The 22nd Annual HD Awards Celebrate Global Hospitality Design Excellence

The hospitality design industry convened virtually and in person for the 22nd annual HD Awards, a prestigious event that celebrates the year’s most innovative and impactful projects and products from across the globe. Hosted by Hospitality Design (HD) magazine, the ceremony, which this year saw nearly 475 attendees, took place on Tuesday, May 5th, at the Encore Resort at Wynn Las Vegas during the concurrent HD Expo 2026. The awards program, renowned for its rigorous selection process, received close to 1,200 submissions, underscoring the vast and dynamic nature of the hospitality sector. This year’s accolades recognized exceptional design achievements across a wide spectrum of hospitality categories, from sprawling luxury resorts to intimate boutique hotels, and groundbreaking product innovations that are shaping the future of guest experiences.

The coveted "Best in Show" awards set a high bar for excellence. The Standard, Brussels, was honored with the top prize in the projects category, a testament to its exceptional design and conceptualization. In the product arena, Kevin Barry Art Advisory’s art program for the Chamonix Casino Hotel was recognized with the "Best in Show" award, highlighting the critical role of art in elevating hospitality environments.

A Showcase of Global Design Prowess: Project Winners

The HD Awards’ project categories are meticulously curated to reflect the diverse landscape of the hospitality industry. This year’s winners represent a global tapestry of design thinking, from urban revitalizations to secluded retreats.

Lifestyle Hotels: Redefining Guest Experiences

In the fiercely competitive "Lifestyle Hotel" category, The Standard, Brussels, emerged as the winner. This triumph underscores the hotel’s successful fusion of contemporary design with a vibrant guest experience. The project was a collaborative effort, with interior design led by Bernard Dubois of Brussels, in partnership with Verena Haller and the Lifestyle Group’s Hyatt Design Team from New York. Architectural contributions came from Jaspers-Eyers Architects (Brussels), 51N4E (Brussels), and l’AUC (Paris). The project was developed by Befimmo and operated by Standard International, with Dynamo serving as the purchasing firm.

The category saw strong competition, with Hotel Daphne in Houston, Populus Seattle, and Hotel Albatross in Ocean Grove, New Jersey, all receiving finalist recognition. Hotel Daphne, designed by Bunkhouse Hotels, was lauded for its distinct aesthetic. Populus Seattle, featuring interiors by Curioso and architecture by The Miller Hull Partnership, was recognized for its innovative approach. Hotel Albatross, with interior design by Mapa Mueller and architecture by Mark Alexander Pavliv and Brendan McHugh, also demonstrated significant design merit.

The "Lifestyle Hotel Public Space" category crowned The Atlas Hotel in Boston as the winner. The design, spearheaded by INC Architecture & Design of New York, with architectural input from Marlon Blackwell Architects of Arkansas, impressed the judges with its sophisticated public areas. Tishman Speyer, as owner, and Highgate, as operator, alongside purchasing firm Benjamin West, were instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Populus Seattle and The Standard, Brussels, were also recognized as finalists in this sub-category, indicating their broad impact across different aspects of hotel design.

Upscale and Upper-Upscale Segments: Sophistication and Comfort

The "Upscale Hotel" category celebrated the Hyatt Centric Shanghai Zhongshan Park, a testament to Red Design’s interior vision and Sherman Kung & Associates Architects’ architectural prowess. This win highlights the growing demand for refined yet accessible accommodations in major global cities. Finalists in this segment included A by Adina Vienna Danube and Canal House of Georgetown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, showcasing a range of design approaches in the upscale market.

For "Upscale Hotel Public Space," The Sanderling Resort in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, took home the award. Ward + Gray’s interior design contributions, coupled with the resort’s stunning coastal location, clearly resonated with the judging panel. The finalists, including Kimpton Miralina Resort & Villas, Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, and Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson, all presented compelling public space designs that enhanced the guest journey.

The "Upper-Upscale Hotel" winner, The Nickel Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina, showcased a remarkable collaboration between Morris Adjmi Architects and Method Studios. This category often represents a critical nexus of luxury and value, and The Nickel Hotel’s success points to a design that balances sophisticated aesthetics with guest comfort and functionality. Finalists such as Hotel Saint Augustine, Hotel Indigo Hainan Clear Water Bay, TFT Chongqing, Vignette Collection, and OKU Andalusia, Spain, demonstrated the global reach and diverse styles within this segment.

