MEET THE DESIGNER

ITALIAN ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE FINDS A PLACE IN THE HAMPTONS

You grew up in Italy. How does this effect your architecture style? With a country so rich in classical architecture, I, by default, became a classicist. Having said that, Milan, where I was born, is a pivotal place for contemporary design, so I was lucky enough to be exposed to both disciplines early on in life. What brought you to New York? I believe that gratification is generated by accomplishments and I tend to be very active, so New York was the place for me to be. I knew it immediately after my first visit. In the late '80s I headed an engineering company and I was the only person in the office during August. That didn't fit well with my personality. So at the age of 27 I moved. What do you like about working in the Hamptons? The mix of country and beaches, the bohemian and creative environment and the worldly city people. I tend to work frequently with the locals and have been repaid with loyalty. That doesn't happen in the city. Where do you draw creative inspiration? Anywhere and from anything! Once I was admiring a Bridgehampton sunset and the colors of the beach grass, the sand and the blue ocean inspired me to create an organic Zen kitchen. What are some of your favorite materials? Bronze, copper, brass, stones and exotic woods, all natural materials that age well, plus hi-tech innovative materials. Finish this sentence: I cringe when I see... Lack of symmetry and a disregard for proportions. The human eye is trained to immediately detect imperfections. If you pay attention to what defines beauty in a person's face, it is symmetry and the right proportions. What color palette accents your own home? For the Hamptons: colors inspired by nature with accents from the flowers in the garden. I don't want too much of a contrast from the surroundings when I enter the house. It should be an almost seamless transition. For the city: deep colors such as cocoa combined with caramel and light sand shades that contrast the artwork on the walls. The key is to keep it warm, cozy and welcoming. Are there any great do-it-yourself projects you've recently completed? I recently moved from downtown to an uptown location by the park. I really enjoyed doing some of the woodwork myself. How do you enjoy your free time? Free time? I work every day because I love what I do.