Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # AJC Design ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://ajcdesign.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Why Craft and Chill is Replacing Netflix and Chill](https://ajcdesign.com/why-craft-and-chill-is-replacing-netflix-and-chill/) - Somewhere along the way, we have become so connected to our devices that we started craving the exact opposite. It's no coincidence that hobbies once associated with our grandparents—needlepoint, mahjong, sourdough baking, gardening—are finding a new audience, offering a slower, more intentional way to spend our time and connect with others. The stitching renaissance When - [The City So Nice, They Named it Twice](https://ajcdesign.com/the-city-so-nice-they-named-it-twice/) - The City That Never Sleeps In all my years living in New York City, I've never experienced energy quite like what filled the city this June. The Knicks' remarkable championship run—their first title in 53 years—transformed the city into a shared celebration. What began as a basketball season became something much larger, bringing New Yorkers - [Creating Spaces with Staying Power ](https://ajcdesign.com/creating-spaces-with-staying-power/) - Recently, I joined a panel for NYCxDESIGN Week hosted by Nordblooms, Hakwood, and CARL HANSEN & SØN titled The Future of Timeless Design in a Fast World. The discussion explored how designers can stay intentional and inspired in an industry moving faster than ever. To us, timeless design is not just about aesthetics, but about - [Love Your Locality](https://ajcdesign.com/love-your-locality-2/) - In the spirit of the New Year, many people choose a word to focus on, that describes an aspirational quality they are seeking to develop. In the spirit of Creativity is Everything™, I decided to choose a word for something I already had in my life that I was grateful for: community. As social activist and - [My Astonishing Ayahuasca Awakening](https://ajcdesign.com/my-astonishing-ayahuasca-awakening/) - Until just a few days ago I had a neat and tidy plan to write this month’s blog post about the conclusion of summer and my agenda for fall. Pretty standard stuff, right? Then, something extraordinary happened. Over the weekend, I attended a ayahuasca ceremony at a shaman’s private garden in Cabo San Lucas. It - [2025 Wrapped and Unwrapping 2026](https://ajcdesign.com/2025-wrapped-and-unwrapping-2026/) - Between getting things wrapped up, December can be a chaotic mess. Not only is it the holiday season but I get to celebrate my daughter coming into this world. As the world slows down, December is also a time I get a chance to reflect on the year and gear up for the year ahead. My - [Ink Over Inbox](https://ajcdesign.com/ink-over-inbox/) - Maybe you don’t check your mailbox daily, but how awesome is it to see a piece of mail that is not a bill! Whether it’s a postcard from your bestie who just went to Paris, or a handwritten thank you note for a birthday present you gave to your cousin, getting a tangible form of - [Falling into Gratitude](https://ajcdesign.com/falling-into-gratitude/) - Learn how AJC Design is Falling into Gratitude. Read more. - [Project Finish Line](https://ajcdesign.com/project-finish-line/) - We can see the light ahead! The Sonesta Cambridge is in the Construction Administration (CA) phase, one of the most hands-on, detail-intensive stages of any hospitality project, with a target opening date of April 3rd. It’s a period of weekly site meetings and rapid problem-solving that can only happen when you’re standing inside the space - [The Power of the Conceptual Phase](https://ajcdesign.com/the-power-of-the-conceptual-phase/) - While you may have thought that every hotel lobby, restaurant, and spa begins with a floor plan or a fabric swatch, it doesn’t. Instead, it begins with a question: what story does this space have to tell? That question is the heart of the Conceptual Phase, the beginning window of time early on in a - [How Sensory Design Shapes the Guest Experience](https://ajcdesign.com/how-sensory-design-shapes-the-guest-experience/) - Walk into any Westin Hotels and Resorts and before you’ve spoken to a single staff member, there is a subtly sweet inviting aroma in the air. The lighting feels warm and intentional. You haven’t checked in yet, but you already feel welcome. This isn’t accidental — it’s sensory design at work, and it’s part of - [How I'm Using AI at Home & Work](https://ajcdesign.com/how-im-using-ai-at-home-work/) - Today, adapting to the tech times is super important for people of all professions. Interior Design is no different. That’s why I’ve been both experimenting and embracing how AI can save time and even boost innovation in my professional and personal life. How I’m Using It At Work One area where I find AI to be invaluable - [Insider's Guide to How I Travel](https://ajcdesign.com/insiders-guide-to-how-i-travel/) - If you know anything about me, you (should) know that I love to travel! Whether it’s for a month in Mexico to a week in Savannah, Georgia, I’m always going somewhere. Part of this lifestyle is driven by my passion for creativity. There is no better way to shake up the normal routine and taking - [Client's Guide to Working with AJC Design](https://ajcdesign.com/5-phases-of-working-with-ajc-design/) - Thinking of working with AJC Design? Hiring a professional hospitality interior designer can be a big decision. Who do you hire? How long does the process take? How do you evaluate proposals? With nearly 20 years of industry experience, AJC Design brings seasoned expertise to turn your vision into a reality. We have a proven - [Bee Our Guest](https://ajcdesign.com/bee-our-guest/) - I will admit that as a New