Luxury and Midscale Tiers: Setting New Standards

In the prestigious "Luxury Hotel" category, Fairmont Tokyo was awarded the top honor. BAR Studio’s interior design, in collaboration with Maki and Associates’ architecture, created a property that epitomizes high-end hospitality. The competition was formidable, with Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Collection, in Florence, also being recognized as finalists for their opulent offerings.

The "Luxury Hotel Public Space" award went to Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay in Morocco, a project by Muza Lab and GCA Architects that exemplifies exotic elegance and sophisticated ambiance. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab and Fairmont Tokyo were also acknowledged as finalists, further cementing the high caliber of design in this segment.

The "Midscale Hotel" winner, Union Hotel in Toronto, designed by Frank Architecture, demonstrated that thoughtful design is not exclusive to higher-end properties. This category’s recognition of Union Hotel signifies a growing appreciation for well-executed, accessible design in the midscale market. Finalists ONTO Álvaro Obregón, The Compton, and Hotel Brookmere showcased varied design philosophies catering to the midscale traveler.

In "Midscale Hotel Public Space," Hyatt Union Square New York was recognized for its welcoming and functional design by Legeard Studio. This award highlights the increasing importance of engaging public spaces even in midscale properties. Spier Hotel and M Social Hotel New York Downtown were also noted for their strong public space designs.

Budget-Conscious and Niche Categories: Innovation at All Levels

The "Budget/Select Service Hotel" category saw Tiller House, Laguna Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, take home the prize, proving that design excellence can be achieved within budget constraints. Atwater Inc.’s interior design and HMR Architecture’s architectural work contributed to this success. Finalists AC Hotel by Marriott Bentonville and Hyatt Place Springdale / Zion National Park demonstrated that even select-service hotels can offer memorable guest experiences through smart design.

The "Budget/Select Service Hotel Public Space" award recognized Hyatt Place Springdale / Zion National Park, underscoring the importance of well-designed communal areas for travelers seeking value. AC Savannah Historic District and TownePlace Suites and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott were also lauded as finalists.

Guestroom and suite design are paramount to the guest experience. The "Guestrooms" award went to Desert Rock Resort in Saudi Arabia, with interior design by Studio Paolo Ferrari and architecture by Oppenheim Architecture. This project, along with the "Suites" winner, also Desert Rock Resort, highlights a trend towards immersive and luxurious private spaces in destination resorts. Hotel Wren and The Louie, a Davenport Hotel, were recognized as finalists in the Guestroom category, while Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna, Shebara Resort, and Four Seasons Hotel Milan were finalists for Suites.

The "Restorations, Transformations + Conversions" category celebrated Songtsm Travel Hotel Jiuzhai in China, recognizing the intricate work of Thinking Design and Lanting Design. This award underscores the industry’s commitment to breathing new life into existing structures, a crucial aspect of sustainable development. Mandarin Oriental Vienna and W Prague were also recognized as finalists for their successful transformations.

Specialized Hospitality Spaces: Beyond Traditional Hotels

The "Amenity Spaces" award recognized Oxenfree Princeton, Texas, for its innovative approach to communal areas, designed by Studio K Creative and Northworks. This category acknowledges the growing importance of shared amenities in fostering community and enhancing guest experiences. 300 Main Residential Tower, The Langham, and The Wendy were also finalists, showcasing diverse amenity designs.

Student Housing, a rapidly growing segment, saw Rambler Atlanta take the top honor, designed by LV Collective and Archie Bolden. This win reflects the increasing sophistication and design focus in student accommodation. Hub on Campus Tucson and Hub on Campus Knoxville were recognized as finalists.

The "Transportation" category awarded Oceania Cruises Allura for its exceptional interior design by Studio DADO. This award signifies the expanding definition of hospitality to include the transient spaces where guests spend their time.

The "Small Hotel" category saw a tie for the win, with Belden House & Mews in Connecticut and Hotel Sevilla in Mexico, both receiving accolades. Champalimaud Design’s work on Belden House & Mews and Zeller y Moye’s design for Hotel Sevilla showcased distinct yet equally impressive approaches to intimate hospitality. Hotel Wren and Hotel Albatross were recognized as finalists, highlighting the diverse appeal of smaller, boutique properties.

