In a year when we haven’t seen much outside of our own spaces, a change of pace, even for 24 hours, can feel like a revelation. A few weeks ago I drove about two hours north to Hudson, New York, to stay at the Maker. While I’m sure that any new scenery would have felt nice, my time at the Maker was revitalizing.
The Maker is the brainchild of Fresh cofounders Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg and hospitality expert Damien Janowicz, and comprises three historical buildings thoughtfully renovated and combined to create one stunning 11-room hotel. Aside from the unique guest rooms, the hotel has a bar, a restaurant, a café, a pool, and a truly gorgeous gym. And while the hotel opened in the midst of COVID-19, it has managed to set up social distancing and safety protocols that blend in seamlessly with the look and feel of the space.
I was lucky enough to stay in the Gardner, which is every bath enthusiast’s dream come true. There was a plush bed (Lev designed many of the beds in the Maker himself), a gorgeous armoire, a fireplace, and one of the best bathtubs I’ve ever had the pleasure of sinking into. Each room has its own theme, and the art and objects in the space could keep you occupied for the majority of your stay if you’re not a fan of public spaces at the moment. And if you’re feeling reclusive in the morning, every guest gets complimentary coffee and a bite sent to their room.
Due to Lev’s incredible sourcing of new, refurbished, local, and global pieces, the hotel is gorgeous without being precious. Every corner is filled with a beautiful item, an interesting book, or a unique lamp (there are around 1,000 lights and lamps in the hotel). Alina designed many of the patterns found in the wallpaper throughout, many of which are available through the Maker shop. It feels like stepping into the grand home of an eclectic collector, with all the modern amenities of a luxury hotel. Pieces are sourced from around the world, and many of the objects made for the hotel are crafted by or in partnership with local Hudson artisans. Around 70% of the furnishings are restored and reclaimed pieces, and while “character” is an adjective thrown around freely to describe many hotels, the Maker’s eclectic and thoughtful design is absolutely full of it.
Travel can feel equal parts nerve-wracking and necessary at the moment, but the Maker strikes a perfect balance of being architecturally impressive and highly luxurious while being small enough to make one feel at home and safe. One thing I found particularly remarkable is that well everything is so well thought out, so impressively curated, it isn’t a stuffy or overly precious experience. Now, if you need me, I’ll be dreaming of that bathtub.
Gallery: House Call: Let’s Amplify AAPI Voices in Design (Architectural Digest)
Welcome to the extended version of my weekly newsletter, House Call (and if you aren’t subscribed, what are you waiting for?). This is where I spend some time pondering a theme, answering a question, and helping you shop smarter, or at least be inspired by something new. Reach out if you ever need recommendations—I’m happy to search the internet for the most specific furnishings, decor, and knickknacks.
I’m at a loss for words regarding the shooting last week in Atlanta. The surge of anti-Asian violence is horrible and it’s more important than ever to be a supportive ally. Though ridding the country of this deep-rooted issue can feel insurmountable, so many social media awareness campaigns and calls to donate have popped up, which pushes me to keep moving in a positive direction. Trying to do my own small part, I wanted to use this space to highlight some incredible Asian-owned businesses and AAPI makers in the design sphere.
While this is a small action in the fight for equality and equity, the more we shop small makers from underrepresented backgrounds, the closer we will get to the day where shopping from AAPI makers isn’t an act of support, it’s just business. Support them now and always.
First and foremost, and if you’re able, find a worthy cause to donate to, like Support the AAPI Community Fund. Then, find a new favorite object to treasure.
Calathea Dottie
Back Pillow Cover
The reBoard
Colorama Bowl
Bold Blue Line Tokusa Series Ceramics
Duo Candlestick
Cara Planters
Blob Sconce
Hand-Painted Wine Cups
Maru Pendant
Sandy Liang Water Bottle
Chen and Kai Nugget Keychain
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