Yorker, I rarely think about ever going to New Jersey. However, Sweet Honey Farm located in Marlboro, NJ is definitely giving me FOMO vibes. Not only does it blend sustainability and farm-to-table experiences, I am loving the community focus, where guests have to be members, invested in maintaining - [The Real Value of Hiring a Professional Interior Designer](https://ajcdesign.com/the-real-value-of-hiring-a-professional-interior-designer/) - When most people think of hospitality interior designers, they picture someone choosing rugs or coordinating color schemes for guest rooms. However, hospitality interior designers bring far more strategic value to hotel properties than meets the eye. Our expertise goes far beyond selecting furnishings—it’s about creating environments that actually drive business results. When choosing a hotel - [The Future of AJC Design](https://ajcdesign.com/the-future-of-ajc-design/) - What comes to mind when you see the walnut logo of AJC Design? If you didn’t know it was a walnut and thought it was an oyster or something else, I promise I won’t be offended. When I started the company 16 years ago, the walnut half-shell silhouette was the perfect symbol of what AJC - [A New Decade, A New Leaf](https://ajcdesign.com/a-new-decade-a-new-leaf/) - The New Year is always a great opportunity to change your usual routine, upgrade your lifestyle mentally and financially, and well, work out some of last year’s kinks and hit the ground running. Turning over a new leaf applies to business practices in the workplace as much as it does to personal resolutions to help - [Creativity is Everything!™](https://ajcdesign.com/creativity-is-everything/) - Creativity Doesn’t Discriminate We’ve all got a creative bone in us. It’s just a matter of finding it and zeroing in on your passions and skill sets that lie within. Whether it’s trying out new dishes that defy your go-to, creating your own blog, or designing your dream barn, we’ve all got the creative juice. - [A RECIPE FOR TEAMWORK](https://ajcdesign.com/a-recipe-for-teamwork/) - We’ve all heard the saying “too many cooks in the kitchen spoils the broth”. Although an extra set of hands is always a welcome resource, too many can sometimes steer a project off course. The interior design field certainly isn’t exempted from this contingency. As an interior designer, I have to constantly keep tabs on - [Spring Has Us Sprung](https://ajcdesign.com/spring-has-us-sprung/) - Embracing the Spirit of Spring We waited patiently for the last few months for winter to release its chilly grip. While warmer temperatures used to be all it took to lift our spirits, during this period of change and uncertainly, we can’t lose hope. We must look forward to the day when we can return - [The New Journey to Hospitality – Part 1](https://ajcdesign.com/the-new-journey-to-hospitality-part-1/) - As a child, my first memories of the hospitality industry were far from luxurious. Each summer, my parents loaded up our vintage Pontiac Bonneville wagon along with our alligator rafts, paddle boards and other essentials, and drove me and my two sisters on an 18-hour journey down I-95 to our favorite South Carolina beach vacation - [The New Journey to Hospitality – Part 2](https://ajcdesign.com/the-new-journey-to-hospitality-part-2/) - Last month, I shared stories from my earliest hospitality experiences and my reflections on the new journey to hospitality in this COVID-19 era. I recommended one should embrace opportunities for simpler vacations with your loved ones with the resources you have. Now, as hotels begin to reopen, they are going to look and feel a - [Yes, You Can Still Afford Those Renovations](https://ajcdesign.com/yes-you-can-still-afford-those-renovations/) - Let’s face it, COVID-19 has changed a lot of things about how guests travel and spend money. This of course affects hotel developers and owners who had very different plans about 2020. Most developers who factored renovations into their budget for 2020, want more bang for their buck to ensure the longevity in their hotel. - [Outdoor Dining Design Tips, NYC Edition](https://ajcdesign.com/outdoor-dining-design-tips-nyc-edition/) - Dining out in New York City is more than a past-time. It’s part of New York’s culture, its economy, and its heritage. In the hospitality industry, restaurants are not just places to eat. They are places of coveted experiences, with interiors designed with as much, if not more exquisite attention as the entrees on the - [NYC Needs a Bar Rescue](https://ajcdesign.com/nyc-needs-a-bar-rescue/) - I’m still perplexed that bartenders didn’t make the essential workers list. Okay, maybe that’s asking too much. However, from the bartender friends I’ve spoken to since COVID-19 hit, and with bars still closed ,there’s a tremendous void of epidemic proportions going on in NYC. In case you haven’t realized this before, bartenders are not just - [Co-Living: A Culture of Community Here to Stay](https://ajcdesign.com/co-living-a-culture-of-community-here-to-stay/) - What does it mean to live together? During the pandemic, I’ve been pondering this question as my family and I lived with extended family in the suburbs. I certainly had more green space and square footage in the burbs but it came at the cost of having to rely on a car, not having a gym, and - [What is the Future of Malls?](https://ajcdesign.com/what-is-the-future-of-malls/) - You wouldn’t know by looking at me that I knew how to fold a 5-pocket jean long before Marie Kondo came to the scene. My first job in high school as sales associate for the Gap Inc., had me making sure store displays looked like structurally-sound denim towers. Naturally, when I recently discovered the Gap - [Never Too Old For a Letter to