Design & Travel Archives

Hotel Murmuri, Barcelona

Known for art, food, history, and shopping, Barcelona is definitely on my list of must-see places. There’s a hotel I’d love to stay in — Hotel Murmuri.

Known for art, food, history, and shopping, Barcelona is definitely on my list of must-see places. There’s a hotel I’d love to stay in — Hotel Murmuri. It’s a posh, boutique hotel with an intimate feel. There are such incredible details throughout the design, from the rooms to the restaurant and bar.

Hotel Murmuri’s interior was designed by the London-based firm of Kelly Hoppen Interiors. Known for her clean lines, neutral tones, use of texture, and warm opulence, Kelly created a look for Hotel Mururi that is both chic and comfortable. These are rooms you can feel luxurious in, all while surrounded by everything Barcelona has to offer. One of Kelly’s design goals is to have her clients surrounded by gorgeous pieces. I can easily imagine sitting in one of these rooms and feeling cocooned in luxury.

For more information about Murmuri, visit their website. You can also find them on Facebook.

1 Hotel South Beach

1 Hotel South Beach is a gorgeous beachfront hotel in Miami.

1 Hotel South Beach is a gorgeous beachfront hotel in Miami. Throughout the interior, natural materials such as stone and curving driftwood create a reflection of the stunning ocean view, all the time maintaining a look of luxury. The neutral palette is accented by subtle nods to the water with pale blues and hints of green in the guest rooms. Water views are the artwork of each room, while the public areas of the hotel are warmed up by different types of wood and thoughtful lighting choices.

Originally, the building was a hotel called the Gansevoort, but when the building was taken over by a partnership between Starwood Capital Group and LeFrak property, the hotel was gutted and completely revamped. Meyer Davis Studio created their designs with an eco-friendly focus, using reclaimed wood as well as wood from trees felled by mountain pine beetles. Other “green” touches include filtered water in the rooms rather than plastic bottles, mini chalkboards in guest rooms instead of notepaper, low flow water fixtures, hangers and key cards made from recycled boxes, and guest access to Tesla vehicles for local travel. Even the hotel greenery is less wasteful, consisting of terrariums rather than cut flowers and a massive living wall in front of the building.

The New York design firm Meyer Davis Studio created the breezy look of the hotel’s guest rooms and public areas, including the restaurant. Called Beachcraft, the restaurant is overseen by chef Tom Colicchio. Nikola Gradinski of NGNY designed the stunning rooftop area. The overall look of 1 Hotel South Beach is very organic and not what you might expect in a posh place like Miami. I love the idea of something like this nestled in the city — natural, peaceful, and serene, but also luxe and beautiful.

Cafe Clover

I recently took my team to lunch at Cafe Clover, a quaint restaurant in West Village, to see Steven Gambrel’s design and enjoy some down time and good food.

I have always been a big fan of designer and creative genius Steven Gambrel. I recently took my team to lunch at Cafe Clover, a quaint restaurant in West Village, to see Gambrel’s design in person and enjoy some down time and good food.

The interior blend of robins egg blue, iconic black, greige and white encompass the space with fabulous lighting fixtures throughout. The walls look amazing, featuring custom millwork inset with smokey antique mirrors with eglomise bordered detail. The curved upholstered banquette has a rolled detail at the back rest. There’s an echo of the bordered concept on the table tops which is also reflected in the ceiling. I love the play on geometric shapes – rectangular, square, and even circular in the oversized ceiling sculpture. Check out how the stunning bar!

From our table, we had a perfect view of the entire space. All of the doors and windows were open, making this great connection between the inside and out.

It’s nice to explore and appreciate places right in your own back yard. I’m so drawn to the idea of learning from interesting design and being inspired by what I see. What beautiful places are near your home?

Southern Ocean Lodge, Australia

I first learned about Southern Ocean Lodge from a client in Montana who wanted an interior inspired by the lodge.

Just off the southern coast of Australia lies Kangaroo Island, a 93 mile long paradise known for its wineries, honey production, and vacation destinations. It’s also the home of Southern Ocean Lodge, a beautiful luxury resort. I first learned about Southern Ocean Lodge from a client in Montana who wanted an interior inspired by the lodge. It brings us so much inspiration when a client points to something they experienced and want to emulate in their own environment. I love finding new things through clients!

