How Manufacturers at BDNY Are Elevating Their Game

In the vibrant heart of Manhattan, Boutique Design New York (BDNY) 2024 returned last week to the Javits Center, offering a platform that combined inspiration, networking, and innovation. Over the course of two days, more than 15,700 attendees and exhibitors gathered to explore the future of boutique and lifestyle hospitality design. The show has also become a proving ground for manufacturers eager to make a mark in the boutique hospitality industry, and the contract furniture sector. The event’s 2024 edition showcased nearly 780 exhibitors, including 140 first-time participants, all competing to capture the attention of designers, architects, and developers seeking the next big thing in hospitality design. With a 5% increase in qualified attendees compared to 2023 — BDNY reaffirmed its status as a cornerstone of creativity in the global hospitality industry, and becoming a serious contender for manufacturers who are wanted to connect with an architecture and design-driven audience.

In a highly competitive market, manufacturers are raising the bar with innovative products, cutting-edge technologies, and a renewed focus on sustainability and customization. This year’s event also highlighted how hospitality trends are extending their influence beyond hotels, impacting sectors like healthcare, residential development, retail, and even urban planning. Here’s how exhibitors are elevating their game to stand out in the crowded field at BDNY:

Merging Technology with Design

Manufacturers at BDNY are embracing the growing role of technology in hospitality design, offering products that combine aesthetic appeal with high-tech functionality. From smart furniture to app-controlled lighting systems, exhibitors are responding to the increasing demand for seamless, tech-enabled experiences in hotels and other hospitality spaces.

• Stern Engineering introduced patented Touchless Cubicles by optimizing surface hygiene and minimizing the risk of cross-contamination. The floor-to-ceiling partitions provide complete privacy and create a safe environment for users, making them ideal for gender-neutral bathrooms, and the cubicles are equipped with the Top Occupancy Indicator, integrated into the handle and lock, positioned intuitively where people naturally look. These LED indicators are easily seen from a distance, allowing users to quickly check occupancy status, promoting social distancing and reducing the need to approach doors closely. 

• Kohler displayed their Veil smart toilet which uses cutting-edge technology to provide comfort features including integrated bidet functionality in a seamless manner, packaging these personal hygiene features in a design that is both unassuming and approachable. A full suite of convenient features includes a heated seat, nightlight, hands-free opening/closing and automatic flush, plus a touchscreen remote. Pump-assisted flushing delivers peak flush performance every time. 

• Safemark Fridom minibar elevates the minibar from obscurity to prominence, transforming it into a striking centerpiece that captures attention and defies gravity, making it perfect for wall-mounted or recessed installations. By floating above the floor, it liberates valuable ground space, adding a sense of openness to any room. 

Technology is no longer an afterthought in hospitality—it’s an integral part of creating memorable guest experiences. At BDNY, manufacturers are demonstrating how design and tech can work together to elevate a brand’s identity and streamline operations.

Prioritizing Sustainability Without Sacrificing Style

With sustainability now a top priority for hospitality brands, manufacturers are innovating in materials, processes, and product lifecycles to meet stringent environmental goals. At BDNY, exhibitors highlighted eco-conscious solutions that are as stylish as they are sustainable.

• Arteriors, a leading name in luxury lighting and furniture, unveiled the Melt Entry Table by Workshop/APD for Arteriors which is composed of a white marble top and limewash wood entry table plays that creates a sense of airy lightness through an intentional vertical reveal. 

• HBF Textiles showcased Moments of Wander collection which reconnects us with nature even within the confines of our interior spaces. The three indoor/outdoor textile designs were a hit among designers looking for stylish and eco-friendly options for high-traffic areas. 

• Mobello introduced the Sagrada Dining Chair which fuses modern craftsmanship with European heritage, and is handcrafted from responsibly sourced European wood, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability and timeless elegance. 

• Room & Board for Business expanded their Urban Wood Project in partnership with Storm Trees in Minnesota. With the expansion of the project, the Graft collection of tables is now available to residential and commercial markets in reclaimed white oak, exemplifying Room & Board’s ongoing commitment to being a sustainability leader that makes a positive impact. “Our collaboration with sustainable partners across America diverts urban wood from landfills and creates a circular supply chain,” says Emily McGarvey, Director of Sustainability for Room & Board. 

Exhibitors also highlighted the trend of adaptive reuse, showing how salvaged materials can be transformed into bespoke furniture, lighting, and finishes. By embracing sustainable practices, manufacturers are helping the hospitality industry meet the demands of environmentally conscious travelers while maintaining the high aesthetic standards boutique brands require.

Offering Customization to Meet Unique Design Needs

Customization has become a cornerstone of boutique hospitality design, as hotels and restaurants strive to offer one-of-a-kind experiences. Manufacturers at BDNY are stepping up to meet this demand with products and services that allow designers to tailor every detail to a specific project.

