Boutique Design New York is the premier tradeshow for hospitality design, and this year we were honored to create The Alchemist as the show’s Dine & Design booth. Designed as a fully functioning cafe, the space also hosted live panel discussions throughout the conference. Welcoming experts in both hospitality and dining, the Aria team shared insights on gathering inspiration, building a brand concept, and the future of hospitality.

Inspired by the ancient art of alchemy, The Alchemist reimagined the dining experience as a place where story, design, and materiality converge. Just as chefs and mixologists elevate simple ingredients into something memorable, Aria transformed ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Elevating a simple lunch break, the space channeled transformation through layered textures, sculptural portals, and reflective surfaces — bringing life and intrigue into the space. Storytelling and operational function came together to create purposeful, memorable hospitality.