At Coterie Hudson Yards, Axel Cairon blends French culture, art and culinary traditions to create meaningful resident connections that define Uncommon Hospitality.
When Axel Cairon arrived in New York from France three years ago, he brought with him a background in global design, a passion for service and, he can now admit, a touch of homesickness.
“When I began at Coterie, I was first struck by the residents’ eagerness to learn and experience new things,” Axel says. “It’s interesting – this is their home. But the more I shared of my culture and interests and background, it helped me feel at home, too.”
Axel joined Coterie as part of the culinary team. His conversations and connections with residents quickly sparked ideas that could brighten an ordinary afternoon or open a new world of discovery.
His supervisor noted his talents, so when an opportunity arose, he transitioned to a position with the Resident Engagement team, where hospitality and creativity blend naturally.
Axel holds a master’s degree in global design and engineering, a discipline rooted in listening closely, observing carefully and shaping experiences around real human needs. At Coterie, that training comes to life through art classes, musical performances and cultural outings across New York City. He pays attention to the small details that make a gathering feel intentional and full of meaning.
He also gets to share something deeply personal: his culture.
“I’m very glad to be in this role because I can really share my culture and create experiences with the residents. We have a wonderful mix of people from different backgrounds. We learn from one another, and we have a lot of fun as we do.”
Twice a month, a devoted group of twelve residents gathers for “The French Class.” Together they explore language and poetry, even experimenting with visual poems inspired by Apollinaire.
Recently, they celebrated La Chandeleur, a beloved February tradition in France centered on the joy of gathering to make and eat crêpes. Axel partners closely with the culinary team to bring these traditions to life so they can be tasted and shared – not just talked about.
His unmistakable French touch can be felt in the warmth of his classes, the care he brings to every cultural outing and the pride he takes in honoring both where he comes from and where he is now.
At Coterie, that spirit is known as Uncommon Hospitality. In Axel’s native tongue, it sounds even lovelier: une hospitalité peu commune.
In any language, this is what hospitality looks like when it is personal and rooted in connection.