Santa](https://ajcdesign.com/never-too-old-for-a-letter-to-santa/) - Dear Santa, It’s me Alicia. Remember, the really well-behaved girl from Connecticut with strawberry blond hair and freckles? I know it’s been well over 30 years since I last wrote to you, but 2020 has been a tumultuous year and I know you’re feeling it too. I’m sorry to hear that your home in the - [Cannabis Coming to Manhattan](https://ajcdesign.com/cannabis-coming-to-manhattan/) - My jaw dropped the first time I visited a grow house and cannabis dispensary in Colorado a few years ago. When I saw the usual rows of desks and computers, I thought I was walking into a normal business office. Yet, behind the black door in the back of the office was a private greenhouse - [Design Trends to Watch in 2021](https://ajcdesign.com/design-trends-to-watch-in-2021/) - When I was 9, I turned to my Magic 8 ball if I wanted to know what would happen in the future. When I was 23, I turned to my tarot card reader. But when it comes to questions about my industry, I turn to journalism, social media (I just joined Clubhouse) and my own - [Light at the End of the Tunnel](https://ajcdesign.com/light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel/) - In a year of social distancing, with many of us shuttered inside our homes for days on end, it’s exhilarating to finally be able to see the “light.” I’m not only talking about the end of the pandemic. For interior designers, light has so many meanings. Light fixtures are accent pieces to accentuate the tone - [Death Before Spring](https://ajcdesign.com/death-before-spring/) - I usually love the Spring! The spring season for me has always been associated with rebirth. In addition to Easter being one of my favorite holidays, life happens outdoors again. I look forward to heading down to Madison Square Park to take in the awesome sight of trees growing back their leaves, birds chirping it - [Time to REV up the RV!](https://ajcdesign.com/time-to-rev-up-the-rv/) - This year, summer vacation season is luckily and definitely not cancelled! However, for the airplane weary or skeptical, there is a tried and true means of getting to your favorite destination this summer and no, it’s not your SUV. It’s even bigger and better: a Recreational Vehicle aka RV. Now that humans know how to - [Summer of Rainbows](https://ajcdesign.com/summer-of-rainbows/) - There are so many reasons to love June. Of course, we celebrate Pride in June and all throughout the year! The LGBTQIA+ community has had such a tremendous impact on the interior design industry and creative arts. I’m always inspired by the many close friends, family, business partners and colleagues who I have in my - [The Summer White](https://ajcdesign.com/the-summer-white/) - After a month of rainbows in June, it’s time to talk about the one color that didn’t quite make the arc nor Frank Sinatra’s lyrics – the color white. Why talk about white in July? Summer is the time of year when days are longer and light-filled. July is also a time of many white-inspired - [A Summer Suitcase Story](https://ajcdesign.com/a-summer-suitcase-story/) - August may be the last official month to take that summer vacation, but don’t give up on finding excuses to travel year round! This month, we’re privileged to hear from Victor Sanz, Creative Director at TUMI luggage. Because I draw inspiration from multiple sources and people, Victor was someone I long have admired not just - [Getting Personal with AJC Design](https://ajcdesign.com/getting-personal-with-ajc-design/) - Last month, we got some inspiration from Victor Sanz, Creative Director at TUMI. This month, as we face the end of summer blues, we’re featuring our favorite creative director and founder and Principal of AJC Design, Alicia Cannon. In this blog, hear about Alicia’s pandemic shifts, NYC hot spots, and lessons learned along the way. - [Unlocking the Door to Hospitality](https://ajcdesign.com/unlocking-the-door-to-hospitality/) - What was the guest experience like before digital locks became the norm? Three words come to mind: bulky, metallic, and expensive (to repair or replace). Luckily, in my time as a hospitality interior designer, digital electric locks have long been the norm. Keyless entry is by no means a luxury. In fact, in the digital - [Thanksgiving 2.1](https://ajcdesign.com/thanksgiving-2-1/) - It’s hard to believe that a year ago, many of us were not able to gather with friends and family for Thanksgiving. Now, Thanksgiving seems like it used to be; a day of giving thanks, eating and cooking non-stop and hugging the ones you love. As I look forward to the holiday, I also know - [2022, We’re Ready For You](https://ajcdesign.com/2022-were-ready-for-you/) - It’s that time of year again. The gift shopping, the holiday parties, the socializing, and the countdown to 2022! While this season might be marked with sparkles and glitter down 5th Avenue, J.R.R. Tolkien has reminded me that, “not all that glitters is gold.” Instead, what you may find is spray painted gold metal or perhaps - [How to Travel Like a Local](https://ajcdesign.com/how-to-travel-like-a-local/) - Did you know that community is not defined by one locality? In fact, you can find community no matter if you’re staying in your neighborhood or traveling around the globe. Recently, my quest for loving my locality took me to opposite ends of North America; namely, Vermont and Mexico. Here are 5 lessons I’ve learned. - [Taking the “C” Train](https://ajcdesign.com/taking-the-c-train/) - Just when I thought NYC was reopening fully, it hit me. First it was a feeling of intense tiredness, then congestion like I’ve never had, and before I could put all the pieces together, I got my test result back: COVID positive. It’s one