2024 - LUXE MAGAZINE - Real Estate | Design

Miami Beach 2024 – Who to Watch: Art Basel Roundup

Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 gathers 291 of the world’s premier galleries and over 4,000 artists at the Miami Beach Convention Center from December 6-8. The fair is laid out into sectors, each focusing on specific art categories and approaches, such as emerging talent and large-scale installations. Exclusive Luxury Magazine has curated a selection of must-see artists from each exhibition sector.

Galleries

Art Basel’s most extensive sector presents original works by artists at various stages of their careers, all represented by a global selection of modern and contemporary art galleries. Among the standout exhibitors are Galerie Perrotin and Pace Gallery, both with international reach, exemplifying the fair’s core vision of showcasing innovative artists at the forefront of artistic progress. These galleries highlight cutting-edge work by renowned artists, reinforcing the fair’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.

At Art Basel Miami Beach 2024, Perrotin’s booth features a solo presentation of Pelham, MA-based artist Danielle Orchard, renowned for her powerful paintings that combine cubist expression with deeply personal narratives. Reimagining the female nude, Orchard explores themes of motherhood, solitude, and resilience. Symbolic motifs, like chrysanthemums and dahlias, invite profound reflection on identity and transformation, creating a compelling dialogue between the viewer and her intricate compositions.

Pace Gallery’s 2024 exhibition includes a remarkable selection of 20th-century masters, with a spotlight on New York-born Ellsworth Kelly. His 1999 Dark Blue Panel, an imposing eight-foot piece, exemplifies Kelly’s innovative exploration of large, flat color fields and geometric abstraction, reinforcing his legacy as a pioneer of minimalist color art.

Meridians

Curated by Yasmin Raymond, Meridians challenges and extends the traditional art fair terrain to provide an innovative platform to introduce large-scale projects.

Yasmin Raymond, Meridians Curator, by Ramon Haindl. © Courtesy of Art Basel

Among them:

Gagosian brings attention to Rachel Feinstein, an artist celebrated for her imaginative and narrative-driven sculptures and paintings. Her work blends historical motifs with fantastical elements, making it both visually arresting and deeply conceptual. Feinstein’s bronze sculpture Metal Storm (2024) shows a tangle of three interlocking planar witches in the throes of an ecstatic ritual. The piece revisits Hans Baldung Grien’s 1514 drawing New Year’s Greeting with Three Witches and speaks to bodily autonomy and the need to gather in times of instability.

Sarah Meyohas, represented by Marianne Boesky Gallery, is celebrated for her innovative fusion of art, technology, and science. With a focus on pioneering mediums like virtual reality and cryptocurrency, Meyohas pushes the boundaries of contemporary art. Her work resonates with the cutting-edge ethos of Art Basel Miami Beach, captivating both collectors and tech enthusiasts drawn to the intersection of artistic expression and digital innovation.

Nova

The Nova Sector at Art Basel Miami Beach showcases artwork from the past three years, created by no more than three artists. Through layered, multidisciplinary works, these artists explore contemporary themes surrounding societal and interpersonal norms, offering thought-provoking reflections on current narratives.

Joanna Piotrowska’s work explores themes of vulnerability, control, and the intricacies of human relationships. Her grayscale photographs, often set in meticulously arranged domestic spaces, question conventional notions of safety and power. Through her collaboration with Madragoa and Galeria Dawid Radziszewski, Piotrowska stands out at Art Basel, offering a blend of emotional depth and visual complexity.

Johanna Piotrowska, Untitled, 2022. © Courtesy of Galeria Dawid Radziszewski

Juliana Huxtable seamlessly merges photography, writing, and performance to explore themes of identity, technology, and cultural representation. Her bold work challenges societal norms, offering a compelling mix of visual intensity and conceptual depth. Represented by Project Native Informant, Huxtable’s provocative art resonates globally, establishing her as a key artist to watch this year.

Positions

Two of the most exciting artists from the Positions sector; championing emerging galleries and artists are Simphiwe Buthelezi and Paula Nicho Cúmez, each bringing unique and thought-provoking work to Art Basel.

