Dean Kaufman Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta’s creative director tells T+L about the aerie he created for the St. Regis, and his favorite escapes.
When the St. Regis New York invited Tomas Maier to create a 1,700-square-foot suite, he simply used his seasoned sensibility as a world traveler—and pieces from Bottega Veneta’s new furniture line, available in its store around the corner (699 Fifth Ave.; 212/371-5511). The result?A subtle palette, with photographs by Slim Aarons and Tina Barney, and even sleek Do Not Disturb signs designed by Maier himself. Below, the style guru shares his unique approach.
"They make me cringe. Faxes and computers are out of sight; instead of a desk, there’s a Bottega Veneta dining table with a woven leather top."
"There’s one in every room—but for convenience, not entertainment. But then, I'm European; I prefer good conversation to television."
"I don’t like overlit rooms. When you do lighting right it changes the mood completely. Everything in the suite is on a dimmer."
"Whenever I can, I visit the Zurbarán paintings at the Prado. They have a vast collection of the painter, who is known for his depiction of nuns, monks, and martyrs." (Paseo del Prado, Madrid; 34/90-210-7077)
Maier loves to stroll through the Villa Savoye in Poissy, outside Paris, to view Le Corbusier’s Machine for Living. (82 Rue de Villiers; 33-1/39-65-01-06)
"To relax, I enjoy the endless horizon views and tranquillity at the Post Ranch Inn." (Hwy. 1, Big Sur; 831/667-2200; doubles from $550)