thing to know people who have had COVID. But to have - [5 Must See Things in Mexico City](https://ajcdesign.com/5-must-see-things-in-mexico-city/) - After surviving a difficult but non-life threatening bout with COVID last month, it was finally time to escape NYC (at least my apartment) and discover a colorful new locality. Mexico City, Mexico did not disappoint! Even though I only had a few days there, I was able to experience a lot of culture including food, - [Calgon, Take Me Away! 5 Tips for a Well Designed Spa](https://ajcdesign.com/calgon-take-me-away-5-tips-for-a-well-designed-spa/) - Although, I can’t recall my first spa experience, a spa has been part of my bimonthly routine of R&R for years. However, I do recall my mom taking her, “Calgon Take Me Away,” self-care routine very seriously when I was a child! That is, she made weekly trips to the hair salon, nail salon, waxing - [Does Your Hotel Lobby Carry Bikinis?](https://ajcdesign.com/does-your-hotel-lobby-carry-bikinis/) - Lobbies are pivotal spaces in the hotel guest experience journey. From the initial scent, to the lighting, to the colors, lobbies are all about first impressions. I like to ask myself the following questions when I encounter a new hotel space: Does the lobby feel calming or invigorating? Can I determine how to get to - [Love Your Local Airport](https://ajcdesign.com/love-your-local-airport/) - Summer travel season is in full swing and if you’re like me, chances are you’ve picked La Guardia or John F. Kennedy as your point of departure. (Sorry Jersey, you couldn’t pay me to fly out of Newark!) The good news is that all New York area airports have been recently undergoing extensive, multi-billion dollar renovations. - [Creativity is Everything, officially!](https://ajcdesign.com/creativity-is-everything-officially/) - Do you often say phrases over and over and not realize how powerful they can be? Instead of being just a neon sign on AJC Design’s office walls, I’m proud to say that my mantra, “Creativity is Everything” received a registered trademark this past July! (12 months since I filed with the U.S. Patent Office). - [Love Your Locality](https://ajcdesign.com/love-your-locality/) - Just as the kids went back to school, this September has been all about going back for AJC Design. We started the year with our theme of “Love Your Locality” and now nine months later, we are back to where we started. Not only did we have a summer hiatus, we had a hiatus from New - [Tricks and Treats of Starting Your Career in Design](https://ajcdesign.com/tricks-and-treats-of-starting-your-career-in-design/) - As a child, were you fascinated when you walked into new buildings? Did you notice things like floors, ceilings, and lightning, that no one else did? While an eye for design may start at an early age, becoming an interior designer is not always a linear path. Reflecting on my experience and career path, I - [What I’m Giving This Holiday Season](https://ajcdesign.com/what-im-giving-this-holiday-season/) - In the blink of an eye, the Thanksgiving/Christmas/Hanukah holiday season is upon us again. It’s hard to believe we’re already at this time of the year, where the days get shorter and the stress gets longer. This time of year feels especially different. With family circumstances, I’m in a very different place when all I - [Color Me Happy New Year](https://ajcdesign.com/color-me-happy-new-year/) - It’s 2023 and I feel like the lucky one who knocked down a pinata; even though my daughter’s birthday party was last month. It may be cold and bare outside but what’s got me pumped is Pantone’s color of the year. While many people do a word for the year, in the design industry, color - [Experts Corner – Michele Mahl](https://ajcdesign.com/experts-corner-michele-mahl/) - Just when you thought you knew Alicia, the AJC Design blog is getting creative once again. Instead of an interior designer’s view on the hospitality industry, for the next few months we’ll be featuring experts from all aspects of the industry to give you some new exclusive perspectives. This month, AJC Design talked to Michele - [School Vacation Drive to Destinations](https://ajcdesign.com/school-vacation-drive-to-destinations/) - While it’s Spring in New York, that’s not the case everywhere else. It’s blazing summer hot in Mexico, where me and my daughter are spending her April school vacation. Instead of using this blog to complain about sweating, I’m reminiscing about cooler times of 2023. In fact, February’s school break to Woodstock, Vermont was a - [Summer Refresh For Your Outdoor Space](https://ajcdesign.com/summer-refresh-for-your-outdoor-space/) - There’s so much planning that goes into hotel interiors, but public outdoor spaces are coveted by guests and therefore, are an essential part of the design process. Throughout my career, I have designed rooftops and patio spaces, so to kick off summer, I thought I’d share some of the facets to consider when creating these communal environments. Something - [Experts Corner – Melissa Smith of Model No.](https://ajcdesign.com/experts-corner-melissa-smith-of-model-no/) - This month, AJC Design had the pleasure of talking to one of their favorite vendors, Melissa Smith, Director of Business Development & Hospitality for Model No., the upstart Bay Area company that designs and produces modern furnishings with zero environmental impact. In her role, Melissa works with larger architecture and design firms in the US and - [A Labor of Love](https://ajcdesign.com/a-labor-of-love/) - If “patience makes the heart grow fonder,” then AJC Design’s heart is overflowing at the news of the opening of the Harlem Renaissance Hotel earlier this month. We led the interior design portion of the project, which began at