"Landscape + Outdoor Spaces" recognized The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, for its integration of the built environment with nature, a critical element in creating tranquil and inviting guest experiences. PIA Interior, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), Architects 49 Limited, and Shma Company Limited collaborated on this award-winning project. Frame Hotel – SoCo and The Standard, Pattaya Na Jomtien were also lauded as finalists.

In the competitive "Upscale Restaurant" category, Remy’s Loose in Rhode Island, designed by Studio Val valerius, was the winner. This award highlights the fusion of culinary excellence with sophisticated dining environments. Mamani, Lucia, Carbone Riviera, and CÉ LA VI London were recognized as finalists, showcasing a range of culinary and design concepts.

"Casual Restaurant" celebrated Testa Rossa in Pennsylvania, designed by Stokes Architecture + Design, for its approachable and stylish dining atmosphere. Super Peach, Papa San, Westmoreland, and CÉ LA VI London were finalists, demonstrating the breadth of design innovation in the casual dining sector.

The "Bar, Club + Lounge" winner, Mimi in Edmonton, Canada, designed by Ste Marie, captured the essence of contemporary social spaces. Swim Club, Kimpton Tsim Sha Tsui Hong Kong, Peridot, Jo’s Bar, and Filthy Martini Bar were recognized as finalists, each offering unique ambiances for patrons.

The "Resort" category honored ZOLAND·Emei in China, with design by Studio J. Bridgland, for its immersive and expansive retreat. Lagen El Nido, Rosewood Mandarina, and Desert Rock Resort were also recognized as finalists, showcasing the diverse and captivating designs of global resorts.

"New Brand Launch" celebrated Appellation in California, with interior design by EDG, highlighting the creation of a fresh and compelling hospitality identity. The River Electric was also a finalist, representing promising new ventures.

"Branded Residences" awarded Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Residences in Costa Rica, a project that exemplifies the luxury and service associated with top-tier hotel brands extending into residential living. Gensler and BAMO, along with 10 Design and Gensler, were key contributors. J.W. Marriott Reston Station was a finalist in this category.

The "Wellness + Wellbeing" award went to BASIN Glacial Waters in Banff National Park, Canada, a project by Matteo Thun & Partners that emphasizes health and relaxation. Bedrock Aquatics and Athletics at Moss, Smile House, Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, and Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur were recognized as finalists, underscoring the growing importance of wellness in hospitality design.

"Sustainable" design is a critical consideration, and 1 Hotel Melbourne was the clear winner, with interior design by ODO and Ward + Gray, and architecture by Fender Katsalidis. This award reflects a commitment to environmentally conscious practices in hospitality. Populus Seattle, Intercontinental the Red Sea, and Renaissance Amsterdam were also recognized as finalists for their sustainable initiatives.

The "Beyond Hospitality" category, which recognizes design excellence in non-traditional hospitality spaces, saw multiple winners: POP MART Bangkok ICONSIAM Flagship Store, Under the Reed Roof Guesthouses, Avenir Creative’s Design Studio, Korman Jewel House, Alice + Olivia Madison Avenue Flagship, and LucidWild Estate. This diverse group of winners highlights the pervasive influence of hospitality design principles across various commercial and experiential sectors.

"Hybrid Hospitality" awarded Everyman at the Whiteley, London, a testament to Fusion Design & Architecture’s innovative approach to integrating diverse functions within a single space. The Willow Play Cafe, Ballers, and Manifest were recognized as finalists.

The "Event Space" winner, The Loft at Lune 1860, designed by Studio Author, showcased a versatile and aesthetically pleasing venue. Fairmont Tokyo and J.W. Marriott Reston Station were also finalists in this category.

In the "Lodges + Camps" segment, andBeyond Suyian Lodge in Kenya, with interior design by Fox Browne Creative and architecture by Nicholas Plewman Architects and Michaelis Boyd Architects, was honored. This award celebrates designs that harmonize with their natural surroundings. AutoCamp Sequoia, Baines’ Lodge, and Birch Cabins were recognized as finalists.

"Members Club" awarded The Camel Club in Kentucky, designed by Jenny Bukovec Studio, for its sophisticated and exclusive atmosphere. Moss and Club 1902 were also finalists, highlighting the evolving nature of private club design.

The "Visual Identity" awards recognized Camp DeForest and the Uniforms at The Standard, Brussels. This category underscores the importance of cohesive branding and visual representation in creating a memorable guest experience. Mister Cheeks and ROW 34 were recognized as finalists.

