Presidential Flair

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The pinnacle of exclusive excellence, the Presidential Suite at The St. Regis Houston combines residential living with Southern hospitality. – By Gaye Weintraub

Located on the 12th floor of the hotel, the Presidential Suite exudes the regal elegance synonymous with the St. Regis brand. The largest luxury hotel venue in the city, the penthouse has hosted celebrities, dignitaries and even royalty. The 2,500-square-foot suite offers an unforgettable retreat for those who seek the utmost in accommodations and privacy.

Designed by ForrestPerkins interior designer Toby Bishop in 2008, no expense was spared in creating the refined atmosphere with a Texas flair that graces every room.

“All of the furniture, and even a majority of the hardware, was custom designed specific for this space, as is typical for all of our projects,” Bishop says. “We worked closely with an art consultant, Soho Myriad, to develop the artwork package, which reflects a casual Texas sophistication.”

Bishop adds that his concept, “boots and diamonds,” reinforces the sophisticated side of deep-rooted Texas high society. His meticulous attention to detail not only personalizes the spacious suite but also parallels the impeccable services offered by the hotel’s signature butlers and concierge.

Legendary Sophistication

The suite’s double doors open into the entry foyer. The spectacularly polished diamond shape of the inlaid parquetry wood floor presents the first glimpse of the “boots and diamonds” theme and is analogous to the property’s magnificent reputation as a five-diamond hotel. The space’s handmade wallpaper consisting of whimsical swirls presents a fanciful addition that continues throughout the Presidential Suite and in every guest room within the hotel.

“One of my favorite elements of the design is the unexpected and subtle hints of whimsy throughout the hotel such as the custom-designed, metallic-painted ceiling stencil in each guest room and suite,” Bishop says.

Just past the foyer awaits a fully equipped kitchen, complete with GE appliances, California faucets and a Sirius Range Hood. These modern amenities complement the option for a dedicated butler who may enter through a separate private entrance to deliver paramount personalized services and amenities.

The finesse detail of the inviting living room mirrors the design presented in the adjoining formal dining area and study. The openness of the floor plan functions as both a comfortable space suitable for relaxed enjoyment or intimate gatherings. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the grounds of the Junior League of Houston and fill the space with natural light, adding warmth to the soft blend of earth tones accented with vibrant greens and oranges. A handmade, woven Afghan wool rug spans the polished wood floors, and a faux fireplace adds comfort and coziness to the residential elegance.

Like the kitchen, the living area contains all modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV and Bose Lifestyle and surround system. A soft, neutral sofa accented with silk mandarin orange pillows is accompanied by three mandarin orange club chairs with silk pillows that match the sofa. Small details, including a potted white orchid and entertaining reads on the coffee table, embellish the feel of the private residence.

“Many design elements were drawn from the intricate leather work found in cowboy boots,” Bishop says. “The goal for me was to achieve the perfect balance between casual and sophisticated.”

The entire suite captures the casual sophistication Bishop envisioned, including the formal dining room with its round wood table, earth-toned chairs and custom chandelier. Outside, the Presidential Suite’s terrace embraces the impressive city views coveted by many.

The most magnificent aspect of the suite entails the study. In addition to a solid desk to conduct business or leisurely activities, the large wooden bookcase offers a plethora of books to suit every literary taste. Avid readers will cherish having a personal library for the duration of their stay.

Custom-tailored to deliver an uncompromising experience, the sublime suite emits a very relaxed feel. “You should never feel as though you are staying in a museum,” Bishop says. “It should be comfortable and feel like home.”

Perfect Sanctuary

The expansive two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom suite bestows contemporary luxury upon its guests. The master bedroom presents multiple comforts, including a canopied king-size pillow-top bed, complete with Italian linens and drapery, a gorgeous chaise lounge and faux fireplace. Venetian glass lamps augment the fine attention to detail and quality. The adjoining master bath, with custom granite and marble finishes, contains a Jacuzzi bath, dual-head shower and bidet. Panoramic views of The Galleria area seem
fitting for the spacious walk-in closet and dressing room, allowing more than enough room to consult with a personal stylist and model the day’s purchases from renowned designers at Houston’s famed shopping district.

A second bed and bath across the suite gives children and guests the same contentment. They may even believe they have been accommodated the master suite and not the guest quarters.

Bishop says the most important goal for him to accomplish as a designer concerned the warmth and charm the Presidential Suite affords its guests.

“It brings a sense of southern Texas hospitality to the St. Regis brand,” Bishop says.