the start of 2015. If you think 8 ½ years is an extraordinary time between a - [Career Lessons in Hospitality](https://ajcdesign.com/career-lessons-in-hospitality/) - How do you summarize all the wisdom you’ve obtained from years of being an entrepreneur? You get someone to capture the summary for you. This month, I had the opportunity to be featured on the Defining Hospitality podcast, hosted by my longtime friend Dan Ryan. While I’ve been interviewed many times before, this was my first podcast. - [My Word of the Quarter](https://ajcdesign.com/my-word-of-the-quarter/) - January is full of ideas to motivate people. Whether it’s to stop drinking or lose weight, there’s always something that helps start the fire and get things going in January. While I’ve never been a fan of resolutions, (they work for 2 days max), I do like the idea of having a word for the - [A Poem for 2024](https://ajcdesign.com/a-poem-for-2024/) - In the spirit of the holiday season, I’m sharing an awesome poem perfect for the new year ahead. As soon as I came across this poem called, “I Am a Female Entrepreneur,” by former e-Bate CEO and Co-Founder Leanne Bonner Cooke, I knew that all the wisdom I thought I had gained in my career - [16 Candles of AJC Design](https://ajcdesign.com/16-candles-of-ajc-design/) - February is truly the season of the heart. Instead of Christmas cards, I’ve been sending out Valentine’s Day cards. February also marks the completion of my 16th year of AJC Design, and I love what I do. When I went on my own in 2007, I had a vision of what I wanted to do - [How to Prepare for a Design Internship](https://ajcdesign.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-design-internship/) - As the summer starts, I can’t help but remember the summers in between my years of college. While I was excited to spend time with my friends, my parents and had very different message: “You better get a job.” For those entering the interior design industry, internships are key. An internship is a fixed time of - [The psychology behind design](https://ajcdesign.com/the-psychology-behind-design/) - When some people meet me, they think to become a designer, I just had to learn about interior design principles, and theories. But what people don’t realize is how much I had to learn about human and environmental psychology. In fact, it was one of my favorite classes at Pratt. Environmental / human factors in design explains - [My 2nd word of the year](https://ajcdesign.com/my-2nd-word-of-the-year/) - While some company’s financial results are reported quarterly, I’m here to report the results from my quarterly word of the first year, “Onward.” As I wrote in January’s blog, “onward” was a state of mind I needed to be in as I started the new year. It gave me hope. It gave me momentum. It give - [#Lessonslearned](https://ajcdesign.com/lessonslearned/) - When I started my career, social media was in its adolescence. Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok didn’t exist. LinkedIn for Business seemed like something only the Marriotts and the Hiltons had to do. However, things have significantly changed over the years. The idea of promoting my business on social media was not even on my radar. - [Ai and interior design](https://ajcdesign.com/ai-and-interior-design/) - To say that AI is everywhere is an understatement. I could easily have used it to write this month’s blog but when I saw the results it generated,I reconsidered. Sure it’s crazy fast and fairly accurate but when you get to the heart of its generated content, you can’t shake off that computer-generated smell. Bring - [My message to you](https://ajcdesign.com/my-message-to-you/) - Have you ever noticed when things happen, they usually happen in 3’s? Lately, I’ve noticed this phenomenon and started thinking about life. It first started on my birthday when I was setting my daily intentions. I looked to Spotify to help guide me. Bob Marley came to mind and “Three Little Birds” popped up to guide me through the - [Sober curious for the win](https://ajcdesign.com/sober-curious-for-the-win/) - Maybe it’s been you who has said, “I need to cut back on drinking” or maybe you have a friend who’s been sober for years. Without sounding like your mom, we all know alcohol can impair your judgement and your ability to drive a car or do other motor functions. However, beyond the hangover the - [Mistakes hotels make during transitions](https://ajcdesign.com/mistakes-hotels-make-during-transitions/) - Gotta love the changeover from summer to fall. One minute you are wearing a tank top, the next minute, you’re in your hoody and jeans. Seasonal transitions hardly happen like flipping a light switch. Instead, they are like dimmers adjusting between almost off and almost on and staying in between a lot of times. Unlike - [Hotels for different generations](https://ajcdesign.com/hotels-for-different-generations/) - If you spent more than a few minutes in a hotel lobby, it’s fairly easy to tell what type of clientele they serve. Traditional hospitality, personalized service, a butler and a desk are typically found in high end luxury hotels but keyless check in is more likely to be found in a hotel for a - [A plug for a new hospitality trend](https://ajcdesign.com/a-plug-for-a-new-hospitality-trend/) - While I don’t currently have an electric vehicle (EV), I do know lots of people that do, including my best friend. And time and time again, they tell me how frustrating it is to charge when they’re on the road. From what I see in New York, the current EV charging stations leave a lot - [Consistency is key](https://ajcdesign.com/consistency-is-key/) - It’s crazy to think that just 10 months ago, I was riding off the fresh thrill of New Year’s resolutions. I’m