Allison Barry shares her thoughts on the brilliance of our clients, team, and partners.
Exploring “Sense of Place” through Hyatt’s Andaz Maui Resort and Four Seasons Napa Valley.
A roundtable discussion from our art directors about art programs in luxury spaces.
Studying “Brand Expression” and art through the lens of The St. Regis Longboat Key resort.
Playing with reflective forms in art, design, and fashion in our latest Trend Report.
Deepening “Guest Experience” with storytelling at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay and Waldorf Astoria Chicago.
Our team shares experiences where the level of care and attention left a lasting impression.
Curating a more considered way of living, paired with the perfect soundtrack.
The Brilliance Behind it All
Bernard’s Cocktail Lounge at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago enhances the space’s rich, classic design, featuring “Braids” by Beth Kamhi, winner of Custom Art + Installations at the 20th Annual HD Expo Product Awards.
The most brilliant things are never accidental. A diamond catching the light feels like the clearest expression of this. It’s easy to admire the final form, but understanding the process behind it adds a deeper meaning. The time. The pressure. The careful alignment of natural elements coming together to create something so precious. In many ways, our work at KBAA reflects this same approach. A multi-year Four Seasons project. A custom commission refined through shifting creative direction. An intricate installation on the ceiling at the St. Regis. Each one arrives at its final form only after everything has precisely aligned.
True brilliance is never a solo act. It is built through collaboration between ownership, brand teams, architects, designers, purchasing partners, artists, and (of course) our own incredible team. It’s a shared process of shaping, refining, and bringing every element into place.
This issue offers an inside look at our process for creating exceptional luxury art programs. You’ll find behind-the-scenes explorations of our work with brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Waldorf Astoria, and St. Regis, alongside moments from Fontainebleau, Raffles, and more. Across these pages, we examine our work through the lens of three pillars that guide us: sense of place, expression of brand, and meaningful guest experience. Together, they form work that is both thoughtful and enduring.
It’s an honor for us that KBAA and luxury hospitality have gone hand in hand since our founding over thirty years ago. One of Kevin Barry’s very first projects was advising The Beverly Hilton in 1984! Today, our team of hospitality art experts works across the country partnering with the best brands in the business. What began as a singular vision has grown into something expansive, shaped over time, and driven by an infinite pursuit of what’s possible. I hope you enjoy this issue.
Warmly, Allison
Barry
THE ART OF LUXURY HOSPITALITY
Real luxury hospitality is often imagined, but only truly understood once it’s experienced. It begins quietly. You wake from a deep sleep, drawn out of bed by the aroma of coffee and the soft hum of morning. The day unfolds with ease, unhurried and entirely your own. Maybe you drift toward the pool. Maybe you linger longer than expected in your robe at the spa. Nothing asks anything of you, yet every detail feels like a dream.
What truly defines luxury hospitality is not just what you do, but what surrounds you. The subtle, thoughtful details that shape how a place feels. The artwork in your room capturing the spirit of the place beyond the window. The installation in the lobby mirroring the
landscape outside. The quiet sense of calm that allows you to fully rest and reset.
Luxury, at its best, is not seen or scheduled. It’s felt in every layer. At the heart of it all is art, creating moments of connection, grounding you in place, and elevating the experience into something unforgettable. Because true luxury is not just about where you are, but how it makes you feel. Effortlessly considered, deeply personal, and impossible to replicate.
SENSE OF PLACE
Where every element draws from its setting, offering a deeper connection to where you are.
Curating connected journeys for luxury guests.
Every project at KBAA begins with a story. The most meaningful ones are shaped by clients who invite us fully into their world, allowing art to embody the depth, beauty, and nuance of place. We avoid the expected, instead collaborating with local artists to express something more authentic.
At Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, by Hyatt, guests are immersed in a refined sense of tropical elegance. Developed in partnership with HBA San Francisco, the villa suites feature works by Hawaii-based artists, including several who were impacted by the 2023 wildfires. The collection moves through color, texture, and island influence, capturing Maui’s culture,
landscape, and spirit with care and intention.
A distinct sense of place also defines the Four Seasons Napa Valley. Rather than leaning on obvious wine motifs, the program reflects the region through a more elevated lens. Local artists interpreted themes of harvest, shifting light, and the rhythms of agriculture, creating a collection that feels rooted in Northern California’s quiet luxury. Subtle references to tools, vessels, and the hands behind the craft bring depth to the experience.