Simphiwe Buthelezi’s dynamic approach—put forward by Smac Art Gallery, blends figurative art with abstract expressionism, to navigate thoughts around identity, heritage, and social issues in contemporary Africa. His emotionally charged works examine the intersection of personal history and collective memory, resonating with viewers looking to explore a deeper understanding of African culture and history.

Paula Nicho Cúmez is celebrated for her captivating installations and profound use of symbolism. Deeply rooted in Maya heritage, her work delves into themes of spirituality, ritual, and human connection. Represented by Proyectos Ultravioleta, Cúmez blends traditional elements with contemporary techniques, sparking introspection and cultural dialogue. Her pieces are a compelling fusion of past and present, making her a standout artist to watch at Art Basel Miami 2024.

Paula Nicho, Iq´ / Wind, 2024, by Margo Porres. © Courtesy of Proyectos Ultravioleta, Ciudad de Guatemala

Survey

The Survey sector of the fair will satisfy those interested in engaging with art that carries historical significance. Among the artists showing work that considers the past while influencing the current art landscape are:

I Gusti Ayu Kadek Murniasih, an Indonesian artist presented by Gajah Gallery, is celebrated for her mixed-media works that reflect the beauty and complexity of Balinese culture. Her art often combines traditional Indonesian themes with contemporary aesthetics, drawing attention to issues of identity, spirituality, and societal change.

Galerie Alberta Pane presents French artist Claude Cahun, a pioneer in surrealism known for her exploration of gender, identity, and self-perception long before they became central themes in contemporary art. Her work challenges societal conventions and continues to influence artists today.

Kabinett

This sector gives gallerists the opportunity to showcase selected works through solo exhibitions or themed group shows n a separate area within their booths.

Brazilian artist, Miriam Inez da Silva—shown by Gomide&Co, creates captivating works that intertwine abstract forms with vivid color and cultural references. Her art is a dialogue broaching identity and the complexity of the human experience. Known for her bold, engaging pieces that speak to contemporary conversations surrounding race, memory, and society, da Silva’s work has a deep resonance that challenges viewers to confront global issues through personal expression.

Mor charpentier highlights Colombian artist, Oscar Muñoz. His work integrates innovative techniques to reflect onmemory, loss, and socio-political themes. Known for his evocative video, photography, and sculpture works, Muñoz is particularly renowned for his “memory” installations that provoke reflections on historical and personal experiences.

artbasel.com

Writer: Jennifer Laoun-Rubenstein

Photos: © Courtesy of Art Basel

The Future of Art: Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 and the Tech Revolution

Miami Beach is recognized as a dynamic fairground for technology and innovation, making it an ideal host for the 2024 edition of Art Basel—the globally lauded art initiative at the forefront of contemporary art. Over its decades long history, Art Basel has led the way in spotlighting groundbreaking applications of science and technology in the crea-tion, exhibition, and appreciation of art.

The Art Basel App: an Enhanced Experience for Tech-Forward Visitors

Just in time for the 2024 Miami Beach edition, Art Basel introduces Art Basel Companion and Art Basel Lens, two groundbreaking features within the new Art Basel App. Developed in collaboration with Microsoft, these tools harness the power of AI-driven computer vision technology, marking a historic first for Microsoft’s involvement in a global art fair. By combining advanced technology with the world of contemporary art, this partnership sets the stage for a more interactive and personalized visitor experience.

Those exploring Art Basel’s offerings can streamline their experience according to their prefer-ences by using the Art Basel Companion as a digital concierge and guide; prioritizing only the most interesting aspects of the show, based on their user input. Art Basel Lens gives visitors augmented real-time information on exhibited artwork, galleries, and artists, as well as the capability to share their favourites with their social networks. VIPs enjoy additional perks, includ-ing exclusive promotions and offers through the app, ensuring a truly customized and privi-leged journey.

A New Era of Giving: Art Basel’s Digital Philanthropy Platform

Since 2022, Access by Art Basel has transformed the sale of art into a vehicle for philanthropy through its innovative digital platform. Select artwork from Art Basel is made available for ex-clusive purchase on the platform, requiring buyers to add a minimum of 10% of the artwork’s value as a charitable donation. Patrons of Art Basel Miami can direct their contributions to The Miami Foundation or The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Buyers submit purchase requests, and once approved by the gallery, payments are processed online, with proceeds securely distributed between the gallery, charity and designated beneficiaries.