Southern Ocean Lodge pampers guests in one of the world’s most stunning landscapes, near the island’s dramatic cliffs and adjacent to two national parks. The impressive natural beauty of Kangaroo Island surrounds Southern Ocean Lodge, providing access to the most memorable cliff walks and wildlife observations. Guests can enjoy world-class fine dining and a luxurious spa, all while relaxing in suites that incorporate sweeping and scenic Australian vistas. The area’s coastal palette is reflected in the lodge’s modern design, creating an almost seamless environmental experience for guests.

The aspects of Southern Ocean Lodge we focused on incorporating into the client’s home are gathering areas, the way the interior is laid out spatially, and capturing what’s happening in the exterior. Although the Australian vista is quite different from Montanta, we went with the concept of featuring the exterior landscape. We were careful to edit the design so as to avoid obstructing or taking away from the view. The room pictured below with the hanging fireplace is one reference we return to again and again, taking inspiration in the curve of the floor and playing with the way it presents itself. It’s often amazing to me what clients bring to a project.

Have you been to a place that inspired your interior?

To learn more about Southern Ocean Lodge, visit their website. You can also follow them on Facebook.

Chicago’s Langham Hotel and Travelle

When visiting Chicago recently, I knew I really wanted to see Travelle, a restaurant and lounge at the Langham Hotel.

When visiting Chicago recently, I knew I really wanted to see Travelle, a restaurant and lounge at the Langham Hotel. The hotel, which is located in a building designed by the iconic Ludgwig Mies van der Rohe, is situated in downtown Chicago with easy access to shopping and popular attractions. With private event space, a spa, pool, and ballroom, as well as several boardrooms, the Langham is a luxurious place to stay for pleasure or business.

I made a fast dash to Travelle and sat in the lounge for drinks. Its very cool, urban, monochromatic feel was designed by architect David Rockwell. The floor to ceiling windows flood the lounge with light while giving guests a gorgeous view of the river and Chicago’s famous Loop. One striking feature was an interactive digital wall undulating amongst the lounge’s chic furniture. The space is full of lush elements and visual, techno details. As we enjoyed drinks and a woman playing rock songs on the violin, the digital wall of photos constantly changed and altered. Such a cool atmosphere!

The lobby of the Langham is another stunning space. I thought it looked really magical, with all these gorgeous clusters near the center of the ceiling. It has a special, totally different vibe, more elegant and formal. So beautiful!

Unfortunately, we couldn’t stay at the fully-booked Langham, but I did enjoy my brief time there. If you’re ever in Chicago, I highly recommend a visit to the Langham, and Travelle in particular!

Veranda: Grand Traditions, Enduring Appeal

The latest issue of Veranda features a beautifully designed shingle style house on Long Island.

The latest issue of Veranda features a beautifully designed shingle style house on Long Island. Designed by David Kleinberg, this home was completely revamped to reflect the client’s art collection. I love the neutral palette of this home and how it really complements the great art. Every part of the interior is done with a refinement you can see if each detail. The execution of the design is very tailored and of high caliber.

The Carneros Inn, Napa Valley

A vacation to Napa Valley is high on my “must do” list.

My husband and I really enjoy wine. We may not be top notch connoisseurs, but we know what we like. Relaxing with a glass of wine over a nice dinner or at the end of a long day is how we unwind and connect with each other. It probably isn’t surprising, then, that a vacation to Napa Valley is high on my “must do” list. A trip to California wine country would be an ideal venture for us.

One place in Napa Valley I’d love to visit is the Carneros Inn. It look so inviting, with a causal chic air. The inn is actually a resort featuring three restaurants, two swimming pools, an award-winning spa, and a luxury boutique. There’s also an upscale general store, fitness center, and outdoor recreation area. I can easily see myself in this relaxing environment!