Together, these spaces feel immersive, thoughtful, and deeply connected. Art doesn’t just complement the environment. It completes it.
01
(Prev. Page) Large-scale wood
The warm spirit of Maui’s landscape comes to life through a curated mix of local artworks, from a shell sketch to a hand-beaten kapa piece.
relief at Four Seasons Napa Valley by Bay Area artist Carmen McNall honors the Hispanic women who have shaped the region.
Painter Kyle Goderwis captures flowing water abstractions inspired by Napa Valley’s lakes and rivers.
04 Cast ceramic tablets echo Southern Napa’s clay soil, crafted by NBC Pottery, a husband-and-wife duo based in Angwin.
SHAPING LUXURY SPACES
KBAA ART DIRECTORS JULIA STENDERUP, VERONICA VOLBORTH, AND KATIE LUKA DISCUSS HOW ART PROGRAMS BRING DEPTH, NARRATIVE, AND A TRUE SENSE OF PLACE TO HOSPITALITY
It’s always a treat to sit down with our art directors! To start, tell us a bit about your role at KBAA. What does your day-to-day look like?
Veronica: No two days are ever the same as an Art Director at KBAA. We are player-coaches. So, on any given day, we may be curating artwork, onboarding new artists, leading client presentations, creating training programs for our team members, or collaborating with other KBAA department leaders on company initiatives. The list goes on — but the common thread in everything we do is creative thinking.
Can you walk us through how a project typically unfolds, from early conversations to final installation?
Katie: A project typically begins with early conversations that focus on understanding the client’s vision, the brand, and the emotional tone they want the space to convey. From there, we develop a narrative framework, something that anchors the project in a sense of place while leaving room for interpretation and elevation.
That narrative then guides both artist sourcing and custom development. We look for artists whose practices naturally align with the story, while also identifying opportunities where bespoke pieces can push the concept further. It’s a constant dialogue between what already exists and what needs to be created.
As the project moves toward execution, it becomes about refinement and cohesion, ensuring each piece contributes to
the overall experience while maintaining a high level of craft. The final piece of the puzzle is consideration of art placement, and how a guest will move through and encounter the work.
What makes an art program feel cohesive across an entire property?
Julia: To create a truly artful experience across a property, we rely on a deliberate sense of balance. Because art is inherently subjective, variety becomes essential in expressing the brand narrative. A single piece may not resonate with every guest, but across a thoughtfully curated collection, each guest is given multiple opportunities to connect. By balancing subject matter, mediums, and styles, all anchored in the brand story, we ensure that every space holds the potential for meaningful engagement.
At the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, our team imbued the iconic Fontainebleau brand throughout the entire property, while embracing a unique story at each destination: a cocktail bar was energetic, expressive and bold, while the spa was serene, minimal and abstracted.
What do you think actually makes a guest pause and stick with them?
Julia: Inviting guests to reconsider their assumptions about what art can be is a powerful way to create a lasting impression. A compelling example is the copper ceiling sculpture installed in the winery tasting rooms at Four Seasons Napa Valley. For this piece, the artists layered large-scale sheets of copper and then dramatically contorted them by firing a cannon through their center. Suspended within the planes of the cathedral ceiling, the sculpture captures and reflects light, drawing the eye upward while prompting a sense of curiosity: how was this made, and what defines it as art?
Lastly, what does great art curation add to a luxury hotel experience? Why does this incredible work we get to do matter?
Veronica: Talented architecture and design teams build the bones and bring life to a space. With artwork, we help those spaces speak. It matters because art has the ability to connect with a person in the deepest part of their soul. For a guest to experience that? That is the truest luxury there is.
02
01 “Folded Females in Pink” by Heidi Lanino offers delightful energy at the esteemed Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
03
Lisa Kokin’s “Book Branch” intricately shapes pages from the beloved local children’s book Make Way For Ducklings at Raffles Boston.
Copper panels create a fluid series of metallic forms that catch the light at Four Seasons Napa Valley, each organically shaped through impact using a cannonball.
BRAND EXPRESSION
Amplifying the St. Regis legacy of indulgence and sophistication through intentional artistry in Longboat Key.
When working with a luxury brand whose legacy already speaks for itself, our role becomes one of translation. For St. Regis Longboat Key, that meant shaping a cohesive artistic experience guided by the brand’s promise to “live exquisite.” This ethos informed every detail, from the artist’s hand to the tint of metallic leaf to the profile of each frame, resulting in moments designed to invite pause and evoke emotion.
