Music lovers will have extra reason to admire this boutique hotel. It's run by Frances Wilson, a voice coach who taught at New York's Metropolitan Opera. Her husband, Stephen Fitzgerald, was a theater set designer and also renovated New York City apartments before transforming this two-story 1870 villa. Each individually decorated suite has a mix of antiques and stylish modern furnishings and there are nice gardens. After dinner, by request, Frances goes to the Steinway grand piano in the drawing room and a butler reveals himself to be one of her pupils by joining her for a recital. Actress Tilda Swinton has stayed here and it is popular with the fashion set. Pros: Private and sedate. Con: Some might find it a bit pretentious and frou frou.
Reviewed by lkbulldurham from Montecito, California on 2/1/07
There are just a few quirks, like compact closet space and poor lighting for cosmetics, etc. in the bathroom. Staff is very attentive. Don't have dinner at the hotel if you don't appreciate opera music. Food & service is outstanding.
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