javits Center on November 9–10, 2025, uniting global innovators in hospitality, design, and development.

This year’s edition invites attendees on a multisensory journey through four immersive Designed Spaces; each conceived as an experiential environment where inspiration meets installation. Complementing these installations, the BDNY Conference offers nearly 40 sessions examining design’s expanding influence across culture, wellness, technology, and storytelling.

“BDNY continues to be where creativity and community collide,” said Keisha Byrd, Vice President and Brand Director, Hospitality Design Group at Emerald. “This year is about momentum, about celebrating how designers, brands, and innovators are pushing hospitality forward with work that is imaginative, purposeful, and human. BDNY has become a live expression of the design process itself, a place where experimentation meets emotion and where every space, conversation, and connection reminds us why this industry thrives on imagination.”

DESIGNED SPACES: TRANSFORMING CONCEPTS INTO EXPERIENCE

BDNY’s signature Designed Spaces transform the trade-floor experience into an interactive design gallery. Conceived by top studios and sponsored by leading manufacturers, each space offers an intimate look at how collaboration, creativity, and storytelling can redefine hospitality’s boundaries.

THE ALCHEMIST by Aria Group (Booth #773)

Part restaurant, part revelation, The Alchemist celebrates transformation through mixed metals, sculptural thresholds, and reflective surfaces. The Dine & Design installation elevates everyday moments into sensory experiences that shimmer between fantasy and function. Sponsored by Booth & Williams Design, Cava Surfaces, Kloth Studio, Maya Romanoff, Opuzen,Pioneer Pro Audio, Shaw Contract Hospitality, Villa Lighting, and Woodcraft Hospitality.

CHÂLET APRÈS by Mazzarini & Co for Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy (Booth #255)

A modern alpine retreat reimagined for urban life, Châlet Après blends rustic texture with refined comfort. Mazzarini & Co captures the warmth of après-ski rituals and the intimacy of residential hospitality in a layered, luxurious setting. Sponsored by Bluebird Lighting, County Draperies, Farmboy Fine Arts, Formica, JE Hospitality, MDC Interior Solutions, Pioneer Pro Audio, Ratana Contract, Raydoor, Reid Witlin Textiles, and Tarkett Hospitality.

THE SPLASH PAD by DREAM Hotels × Nivek Remas (Booth #1873)

A high-style lounge inspired by DREAM’s iconic pool culture, The Splash Pad merges daylife energy with nighttime allure. Mirrored planes, bold geometry, and immersive sound invite guests to play, sip, and connect in true DREAM fashion. Sponsored by Astek, Fairmont Designs, Farmboy Fine Arts, Mannington Commercial, Pioneer Pro Audio, Source Direct, Valley Forge Fabrics, and Viso.

MIDNIGHT GARDEN by DesignAgency (Booth #3119)

An ethereal dreamscape rendered in light, motion, and mood, Midnight Garden guides visitors through rhythmic arches and monochrome atmospheres. Each step reveals a new threshold, shifting from serene to surreal, illustrating how design can evoke reflection and wonder. Sponsored by Credible Group, Hollis + Morris, Kevin Barry Art Advisory, Panaz USA Inc., Pioneer Pro Audio, Threadwell, and Welspun Hospitality.

A CONFERENCE DESIGNED FOR WHAT’S NEXT

The 2025 BDNY Conference unites hospitality’s boldest voices across architecture, interiors, branding, and operations to explore emerging ideas shaping the built environment. Accredited sessions will spotlight technology, sustainability, sensory design, inclusion, and the emotional side of experience. For a complete schedule, see the Agenda online here.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | BD Hub #2579

AI as Co-Creator: Designing with Machines, Not for Them

Generative design tools and machine learning are reshaping creativity itself. This session dives into how designers collaborate with AI to expand imagination, accelerate iteration, and redefine authorship in hospitality projects.

Speakers:

Rachel Brooks, Creative Director, Wayfair Professional

Ann Lopez, Owner and CEO, Studio 790 Interiors

Jason Phillips, CEO, Phillips Collection

Moderator: Amanda Evans, Head of Brand Marketing, Wayfair Professional

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | BD Mainstage #101

Escapism: Emerging Trends in Ultra-Luxury Immersive Experiences

From private clubs to branded residences, “escapism” is the new currency of luxury. Designers and developers reveal how sensory storytelling and place-making elevate hospitality into emotional theatre.