Access is built by Arcual—a blockchain and digital tech company that empowers artists, gallerists, and collectors by facilitating secure transactions, verifying artwork authenticity, and enabling royalty payments—all through cutting-edge tools designed specifically for the art industry.

When Art and Technology Converge

Art and technology have consistently evolved together, each shaping and redefining the other. This dynamic interplay is evident in many works showcased at Art Basel Miami 2024, where innovative artists explore cutting-edge concepts, such as harnessing data mining to fuel their creations.

A standout example is Heart of the Ocean by Grammy Award-winning artist and philanthropist Jewel. This striking seven-foot chrysalis sculpture, crafted from resin and illuminated by LED cables, embodies a seamless fusion of artistic imagination and scientific ingenuity, illustrating the transformative potential of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Through visionary collaborations with NASA, NOAA, Stanford, and UC Berkeley, Jewel’s creation integrates real-time oceanic data—tracking temperature changes, migratory patterns, and wave movements—into a living, evolving artwork. Accompanied by a 12-minute soundscape, the sculpture embodies the ocean’s regenerative spirit and humanity’s profound connection to the natural world. Heart of the Ocean is an invitation to reflect on the beauty and fragility of our oceans while inspiring collective stewardship.

artbasel.com

Writer: Jennifer Laoun-Rubenstein

Photo: © Courtesy of Art Basel

Art Basel Miami Beach 2024: A Legacy of Innovation and Artistic Excellence

Art Basel Miami Beach returns for its highly anticipated 2024 edition, taking place from December 6-8 at the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC). Renowned art leaders and enthusiasts from around the globe flock to Miami to experience a vibrant mix of high-level contemporary and modern art showcases, as well as dynamic satellite events spread throughout the city. With over 70,000 visitors expected, Art Basel Miami Beach is considered the premier international art fair of the year. Attendees have the opportunity to discover, admire, and invest in the works of some of the most sought-after artists, with more than 250 world-class galleries from around the world representing their exceptional creative visions.

Five Decades of Artistic Evolution: Art Basel’s Legacy of Success

Art Basel’s success is a direct result of its continuous evolution and commitment to innovation since its humble beginnings as an experimental art fair in the 1970s. Rather than merely repeating the success of its first editions, Art Basel has positioned itself at the forefront of the global art scene by embracing a dynamic and forward-thinking approach. This progression was evident during a shift in the early 2000s from traditional exhibition booths to a more immersive, open-space environment. This transformation allowed for new initiatives such as Art Basel Conversations, where renowned gallerists, curators, and collectors share their insights, and Art Basel Shop, offering exclusive art and design products that extend the fair’s influence to the homes of its many visitors.

In line with its innovative spirit, Art Basel launched the Art Basel Cities program in 2016, expanding its global reach by bringing the fair’s unique experience to different cities around the world. The fair also grew internationally with Art Basel Hong Kong in 2013, reinforcing its global presence. More recently, Art Basel embraced digital transformation with the Online Viewing Rooms, which allowed virtual access to the fair, further connecting art with a global audience.

These innovations, along with the event’s rapid growth in attendance, highlight Art Basel’s ability to adapt and remain a leader in the contemporary art world.

Curating Excellence: The Art Basel Gallerist Selection Process

Art Basel continues to showcase the most relevant and innovative work from both seasoned and emerging artists, making it a leading force in the global art world. With galleries from across the globe competing for a coveted spot, the selection process is highly competitive and rigorous. Since the 1990s, the selection committee—composed of 6 to 8 respected gallerists with diverse experience—reviews applications pre-selected by industry experts. The committee members, who serve for 5 to 10 years, are chosen for their broad understanding of the market, as well as their expertise in curating a successful fair. Of choosing potential committee members, Clément Delépine, director of Art Basel Paris states: “You want to […] consider people who have a broad understanding of the market, and not simply their own niche; people who understand what it means to put a great fair together, and who are seen as anchors within the industry and respected by their peers.”