01 (Prev. Page, left) Oversized framed canvases by Kostas Papaskostas anchor The Great Hall entryway.
02 (Prev. Page, right) A mica ceiling installation by Christina Watka shimmers like sunlight on ocean waves.
03 Art program moments illustrate the Gulf’s natural drama, from seabirds to misty skies and moving currents.
04 (Opposite Page) “Dreamscape” by Bill Savarese is an abstract mural inspired by ocean life.
“Founded by John Jacob Astor, the St. Regis brand prides itself on the blending of heritage and glamour. Interpreting this within the artwork meant favoring traditional elements of luxury, such as pearlescent finishes, gilded frames, and elegant forms that are deeply connected to the brand ethos.”
- Julia Stenderup, Art Director
Across the program, these moments highlight both the iconic elements of the setting and the subtle details that make the experience feel complete. A thoughtful mix of local artists and those working with unique materiality brings the vision to life, celebrating texture, natural elements, and quiet intricacy.
At the heart of the experience, the bar mural “Dreamscape” by Bill Savarese (seen right) offers an immersive, fluid composition inspired by ocean life. Its luminous tones and touches of gold add depth and quiet opulence. In the spa, Christina Watka’s mica ceiling installation (previous page) undulates overhead, catching the light like sun on water and transforming the space into a serene sanctuary.
01.
LUMINOUS LAYERS
In art, reflective materials invite interaction, shifting with your perspective to create everchanging experiences. Layer these moments into your space to build depth and encourage pause. Find inspiration from nature in water or natural light, and bring it into artful moments that shine bright.
We’re particularly inspired by artists like Philadelphia-based interdisciplinary artist Laura Sallade, contemporary artist Katie Alize, and California-based sculptor Chandler McLellan, all of whom deeply understand the materiality they work within and create pieces that draw the eye.
METALLIC MOMENTS
Turn heads with striking fashion moments. We were captivated by Audrey Nuna’s custom Oscars look by Thom Browne featuring a gold, degradé sequin and bugle bead stand-collar jacket that dazzled with every movement. Lean into high-fashion expression with sculptural headpieces and luminous fabrics, or keep it understated with subtle, light-catching accents that quietly elevate the look.
Seen above is a close-up of “Cascading Thoughts” (36 x 36 in.), an oxidized copper wall sculpture by Adam Colangelo. Known for balancing craftsmanship with experimentation, he uses the reactive properties of copper as a creative language, revealing unexpected textures and colors.
02.
SHIMMERING SPACES
Bringing in reflective forms is almost effortless in interior design. There are so many ways to layer them in. A glossy marble bar. Glassware that catches and casts light. Mirrors and lighting that amplify a room’s natural brightness. Silver, gold, crystal, metal, glass. The possibilities are endless!
One thing to always consider is how these materials interact with natural light. Seen here, a conversation room is anchored by an elevated freestanding copper fireplace. When lit, the surface flickers with the movement of the flame. While not in use, it subtly plays with the light pouring in through the windows, casting a soft glow across the space.
TREND REPORT
Guest
Art as a catalyst for moments of intrigue and engagement.
Experience
When you think of guest experience, you may immediately think of service. How the hotel staff welcomes you. How they anticipate your needs. But to us, guest experience is something more. It’s an opportunity to create awe-inspiring moments through art.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago brings a sense of classic luxury with an unexpected edge, where each artwork is designed to capture attention in a distinct way. Created in collaboration with Simeone Deary Design Group, the program spans the lobby lounge, Bernard’s Bar, and the suites, using bold contrast, rich saturation, and striking composition to shape how guests encounter the space. Graphic black and white abstracts in the suites, the saturated oil painting at the lobby fireplace, and the braided horsetails in Bernard’s each invite a moment of pause. The result is a guest experience that feels both timeless and provocative, where art adds a layer of intrigue, encouraging guests to slow down, look closer, and feel something unexpected.
01 (Prev. Page) A custom ceramic installation by Los Angeles artist Natalya Seva at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay fosters a moment of connection to the organic world around us.
At Waldorf Astoria Chicago, guests experience an original oil painting atop the lobby lounge fireplace by Maria Checa.
At The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, the custom KBAA piece “Aerial Coast” is embellished with rich texture and perfectly complements the interior design.
