Philippe Starck doesn’t need much of an introduction. As one of the best known ‘new’ designers he has done a wide range of things, from spectacular interior design to mass-produced consumer goods.
His career started with the opening of his first design company in 1968, specialising in inflatable objects. The following year he became Art Director, along with fashion designer Pierre Cardin. But it wasn’t until 1982 that Starck’s career got a real boost when he was commissioned to design the interior of the private apartments of then French President, Francois Mitterrand.
World famous designs include the transparent Louis Ghost Chair, the EroIsI chair, the Bubble Club sofa and the La Boheme stool.
Since his collaboration with Studio 54’s owner Ian Schrager in 1988, Starck has also been designing hotels. Here at Splendia, we have a selection of some of the best design and boutique hotels by Starck. Clift
Stemming from the early 1900s, the restored Clift evokes the spirit of San Francisco. The interior of the hotel features eye-catching juxtapositions that are a delight for the eyes. Starck brings together modern charm with old world sophistication. The hotel’s 372 rooms and suites are elegantly decorated with luxurious fabrics in shades of lavender, grey and ivory. They are also equipped with design furniture and floor-to-ceiling mirrors. The modern Redwood Room is truly innovative – a lounge where you can watch a display of digital artwork on plasma television screens while relaxing.
Jia
The grandiose Jia in Hong Kong is the city’s first boutique h
otel, and the first hotel in Asia designed by Starck. The natural theme of the hotel, found in the original design, has merged with Starck’s distinctive style.
Jia’s bar, Madera, is a dimly lit oasis enclosed by wooden walls. With an impressive selection of both old and new world wines, unique cocktails and premium spirits, it is sure to cater to all tastes.
SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills
Opened in 2008 and entirely designed by Starck, SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills is a modern hotel, intended to cater for the sophisticated traveller. The hotel contains some unique Starck items, carefully displayed throughout the hotel. SLS also has a spa where guests can go to relax and be pampered. Ciel Spa offers everything from massages and facial treatments to haircuts and make-up, all done by professionals.
The roof terrace, dubbed the Altitude Pool Deck, has one of the best views in Beverly Hills. It contains two pools and seven private cabanas and serves as an outdoor lounge, well needed in the Californian heat.
St Martins Lane Hotel
St Martins Lane Hotel benefits from what
is undoubtedly one of London’s best locations, at the heart of lively Covent Garden. It is a smart, witty and sophisticated hotel with references from the modern to the baroque. The lobby is a theatrical space that provides a manipulation of dimension and proportion. 204 guestrooms are distributed over six floors, all with breathtaking panoramic views of London and floor-to-ceiling windows.
To learn more about Splendia, or to view our worldwide collection of unique Luxury & Character Hotels, click here.
Senka
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We stayed at the JIA in HK and really enjoyed our visit. Before we were splendia members. We'd book again.
Glad to hear you enjoyed your stay. It is indeed a fabulous hotel!