The Interiors & Sources designer-led NYC Hotel Bus Tour provided a small group of accomplished designers the opportunity to take in some of the city’s newest and most decadent hotels while learning about the design from the firms who created the space. Zeftron nylon and mill partner PacifiCrest had the opportunity to co-sponsor this educational tour of luxury hotels in New York City.

The Manhattan luxury outing began at the Lighting by Gregory display space with an impressive view of “Trends in Hospitality Lighting.” It was a great way to get to know some of the reps from firms we’ve worked with in person.

Next was The Refinery, with a behind-the-scenes look at the rooftop bar presented by Stephanie Liu with Stonehill & Taylor. She spoke about embracing the industrial and raw aesthetic. There is a rustic greenhouse feel to the space. Lush greenery and the sound of water bring the outdoors in to guests. The Refinery guest rooms, entry and lobby juxtaposed that rustic feel perfectly. These spaces are sophisticated, classic and clean.

After the walkthrough of the Refinery, lunch and a presentation at Novotel located in the heart of Manhattan by Sara Duffy with Stonehill & Taylor. The electric feel of Times Square flows right into the lobby of this modern hotel. From the lighting to the art, every detail was an exciting new discovery.

The next stop was Archer New York, presented by Glen Coben of Glen & Co. The lobby evokes industrial elegance inspired by the 1940’s Garment District with exposed brick and steel, dotted with Chesterfield-style sofas and menswear inspired fabrics. Guest rooms featured wood floors, exposed brick headboard walls and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The entire tour inspired and enlightened the team. A few topics that stood out were: how designers are able to optimize the footage of small guest rooms, identify the lasting trends in the design of luxury hotel properties, the creation of public spaces that create a sense of “separate togetherness,” and creating a cohesive aesthetic through fabric, lighting and art.

As a co-sponsor, Zeftron was just as inspired by the presentations and magnificent hotels visited as the designers. It was truly a fun and educational day. Thank you to Interiors & Sources for putting on such a great event, and to the designers who attended for all the great feedback.