Among the many inspirations behind the project, one in particular struck the architect:

“Have you ever seen ‘New York, New York’ with Liza Minnelli and Robert De Niro? To me, AKA NoMad is exactly that: a New York that flows between sounds, emotions, silences, snow, traffic, and energy — always with a touch of refinement and uniqueness. It’s not a conventional hotel, but a place that tells stories with a style that blends Deco with the ’50s… and who knows what comes next.”

The entrance serves as a transition between the city’s dynamism and an elegant retreat with warm, delicate tones. In the lobby, artworks and abstract installations made from hand-dyed woven silk decorate the walls with organic and fluid patterns. A dramatic gold-bronze staircase with Pietra d’Avola steps pays homage to the opulence of the 1920s, unfolding like a refined origami up to the mezzanine level, where a backlit structure casts a soft, intimate glow.

Among the standout features are exposed brick walls recalling the industrial charm of NYC lofts, backlit partitions, a double-height chandelier made of glass tubes, a walnut bar counter, and a floating reception desk. Even the rooms exude refined elegance, with a harmonious mix of influences and natural materials. The neutral-toned fabrics reflect Japandi style, enhanced by golden, blue, and green accents, while custom furnishings blend with iconic pieces of Italian design by Fantini, Living Divani, Porro, and Salvatori.

The project also stands out for its commitment to sustainability: eco-friendly materials and energy-saving practices are integrated throughout the hotel, reflecting a responsible and forward-thinking approach. A concrete example of this philosophy is the use of advanced Energy Management Systems (EMS), such as Telkonet’s Rhapsody, which provide intelligent control of room temperature and ventilation. Using sophisticated software, the system analyzes data like indoor and outdoor temperatures, time of day, humidity, and solar exposure to automatically regulate the room climate — ensuring maximum comfort with reduced energy consumption.

However, this focus on efficiency could be further enhanced with a more optimized GRMS (Guest Room Management System). For instance, while a magnetic keycard activates the lighting, the layout of switches and lights lacks ergonomic logic: there’s no master switch near the bed, and some lights — like the one above the minibar — remain on all night, disrupting sleep. While the design is meticulously curated, a more functional tech infrastructure could significantly improve the guest experience, making the stay not only aesthetically pleasing but also more intuitive and sustainable.

The entire structure is tastefully and gracefully embedded in the bustling fabric of New York City, echoing its energy and rhythm through Lissoni’s design vision, which masterfully blends historical and contemporary elements. Reinterpreting the vibrant and multifaceted essence of the city that never sleeps, AKA NoMad reflects the constant beat and timeless charisma of its streets, buildings, and alleys.