Boutique Design has named Islyn Studio its 2026 Design Firm of the Year, an honor presented in conjunction with the 46th annual Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design.
Founded in New York in 2017 by Ashley Wilkins, Islyn Studio is known for creating immersive, emotionally resonant environments rooted in story, context, and a deep allegiance to the senses. Working across hotels, restaurants, bars, retail, wellness, and residential design, the firm approaches each project as its own distinct world—one shaped by the history, culture, rituals, landscape, and people that surround it.
Uchi DC; photo by William Jess Laird
Just as central to Islyn Studio’s work is the culture behind it. Wilkins founded the studio with the ambition of creating a kinder, more collaborative approach to design, where curiosity, mentorship, and different points of view inform the creative process.
With a diverse portfolio of projects, including Gold Key finalist Uchi DC, in addition to the Tusk Bar & Brass, Now Now Hotel, Chleo, and Romer Hell’s Kitchen, Islyn Studio was selected by the BD editorial team for its ability to transform spaces that foster connection and a lasting sense of place.
Join us on November 9th as we honor Ashley Wilkins and the Islyn Studio team during the 46th annual Gold Key Awards gala at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York, closing out BDNY 2026. Purchase tickets today.
And stay tuned for an in-depth profile of Islyn Studio in the Winter 2026/27 digital issue of Boutique Design.