Selection for Art Basel is merit-based, focusing on innovation and artistic value. The eligibility criteria evolve continually to support emerging and mid-career gallerists, accommodate new operational strategies (such as online galleries), and broaden the definition of art. Committee members review each application individually before discussing it as a group, ensuring that every selection is considered thoroughly. This process typically lasts one to six weeks, depending on the scale of the fair. Galleries selected for one edition must reapply each year, as there is no guarantee of a return invitation. The committees strive to represent a global, inclusive range of artists and galleries while upholding the fair’s rigorous standards.

Who’s Who at Art Basel Miami Beach

Art Basel Miami Beach attracts a dynamic blend of prominent cultural influencers and dedicated art enthusiasts. The demographic is as diverse as the artwork itself, encompassing seasoned collectors, visionary curators, gallery professionals, and creative luminaries from all corners of the world. Many attendees are affluent and well-versed in contemporary art, contributing to the fair’s reputation as a hub for discerning connoisseurs and high-profile buyers.

The event also draws an array of celebrities, designers, and tastemakers who flock to Miami Beach not only for the art but for the vibrant atmosphere the fair cultivates. With global representation among its visitors, Art Basel Miami Beach bridges cultures and fosters dialogue through art. This eclectic mix reinforces the fair’s position as a cornerstone of the international art market and a celebration of artistic innovation.

Premium Experience tickets ranging from USD 650 – USD 3500

General tickets for adults, students, and children ranging from USD 10 – USD 120

artbasel.com

Writer: Jennifer Laoun-Rubenstein

Photos: © Courtesy of Art Basel

Maison Cloakroom: A Symphony of Classic Tailoring and Contemporary Elegance in Montreal

Nestled in the historic district of Golden Square Mile in downtown Montreal, Maison Cloakroom stands as a testament to the art of bespoke tailoring and refined menswear. Established in 2014, Maison Cloakroom has become a cornerstone of Montreal’s fashion scene, housed in a classic 19th-century greystone building that perfectly complements its timeless yet contemporary aesthetic.

The Philosophy of Self-Expression

Founded in Brisbane, Australia, in 2007, The Cloakroom was born from a philosophy that clothing is an extension of self-expression. This principle is vividly reflected in the offerings and experience at the Montreal boutique. “We want each person who walks out of our shop to feel like the most elevated version of themselves, while staying true to their character,” shares Sacha, the experience curator at Maison Cloakroom. The meticulously tailored made-to-measure suits are designed to enhance the wearer’s features, providing comfort and a flattering fit that feels anything but a costume.

Maison Cloakroom’s curated collection is a testament to this ethos. Each piece is a timeless staple, thoughtfully selected to make the customer’s personality and features the focal point. The collection embodies cool sophistication and quiet masculinity, ensuring that each item effortlessly complements the wearer’s style.

Global Presence with a Local Touch

With locations in Brisbane, Montreal, and Tokyo, The Cloakroom has a global footprint. However, the Montreal boutique contributes uniquely to the brand’s identity. The energy and architectural details of its historic building provide an ideal backdrop to showcase its character and timeless aesthetic. Maison Cloakroom seamlessly blends into the luxury shopping landscape of the Golden Square Mile, attracting both locals and tourists.

Tailoring the experience to fit the local culture, Maison Cloakroom offers a personalized and intimate process. Initial consultations discuss fit, fabric, and styling options, followed by precise measurements. These details are then sent to manufacturing partners in Japan, Italy, or China. After 3-7 weeks, the finished garments return for a final fitting and any necessary adjustments by the local tailoring team.

Balancing Classic and Contemporary

Maison Cloakroom’s house style is a harmonious blend of classic tailoring and contemporary sensibility. The balance is struck through subtle, tasteful modern detailing that appeals to emerging demographics while avoiding fleeting trends. The signature style is defined by a tightly curated color palette, fabric compositions, and unique fit patterns, ensuring each suit is a product of authoritative knowledge and impeccable styling.