• Lladro offers a customization lighting program that allows designers to customize and transform porcelain into a wide variety of lamps and chandeliers through an artisanal process that offers different options in forms and colors. 

• Nani Marquina customization program consists of a new collection of sustainable, smooth and highly functional rugs designed especially for projects. With more than 250 combinations, the company can help you choose the indoor or outdoor solution that best fits your space through a combination of 30 different colors and 8 weaving techniques.   

• Mayer Fabrics launched several new fabric collections that attracted a lot of attention with designers, but the company also offers custom digital printing service for textiles, giving designers the ability to create exclusive patterns and colors that align with a property’s branding. The company can provide custom colors in existing patterns; custom construction of existing patterns; and custom designs for upholstery for upholstery fabric, vinyl, faux leather, drapery, panels, and cubicles. 

• Tarkett Hospitality showcased their Sculpted Silhouette custom rug which crafts a bespoke experience that touches the senses with quiet luxury. Customers can choose from Axminster woven, Digital Dye Injection, or tufted constructions, along with a variety of fiber types, textures, colors, and pile weights, and the designs can also be made into custom rugs to enhance guest rooms, lobbies, and other open spaces.

By offering customization at scale, manufacturers are enabling designers to craft spaces that reflect the unique personality of each property, helping brands differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market.

Emphasizing Durability and Functionality for High-Traffic Spaces

Hospitality spaces like hotel lobbies, restaurants, and guest rooms demand products that can withstand heavy use while maintaining their visual appeal. At BDNY, manufacturers showcased innovations that combine durability with cutting-edge design. 

• Shaw Hospitality, presented Awaken, an award-winning collection of rugs and broadloom that celebrates the convergence of traditional and digital art forms and the process of artistic creation. Each pattern in this collection is a testament to the harmonious melding between human intuition and technological innovation, and the carpets have built-in stain and wear resistance, designed to endure high foot traffic in public areas. 

• TUUCI, known for its high-performance outdoor umbrellas and shading systems, displayed products made from marine-grade materials, perfect for rooftop bars and poolside lounges in boutique hotels. The new Ocean Master Voilare parasol design, space 20 feet in diameter and includes a 5.25-inch mast which aids and defends against the wind and is available in a wide range of colors.

By focusing on functionality, manufacturers are addressing one of the biggest pain points for hospitality designers: creating spaces that look beautiful but are also built to last.

Leveraging Partnerships and Collaborations

Partnerships between manufacturers and designers were a recurring theme at BDNY, with many exhibitors teaming up with top talent to create exclusive collections that cater to the boutique hospitality market.

• Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering unveiled its latest line of wallcovering designs, partnering with American artist, fashion designer and illustrator Rebecca Moses, many designs drawing key elements from two of Moses’ portraits, “The Queen” and “Kimono Lady”, resulting in 10 distinct wallcovering prints 

• Maya Romanoff partnered with designer Lauren Rottet and Rubelli where Rottet displayed custom products such as the Artis chair in Bone Mohair and the Float C Table, and then during the fair, Lauren Rottet and TK Rubelli led a tour from the Maya Romanoff booth to other booths that the designer found interesting to the architecture and design crowd.  

• To mark its 120th anniversary, Noritake introduced the Noritake Design Collection, a collaborative initiative led by its chief creative director Yuichiro Hori, consisting of a series of collaborations with a global roster of contemporary designers, starting with Yabu Pushelberg. Their collection called Hoshikage–Japanese for “hidden star”—and according to the designers this collection transforms meals into moments of astral connection, “reminding us of the magic that exists both in the universe and on our dining tables.” 

These collaborations not only elevate the profile of manufacturers but also provide designers with fresh, innovative options that align with current trends.

Responding to the Rise of Experiential Design

As experiential design continues to dominate hospitality, manufacturers are introducing products that go beyond form and function to evoke emotion and create memorable moments.

• Phillip Jeffries displayed Soft Surrounds which consists of a large-scale, modern geometric pattern that is meticulously crafted into a 3-dimensional design with sound absorption qualities and a stain repellent finish. It is ideal for ceiling or wall installation for a quiet luxurious feel that provides an elevated modern experience. 

• Bover showed Kando lighting based on a Japanese term that captures the deep emotion and satisfaction experienced in the presence of something exceptionally valuable, is the essence of their lamps which emit a warm, inviting light, filtered through a ribbon for indoor use or a nautical cord for outdoor use, materials that make up its shade. The fixtures double almost as art installations, perfect for creating Instagram-worthy moments in lobbies and restaurants.

These experiential elements are especially important in boutique hospitality, where every detail contributes to the overall guest narrative.

