AHEAD – the Awards for Hospitality Experience And Design – has named Larry Traxler, founder of Traxworks Hospitality Collective, as the recipient of the AHEAD Asia 2026 Outstanding Contribution award.

Traxler will accept the award in just two weeks’ time at the upcoming ceremony, taking place at New York's iconic Gotham Hall on Thursday 15 October.

Recognising more than 30 years at the forefront of global design, the award celebrates Traxler’s contribution to shaping hospitality experiences around the world.

His work spans ultra-luxury resorts and lifestyle hotels to adaptive reuse and experimental hospitality concepts, united by an approach rooted in culturally responsive narratives, sustainability and a strong sense of place.

Most recently serving as Global Head of Architecture & Design at Hilton, Traxler played a central role in the evolution of the group’s global design portfolio. During his tenure, Hilton grew from eight brands with approximately 3,000 hotels to over 25 brands with nearly 10,000 properties operating across 130 countries.

That legacy is represented on this year’s shortlist by Waldorf Astoria New York, a Hilton property shortlisted for both Hotel Renovation and Event Spaces following its landmark restoration.

Join leading names from the region's hospitality industry to see Traxler accept the award and discover this year's winners. With limited space now remaining, get your tickets today.