The Enduring Spirit of Camaraderie: How a Post-9/11 Bond Forged INC Architecture & Design

Amidst the profound somberness that descended upon New York City in September 2001, a powerful sense of shared humanity and resilience emerged, forging bonds that would shape the future of architectural design. Drew Stuart, a pivotal figure in the founding of INC Architecture & Design, recalls the invaluable camaraderie that characterized those grim days. Then an intern at Tsao & McKown Architects, Stuart witnessed firsthand the exceptional leadership of Adam Rolston, who had hired him just a year prior. Rolston’s steady guidance in the immediate aftermath of the September 11th attacks served as a galvanizing force for the entire team. "It was one of those moments that cements everyone you are with," Stuart reflected, underscoring the deep connection that formed under duress.

The shared experience of navigating the crisis created unexpected alliances. Stuart, who had limited prior interaction with Gabriel Benroth, another Tsao & McKown intern and a fellow University of Cincinnati alumnus, found himself offering Benroth refuge when Lower Manhattan was evacuated. This act of kindness evolved into a deeper connection. Soon, Stuart, Rolston, and Benroth were not only sharing meals in the office but also engaging in regular discussions that laid the organic groundwork for the establishment of INC Architecture & Design in 2006. Twenty years later, this trio, with Rolston now serving as Creative and Managing Director and Benroth as Studio and Information Director, has steered INC to national prominence, tackling a diverse array of hospitality, residential, and commercial projects. Their portfolio boasts iconic landmarks such as the TWA Hotel, a masterful reimagining of Eero Saarinen’s mid-century modern terminal at JFK Airport, and more recent additions like Papa San, a Peruvian-Japanese restaurant situated within the striking Bjarke Ingels Group-designed Spiral tower in Hudson Yards, and the 529-room Kimpton Era Midtown New York hotel.

The firm’s reach extends far beyond the New York metropolitan area. The forthcoming Nashville EDITION Hotel & Residences, a 261-key, 84-condominium development slated to open in the Gulch district in 2028, exemplifies INC’s expanding influence. Furthermore, the firm is spearheading the design of Velvaere Park City in Utah, an ambitious 60-acre community centered around an extensive wellness facility, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency. This commitment to environmental stewardship is not merely aspirational; it is demonstrably integrated into the firm’s operations, as evidenced by their Climate Neutral Certification achieved in 2023. Hilary Kroll, appointed Sustainability Director and a partner in 2023 alongside Brand Director Tyler Kleck, is a driving force behind INC’s continued advancements in sustainable design practices. "We were trying to find ways to do this when systems didn’t exist," Rolston noted, "and now they do." This evolution reflects a broader shift in the architectural and design industry towards prioritizing ecological responsibility.

INC Architecture & Design’s journey from a post-9/11 nascent professional network to a recognized leader in innovative design is a testament to their collaborative spirit and forward-thinking approach. Their recent projects offer a compelling glimpse into the evolving landscape of hospitality and urban development, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of client needs and a dedication to creating spaces that are both aesthetically striking and functionally superior.

The Genesis of INC: Resilience Forged in Crisis

The events of September 11, 2001, remain etched in the collective memory of New York City and the world. The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, along with the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania, resulted in the tragic loss of nearly 3,000 lives and precipitated a period of profound national mourning and uncertainty. For those working in the heart of Manhattan’s financial district and surrounding areas, the immediate aftermath was characterized by chaos, fear, and an urgent need for support.

Drew Stuart, then a young architect at Tsao & McKown, found himself at the epicenter of this upheaval. The professional environment, usually focused on deadlines and design iterations, was suddenly overshadowed by the immediate human crisis. It was in this charged atmosphere that leadership, exemplified by Adam Rolston, became paramount. Rolston’s ability to provide direction and foster a sense of collective purpose amidst the fear and disruption was instrumental in maintaining a semblance of normalcy and providing a critical support system for the staff.

The shared vulnerability of the period transcended typical workplace hierarchies. Stuart’s offer of accommodation to Gabriel Benroth, a fellow intern he knew primarily through their shared alma mater, highlights the informal networks of support that sprang up organically. These acts of mutual aid and shared experience, often over simple meals, cultivated a deep sense of trust and mutual respect among Stuart, Rolston, and Benroth. This foundation of shared experience and nascent professional synergy proved fertile ground for future collaboration. The decision to formally establish INC Architecture & Design in 2006 was a direct outgrowth of the professional and personal connections forged in the crucible of 2001, signifying a commitment to building something lasting from the shared adversity. The firm’s subsequent success is a powerful narrative of how human connection and resilience can drive innovation and professional achievement.