"Student Project" highlighted the future of hospitality design with five outstanding student projects: Mt. Shootao Hotpot Restaurant by Jessie Wang, SENSA Hotel by Joy Xu, Mental Health Clinic Design – Bee Well by Monica Shemtov, Hospitality Design – Vespera by Monica Shemtov and Carleigh Hobberlin, and 361 Broadway – Adaptive Reuse Boutique Hotel by Nathan Beauchamp. These projects showcase the emerging talent and innovative thinking within design education.

Product Innovation: Shaping the Future of Hospitality

The HD Product Awards celebrated groundbreaking innovations that enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability of hospitality environments.

Categories of Excellence in Product Design

In "Accessories + Specialty Products," the Nestable Luggage Cart from Forbes Industries took the top prize, addressing practical needs with an elegant solution. RS Folding Monochrome and Toulon Shade Series were recognized as finalists.

"Architectural Solutions" honored Neolith ARCHITECTURAL from Neolith for its versatile and durable applications. R-WEAVE Retractable Fabric Pergola, Rubik, and Pantheon were also recognized for their innovative contributions.

The "Art" categories saw significant recognition. For "Art: Individual Piece," Breaching and Diving: Suspended Sculpture from Local Language and Art Deco Paper Relief from Soho Art Consulting were both awarded. In "Art: Program or Installation," Kevin Barry Art Advisory’s Chamonix Casino Hotel program, The Dearborn Inn from Farmboy Fine Arts, and Miraval Arizona Spa from Local Language were celebrated for their comprehensive art strategies.

"Bath" recognized Fireclay Bath Foundry from Fireclay Tile for its artisanal craftsmanship. Dearborn Universal Pop Down Sink Drain and Vue were also named finalists.

The "Casegoods + Furniture" award went to Rhine from HBF, showcasing exceptional furniture design. Vacia, Ballet, and Freda Dining Table were also acknowledged for their design merit.

"Flooring" celebrated Armstrong Flooring TimberTones Densified Hardwood from Armstrong Flooring, a brand of AHF Products, for its innovative material. Glassfall, Flow as Form, and Pathstone were also recognized.

In "Lighting," Lido by Ward + Gray from Boheme was the winner, highlighting sophisticated illumination design. Perla Sconce, Crystal Links, and Yvette Pendant were recognized as finalists.

"Outdoor Furnishings" honored the WRAP Seating Collection from Gloster for its innovative outdoor furniture solutions. Meridies Collection and Saturno Planter were also recognized.

The "Seating" award went to the Hiro Accent Chair from Workshop Collection, demonstrating a strong design for seating. Swage Collection was a finalist.

"Surfaces" recognized Trevino from TileBar for its unique material applications. Musea, Worn Clay Paver, and Opera Terracotta were also acknowledged.

"Sustainable Solutions" highlighted Xorel Luxe from Carnegie for its eco-friendly material. DOWN to Earth Organic Collection and Bioplates were recognized for their commitment to sustainability.

"Technology" awarded Moorgen x Steve Leung – Salute from Moorgen Smart Home, showcasing advancements in smart home integration for hospitality. ALMA was a finalist.

In "Textiles + Fabrics," Rodeo Leather from Demar Leather and Layered by Mark Grattan from HBF Textiles were dual winners, underscoring the quality and innovation in fabric design. Indulgence Collection was a finalist.

"Wallcoverings" celebrated Bucolique from Arte for its distinctive wall treatments. Eterna Nouveau and Studio Collection were recognized as finalists.

A special "Judges’ Award" was presented to the Stone Born Collection from Arto Brick, acknowledging its unique qualities and design impact.

Broader Impact and Future Trends

The 22nd annual HD Awards ceremony not only celebrated past achievements but also offered a glimpse into the future of hospitality design. The breadth of winning projects and products indicates a strong industry focus on guest experience, sustainability, and the integration of technology. The continued emphasis on wellness and biophilic design suggests a growing awareness of the impact of the built environment on well-being. Furthermore, the recognition of projects and products from diverse geographical locations underscores the global nature of the hospitality industry and the cross-pollination of design ideas. As the industry continues to evolve, the HD Awards serve as a vital platform for showcasing innovation and setting new benchmarks for excellence. The event’s success, both in terms of attendance and the caliber of submissions, reaffirms the enduring importance of thoughtful and impactful design in shaping memorable hospitality experiences worldwide.