Modern hospitality is moving beyond luxury to embrace culture, authenticity and a true sense of place. Travellers now seek experiences rooted in local identity, from architecture inspired by regional craft to culinary immersion such as olive harvests or sake brewing. Staff act as cultural ambassadors, while partnerships with artisans preserve heritage and support local communities. As wellness and travel intersect with tradition and craft, hospitality is shifting towards meaningful connection and belonging.
HFA Architecture + Engineering has acquired Boston-based life sciences specialist TRIA, marking its formal entry into the Science + Technology sector. The move brings TRIA’s laboratory and biomanufacturing design expertise into HFA’s national architecture and engineering platform, strengthening its ability to serve biotech, pharmaceutical and research clients across the US while expanding its geographic footprint.
The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has appointed RYBAK Development to lead the next phase of housing development at Coney Island West. The project, named Tilyou Towers in honour of Steeplechase Park founder George C. Tilyou, will transform “Parcel A,” an 80,000-square-foot city-owned lot, into more than 500 mixed-income residences, including 25 percent affordable units, alongside retail space and modernised public parking facilities.
Dubai developer Nakheel, part of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has released an exclusive range of luxury waterfront villas at Palm Jebel Ali, signalling further progress in the development of one of the emirate’s most ambitious island communities. The launch features 11 architecturally distinct villa styles within The Beach and The Coral Collections, designed in partnership with international architectural studios and offering direct beachfront access along with expansive Arabian Gulf views.
W Hotels has unveiled the fully transformed W Hoboken, redefining the luxury waterfront property as a cultural and social hub overlooking the Manhattan skyline. Drawing inspiration from Hoboken’s maritime heritage, the redesign showcases modern design, local influences, and W’s signature bold energy.
MERED has announced a collaboration with Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron for the Riviera Residences, a landmark development on Abu Dhabi’s Al Reem Island. Featuring over 400 apartments and 12 bespoke villas, the project draws on the city’s pearl-diving heritage and will debut in November 2025.
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