You don’t have to book a flight to Milan to experience one of this year’s buzziest design installations. You just need to head to the East Village.
Through August 9, The Garden at The Standard East Village has been turned into Chasing the Sun, an explosion of color by acclaimed British-Nigerian artist and designer Yinka Ilori. After debuting during Milan Design Week earlier this year, the installation has officially made its U.S. debut, turning the hotel’s outdoor courtyard into a summer hangout that blends public art and aperitivo with a neighborhood gathering spot.
If Ilori’s name sounds familiar, there’s a good reason. The London-based designer has become internationally known for his use of color and public installations, earning the nickname “The Architect of Joy.” His work often draws on his British-Nigerian heritage, using vibrant patterns and playful forms to encourage connection and optimism.
Inspired by the sun as a symbol of warmth and togetherness, the exhibition wraps the hotel’s garden in yellow, orange and graphic patterns. But rather than functioning as a traditional art exhibition, the installation doubles as a fully operational restaurant and bar, letting visitors enjoy food and drinks beneath Ilori’s colorful designs.
The seasonal menu matches the cheerfulness of the art: expect dishes like golden butter rigatoni with lemon, Parmesan and crispy breadcrumbs, whipped ricotta topped with yellow tomatoes and basil, prosciutto with melon and golden fries served alongside garlic aioli. Desserts include Amalfi lemon gelato finished with olive oil and candied lemon, plus grilled peaches with mascarpone and honey.
Drinks follow the same sunny theme: Champagne house Veuve Clicquot, another collaborator on the project, is the star of the show, alongside cocktails like the cucumber-forward Garden Martini, a grapefruit Sunset Paloma and a rosé spritz made with Veuve’s RICH rosé.
Unlike many hotel activations, this one isn’t reserved for overnight guests. The Garden is open to the public, with both reservations and walk-ins welcome. The installation is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 2 to 8 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 8 pm. It runs through August 9, giving New Yorkers just over a month to soak up a little Milan Design Week magic—without ever leaving Manhattan.