Speakers: 

Jeanette Hoffman, Senior Architectural Designer, 10 Design

Melissa Messmer, Global Head of Design for Luxury Brands, InterContinental and Regent, IHG Hotels and Resorts

DeeDee Sanchez, Associate Principal, Stonehill Taylor

Miriam Torres, Principal, Parker Torres

Moderator: Alissa Ponchione, Editor-in-Chief, Boutique Design | Hospitality Design

12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Midnight Garden #3119

Midnight Garden: The Making of a Dreamscape

DesignAgency’s team takes you behind the making of their immersive installation, exploring how rhythm, light, and motion come together to transform space. They’ll share insights on prototyping, technical trade-offs, and how stagecraft shaped an experience that moves seamlessly from serene to surreal.

Speakers:

Allen Chan, Founding Partner, DesignAgency

Matt Davis, Founding Partner, DesignAgency

Anwar Mekhayech, Founding Partner, DesignAgency

Ben Leszcz, Principal, StudioDA

Moderator: Stefanie Schwalb, Editor, Boutique Design | Hospitality Design

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | BD Mainstage #101

Making Sense of Place: Designing with Context, Culture, and Character

Rooted in authenticity, this discussion examines how designers are creating hospitality spaces that celebrate community, culture, and connection.

Speakers:

Denise Korn, Founder and Creative Director, Yellow & Partners

Fritz Mesenbrink, Executive Creative Director and CEO, OMFGCO

Becca Roderick, Executive Director of Interiors, Morris AdjmiArchitects

Ashley Wilkins, Founder and Creative Director, Islyn Studio

Moderator: Alissa Ponchione, Editor-in-Chief, Boutique Design | Hospitality Design

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | The Alchemist #773

Chef Panel – Menu as a Brand Narrative

Top chefs and restaurateurs share how menu creation can shape a brand’s identity. This discussion explores how culinary storytelling influences design, guest experience, and perception—and how strategy and creativity converge to turn food into a defining brand expression.

Speakers:

Zubair Mohajir, Founder and Executive Chef, Lilac Tiger/Coach House/Mirra

Rishi Manoj Kumar, Owner and Executive Chef, Mirra

Moderator: Elizabeth Neuffer, Project Designer, Aria Group

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | BD Mainstage #101

Designing for Whole-Person Wellness: Hospitality’s Expanding Horizon

Wellness has become a design imperative. Panelists share strategies for embedding physical, mental, and social wellbeing into spaces that nurture balance, belonging, and brand value.

Speakers:

Colleen Brooks, Co-founder and President, Moss New York

Elliot March, Co-founder, MAWD | March and White Design

Amanda Potter, Founder and Principal, Good City Studio

Ashley Tackett, Creative Director, Ashley Tackett Design

Moderator: Will Speros, Editor, Workplace Design

3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | BD Mainstage #101

The New Language of Luxury: How Materials and Mindset Are Reshaping Hospitality

Luxury is no longer about opulence; it is about purpose. Experts explore how durability, responsibility, and design integrity are shaping a new era of meaningful indulgence.

Speakers:

Michel Smith Boyd, Michel Smith Boyd Interiors

Christopher Todd, Design Principal, Christopher Todd Design

Mary Alice Palmer, Global Creative Director and Founding Principal, ROAM 

Moderator: Megan Pierson, Executive Vice President of Business Development, Polywood

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | River Pavilion

BDNY Power Players: Women Leaders in Hospitality Breakfast

A Boutique Design magazine signature event, presented in collaboration with NEWH, this session brings together leaders across design, operations, investment, ownership, and purchasing for a lively, strategic discussion of industry challenges, opportunities, innovation, and development.

Speakers:

Julia Choi, Chief Operating Officer, Jeffrey Beers International​​

Chequetta Dessources, Vice President, Procurement, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts

Carrie Gates, Principal, Absolute Procurement

Danu Kennedy, Partner, Parts and Labor Design

Anne Lefferson, Director of Interior Design and Construction, Belmond

Mary Alice Palmer, Global Creative Director and Founding Principal, ROAM

Cori Tahara, Vice President of Real Estate and Development, MINA Group

Moderator: Alissa Ponchione, Editor-in-Chief, Boutique Design | Hospitality Design

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | BD Hub #2579

From Static to Sentient: Designing the Living Future of Hospitality

As AI, sensors, and biotechnology converge, spaces are becoming responsive ecosystems. This talk explores the dawn of “living intelligence” in design, where environments sense, learn, and adapt to human emotion.

Speaker: John Duffield, Futurist, TheJohnDuffield

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | BD Mainstage #101

Restoring a Legend: The Waldorf Astoria’s Path from Preservation to Progress

Explore how the Waldorf Astoria New York’s landmark restoration balanced historic preservation with modern design. This session uncovers the creative, technical, and approval process behind reimagining one of the city’s most iconic hotels for a new era.