INC’s Expanding Portfolio: From Iconic Landmarks to Sustainable Futures

In the years since its inception, INC Architecture & Design has cultivated a reputation for delivering projects that are both visionary and grounded in practical execution. Their work on the TWA Hotel, a meticulous restoration and adaptive reuse of Eero Saarinen’s iconic 1962 jet-age terminal, stands as a landmark achievement. The project involved not only preserving the historical integrity of the structure but also integrating modern amenities and hospitality functions to create a unique guest experience. The success of this endeavor, which opened in 2019, underscored INC’s ability to engage with complex architectural heritage while infusing it with contemporary relevance.

The firm’s recent ventures further demonstrate their versatility and commitment to pushing design boundaries. Papa San, located within the architecturally significant Spiral tower in Hudson Yards, exemplifies INC’s capacity to design within highly visible and architecturally ambitious urban settings. The restaurant’s Peruvian-Japanese fusion concept is reflected in a design that likely balances the vibrant culinary influences with the sophisticated urban backdrop. Similarly, the Kimpton Era Midtown New York, a substantial 529-room hotel, showcases INC’s expertise in large-scale hospitality development, catering to the dynamic needs of urban travelers.

Beyond New York City, INC is making a significant impact on the hospitality and residential landscape. The Nashville EDITION Hotel & Residences, a development of considerable scale, points to the firm’s ability to engage with diverse regional markets and project typologies. The project’s inclusion of both hotel accommodations and private residences suggests a sophisticated approach to mixed-use development, designed to serve a broad spectrum of occupants and visitors.

Perhaps most indicative of INC’s forward-looking vision is their involvement in Velvaere Park City, Utah. This expansive 60-acre community is conceived with sustainability at its core, featuring a prominent wellness center and an overarching commitment to energy conservation. The emphasis on environmental responsibility aligns with global trends in urban planning and development, positioning INC as a leader in designing for a more sustainable future. This commitment is solidified by their Climate Neutral Certification, a significant benchmark for any organization striving for environmental accountability. The strategic integration of sustainability into their core business practices, championed by figures like Hilary Kroll, reflects a growing industry imperative.

Spotlighting Innovation: Three Signature INC Projects

INC Architecture & Design’s commitment to innovation and client collaboration is vividly illustrated in a selection of their recent and upcoming projects, each offering a distinct perspective on contemporary design challenges and opportunities within the hospitality sector.

Manifest: A Multifaceted Social Hub in Washington, D.C.

Manifest, a unique concept conceived by K.J. Hughes, has evolved into a distinctive social destination in Washington, D.C., with INC Architecture & Design playing a crucial role in its expansion and refinement. The initial iteration, Manifest 001, debuted in the Adams Morgan neighborhood in 2021, designed by Snarkitecture. This initial phase set a tone of an inviting social club atmosphere. INC’s subsequent involvement with Manifest 002 in the Union Market district represents a significant expansion and a more integrated approach to the brand’s vision.

Manifest 002 masterfully blends a variety of functions, creating a dynamic environment that caters to diverse needs and desires. The inclusion of a barbershop, café, retail space, lounge, bar, speakeasy, and private dining area underscores a holistic approach to community building and social engagement. This multi-faceted programming reflects a growing trend in hospitality towards creating "third places" – environments that serve as extensions of home and work, fostering social connection and offering a range of experiences.

The design of Manifest 002, as described by Rolston, emphasizes a "relational act," where design becomes a conduit for understanding, exchange, and engagement. The barbershop, a central element, is housed within a glass pavilion, drawing the eye and serving as a visual anchor within a larger vaulted space. The choice of a sage hue for the main area contributes to a sense of calm and sophistication, while the soaring 14-foot ceilings create an atmosphere of openness and grandeur. The juxtaposition of the stylized "temple" of the barbershop within this larger volume creates a compelling dialogue between intimacy and exhibition.

