Rome-based architect Achille Salvagni, first gained renown for his award-winning super-yacht design, but his high-end residential work, defined by the use of ultra-luxe materials, has also earned him a glittery client base, one that reaches from Italy to New York and Palm Beach. In 2013, alongside his architecture practice, he founded Achille Salvagni Atelier, a studio devoted to the production of limited edition furniture and lighting. Here the jet-setting designer tells us about his favorite New York spots.
Where were you born:
Rome, Italy.
How long have you been in New York?
For the past three years I have been here one week a month. I feel like the Upper East Side is my second home.
Favorite New York neighborhood:
I love the Upper East Side for its elegance, especially the Beaux-Arts and classical architecture, the world famous museums, and the proximity to Central Park. I also love Greenwich Village for its vibrant life and all the galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Best restaurant for Italian food:
Casa Lever on Park Avenue. I love to eat in the cozy wooden niches created by the architect and designer, William Georgis.
Best spot for cocktails:
The Mark Hotel Bar, My favorite cocktail is the raspberry Bellini.
Best restaurant for Sunday brunch:
ABC Kitchen. I go there for the house-cut fries and the spinach and ricotta omlette.
Favorite New York dessert:
Warm apple tart with vanilla ice cream.
Best place for a power business lunch:
The Armani restaurant on Fifth Ave for its calm and soft atmosphere. The quiet and efficient service allows me to work but also feel looked after. The maitre d’ always remembers me and makes sure I’m placed at one of the best tables.
If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend?
I always recommend the Mark Hotel for its chic and lively atmosphere. And the Carlyle for its classic, timeless allure created by the design icon, Dorothy Drapers.
Night-on-the-town favorites:
Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle for Monday evening live jazz and the Boom Boom Room at the Standard Hotel—it’s incredibly glamorous.
Favorite stores for clothing shopping:
Ralph Lauren for stocking up on my Purple Label essentials; Stubbs and Wootton to add to my collection of dapper, quirky shoes.
Best museum:
The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the new, amazing Whitney Museum.
Favorite historic/legendary city place to see or explore:
The Frick Collection. Every time I’m there, I discover a new, exquisite painting by an Old Master.
Best gym/athletic facility:
I have a personal trainer that meets me. We either do a workout in Central Park or in the fitness center in the Mark Hotel.
Favorite charity:
I have two: the Landmark Preservation Commission, which protects NYC”s architecturally and historically important sites, and the Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering for the great work that they do supporting the efforts of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital.
Describe New York in three words:
Wild, formal, dreamy.
What is the secret to your success?
Always being passionate and curious.