Even though the Carneros Inn is designed to make sure you are surrounded by everything you could want or need, I would love the opportunity to visit area wineries while staying in Napa Valley. At the top of my winery list is CADE Winery on Howell Mountain. Architect Juan Carlos Fernandez designed the state of the art vineyard with a simple, but striking, appearance. It’s amazing how the architecture here includes 98% recycled materials and yet looks so modern even while appearing harmonious with the rugged surroundings. Between the design and the highly rated wines, I definitely wouldn’t miss a tour of CADE.

We haven’t made it to Napa Valley yet, but I am looking forward to one day taking this dream trip! Where are you planning to someday travel?

India-Inspired Design

When I think of India, I think of vibrant colors, saturation, and stunning details.

When I think of India, I think of vibrant colors, saturation, and stunning details. Indian architecture typically includes many elements that can easily be transposed to interior design. Patterns and shapes can be incorporated into borders, fabrics, paneling, or any number of other accents. When you look at Indian palaces and temples, the lavish, extraordinary details jump out at you. Taking one small aspect of these details and using them in your own interior brings a touch of India’s beauty to your home.

Patterns of India. Image via Wanderlust Drifted.

I love the shape of the window and details in the railing. Image via Redbubble.

Hand carved antique Indian wood block stamp.

Stone carvings of one of the four gates of Dabhoi (Gujarat), India.

Another aspect of Indian culture I love is the vibrancy of the colors in traditional clothing. I see so much life in the bright colors and extravagant details of, for example, a sumptuously dyed and patterned sari or an intricate henna design on a lovely hand or foot. Add in gold accents and you have so much inspiration to work with.

The intricacy of henna is just incredible.

Design by Preeti Chandra at India Fashion Week in 2012.

Which Indian details would you add to your interior?

Louis Vuitton Travel Books

While browsing around Architectural Digest’s website recently, I came across a description of a new series of travel books from Louis Vuitton.

While browsing around Architectural Digest‘s website recently, I came across a description of a new series of travel books from Louis Vuitton. Each book in the series consists of full-color artwork showing a visiting artist’s vision of the area.

The books in the series feature Easter Island, New York City, London, and Paris. Each book is filled with beautiful prints detailing a different artist’s perspective. The Easter Island book contains the work of American artist Daniel Arsham. Congolese artist Cheri Samba created the prints in the Paris book, while art by Matsko Seki from Japan illustrates the London travel book. In the New York City book, we see this iconic city from the eyes of French artist Jean-Philippe Delhomme. Each book demonstrates a distinct style and unique outlook.

Matsko Seki's illustration of the Tower of London. — Matsko Seki’s illustration of the Tower of London.

New York City as seen by Jean-Philippe Delhomme

London's Bank of England by Matso Seki. — London’s Bank of England by Matso Seki.

Any of these books, or the whole set, would make great gifts or beautiful coffee table books. For pricing and ordering information, visit the Louis Vuitton website.

Beach House Design

When designing a beach house, there are important aspects to keep in mind which will influence your choice of materials.

When designing a beach house, there are important aspects to keep in mind which will influence your choice of materials. Whether the beach house is a second home or the family’s primary residence, no one wants to spend time at the beach dealing with the extra wear, tear, and mess caused by sand, salt water, and the comings and goings of a family on vacation. It is possible to use materials that look great but are easy to maintain, letting you spend time at your beach house without worrying about damage from sand on the floor or damp bathing suits on the sofa.

Ceramic flooring, indoor/outdoor furniture, vinyl products, and other durable, easy-to-clean materials are great options for a beach home. To round out the home’s decor, look for clear glass lighting, simple accent pieces, and great artwork for the perfect “less is more” feel.

It is definitely possible to create a stunning beach house that is carefree and can weather many years of happy use!

1. Modern beach house design. Architect Eduardo Villa.

2. Pinstripe glass tile from Ann Sacks.

3. Van Gregory & Norton Mirror

4. Plexi Base table from Hudson Furniture

5. “Up in the Air” by Antoine Rose

6. White painted wood floors enlarge this clean, crisp space. Image via Shop Frankie’s.

7. Tusk Shell “succulent” from the Karen Robertson Collection.

8. Dedon Swingrest Hanging Lounger

9. Woodstock Pendant by Simon Pearce

10. Massimo Vitali