A Passion for Craftsmanship

In an era dominated by fast fashion, Maison Cloakroom stands out by slowing down and emphasizing craftsmanship. The brand works with top-tier fabrics and manufacturers, aiming to appeal to clients who appreciate quality and expert craftsmanship. Whether produced in Japan with mechanical precision or in Italy with handmade elements, each garment reflects meticulous attention to detail and excellence.

Building Lasting Relationships

Central to Maison Cloakroom’s philosophy is building strong relationships with customers. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, clients are greeted warmly, offered espresso, and engaged in a process that ensures their satisfaction. The boutique’s fit guarantee and follow-up service demonstrate a commitment to client happiness and ongoing wardrobe needs.

Sacha, as the experience curator, plays a pivotal role in shaping this journey. By dedicating 1:1 attention through appointment-based consultations, he ensures each customer’s journey is exceptional and memorable. This personalized approach not only enhances the shopping experience but also solidifies lasting relationships.

Integrating Montreal’s Unique Culture

Maison Cloakroom incorporates elements of Montreal’s unique cultural identity into its offerings and atmosphere. Exclusive collaborations with local artisans, such as the luxury eyewear label Lunetterie Generale, add a distinctive touch. The shop’s broader speakeasy-inspired experience, including in-shop barber services and the adjacent Cloakroom Bar, further integrates lifestyle elements into the brand experience.

Looking Ahead

As Maison Cloakroom looks to the future, it aims to expand its local presence and appeal to a new demographic of young clients. By fulfilling the sartorial needs of clients who value both product and experience, Maison Cloakroom is set to become a go-to spot for clothing and culture in Montreal. The boutique’s legacy lies in its commitment to timeless appeal, meticulous craftsmanship, and personalized service, ensuring its evolution alongside the city’s vibrant fashion landscape.

maisoncloakroom.com

Writer: Lesley Bishin

Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch: Timeless Elegance

In the realm of haute horology, Van Cleef & Arpels presents a breathtaking piece with the Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch, a masterpiece that seamlessly intertwines artistry and precision. This exceptional timepiece is a symphony of colors and craftsmanship, featuring a dial adorned with 70 vibrant hues and intricate enameling techniques that transport wearers into a world of enchantment inspired by ballet.

Craftsmanship and Precision Redefined: Dancing Dreams on Your Wrist

The Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, showcasing a dial painted with 70 vivid colors and detailed enameling techniques. Precious stones such as diamonds, colored sapphires, blue tourmalines, onyx, sugilite, and lapis-lazuli come together in a mesmerizing dance, echoing the magical ambiance of a ballet performance. Drawing inspiration from Marius Petipa’s Nutcracker and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, the watch’s dial features a ballerina and her prince, their faces adorned with pink-cut diamonds, elegantly dressed in costumes brought to life through miniature painting against a backdrop of winter landscapes and vibrant nuances.

Van Cleef & Arpels has long been captivated by the artistry of dance, and the Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch is a testament to their dedication to storytelling through horological art. Limited to just three pieces, this watch captures a scene from the Land of Sweets in Marius Petipa’s Casse-Noisette ballet. The intricately painted figures of the ballerina and prince dance amidst a confectionary backdrop, with over 70 colors meticulously applied on the dial using innovative enamel techniques. The combination of sealed enamel discs, shaped enamel, and a plethora of ornamental stones creates a captivating tableau, capturing the essence of ballet in a timepiece of unparalleled depth and beauty.

Journey into Art and Tradition

The Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch is not merely a watch; it is a voyage into the world of haute horology and artistic expression. The 41mm white gold case, adorned with round diamonds, exudes sophistication and luxury. The dial itself is a marvel of craftsmanship, blending techniques such as plique-à-jour and champlevé enameling to create a multi-dimensional canvas of colors and textures. Each element, from the miniature paintings of the ballerina and prince to the meticulously placed gems and stones, showcases the mastery and artistry of Van Cleef & Arpels’ craftsmen.

Inspired by Ballet’s Timeless Magic

The Nutcracker ballet, with its timeless tale of magic and wonder, serves as the muse behind the Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch. The second act’s Land of Sweets scene, where the ballerina and prince dance amidst a fantastical candy kingdom, is beautifully captured on the dial. This homage to classical ballet not only pays tribute to artistic heritage but also reflects Van Cleef & Arpels’ commitment to storytelling through design. The watch becomes a wearable work of art, evoking emotions and memories while embodying excellence in horology and aesthetics.

