Check-In

Natalia Miyar

Fresh from completing her debut hotel project, interior designer Natalia Miyar journeys to the Amalfi Coast for a food-focused fantasy break at a classic Italian villa.

Where are you?

In Italy, on the Amalfi Coast. I’m endlessly inspired by this region’s landscape – the contrast between the rugged shoreline and clear blue water gets me every time.

How did you get there?

Forget aeroplanes, I got here by Orient Express. What I love about train travel is how connected I feel to nature, watching the topography change while moving through the countryside. The hotel is only accessible by boat, so for the final leg of the journey I board a Riva yacht to sail across the crystalline Mediterranean waters.

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

I’m not a big fan of the traditional check-in process; I prefer feeling like I’ve been invited into someone’s home, so there is no formal desk but rather a beautiful sofa, where I am served a cocktail whilst planning activities for the week.

And who’s at the concierge desk?

I don’t need a concierge because every member of staff has an impeccable yet discreet level of service; they are magicians who can secure a hard-to-get restaurant reservation or track down the coat I inadvertently left on the train.

Who are you sharing your room with?

My boyfriend and my dog, Oscar. There is something infinitely more welcoming about a hotel that allows a well-behaved dog. Oscar has his own bed and treats waiting in the room.

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS The Twenty Two, London www.nataliamiyar.com

Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room?

A personalised Olivia von Halle pyjama set, vintage Champagne and a book on the location.

Describe the hotel, your room and the view...

The hotel occupies a perfectly-proportioned, classic Italian villa built in the 19th century. My room is spacious without being cavernous, and is perfectly lit through a combination of thoughtful lighting and candles. The bed takes centre stage and is topped with pure cotton percale and four types of pillow – this is an indulgent getaway after all. There’s a private balcony overlooking the iridescent waters, where we sip cocktails and contemplate the night’s adventures. My Negroni has been made by the hotel’s expert bartender, who each day wheels a cocktail trolley laden with exquisite libations to our door. I sip it while listening to a specially curated playlist. My luggage has already been unpacked and my dress is pressed, so I have nothing to worry about other than what to order for dinner.

Who designed it?

The hotel has been sensitively updated by architect Morris Lapidus with the whimsical touch of American actress Elsie de Wolfe, who later turned her hand to designing interiors.

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

The restaurant is understated yet chic and inviting; the chairs are comfortable and the table is dressed with crisp linen, candles and pretty plates that have been handpainted locally.

Who are you dining with this evening?

Whilst I am fascinated by meeting new people, tonight I want nothing more than to be with my boyfriend and close friends so I can relax, laugh and enjoy great conversation.

Who’s manning the stoves?

Italian chef Massimo Botturà is cooking the simple dishes of his childhood.

And what’s on the menu?

We’re in Italy so it’s all about the freshest fish and perfect pasta; oysters, spaghetti with bottarga, grilled branzino with lemon and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, delicately fried courgette flowers... I could go on! Each course is paired with a different local wine before ending with a delicious dessert wine and a rich tiramisu. I’m a foodie, so this dinner is a muchanticipated highlight.

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

Late check-out, every time.

Full English, continental or something different?

Good coffee and plenty of it. I’m saving my appetite for when Massimo serves lunch.

Would you like a newspaper in the morning?

No – I’m switching off completely.