New York-based design firm Krause Sawyer has unveiled a first look at its design for the New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott. Located adjacent to the airfield, the property will be integrated into the surrounding community of Queens, New York as well, reflective of its many nationalities, cuisines, and cultural inspiration. Home to 443 guestrooms, including four suites, the accommodations will boast natural tones and striking textiles to offset organic wood elements.
“We were thrilled to work in a location so rich in diversity, so we wanted to ensure we expressed and celebrated that throughout the space,” say Kajsa Krause and Tracey Sawyer of Krause Sawyer. “The design features patterns, textures and crafts of so many locally-represented cultures—really there is endless inspiration. Additionally, because the site is located at the airport, the design inspiration also reflects the desire for travel, exploration and the celebration of cultures coming together.”
Public spaces within the hotel will mirror traditional crafts of the borough’s many nationalities through a variety of textures and vibrant colors. Communal areas in particular will be anchored with leather chairs and metalwork, while reception will feature Ionic columns and metal greeting desks. Live-edge wooden benches will reflect the waterfront setting of the hotel, and Chinese-inspired lanterns will complement neutral-toned tiles in homage to global patterns and handpainted tiling.
Beyond reception, the Great Room and Marriott’s MClub concept will be appointed with butcher block end cut wood tiles juxtaposed with handcarved metal screens. An art wall will comprise handknotted woven fibers illuminated by handmade terracotta light fixtures. A large-scale feature wall will anchor the MClub, clad with custom tiles highlighted by a ceramic sculpture installed against a backdrop of graphic patterns in African mud cloth and indigenous textiles. Handmade Indian printing blocks will line the walls of the bar, while a custom window seat, inspired by modern African design, will provide reprieve.
