Dreaming of a White... Canvas

A white canvas.  That is the sensation when standing in the center of the Boscolo Exedra Roma lobby, as the walls are painted a stark white, from the 24" deep dental molding down to the equally substantial base boards.  Often in design this is just a starting point to "paint it out white," followed by some overlaying details, applied moldings in another color or art work that adds meaning to the space.  But not here, in this neoclassical building, which dates back to the XIX century, constructed by Gaetano Koch (also responsible for the twin building on the other side of Piazza Reubblica).  But, the 'white canvas' is clearly from another hand (or hands): architect Maurizio Papiri and designer Adam Tihany.  

And the Christmas decor of the Boscolo is quite minimal as the white would lead to believe, just a smallish tree perched atop a round marble table in the lobby, but filled with ornaments the size of a soccer ball in classic red and gold.  The walls are so rich in detail that the white is truly understood as the designer's canvas.  

 

St. Regis + St. Nick

It is hard to beat a classic... And the luxury of the St. Regis Hotel in Rome never disappoints.  Each time that I enter the lobby and look up at the blue painted ceiling (hosting names from literature) and the illuminated crystal centerpiece, I need a moment to soak in the surrounds and just gaze.  The details in the holiday decorations are manifest from the street view and they usher you into the porte cochere and then the magnificence of the hotel itself.  Having worked with the Starwood Group, and the St. Regis specifically, it is no surprise that details are of the utmost importance with a refined touch... A key element that has remained since the beginning with the Astor family in New York... And that continues to live on.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aleph Roma

As a designer, specializing in hotel design, my eyes are always wandering towards the newest hotel and innovative design.  The Boscolo Aleph in Rome, designed by the phenomenal Adam Tihany is one of the city's more modern beauties... all the red is strong, yet not over-the-top.  I was at the hotel recently for an event and I found it a perfect opportunity to begin my short series of blogs on the holiday decorations around the city.  The red (wittily symbolizing Hell) makes you feel completely at home as it is so fitting with red berries, white and silver accents. The tree is a classic in the library, set on the herringbone floor... And the large bell hanging over the concierge?  It makes me want to sing out those carols... 

"Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way..."

Aleph Roma