Descending via a mauve-lacquered spiral staircase leads guests into a sequence of more secluded and intimate spaces. Here, the design employs a rich palette of shifting colors—ochre, emerald, and rose—accentuated by undulating walls, platinum leaf detailing, and polished concrete floors. This deliberate progression of color and texture creates a sensory journey, with hues becoming progressively richer and darker as one moves deeper into the space. Rolston aptly describes the design as an "occupiable sculpture that unfolds as you move through it," emphasizing the dynamic and experiential nature of the architecture. This intricate layering of design elements aims to translate conceptual ideas into a tangible, immersive environment that encourages exploration and discovery.

Super Peach: A Vibrant Culinary Experience in Los Angeles

The collaboration between INC Architecture & Design and renowned chef David Chang has yielded distinctive hospitality spaces, most notably Super Peach in Los Angeles. This project builds upon INC’s earlier success with Momofuku Noodle Bar Uptown, a testament to their ability to evolve and reinterpret established culinary brands. Chang’s directive for Super Peach was to create a dining experience that felt both mature and vibrantly contemporary, reflecting a new chapter for his culinary ventures.

Super Peach is characterized by a bold and dynamic color palette, featuring a grounding green on the lower half of the dining room that gives way to striking peach-orange tones above. This chromatic interplay creates a sense of depth and energy, evoking the visual appeal of a sunset captured on a vintage poster, as noted by Rolston. The integration of a kinetic split-flap board, reminiscent of mid-century airport signage, adds a nostalgic and playful element, while the use of concrete and plywood lends an industrial edge to the overall aesthetic.

The design strategically places diners in direct proximity to the open kitchen, reinforcing Chang’s signature theatrical approach to dining. INC amplified this by incorporating backlit panels above the bar, designed to resemble a stage with mood lighting emanating from bespoke mesh canopies. This creates an immersive culinary theater, where the preparation of food becomes an integral part of the guest experience.

A key design priority for Super Peach was the maximization of natural light. Subtle use of stainless steel along the back walls, treated with a satin finish, serves not only as a decorative element but also as a reflective surface that amplifies ambient light and captures the dynamic activity within the space. The initial intention to transform the stainless steel into a more elaborate decorative feature was ultimately superseded by a desire for its pure reflective quality, which proved sufficient to enhance the overall atmosphere. Rolston’s sentiment, "That’s enough," encapsulates the project’s refined approach to materiality and its focus on achieving a desired effect through understated means. This project exemplifies INC’s ability to translate a chef’s vision into a visually compelling and experientially rich dining environment.

Atlas Hotel: A Nexus of Academia and Community in Boston

Situated within Boston’s burgeoning Allston neighborhood, adjacent to the esteemed Harvard Business School and across the Charles River from Harvard University’s historic Cambridge campus, the Atlas Hotel emerges as a pivotal new destination. INC Architecture & Design has envisioned the Atlas Hotel not merely as an accommodation for visitors and conference-goers, but as a vital "third place"—a civic living room designed to foster connections among a diverse constituency of students, professors, residents, and academic visitors.

Developed by Tishman Speyer, a firm with whom INC has a proven track record of collaboration, evidenced by their work on Rockefeller Center’s rink-level concourse in New York, the Atlas Hotel signifies a commitment to building enduring professional relationships. Operated by Highgate and housed within a structure designed by Marlon Blackwell Architects, the hotel is set to become a vibrant hub, featuring Ama at the Atlas restaurant by Pearl & Law Hospitality Group, a forthcoming rooftop terrace, and 246 thoughtfully designed guestrooms.

The overarching objective for the Atlas Hotel, according to Rolston, was to cultivate "a comfortable, updated collegiate feel that would also draw an international audience." This delicate balance is achieved through a considered materiality and design sensibility. The lobby features a striking, "beautifully structured wood ceiling" crafted from white oak, complemented by a bronze-toned aluminum vestibule and a travertine reception desk. This combination evokes a sense of "New England restraint," a subtle nod to the region’s architectural heritage.

The integration of art is another crucial element in creating a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere. Works by artists such as Lily Stockman, Crystalle Lacouture, and Damien Hoar de Galvan are thoughtfully juxtaposed with petite lamps and soft textiles, contributing to a tactile richness that enhances the guest experience. Rolston highlights the tactility and richness as particularly rewarding aspects of the project, noting, "We don’t get to do that often." This emphasis on sensory experience, on the feel and quality of materials, underscores INC’s dedication to creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply inviting and memorable. The Atlas Hotel stands as a testament to INC’s ability to create environments that are both contextually relevant and universally appealing, bridging academic rigor with social dynamism.