The characteristics of a GLA Hotel are luxury, elegance and discretion. The woman behind the design is Hong Kong born Grace Leo-Andrieu, who lives and works in France. She has been a pioneer of the boutique hotel, and her portfolio includes the Lancaster and the Hotel Montalembert in Paris, the Clarence in Dublin, and the Guanahani on St. Barts. Her newest projects are updating the Cotton House in Mustique, and launching her own line of home accessories, called Touch of Grace which are available on www.glahotels.com.

What is the last place you visited, and where is the next place you're going?

I just came back from London on the Eurostar train where I attended the European Hotel Design Conference. Next place is Mustique Island where I am preparing the resort Cotton House for the coming high season.

When you need to relax and get away from it all, where do you go?

I like to try a new resort hotel with a serious spa. For me to relax and unwind, I need to have a few hours of physical therapy and to de-stress, some downtime with my family and a good book.

What are the elements of a well-designed hotel room?

Well laid-out room with all the basic needs and comfort amenities expected by well-travelled guests. Good lighting, sound-proofing, adequate closet / dressing zone, modern bathroom.

Where do you like to travel for design inspiration?

I make regular “round up” visits to NYC, London, Hong Kong, Singapore, to observe the latest trends in hotels, restaurants and retail.

Which hotels- not your own!- are your favourites, and why?

The legendary Peninsula in my home town, Hong Kong, is one favourite. I had never stayed there until last year. I was impressed and finally understood what “The Pen” experience is all about. Les Airelles in Courchevel in the French Alps It all comes down to the service, which is remarkable.

You globe trot all over the world. What do you always pack when you travel?

A photo of my daughter, and of course my digital camera to record memories of my trips.

You want to spoil somebody, which restaurant would you take them to and why?

Grand Vefour at the Palais Royal in Paris. It was Napoleon's favourite café, and it has a theatrical sense of arrival and grownup glamour.

What is your favourite airline and why?

Singapore Airlines. They have great service, good food, and an up to date movies selection.

What are some of your pet peeves about hotel design?

Hotels that are “over-designed”, showing signs of trying too hard.

Favourite cities for shopping and why?

New York, for my favourite stores like Bergdorf Goodman or Henri Bendel. For my teenage daughter, Abercrombie & Fitch. I go to Hong Kong for all my Chinese supplies : food, linens, electric gadgets, jewellery, etc.

Is there an item you always buy from your favourite city?

The herbal/floral potpourri from Farmacia Santa Maria Novella, picked from hillsides of Tuscany.

Best bargain snapped up on the road?

Beautifully woven baskets from Bali roadside shops.

Click Here for Grace's address book.