“Anemone Petals,” an acrylic monotype with circular matting by Liz St. Andre, adds a special touch to The Ritz-Carlton guest room.
Along the Northern California coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is transformed into a gallery of inspiration and serenity through a thoughtfully curated art program. Drawing from the rugged landscape with a subtle Scottish influence, each bespoke piece reflects a sense of land, texture, and quiet abundance. The project, in collaboration with our friends at HBA San Francisco, evokes agricultural richness and coastal beauty, creating a layered and immersive environment that unfolds naturally as guests move through the property. Here, art deepens the connection to place, reinforcing a sense of calm and refinement while shaping a guest experience that lingers well beyond the stay.
Tell us about an experience where the level of care and attention left a lasting impression.
Jade Salazar
SENIOR ART ADVISOR
Seven months after our son was born, my husband and I took a solo trip to Cancun, Mexico for some muchneeded rest and relaxation. We had scheduled a ride from the airport to our resort, and to our surprise, it was upgraded to a private limousine just for us. We felt like celebrities, sipping champagne and stretching out across the spacious seats. It was such a special, unexpected way to begin our trip together. It’s a reminder in my work at KBAA to operate in the spirit of always giving, exceeding expectations, and creating moments that feel truly special.
Ilyse Sandler
SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER
A few years ago, my sister and I drove from San Francisco to Alta, Utah and stayed at a ski-in/ski-out lodge in Little Cottonwood Canyon. It was quiet and effortless, with days spent moving between the lodge and the slopes, and nights in robes watching the snow fall. The space felt deeply rooted in its surroundings through its materials, palette, and art. That sense of place has stayed with me and continues to shape how I think about our work at KBAA.
How do those learnings inform the way you approach your work at KBAA?
Jill Williams
Chanel Foxworth BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
My husband surprised me with a weekend at a boutique beachfront hotel for our anniversary. The grand staircase opened into an elegant living room and cozy bar, feeling both elevated and welcoming. We settled in overlooking the Pacific as the bartender brought us complimentary glasses of bubbly, a small but thoughtful gesture that made us feel truly seen. That first impression shaped the entire stay, and it’s something I carry with me in my work at KBAA, where every detail helps set the tone for the experience to come.
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
During a trip to Australia, I visited Uluru for a guided sunrise tour, arriving in the dark as our guide quietly set up a simple, beautifully arranged breakfast while we waited. As the sun rose, the rock shifted from deep purple to glowing red as stories of its cultural significance unfolded, creating a moment that felt intimate and special. It reinforced for me that creating a memorable experience isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things with intention. Thoughtful pacing, meaningful context, and small, well-timed touches can turn something beautiful into something unforgettable.
The Modern Rituals
A CONSIDERED EXPLORATION OF THE QUIET LUXURIES THAT MAKE LIFE FEEL BEAUTIFULLY INTENTIONAL
ALWAYS CARRY A BOOK
A book in hand suggests a life well considered. Whether or not you make it past page twelve is beside the point. It’s a far more compelling companion than doomscrolling on your phone.
03
SEND A PROPER POSTCARD 02
Wherever you travel, seek out a postcard made by a local artist. Sit at a desk with a real pen and write from your heart. Send it to a friend, your fave coworker, or even an unrequited love.
STUMBLE UPON AN ART OPENING
The best moments in life are rarely scheduled. Pop into a small gallery (there’s usually free wine) and strike up a conversation. You may leave with a new piece of art, or at the very least, a new perspective.
HOST THE GATHERING YOU WANT TO ATTEND
Nothing is more chic than being the one who plans the party. Choose a theme with conviction, light the candles a bit too early, and let the evening unfold. No more couch rotting, ok!?
Luxury, at its core, is awareness. The artwork on the wall, the way light moves through a room, the fashion show of people-watching. None of it is accidental. And once you begin to notice, it becomes one of life’s greatest joys. MAKE SPACE TO NOTICE EVERYTHING
Breathtaking luxury defines LOUIX LOUIS Grand Bar & Restaurant at The St. Regis Toronto. KBAA commissioned local artist Madison van Rijn to create a 60 x 19-foot ceiling mural inspired by whisky poured into a glass. The piece, shown here in full and featured on the cover in closer detail, is hand-painted with gold leaf throughout to heighten the effect, adding a subtle shimmer that transforms abstract beauty into opulence. KEVINBARRY.COM | 888-255-3563
