Bard Room at Hotel Chelsea
text by Emma Grimes
Before even walking into Hotel Chelsea last week, Prada Mode already began. Outside, taxis branded with the iconic Prada logo embellished their tops, while striking, handsome employees dressed in chromatic spacesuits were busy checking guests in and handing out brochures.
For its 14th annual cultural experience, Prada Mode visited New York City with Satellites II, a mesmerizing, immersive installation curated by Danish filmmaker Nicolas Winding Refn and Japanese video game creator Hideo Kojima. Reviving their earlier installation in Tokyo last year—known as Prada Aoyama—the two friends and partners transformed the historic Hotel Chelsea into a retrofuturist dreamscape. The multi-day experience featured moderated panel discussions, live musical performances, and delicious offerings of food and drinks.
The first two days were only open to a select group of invitees, and the activities ranged from conversations about UFO sightings in New York City to a performance by experimental pianist Precious Renee Tucker. A discussion featuring Refn, Kojima, and actress Sophie Thatcher delved into the changing entertainment industry, while later in the day, Maya Hawke hosted her own story time. Later that evening, guests continued the festivities further downtown at the iconic Katz Delicatessen, which was partially cleared to make room for a dance floor and included their famous pastrami sandwiches. Among those in attendance were Hunter Shafer, Louis Partridge, Allison Williams, and more.
Back at the hotel, the Bard Room hosted engrossing performances by the Velveteers, Lydia Lunch, Sophie Thatcher, and Miho Hatori. Each night ended with a live DJ set by William Benton, alongside impressive kendama performers.
Among the event’s most popular attractions were the conspicuous, silver vending machines stationed around every corner of the hotel. Emblazoned with Prada imagery, the machines attracted crowds who patiently waited their turn to select a row and column before receiving a metallic, mystery box. Inside were Prada branded keepsakes, ranging from glitter pens to a decorative cassette tape, allowing attendees to take a small piece of the party home with them.