Historical Significance and Rarity

Limited to just three pieces, the Lady Arpels Nutcracker Watch holds a place of distinction in the world of haute horology. Its exclusivity adds to its allure, making it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike. With meticulous attention to detail and a legacy of innovation, Van Cleef & Arpels has created not just a watch but a timeless legacy of craftsmanship and artistry.

Writer: Lesley Bishin

Cover: © Van Cleef & Arpels – Clément Rousset

A Fusion of Opulence and Artistry: Decoding the Allure of Art Basel Miami Beach

The sun-kissed city of Miami played host to Art Basel again this year, transforming the city into a global hub for art aficionados. The annual event, held from December 8 to December 10, 2023, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, turns the city into a pinnacle of luxury and artistic brilliance. Beyond a mere art fair, Art Basel Miami Beach has become a must-attend event, attracting a diverse ensemble of influencers, collectors, and celebrities.

Art Basel Miami Beach, Where History Meets Contemporary Luxury

Originating in Switzerland in 1970, Art Basel has evolved into a triad of global events, with Miami Beach joining the creative celebrations in 2002. The Miami edition, a nexus of modern and contemporary art, consistently redefines artistic boundaries, has become a trendsetting force, shaping the discourse around modern art. Art Basel Miami Beach is not merely a showcase of established artists; it’s a platform that propels emerging talents into the limelight. This amalgamation of tradition and avant-garde exploration gives the event a unique character, drawing a diverse audience eager to witness the heartbeat of contemporary art.

The Glittering Confluence of Attendees

Art Basel Miami Beach transcends being a mere art fair; it’s a cultural phenomenon that harmonizes art, fashion, and entertainment, drawing luminaries from diverse industries, turning the already vibrant city into a star-studded galaxy. Celebrities, influencers, and prominent collectors converge in a refined ambiance, creating an unprecedented fusion of creativity and glamour. Art Basel Miami Beach is where the worlds of Hollywood and the art elite collide, where renowned actors engage in dialogues about brushstrokes with visionary artists. The allure lies not only in the curated masterpieces on display but also in the electrifying atmosphere fueled by the presence of those who shape popular culture.

The Artistic Mosaic

The Miami Beach Convention Center, during Art Basel, undergoes a metamorphosis into a labyrinth of creativity. Galleries from around the globe unveil a plethora of artworks, ranging from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations that redefine artistic expression. Attendees navigate through this visual banquet, encountering everything from classical masterpieces to experimental contemporary art. Art dealers, collectors, curators, and museum groups came from everywhere from Aspen to Paris to Hong Kong, and reported sales of works valued as highly as $20 million.

Beyond Art

Basel Miami is not merely an art event; it’s a meticulously curated luxurious experience. The event extends beyond the confines of the convention center; it spills onto the streets, turning the city into an open canvas. Public art projects, site-specific installations, and performances transform the urban landscape into an immersive gallery. The city transforms into a stage for exclusive parties, fashion statements, and culinary indulgence. Luxury brands align themselves with the event, creating limited-edition collaborations and bespoke experiences. From VIP lounges adorned with exquisite artworks to Michelin-starred chefs crafting culinary masterpieces, every facet of Art Basel Miami Beach resonates with opulence. It’s a celebration where luxury is not a spectator sport but an integral part of the narrative.

Masterpieces in Motion

Amidst the plethora of artistic brilliance, three standout pieces garnered attention – and exceptional price tags: Philip Guston’s Painter at Night (1979) sold for $20 million, George Condo’s Smiling Aristocrat (2023) sold for $2.35 million. Henry Taylor’s Made in Mexico (2016) sold for $1 million.

www.artbasel.com

Writer: Lesley Bishin

Chef Daniel Boulud: the art of haute cuisine

In an intimate interview with Chef Daniel Boulud, LUXE draws back the curtain on some exciting current and future projects, while putting the spotlight on Le Pavillon, a Michelin-starred treasure in Boulud’s international collection of exceptional culinary destinations. Open since the spring of 2021 in the newly erected One Vanderbilt skyscraper in New York City—site of the highly sought-after SUMMIT observation deck—the French restaurant is waking up Midtown, revealing yet another facet of the Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur.

