The Alchemist
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. The teams from Mirra, AJ Capital Partners, Lark Hotels and Hilton, along with design leaders from Harken Interiors and The Gettys Group, shared their insights about the future of restaurant and hospitality design.
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.
The design embraced a modern interpretation of traditional elements, directly referencing the ancient practice of alchemy – the transformation of base materials into precious metals. This concept was expressed through mixed metals, modern takes on traditional patterning and a rich, sophisticated color palette. Serving as a clear north star throughout the process, the concept guided every design decision to ensure consistency and impactful design.
Through this project, we had the opportunity to design custom furniture and lighting pieces, and even develop new materials with our partners. Our branding team also developed The Alchemist brand – seamlessly integrating brand and environment to deliver a fully immersive experience. From logos and signage to curated details and staff uniforms, every touchpoint was thoughtfully designed to tell a cohesive story and leave a lasting impression from the moment guests arrived.
Partners
The Alchemist provided an opportunity to work with several incredible partners. Collaborating with us on this concept, they lent their time, expertise, products, and resources to make this concept a reality. Partnership with our sponsors was marked by clear communication and a deep respect for their expertise. We relied on their guidance to develop custom specifications with feasibility, materiality, and temporary exhibition design in mind. The result of the space is a testament to the seamless integration of our sponsor’s capabilities and our collective creativity. Thank you very much to all of our partners!
