Lately in my travels I have had the pleasure of experiencing the places and spaces of French designer Philippe Starck - perhaps the most influential designer of our time. Starck's approach to design is unique, and he exhibits such a range from his simple product designs to lavish interiors. (You may remember the collaboration he did with Target back in 2002.) He has notably stated that he is never satisfied with his work which, perhaps, continues to fuel his drive for perfection.
Here are some highlights of Starck designed modern architecture and interiors in Beverly Hills, New York City and Paris. You can view his full portfolio at the Philippe Starck website: www.starck.com
The Bazaar, SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills
http://thebazaar.com/
The Bazaar restaurant in the heart of Beverly Hills will not disappoint. From the people watching to the eclectic menu to the layout of the restaurant - your senses will be in overdrive. For each course you'll be seated in a different themed area of the restaurant at communal style tables. Try to get by the chef's table for your main course and be sure to save room for the delicious dessert bar. There's even a section of retail items with wonderful finds and gadgets. To top it off stop at the outside lounge bar on your way out.
SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills
www.starwood.com
Owned by Starwood hotels the SLS Hotel is a good choice if you are looking for excitement in LA. In addition to the standard amenities you would expect, there are pool tables on each floor, the bath products come in full sizes, and the concierge staff has the hook up to all the best spots in town. In our case they even went to the same place they recommended to us for the night!
Hudson Hotel in New York City
http://www.hudsonhotel.com
The Hudson Hotel is conveniently located near Columbus Circle in New York. It is steps away from Central Park and across from the Time Warner center with plenty of shops and a Whole Foods at the bottom. The hip hotel has hidden design surprises at every turn. With a cafeteria style restaurant on-site and lovely rooftop terrace, it's a refreshing boutique hotel with affordable prices for NYC.
Le Royal Monceau in Paris
http://www.raffles.com/paris/
A true gem in Paris, the Le Royal Monceau will whisk you away with its charm and luxury. Located in Philippe Starck's native Paris he certainly put his best foot forward with the hotel renovation and design. The restaurant scene on property offers white glove service or casual dining if you prefer. You'll want to book a spa appointment at the Spa My Blend by Clarins which was also designed by Starck. After walking the nearby Champs-Élysées and admiring the Arc de Triomphe your feet will need a good rub down!
Restaurant Bon in Paris
http://www.restaurantbon.fr/indexacc.html
Off the beaten path and a true local spot, Restaurant Bon restaurant delivers on both design and cuisine. The modern restaurant features Asian-fusion dishes and pockets of different decor. I highly recommend the seating in the library room - other choices include the boudoir, the fireplace room, or the vinotheque.
Kong Bar and Restaurant in Paris
http://www.kong.fr/
A few steps off the Seine river bank Kong Bar and Restaurant makes for an superb evening out or an amazing brunch on the windowed, rooftop terrace. You can't miss the Asian influences like the boy pictured in the bathroom or the random faces adorning the place. Kong has a good section of local and traditional cocktails - the Rossini (champagne, creme de fraise, puree de fraise) was a big hit!
You may also recall the lunch scene from the final season of Sex and the City where Carrie dines with the Russian's ex while she is in Paris. That's Kong - the hot spot with the windowed terrace.