blessed to say that 2024 has been a blast so far personally and professionally. As I wrap up the year though, I am inspired to let one last word propel me to the finish line - [Slopeside guide to design](https://ajcdesign.com/slopeside-guide-to-design/) - After a week skiing in Snowmass and visiting Aspen, Colorado, I’m back to report some commonalities and design themes I’ve observed in hotels and resorts. But first the skiing. I won’t go as deep as the feet of fresh snow on the slopes, but I can tell you that the skiing experience was the best - [Mural, mural on the wall… who’s an artist you should call?](https://ajcdesign.com/mural-mural-on-the-wall-whos-an-artist-you-should-call/) - How many incredible women artists do you know? Lucky for me, I’m fortunate to say that I know quite a few. It didn’t hurt that I went to Pratt School of Design, where there were a plethora of art majors and even more talented artists. For this month’s blog, in honor of Women’s History Month, - [Don’t get terrified about tariffs](https://ajcdesign.com/dont-get-terrified-about-tariffs/) - The word “tariff” has been a hot topic across the world since President Trump took office in January. But now with the most recent announcement about what countries will be affected through this trade war, it’s time to unpack what tariffs are and how the hospitality industry will be affected. What is a tariff? A - [Word of the Year](https://ajcdesign.com/word-of-the-year/) - My 2024 wrapped is definitely not as sexy as my Spotify Wrapped. But give me some grace. 2024 was not easy but it was definitely better than 2023. I am blessed with a lot of growth in my business. I added two new designers, had multiple new projects, moved my office, and finally finished the - [Кракен официальный сайт вход на актуальный маркетплейс даркнета](https://ajcdesign.com/l0-kraken-ofitsial-nyi-sait-vkhod-na-aktual-nyi-marketpleis-darkneta/) - × Войти Кракен официальный сайт вход на актуальный маркетплейс даркнета Для входа на Кракен используйте только актуальные зеркала, опубликованные в проверенных источниках. Прямое соединение через стандартные браузеры невозможно, поэтому установка Tor Browser остается единственным способом обеспечить анонимность и стабильное подключение к ресурсу. При переходе по ссылке убедитесь, что адрес в строке браузера совпадает с официальным - [WooCommerce Pay What You Want – Open Pricing Plugin Nulled Free Download](https://ajcdesign.com/l0-woocommerce-pay-what-you-want-open-pricing-plugin-nulled-free-download/) - WooCommerce Pay What You Want – Open Pricing Plugin Nulled Free Download DOWNLOAD WooCommerce Pay What You Want – Open Pricing Plugin Technical Data Developer MotifCreatives Version WordPress 4.9.x - 6.9.x Compatibility WooCommerce 6.x.x - 9.x.x License GPL About WooCommerce Pay What You Want – Open Pricing Plugin The WooCommerce Pay What You Want – - [Unique Hover Effects - VC Addon Nulled Free Download](https://ajcdesign.com/l0-unique-hover-effects-vc-addon-nulled-free-download/) - Unique Hover Effects - VC Addon Nulled Free Download DOWNLOAD Unique Hover Effects - VC Addon Technical Data Developer wpscripts Version WordPress 3.5 - 4.7.x Compatibility Visual Composer 4.7.x - 4.12.x, Bootstrap 2.0.4 - 3.x License GPL About Unique Hover Effects - VC Addon The Unique Hover Effects - VC Addon addresses a common design ## Pages - [Home](https://ajcdesign.com/) - Hospitality and Multi Family Interior DesignHospitality and Multi Family Interior DesignHospitality and Multi Family Interior DesignHospitality and Multi Family Interior Design Creativity is Everything!AJC Design founder and principal Alicia Cannon keeps creativity and ingenuity at the heart of every project. The award-winning designer seamlessly blends pop-inspired aesthetics with classic design, transforming spaces like The Royal - [Blog](https://ajcdesign.com/blog/) - Why Craft and Chill is Replacing Netflix and Chill July 29, 2026 The City So Nice, They Named it Twice June 23, 2026 Creating Spaces with Staying Power May 22, 2026 The Power of the Conceptual Phase April 22, 2026 Project Finish Line March 24, 2026 How Sensory Design Shapes the Guest Experience February 23, - [Contact](https://ajcdesign.com/contact/) - Let’s connect! SUBMIT - [Terms & Conditions](https://ajcdesign.com/terms-conditions/) - Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. Terms & Conditions Please read this Terms of Service (“Terms,” “Terms of Service”) carefully before using the www.ajcinteriordesign.com website (the “Website”) operated by Alicia Cannon (“us,” “we,” “our”) as this Terms of Service contains important information - [](https://ajcdesign.com/multi-family/) - Multi FamilyMulti FamilyMulti Family 89 Murray One Carnegie Hill 400 Florida Ave Sky Terrace The Lanes - [Hospitality](https://ajcdesign.com/hospitality/) - HospitalityHospitalityHospitality The Dean Hilton College Station The Royal Sonesta Boston Altar Bar Thayer Resort & Spa Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn The Fifty Sonesta Hotel New York Renaissance New York Harlem The Thayer Hotel Bellagio The Westport Inn Westin Riverwalk JW Essex House 1 JW Essex House 2 Via Sophia - [Privacy Policy](https://ajcdesign.com/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You about Your privacy rights and how the law protects You.We use Your Personal data to provide and improve the Service. By using the Service, You agree to the - [Sample Page](https://ajcdesign.com/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger - [About](https://ajcdesign.com/about/) - Elevated Interior Design with Alicia's Signature Style The AJC Design team creates one-of-a-kind interiors for hospitality and multi family projects. Guided by Alicia Cannon’s expert signature