My Luxuries: Paula Cademartori
The Brazilian-born, Italy-based handbag and shoe designer shares the things she'd rather not live without.
What’s your definition of luxury?
For me luxury means refinement, attention to detail, fine materials and craftsmanship. A luxury product must be able to last, so it must be of the highest quality.
Favourite designer?
Alaia. A real genius!
Little luxuries you love?
I love lingerie by La Perla, really feminine and refined. As for small leather goods I think Valextra offers really cool pieces.
Beauty indulgence?
Muschio Bianco by Dolce e Gabbana.
Watch on your wishlist?
A Boucheron style from the 1930s.
Most treasured piece of jewellery?
My Pennisi earrings. They are a rare piece from the late 1800s.
Dream drive?
I dream about an Italian Vespa from the 1950s, with a sidecar. I already imagine myself and my dog Apollo in it!
Private jet or yacht?
If I have to choose, I would go for the yacht.
Ideal home?
A farmhouse in the countryside, surrounded by green fields with breath-taking views of the nearby mountains.
Favourite architect?
Ferruccio Laviani, without any doubts. I really admire his amazing work.
Sight for sore eyes?
The view from a beach chair underneath a palm tree, while sipping on coconut water.
Artwork you covet?
A painting by Georges Braque, one of the cut-outs by Picasso or a canvas iconography by Basquiat. It's very hard to choose.
Favourite piece you own?
A black marble “Arco” lamp, designed by Castiglioni. This is a unique piece, a limited edition that I bought when I arrived in Italy in 2005. I immediately fell in love with it.
Collector's item?
I collect porcelain. Both my home and my office are filled with beautiful pieces from Richard Ginori, Fornasetti and many others.
Go-to restaurant?
Filippo La Mantia in Milan. A place where you can try a real taste of Sicilian cuisine, it’s simply amazing.
What are you drinking?
It depends on the occasion! Champagne or fruit milkshake.
Home from home?
The Aman hotel in Venice. I think it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. It feels like you are entering a royal palace, which has been restored to perfection. The staff there are wonderful, always discreet and professional, hence the hotel is run with absolute precision and elegance.
Design classic you covet?
I’m in love with the Poliedri lamp by Venini. It’s simply exquisite and I think can add a touch of class and elegance to any place.
Ultimate escape?
I am planning an escape to Dubai at the moment, where I will be staying at the Armani hotel. I’m very excited and curious to discover the luxury landscape there.
Necessary luxury?
Time. It's the most precious thing.
What single thing would make your existence more luxurious?
The chance to have a personal chef at home. I would adore that!