Q & A

What is your favorite summer cocktail, meal or treat you enjoy delighting guests with?

In the summer, I love serving Campari and soda with a splash of grapefruit juice and a few slices of orange. It's simple, refreshing and looks beautiful in just about any glass. When I'm entertaining, my favorite part is setting the table. I gather things from all over the house—silver objects, lots of black candles, and a wonderful tablecloth—and mix them together to create something unexpected. I've been collecting table linens and antique napkins forever–it's always about the mix! I light my favorite Le Labo candle and set out a special bar of orange Officine Universelle Buly soap in the powder room. For me, it’s about making guests feel how special they are, and creating a memorable experience, even in the tiniest moments.

Favorite place to visit during the summer months or somewhere you are hoping to visit and why?

Italy is always at the top of our list. My favorite place in the world is Villa Feltrinelli, nestled on the edge of Lake Garda. The villa has a rich and glamorous history. Once the wartime residence of Mussolini, it's now one of the most luxurious and peaceful escapes imaginable. The rooms are exquisite, the outdoor spaces are magical and it carries an old-world charm that I find endlessly inspiring.

Another place that's high on my list is Villa Kerylos in the south of France. It's a meticulously recreated Greek villa perched on the Côte d'Azur; I've drawn so much inspiration from its architecture and interiors. I haven't been yet, but it's one of those places I can't wait to see with my own eyes.

We know you love antique and vintage pieces — how do you like to incorporate these items when designing a space?

I usually begin a project with something interesting and unusual that's caught my eye—an object, a textile, a piece of furniture or art—and let that guide the overall feel of the space. A house should never look like the decorator has just walked out the door; rooms should be layered and feel personal. A beautiful textile tossed over the back of a chair or made into a pillow, a wonderful antique chair with modern fabric and trim, or an antique commode paired with a contemporary lamp. Even if the house is brand new to the clients, it should look as if they have lived there forever.

What advice would you give to designers just starting out or to yourself when looking back?

Document your work! One of my biggest regrets is not photographing more of my projects, even if just for our portfolio. It's something I'm much more intentional about now. I also believe the strongest foundation for any business is proper financial management. Without that, you simply don't have a business. So find the best bookkeeper possible, it makes all the difference.

Tips for designing with color and pattern?

I love working with color and pattern, but I know most clients have a hard time visualizing it all together. This is where the trust comes in. I always throw in something a little unexpected—a wild card in terms of a color, an object or a piece of art that might initially feel out of place, but in the end, it actually pulls everything together. I believe that's what makes a room special. Again, it's all about the mix! My own family room is a great example. If I had put everything on a board to present to a client, they would have never gone for it. But in the room, it's magical.

What made you choose Casa Branca for your spaces?

I think Alessandra has wonderful taste, style and a great eye. Casa Branca is one of my first and last stops when I am beginning or installing a project. There’s always a beautiful balance of European sensibility, old-world charm, a creative melange of furniture, lighting, objects, art and even wonderful napkins and candlesticks!

Favorite Casa Branca fabric, wallpaper, or item. :)

It's impossible to choose just one, but I adore the Pavilion in Powder & Espresso. It's traditional, but not in the expected way. I'm also mad for Giardino Udaipur—the paisley feels both classic, modern and endlessly versatile. I recently chose the Pietra wallpaper for a large staircase and adjoining hallways. It felt timeless and modern all at once—Alessandra really nailed the black and white. It's wonderfully warm and elegant. I love the scale of the Brighton Club Chair. It works so well in a sitting room or bedroom and is very comfortable, and the legs are fabulous. The Bonacina Bar—I'm absolutely in love with it. The rattan and the red lacquered fleurette design is just so chic. It's got an old-world vibe while still being functional. Don't you just want to pull up a stool and have a drink here?!