Top 7 Stops to Make While Visiting ICFF

Kimpton Hotel Theta | 790 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Multidisciplinary design and architecture firm, CRÈME / Jun Aizaki Architecture & Design, brings respite to the heart of New York City with the Kimpton Hotel Theta, managed by Highgate. Aptly inspired by the Theta brainwaves that are most present in moments of self-reflection and meditation, CRÈME adapted the existing building by architect and self-proclaimed modernist Morris Lapidus, to create a tranquil, urban oasis within its interiors. Kimpton Hotel Theta features a reimagined lobby, coffee lounge, market pantry, and fitness amenities, as well as 364 guestrooms and suites. Rooftop food and beverage venues are set to open this spring. Handmade materials focused on craft alongside art, books, objects, and a botanical layer coalesce in a residential quality of comfort. In the lobby, new structural forms act as portals to separate spaces for an inviting gathering place where culture and community connect.

Baby Brasa | 173 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014

Located in Manhattan’s West Village, this newly renovated 1,500 square foot, 80 seat restaurant is Baby Brasa’s star location. Founded in 2016 by restaurateur and television personality Franco Noriega, the design team at Wid Chapman Architects was given a brief described as “Euro chic mixed with a South American vibe,” resulting in a design heavily influenced by South American mid-century interiors. Accessed through an arched entrance, the black marble bar provides an elegant grounding point, complemented by neutral hues and the greens of tropical plants and velvet banquettes. Seating comprises midcentury wood/metal chairs, art deco olive and rust banquettes, and cane stools. Interior details include custom slatted walnut panel walls, a terrazzo floor, spare white lights with rattan light shades, and the fabric draped ceiling of the street-facing facade’s glass-roofed area.

Rottet Collection | 29 W 30th St, Sixth Floor, New York, NY 10001

Pay a visit to architect and interior designer Lauren Rottet's 3,900-sq.-ft. showroom in Manhattan where her Rottet Collection of furniture is the star. The furnishings are arranged in welcoming vignettes, decorated with Rottet’s complementary accessories styled with plantings, organic forms and contemporary art. Light, reflection and visual engagement are key components here. The blurring of indoor and outdoor is also on view with an organically inspired collection of marble and basalt offerings, including angled tables, planters, a fire pit and fountain. Rottet’s custom line of hide on hair rugs for Kyle Bunting and her Fascio Collection of lighting for Visual Comfort & Co. are showcased as well.

Hudson Yards

Theory

Be sure to check out what's new over at Hudson Yards, like Theory from dang Design and Architecture, located at 20 Hudson Yards Ste 128a, New York, NY 10001. From anecdotes from sales associates, tourists have stopped into Theory because they were intrigued by the poured concrete walls and minimalistic design because it aligns with their own minimal aesthetic, or it just makes them feel inspired to shop. These tourists had never heard of the brand prior to the visit but planned to shop online after discovering the space. Learn more here.

Emerging Designer Residency

Also at The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards will be the Emerging Designer Residency, presented by NYCxDesign and Arts Thread. The Emerging Designer Residency program supports the work of designers in the early stages of their careers. Erika Choe, Juliana Serna Mesa, Lilach Porges and Alexandra Soiseth are four recent graduates across design disciplines who will organize studios in a well trafficked, public commercial space to showcase their projects and work in progress. 

Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown | 2401 M St NW, Washington, DC 20037

The Magnolia Suite and Shenandoah Suite at Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown, was inspired by Washington’s grand architecture and lush parks. The renovated suites provide the ultimate escape to unwind and relax. The color scheme is fresh and bright to maximize the natural light; the walls in the living room and bedroom were painted white with additional wall trims for an elevated look. By contrast, the entries received a dark stained wood floor and gold wallcovering for drama. All new rich walnut and natural stone millwork, as well as plush inset carpet paired with new furniture in neutral and green accent fabrics provide a soft and residential feel. 

Chef Jose Garces' Amada Restaurants | 217-219 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

dash design, with a decade-long history with Garces Group, took a different approach for Amada Radnor. Garces handled logistics while dash dine provided concept and guidance. They transformed an existing space economically, focusing on entry and layout improvements. Collaborating closely, they achieved a distinctive, cost-effective design. Their partnership, though unconventional, delivered a unique dining experience true to both their reputations. 

Foxwoods Resort Casino | 350 Trolley Line Blvd., Ledyard, CT 06338

Finish off your trip by checking out the expansion of the Woodlands Casino, Foxwoods, now the world's largest casino resort, located in Mashantucket, Conn. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe owns and operates the resort and worked closely with ZDS Architecture to honor the Pequot heritage. The design celebrates the woodlands and Pequot symbols, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings of rolling hills. There are Pequot motifs intricately woven into the carpet, lighting and graphics.