AvroKO’s latest venture, HOST on Howard, is nestled in the vibrant SoHo district of New York City, offering far more than just a design showroom. The space invites visitors to immerse themselves in an atmosphere where hospitality intersects with art and design, focusing on shared human experiences. HOST’s environment, accentuated by moss and hunter green walls and sweeping arches, brings to life the theme of “The Paradisa,” a modern take on the concept of the Edenic garden.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Design Firm: AvroKO
Location: SoHo, New York City
Founding Partner: Kristina O’Neal
Highlighted Feature: Service Trolleys
Exhibition Theme: The Paradisa
HOST on Howard is a testament to AvroKO’s dedication to elevating the essence of hospitality. Kristina O’Neal, a Founding Partner and Principal of AvroKO, articulates how the venue underscores hospitality as both a gathering and a sense of belonging. The design elements, such as adjustable tables that cater to dining or cocktail settings and versatile screens that provide privacy or transform spaces, are intentional in fostering togetherness and enhancing social interactions, reflecting the company’s core philosophy.
Central to the exhibition are five intricately designed service trolleys, strategically displayed on vibrant jewel-toned platforms. These trolleys are not mere accessories but rather a fusion of functionality and artistry. They challenge conventional design classifications by transforming utilitarian service objects into coveted art pieces. This evolution showcases a significant shift in the design landscape, where practicality seamlessly merges with aesthetic appeal, inviting contemplation and admiration.
The horseshoe-shaped bar within HOST serves a dual purpose, acting as both a stylish showcase and a functional social hub. Beyond its visual appeal, the bar is an experimental space where AvroKO’s innovative approach to hospitality is brought to life. Equipped with high-end materials and seating for ten, it embodies the firm’s quest to redefine hospitality by making every guest feel special, considered, and at ease.
In addressing the evolving nature of hospitality furniture, AvroKO sees these tools as more than just service equipment. William Harris, a Partner at AvroKO, emphasizes the importance of invention in their design philosophy, reflecting two decades of exploration in creating pieces that foster comfort and delight in social settings. This vision is palpable in the design of HOST on Howard, which pushes boundaries and encourages a reimagination of how design can enhance shared experiences.
Overall, HOST on Howard epitomizes AvroKO’s mission to blend hospitality with innovative design, creating an environment where every detail contributes to shared human connections. Visitors are encouraged to experience firsthand how curated spaces and thoughtfully designed objects can transform everyday hospitality into extraordinary encounters. For further exploration, HOST on Howard can be visited online for a deeper dive into this unique melding of design and social artistry.