style, vibrant touches and modern trends combine with enduring design to shape spaces that are as functional as they are unforgettable. From luxury hotels to remarkable workspaces every project - [Culture](https://ajcdesign.com/culture/) - Interior Design with a Collaborative Approach A respectful, transparent working relationship with every client is central to the success of AJC Design. Our clients are part of the process every step of the way. As we bring the design to life, we learn, grow, and laugh together. With our process guided by the belief that - [Team](https://ajcdesign.com/team/) - Great Things Happen When We Work Together Alicia Cannon FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL Alicia Cannon is the founder and principal of AJC Design, a boutique interior design studio in Manhattan. Since 2007, she’s specialized in the hospitality and multi family residential design world—known for blending bold, modern aesthetics with timeless sophistication. Alicia’s diverse portfolio includes projects - [Press](https://ajcdesign.com/press-media/) - Press & Media Coverage Redfin Takes Color Inspo from AJC Design MARCH 2023 Most Popular Paint Colors to “Swatch”Out for in 2023 Read More Luxe Magazine – At Home with AJC Design and Farrow & Ball Color Consultancy Feb, 2022 Hosted by Senior Style and Market Editor @kathryngiven feauring Patrick O’Donnellof @farrowandball and Alicia Cannon ## Press - [AIA NY – Marriott Harlem Renaissance](https://www.aiany.org/news/in-the-news-january-3-2024/) - In the News: January 3, 2024 - [9 Easy Switch-Ups to Make Your Bedroom Feel Like Spring — For Light, Bright, and Optimistic Spaces](https://www.livingetc.com/ideas/spring-bedroom-ideas) - From full-on design changes to no-effort updates, these tips from design professionals will help you refresh your bedroom for the new season - [Redfin Takes Color Inspo from AJC Design MARCH 2023](https://www.redfin.com/blog/popular-paint-colors/) - Most Popular Paint Colors to “Swatch”Out for in 2023 - [Luxe Magazine - At Home with AJC Design and Farrow & Ball Color Consultancy Feb, 2022](https://www.instagram.com/tv/CFsBkrpl2aB/?igshid=1g4od38e05wzl) - Hosted by Senior Style and Market Editor @kathryngiven feauring Patrick O'Donnellof @farrowandball and Alicia Cannon of@ajc_design. Sponsored by @farrowandball. ## Projects Hospitality - [One Carnegie Hill](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/one-carnegie-hill/) - One Carnegie Hill brings a fresh perspective to Upper East Side living, balancing timeless architectural character with a warm, contemporary sensibility. Across 39 residential floors of condominium and rental residences, the design introduces layered materials, refined detailing, and hospitality-inspired moments that create a sophisticated residential experience rooted in classic New York elegance. - [The Royal Sonesta Boston](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/royal-sonesta/) - Rooted in classic sophistication, this culturally captivating hotel in Cambridge, Massachusetts embodies the spirit of the city’s storied innovation. The 200-guestroom property in the East Tower showcases a seamless blend of modern hues, bespoke details, and whimsical, cosmopolitan flair throughout. Views of the Charles River offer a feeling of rejuvenation and comfort to the guest - [89 Murray](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/89-murray/) - A multifamily corridor renovation, 89 Murray reimagines 10 residential floors in the heart of Tribeca through a refined hospitality-driven lens. Inspired by the neighborhood’s iconic cast-iron architecture and historic cobblestone streets, the design layers rich texture, warm materials, and contemporary detailing to create an elevated residential experience that feels both timeless and distinctly New York. - [Hilton College Station](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/hilton-college-station/) - The Hilton Hotel in College Station, Texas was renovated in the summer of 2025 to fulfill a deep hospitality need in this rapidly growing and spirited university town. AJC Design captured the community’s dedication to tradition and culture by preserving its youthful, yet historical identity. Modern, luxe comfort paired with vintage detail creates a special - [400 Florida Ave](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/the-lanes-at-union-market/) - A ground-up, multi-use residential building located in a chic, emerging D.C. neighborhood with modern developments rising from old industrial lots. The space consists of 110 units on 10 floors that offers a practical approach to city living through community, flexibility, value, and a high-quality lifestyle. Utilizing a hospitality design approach, the custom furniture is built - [Renaissance New York Harlem](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/renaissance-new-york-harlem-hotel/) - It was 1917 when Thomas W. Lamb, the Loews Corporation’s acclaimed architect, designed the luxurious Victoria Theater. This palatial venue, known for its brilliant organ and clever vaudeville performances, quickly made its mark on energetic Harlem until it was transformed into a bland multi-screen cinema in 1987. Today this restored building contains a 211-guestroom tower, - [Westin Riverwalk](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/westin-riverwalk/) - Located on the world famous Riverwalk in San Antonio, TX the Westin Riverwalk's interior reflects the ambiance and warmth of Spanish Colonial décor. This newly renovated lobby has a blend of modern sophistication and old world charm. - [Thayer Resort & Spa](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/thayer-resort-spa/) - This Upstate New York resort, neighboring the West Point military