At Home at The Huntley

Admittedly I stay in a lot of hotels.  I look forward to the small boutique hotels in particular.  They tend to be designed really beautifully with an out of the box aesthetic.  The Huntley Hotel checks all those boxes.

It was home to Blogtourcali when we were in Santa Monica.  The Huntley, with its prime location: steps from the beach, restaurants, and shopping positions it as a MUST if you find yourself in the area.


You know you are in for a treat when first you pull your car into the parking garage (if you can even call it that.)  Never in my life.  Between the curtains and the potted containers I could have spent more time there.

But a feast for the eyes awaits ~ Designer Thomas Shoos sexy, organic meets glam lobby with ethnic touches had me at hello!  The owners wanted something special for The Huntley, not just another sea inspired coastal haut hotel, but a conversation between sand and sea that unfolds itself slowly.

The piranhas are at once playful and become an important focal point, especially with the way the light dances and the shadows fall.

The difference is in the details.  As I was checking in, I was checking out the leather and shagreen inlaid counter top ~ a thing of beauty!

Orchids, manzanita branches, and succulents lend a dramatic, naturalistic vibe.  Schoos delights in what he describes as, "Bringing together flavors that don't match.  It begins a conversation."

Coral fans were a theme throughout

I did not have the pleasure of a suite but the standard rooms were very nicely appointed and plush beds are a must!

loved the light fixtures in the bathroom

The 360 degree view in the Penthouse restaurant lounge is spectacular day or night.  The etherial  feeling either makes you think it is an extension of the beach or you're up in the clouds.  The intimate banquette seating (in the 1st picture and below) was inspired by beach cabanas with their wispy sheer curtains and ocean view.

while at the same time a clubby vibe anchors the space at the other end of the restaurant

The view out towards Malibu is intoxicating.  SIGH ~ and people call this home.

Saint Germain Jewel

 

Hotel Recamier~Tucked into a fashionable corner at Saint Sulpice on the left bank was a little jewel of a hotel.   With French flair and a fashionable address in the upscale Saint Germain Des Pres neighborhood, I felt at home in Paris.

At one time this was the home of Madame Recamier, a French socialite and celebrity of sorts.  A bust of her is seen on each of the 6 floors.  Each floor has a color scheme ranging from grays and taupes to coral and soft green.  A signature sunburst mirror hangs in each room.

 After a thoughtful renovation by Jean Louis Denoit, who artfully mixed many styles, it has a decidedly cozy French feel with a strong neoclassical influence and a "dash of drama."  And who loves that??

Oh, and look who I ran into while I was there, Nathan Turner!  He was adorable and friendly.  We had a nice chat.  I asked about next season's Million Dollar Decorators; he told me they haven't signed on yet.  I am sure it will be back, though.  Love that show!  Check out Nathan's guest editor page on

 One Kings Lane for secrets and sources.

The Recamier was tranquil and serene.  It has beautiful views overlooking the Saint Sulpice Church and its beautiful fountain.  The staff was friendly and helpful, and every detail was well thought out.

ph: CLI (except #4)

Checking In~ The Bedford Post Inn

On Vacationist this week, among other hotels and Inns is a little gem I have been wanting to visit.  (I have a long list of places I want to visit).

When Richard Gere and his wife, Cary Lowell decided to open an Inn, they wanted to create a low key vibe with a concentration on good, wholesome food, wine, and the restorative benefits of yoga.  The Inn at Bedford Post  with its 8 luxury rooms is about an hour outside of Manhattan, nestled on 14 acres of backcountry beauty.  It is calling to me for all those reasons and maybe, a Richard sighting?

With a simple yet upscale design and an emphasis on comfort and romance, Cary and Richard were very hands-on during the design process.  They really want your stay to be a memorable experience.

There are 2 restaurants on the premises.  Both have gotten good reviews.  The more formal Farmhouse Resturant features American cuisine using the best in seasonal ingredients.  The Barn and The Bakery are much more casual for lite bites.

They often hold events, fundraisers, wine pairings, weddings, etc. and have a pre theatre menu if you are going off to Caramoor for a little night music.

The yoga loft has a full schedule of classes and wellness workshops.

There is so much to do in the area...or do nothing.

 Send me your email address if you need an invitation to join the Vacationist site.  Otherwise, look for Richard and me (oh and my husband, Steven too!) at The Inn at Bedford Post .

ph: the Vacationist, Inn at Bedford Post