Crafting Experiences: The Rise of Narrative-Driven Design

At BDNY, the emphasis on storytelling in design was clear. Modern hospitality is no longer simply about functionality or aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that tell a story and evoke emotion. BDNY’s signature Designed Spaces exemplified this trend. Collaborations between leading designers and manufacturers transformed areas of the convention floor into immersive environments that captured the essence of modern boutique design.

• Serendipitous Encounters by BLUR Workshop encapsulated the magic of discovery through design, combining architectural precision with elements of surprise. BLUR’s mix of interior and architectural expertise aims to craft spaces that challenge conventional boundaries, a fitting metaphor for today’s experience-driven world. 

• Sobremesa by Curioso, inspired by the Spanish custom of lingering around the table, offered an intimate yet dynamic setting for collaboration and connection. Curioso, known for its experiential projects, showcased how design can foster conversation and spark creativity.

• Hidden Gem by Parker-Torres Design explored nature’s artistry through geode-inspired interiors, capturing the beauty of imperfection and individuality. The Boston-based firm continues to push the envelope with luxurious and thoughtful designs that resonate emotionally with guests.

These immersive spaces not only inspired attendees but also highlighted how narrative-driven design principles are reshaping other industries. Retail, for example, is increasingly adopting hospitality’s focus on storytelling, as brands like Apple, Restoration Hardware, and Lululemon integrate experiential design elements into their flagship stores. Likewise, office spaces are being transformed into environments that reflect wellness and community, influenced by the aesthetics and functionality of boutique hotels.

Blending Residential and Hospitality Design: The Rise of Hybrid Spaces

One of the most significant trends explored at BDNY 2024 was the growing convergence of residential and hospitality design. Branded residences, where luxury apartments are managed by hotel brands, are becoming increasingly popular among affluent buyers. These developments offer the best of both worlds: the privacy and comfort of home paired with the amenities and services of a five-star hotel.

Companies like Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Aman Resorts are leading the charge in this space, creating residences that prioritize wellness, design, and convenience. At BDNY, a session on blending luxury and living delved into how these spaces are being tailored to meet the demands of modern consumers. Panelists highlighted features such as wellness-focused amenities, biophilic design, and communal areas that foster a sense of community.

This hybrid approach is also influencing the growing co-living market, where private apartments are complemented by shared amenities like kitchens, lounges, and coworking spaces. Firms like The Collective and Ollie are redefining urban living with properties that prioritize community and connection, borrowing heavily from hospitality design principles.

Hospitality’s Cross-Sector Influence: A Comfort Revolution

Perhaps the most compelling takeaway from BDNY 2024 was how hospitality design principles are reshaping other industries. Airports, for example, are adopting lounge-like waiting areas, as seen in Delta’s new Sky Club designs. Healthcare facilities are incorporating spa-inspired elements to create more soothing environments, while modern workplaces are embracing hotel-like amenities to foster collaboration and well-being.

Even education is being influenced by hospitality design. Universities are investing in dormitories and student centers that feel more like boutique hotels, complete with communal lounges, curated interiors, and wellness-focused amenities. This reflects a broader cultural shift toward prioritizing comfort and experience in every aspect of life.

The Future of Trade Shows

As BDNY continues to grow, its success raises questions about the future of traditional design trade shows like ICFF and AIA. While ICFF remains a valuable platform for showcasing contemporary furniture and materials, its broad focus may struggle to compete with BDNY’s targeted approach and dynamic programming.

Indeed ICFF’s traditional anchor exhibitors like ICEX/Interiors from Spain and Ceramics of Italy have left that show and instead have focused on increasing their presence at BDNY.

“BDNY was very good,” said Carlos Galtier, a representative from ICEX, which had 33 companies at the fair. “And we expect to grow even more next year.” Galtier observed that traffic was busiest on Sunday, with Monday being less so but that the quality of visitors was excellent. “Most brands noted that they made more leads than in previous editions of the show,” he added. Galtier also reported that some of his companies felt that because of the increased numbers of visitors they would recommend extending the trade show for maybe another half day so that people could spend more time at the fair.

Next year, ICEX has plans to exhibit at HD Expo, and probably at Fulton Market Design Days, but not ICFF or NeoCon.

To stay relevant, ICFF may need to consider adopting some of BDNY’s strategies, such as hosting more specialized events, incorporating immersive exhibits, and tailoring programming to address the unique needs of niche markets. By doing so, it could regain some of the ground it has lost to BDNY in recent years.

Elevating Hospitality Through Innovation

BDNY has become a launchpad for manufacturers to showcase how they are not only keeping up with trends but actively driving the future of hospitality design. By merging technology with design, prioritizing sustainability, embracing customization, and focusing on durability and storytelling, exhibitors are offering solutions that align with the evolving needs of boutique hotels, restaurants, and resorts.

As the competition among trade shows intensifies, BDNY’s role as a platform for innovation ensures that manufacturers continue to push boundaries, inspiring designers and developers to create spaces that define the next generation of hospitality experiences.