Martin Hulbert describes the creative process as being like composing a story, one which "although not necessarily always overt, resonates throughout the design scheme." His description of his ideal hotel stay reveals a predilection for large gin-and-tonics.
Where are we?
On a South Pacific Island.
Who are you sharing your room with?
An intellectual with humour and a body to match.
Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room on arrival?
Large gin and tonic. Oh...and a bottle of Le Montrachet 1966.
Who's at the concierge desk?
Duncan, Donald and Alex from the Athenaeum Hotel on Piccadilly.
And the owner / manager?
The wonderful brothers who own The Grove and The Athenaeum Hotel.
Describe your room...
The most beautiful beach house in the world. The interior would be bleached wood and white linen.
Who designed it?
Mary Fox Linton.
What's the view like?
Clear blue sea, not a cloud in the sky and a clean, powder-white sandy beach.
Who are you dining with this evening?
Vivienne Westwood, Betty Davis, Lulu Guinness, Tyson Beckford (model), Freddie Ljungberg (footballer)
Who's manning the stoves?
Alain Ducasse.
And what"s on the menu?
Anything fresh and local.
Would you like something to drink with that?
Another large gin and tonic.
What CDs would like in your room?
Rufus Wainwrigh, Jamie Cullum, Il Divo, Joan Armatrading, Depeche Mode
What"s on the movie channel?
South Pacific, Lost (Series 1), Pirates of the Caribbean, Reservoir Dogs, March of the Penguins
And a book at bedtime?
The Piano Tuner
What's in the mini-bar for a night cap?
Another large gin and tonic.
Would you like a newspaper or magazine in the morning?
Saturday Financial Times.
What toiletries would you like to freshen up with in the morning?
Colgate toothpaste and a Gillette Mach 3 Turbo razor.
Full English, continental or something different?
Something different.
Swimming pool, spa or gym?
Spa
Early morning alarm call or late check out?
Late checkout.
Bath, hot-tub or power shower?
Power shower.