Introduce our readers to the experience at Le Pavillon.

Le Pavillon is a glamorous place that embodies simplicity, elegance and refinement. It is an oasis of peace in a very busy corner of Manhattan, designed by Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld to combine New York energy with serenity provided by lush greenery and foliage. Half of the restaurant is a living garden, while the other half—a dining room—overlooks the trees and bushes. A magnificent hand-blown glass chandelier by artist Andy Paiko is suspended from cables 75 feet above a bar area fitted with a gold and deep blue glass countertop. Beautiful rustic stone floors lie underfoot and the light from a bay window overlooking Grand Central Station, Park Avenue and the Chrysler Building changes throughout the day.

The menu changes seasonally—one dish is replaced every week—and is centred around seafood and vegetables, with a few meat propositions. There is a beautiful wine list that includes an incredible selection of champagne. One dish that has never changed is the Huitre Vanderbilt: a poached Maine oyster in a creamy velouté with leeks and hazelnuts, topped with an herbaceous seaweed and hazelnut crust. With this special dish, best served with champagne, we are able to pay homage to the man who built Grand Central Station and the Grand Central Oyster Bar.

Describe the relationship between the restaurant and its neighbourhood.

Many of our clients travel to New York from around the world to see the opera, the ballet or the philharmonic. Dining with us adds another layer of pleasure to their trip. We’ve been part of the city for a long time, offering several dining options in different parts of the city. One Vanderbilt and Le Pavillon have transformed Midtown into another exciting area to visit for great food in a majestic building that anchors the epicentre of Manhattan.

What are some of your other recent projects in New York City?

We just opened a very refined ten-seat Japanese restaurant called Jōji. It is located underground beneath One Vanderbilt, and is directly connected to Grand Central Station. Next to it is Jōji Box, which is a fantastic takeout concept. We also have a new charming Bouchon Lyonnais called Le Gratin, located in The Beekman Hotel next to the World Trade Center and Wall Street.

How do you approach innovation while preserving culinary tradition?

Innovation comes with teamwork, as we travel, meet with our suppliers, and talk to our chefs and managers. It comes from reading, studying and sometimes just following a gut feeling and sheer creativity, sometimes borrowing flavours outside of French cuisine to complement it. I enjoy being creative, but within a functional context that makes sense, one of balance and logic, adapting classic combinations of flavours and ingredients to create new tastes and textures.

What does exceptional service mean to you?

Genuine hospitality is something we strive to bring to every one of our restaurants. It is knowledge, confidence, a sense of perfection offered for the passion and pleasure of giving it. My friend Will Guidara, who just published a book called Unreasonable Hospitality, says, “Service is black and white, but hospitality is colour.” This means you can learn the theory behind great service, but without energy, kindness and care, you end up with a waiter who knows everything but is not capable of connecting with people. Our responsibility is to make guests feel comfortable and happy, respecting the pace and experience that they wish to have.

What does it take to achieve excellence in the industry?

A lot of work, sacrifice and a great team that will help you achieve your goals. For a chef and restaurateur at my level, all of the effort has to be for the sake of doing a very good job and making something that people will remember. Yes, it’s a business, but if money were the only objective, I would definitely be doing something else.

What can you tell us about your future projects?

I’m working on a new project that will be coming to the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Los Angeles and Café Boulud will be reopening at Blantyre, a boutique hotel in Lenox, Massachusetts. We are strengthening existing projects in Manhattan, and continuing our collaborations with my real estate partner SL Green, for whom we manage the catering division.

Our greatest focus is preparing for the 30^th anniversary celebration of Daniel restaurant, scheduled for late next spring. All our restaurants are very important to me, my customers, and my team, but Daniel remains the flagship, my home base, and this anniversary is a big milestone.

www.lepavillonnyc.com

Writer: Jennifer Laoun-Rubenstein