Designer Brandon Blackwood brings bold fashion to the skies, Tadao Ando reveals Naoshima New Museum of Art in Japan, and restaurants are reviving old-school hospitality. All that and more in this week’s Five on Friday.
Designer Brandon Blackwood teams up with American Airlines
The Brandon Blackwood Premium Economy Kit; photo courtesy of Lexi Lambro/American Airlines
American Airlines is elevating its in-flight experience this summer with a limited-edition collection of amenity kits designed by fashion designer Brandon Blackwood, whose statement-making pieces have been worn by stars like Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion. Blackwood brings his style to the skies with three exclusive pouch designs, which will be available from mid-June through September. Premium economy travelers will receive a blue-and-white checkered pouch, while those in business class will be treated to a black pouch with red accents. First-class passengers will be gifted a denim mini Portmore bag—a homage to the style that helped define Blackwood’s brand 10 years ago. “Being a first to do something is always such a milestone, especially at this scale,” Blackwood told Travel + Leisure of the opportunity as a Black designer to work with a brand like American Airlines. “Every first my brand has done has helped spotlight other brands of those that look like myself. It gives hope, spreads awareness, and shows that there is so much overlooked talent that’s waiting to show up and show out.”
Tadao Ando unveils a cultural landmark in Japan
Naoshima New Museum of Art; photo by GION
The Naoshima New Museum of Art is the latest addition to Benesse Art Site Naoshima, a cultural initiative spanning more than three dozen museums and projects across the islands of Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, writes Wallpaper. Designed by Tadao Ando, the museum is the first dedicated to contemporary Asian art and is meant to highlight Japan’s cultural and geopolitical ties to Asia. Set partly underground and clad in materials that reference local architectural traditions—such as black plaster inspired by burned-cedar and pebble walls reminiscent of Honmura village homes—the museum is designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape. A dramatic central staircase, strategically placed skylights, and a sea-view café further enhance the visitor experience. The museum launches with From the Origin to the Future, an exhibition featuring works by 12 artists and collectives, including notable names like Cai Guo-Qiang, Takashi Murakami, Do Ho Suh, and Pannaphan Yodmanee.
Old-school hospitality makes a comeback
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
In London’s King’s Cross, the Yellow Bittern defies modern dining norms with an unapologetic analog approach. Run by Hugh Corcoran, the 18-seat cash-only restaurant has two lunchtime seatings, weekdays only. Reservations are required, and they must be made by phone or postcard, writes Food & Wine. Corcoran’s Dickensian charm and hands-on style, along with support from business partner Lady Frances von Hofmannsthal and bookshop curator Oisín Davis, creates an atmosphere of intimate hospitality that’s nostalgic and rare. Across the pond, Eulalie in New York’s Tribeca neighborhood echoes the same ethos. Owners Chip Smith and Tina Vaughn maintain handwritten reservations and focus solely on dinner service, favoring relaxed pacing over table turnover. Despite slim profit margins, they prioritize human connection. “We are here to take care of you,” Vaughn says.
Luxury airport hotels take off
Grand Hyatt at SFO by BraytonHughes Design Studios (now DLR Group); photo by Paul Dyer
Luxury airport hotels, like the Grand Hyatt SFO and Westin Denver International, are seeing growing demand as travelers prioritize convenience, comfort, and elevated amenities—despite hefty nightly rates often approaching $500, reports The Wall Street Journal. Offering more than just proximity to airport terminals, the properties boast features like upscale dining, plush bathrobes, craft cocktails, and runway views, appealing to both business and leisure travelers. The Grand Hyatt SFO, for example, recently posted its highest occupancy and ADR since opening in 2019, outperforming the wider San Francisco hotel market. The Westin Denver has also seen rate increases and high occupancy. In Dallas, the 20-year-old Grand Hyatt DFW begins its $34 million renovation in July. Casper van Eldik Thieme, GM of the Grand Hyatt, says the hotel’s location, triple-pane windows, blackout curtains, F&B attract repeat customers. “You say, this is how I want to travel,’’ he points out.
Enter the 2025 Gold Key Awards!
The Rockwell Group-designed Coqodaq, a finalist in the Upscale Restaurant category in the 44th annual Gold Key Awards; photo by Jason Varney
Boutique Design magazine is now accepting entries for the 45th annual Gold Key Awards. Celebrating exceptional design across 24 categories, the competition recognizes innovation in hotel, restaurant, wellness, and specialty spaces, including areas like Design at Sea and Next-Gen Housing. The entry deadline is August 1st, with a $235 fee. Learn more and enter today! Winners will be revealed and finalists will celebrated at a gala event on November 10th held at Cipriani 42nd Street during BDNY. The evening will also highlight special honors such as the Judges’ So Cool award and Designer of the Year, along with the 2025 Boutique 18 class and BD’s Up-and-Coming Hotelier of the Year. Tickets for the event will go on sale this summer.
