Boutique Design has named Studio Paolo Ferrari as its 2025 Designer of the Year, an honor presented in conjunction with the 45th annual Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design.
Founded in 2016 by principal designer Paolo Ferrari, the Toronto-based studio is known for crafting immersive, deeply considered environments that feel distinctive and enduring. The firm’s portfolio includes hospitality, retail, and residential work for both established and emerging luxury brands.
Over his career, Ferrari has collaborated with numerous high-end brands—including Accor, Raffles, Four Seasons, Auberge Resorts, 1 Hotels, and LVMH. That experience informs the studio’s elevated yet human design approach. Today, Studio Paolo Ferrari’s work spans North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

The lobby of Desert Rock resort, part of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea development
As a 2025 Gold Key finalist in multiple categories for its work on Saudi Arabia properties Shebara Resort and Desert Rock, and with various award-winning projects over the last several years, Studio Paolo Ferrari was selected by the BD editorial team to receive this honor and recognized by this year’s Gold Key judging panel for its user-centric philosophy and ability to infuse both artistry and functionality into every space.
Join us on November 10th as we honor Studio Paolo Ferrari during the Gold Key Awards gala at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York, marking the grand finale of BDNY 2025. Tickets are selling fast—purchase yours today!
And stay tuned for an interview with Paolo Ferrari in the Winter 2025/26 issue of Boutique Design magazine.

Long Bar & Terrace at the Raffles Boston, the 2024 Gold Key Awards winner in the Bar, Club, Lounge category