college campus, offers visitors a comforting, leisurely escape. The town’s rich American history is reflected throughout the hotel's beautifully crafted gathering spaces and clean, utilitarian guest rooms. The 3,000 sq-ft spa adds an elegant, modern aesthetic to this historically conceptualized venue. - [The Lanes](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/the-lanes/) - A multi-use residential ground-up building, The Lanes. The space consists of 57 units on 6 floors that offer a practical approach to NYC living through community, flexibility, value, and a high-quality lifestyle. Utilizing a hospitality design approach, the custom furniture is built in for move-in-ready accessibility. The building is equipped with a game room, lounge - [JW Essex House 2](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/jw-essex-house-2/) - Offering scenic views of Central Park, this 600-square-foot, gut-renovated condominium at the iconic Essex House Hotel is a refined residence designed for modern city living. With ample space to relax and retreat, work remotely, or entertain guests, the home balances comfort, functionality, and sophistication—all within the heart of Manhattan. - [JW Essex House 1](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/jw-essex-house-1/) - Thoughtfully designed for both short and extended stays, this spacious 700-square-foot one-bedroom condominium has been fully gut renovated to offer modern comfort and style. Located within the iconic Essex House Hotel, the residence features high-end finishes, a separate living area, a fully equipped kitchen with an eat-in dining space, and access to full hotel amenities—blending - [Bellagio](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/bellagio/) - A guest room and corridor design exclusively for MGM Resorts most elite luxury hotel, The Bellagio. This design competition was done in efforts to provide a renovated and sophisticated palette that mimicked the iconic Bellagio Village in Lake Como, Italy. AJC Design aimed to provide a timeless, elegant and classic space with the luxuries and - [The Westport Inn](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/the-westport-inn/) - Part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, this 117-room property in Connecticut was fully renovated. Swathed in natural hues and rich wood, it is a true expression of contemporary New England hospitality. - [Via Sophia](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/via-sophia/) - Via Sophia, nestled within the Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Hotel, brings the essence of coastal Italian dining to the shore. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the menu features homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and signature seafood dishes. Its stylish, oceanfront ambiance blends relaxed elegance with culinary sophistication, offering a memorable dining experience where the - [Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/bethany-beach-ocean-suites-residence-inn/) - This unique, custom-designed Marriott property beautifully captures the charm and soothing tranquility of its picturesque seaside town. AJC Design blended beach-inspired elements with abstract concepts to create an organic guest experience. Each guestroom is adorned with vibrant hues, whimsical patterns, and light wood tones that evoke the natural beauty of the coast to create an - [Sky Terrace](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/sky-terrace/) - This Upper West Side rooftop has stunning views of a morning sunrise, the architecture of downtown and the most glorious sunset to the west. The residents of this building could wine and dine all day long with the comforts of this luxurious rooftop. - [The Thayer Hotel](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/the-thayer-hotel/) - Tradition and legacy ring throughout The Thayer Hotel, located on the historic grounds of the prestigious West Point campus. Guests can enjoy river-view dining and newly renovated guest rooms that are dedicated to legendary Academy graduates—each honoring the proud black, gold, and maroon worn by cadets. With its classic collegiate architecture, grand structures, and intricate - [The Dean](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/the-dean/) - This refined, yet casual dining establishment in College Station, Texas is a gathering place that celebrates tradition and connects students across generations. As a legacy built on community, patrons can come together in a variety of ways — at the lounge, the speakeasy bar, and the main or private dining areas. The stately atmosphere strikes - [The Fifty Sonesta Hotel New York](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/the-fifty-sonesta-hotel-new-york/) - Steps from Rockefeller Center, the Theatre District, Times Square, and Fifth Avenue shopping, The Fifty Sonesta Hotel New York provides a restful retreat in bustling Midtown Manhattan. This boutique hotel blends sophisticated luxury with thoughtful amenities, catering to both short-term visitors and extended stays. Its refined urban design reflects the dynamic spirit of the city, - [Altar Bar](https://ajcdesign.com/projects_hospitality/altar-bar/) - AJC Design transformed this former church in Highland Falls, NY into a chic, modern bar where history meets contemporary elegance. The sanctified space features dynamic lighting, warm wood accents, and stone flooring, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere. The VIP confessional room adds a unique touch of exclusivity, elevating the social experience to something truly ## Categories - [Hospitality](https://ajcdesign.com/category/hospitality/) - [Multi-Family](https://ajcdesign.com/category/multi-family/)