Speakers:

Mike Brown, Project Manager, Cumming Group

Amy Jakubowski, Principal and Managing Director, PYR

Kelly O’Neill, Artcare Conservation

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

Moderator: Margaret McMahon, Global Practice Principal, Wimberly Interior

11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. | Châlet Après #255

The Development Story: The Rise of Residential in Hospitality

The lines between hospitality and residential living continue to blur. Industry leaders share how branded residences and extended-stay concepts are evolving to combine home comforts with hotel-level service, exploring the trends and consumer demands reshaping this fast-growing sector.

Speakers:

Bob Boulle, Vice President, Full Service Development, Marriott International

Stephanie Southerland, Director, Premium & Endorsed Brand Category, US & Canada, Marriott International

Roger Hill, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman, Gettys Group

Moderator: Rado Ivanov, Vice President of Global Design, US & Canada, Marriott International 

1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. | BD Hub #2579

Homegrown Luxury: Craft, Identity & Sustainability

Discover how domestically crafted products can reduce carbon impact, shorten lead times, and strengthen brand identity. This panel explores how sourcing local, handcrafted surfaces can align sustainability goals with design expression.

Speakers:

Allison Eden, CEO, Allison Eden Studios

Armen Alajian, CEO, Arto

Marc Spector, CEO, Spector Companies

Moderator: Aaron Dugas, Vice President of Sales, Arto

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | BD Mainstage #101

Green Is the New Gold: Making the Business Case for Sustainable Design

Sustainability in hospitality is most powerful when owners, designers, and operators work in sync from concept to operation. This panel explores how integrated, eco-forward design drives ROI, guest satisfaction, and lasting value.

Speakers:

Gordon Lee, Interior Design Principal, ForrestPerkins

Boris Gentine, Managing and Creative Director and Partner, Saguez & Partners

Valentina Castellon, Principal, DLR Group

Lori Mukoyama, Principal, Gensler

Moderator: Alissa Ponchione, Editor-in-Chief, Boutique Design | Hospitality Design

3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | BD Mainstage #101

Designers on Design Presented by ROOM

ROOM introduces the brand-new digital series ‘Designers on Design’ to BDNY featuring intimate conversations with today’s top design talents. The series launches with Paolo Ferrari of Studio Paolo Ferrari in conversation with Danu Kennedy, Partner at Parts and Labor Design.

Speakers: 

Paolo Ferrari, Founder and Principal, Studio Paolo Ferrari

Danu Kennedy, Partner, Parts and Labor Design

Moderator: Elyse Heckman, Senior Vice President, Brand and Communications, ROOM

3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | The Splash Pad #1873

A New Design Imperative: Living Venues

Hospitality is entering an era of continuous transformation. This discussion examines how designers and brands can fuse digital innovation with spatial design to create “living” venues—adaptive environments that evolve with guests, sustain relevance, and embody the future of experience.

Speakers:

Dorin Baul, Partner and Managing Director, HWKN

Andrew Lazarow, Studio Leader and Senior Associate, The Lab at Rockwell Group

Michelle Schrank, Strategy & Design Director, ICRAVE/Journey

Moderator: Will Speros, Editor, Workplace Design

SOCIAL & SIGNATURE EVENTS

Platinum Circle Awards Gala: November 7 at Cipriani 25 Broadway

Hospitality Design’s most prestigious celebration honors lifetime achievement in hospitality and design, bringing together the industry’s luminaries for an evening of recognition and inspiration. This year’s honorees include AvroKO, Flick Mars, Aliya Kahn, and Marcus Samuelsson, recognized for their lifetime achievements across the design and hospitality landscape.

Gold Key Awards: November 10 at Cipriani 42nd Street

The 45th annual Gold Key Awards celebrate design excellence across 24 categories, including Designer of the Year and Up-and-Coming Hotelier of the Year, spotlighting the industry’s most visionary work. The 2025 Up-and-Coming Hotelier of the Year honorees are Ben Weinberg and Mike Weiss, cofounders of Trailborn.

ABOUT BDNY

Boutique Design New York (BDNY) is the leading trade fair and conference for hospitality’s boutique and lifestyle design community. This two-day event annually brings designers, architects, purchasing agents, hoteliers, owners, and developers together with inventive manufacturers for hospitality interiors for a highly curated sourcing experience. For more information, visit www.bdny.com.

ABOUT EMERALD 
Emerald is a leader in building dynamic, market-driven business-to-business platforms that integrate live events with a broad array of industry insights, digital tools, and data-focused solutions to create uniquely rich experiences. As true partners, we at Emerald strive to build our customers’ businesses by creating opportunities that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. With over 140 events each year, our teams are creators and connectors who are thoroughly immersed in the industries we serve and committed to supporting the communities in which we operate.  For more information, please visit www.emeraldx.com.

DANIEL QUINTANILLA