![IMG_7517[2][3]](http://www.hauteliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_751723-1024x768.jpeg)
Ever wonder what the most powerful leaders, business execs and celebrities keep on their desks? Well, we’re about to tell you. Our biweekly “What’s on My Desk” feature will take a look inside the offices and at the desks of the world’s most influential power players.
This week we’ve featured John Grossman, the Vice President of Development Projects for Classic Hotels & Resorts. John is responsible for all design management, project development management and coordination for management operations. His experience includes hospitality acquisitions, multi-unit housing developments and international programs. The properties included in his portfolio include the Inn at Laguna Beach, La Playa Carmel and the Arizona Grand Resort. Here is a look at the items on John’s desk:
1. Photos: As a longtime hobbyist photographer, I’ve recently re-discovered film photography. There is just something about the aesthetic of film that I love; and that cannot be replicated with today’s cameras and photoshop filters. In the past 3 or 4 years I have enjoyed a renewed focus on the medium and have built a nice collection of vintage film cameras from the 1960’s to the 1990’s. Each camera has its own character and many quirks. The photo wall above my desk is a constantly rotating body of work, with images from international travel, landscape photography and anecdotes of weekend jaunts.
2. La Playa Carmel Tote Bag: While my main focus is on design and development management, from time to time I also get to be involved in management and operations. The La Playa Carmel tote bag on my desk is a sample we’re looking at for our ‘Beach Blanket Special’. We load up the bag with locally sourced food, sweets and wine and our guests borrow one of our Hotel bikes (with basket) and ride down to the beach or along the world famous 17 Mile Drive to find a secluded spot for a picnic.
3. Lather Soap Dispensers: From my previous experience working in both San Francisco and Sydney, Australia, I was lucky to find myself in companies that focused on integrating energy efficient building techniques and sustainable management practices. I bring this perspective and ethos to Classic Hotels, and have worked closely with our building and management team to thoughtfully consider the environment, and our guest experience as one. The Lather soap dispense on my desk is a sample we’re considering for our hotel guest rooms, which are on trial right now at the Inn at Laguna Beach. Upon full implementation, this dispenser will reduce our net plastic consumption and save money, all while delivering a great user experience.
4. My Dad’s Desk Chair: This old style suede leather chair belongs to my father, Sam. Its been a fixture at his desk for as long as I’ve been alive. Recently he upgraded to a new chair, and I of course jumped at the opportunity to continue the legacy. He’s an inspiring businessman, and a long time real estate professional, who has “forgotten more than I’ll ever know.”
Like Haute Living Los Angeles? Join our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter @HauteLivingLA. Want Haute Living Los Angeles delivered to your inbox once a week? Sign up for our newsletter.
![IMG_2824_2[7][4]](http://www.hauteliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_2824_274-1024x937.jpeg)
![IMG_7517[2][3]](http://www.hauteliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_751723.jpeg)
![IMG_2824_2[7][4]](http://www.hauteliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_2824_274.jpeg)
