Interior designer Asler Valero’s idea of designing a home is one that has the essence of the people that live there, taking in to consideration their sense of style. Whether it is with furniture or accessories, the focus of the design should always be on quality of life, the comfort and the luxury. Asler incorporates traditional and modern elements into a timeless environment that is inspired by his travels around the work.

I was very grateful that Asler asked to use one of my painting for his presentation at Design on a Dime 2017, and I had the chance to talk to him upon his return from a long stay in Greece this summer where he found more than just inspiration.

PV- What takes you to Greece year after year?

AV- Greece has many wonderful things waiting for me, like our home, family, friends, the incredible weather and its history.

PV- What inspires you the most about Greece?

AV- Greece inspires me in many ways: Greeks have a passion for life, for living well and to the fullest. There is an effortless sense of style; a delicious and colorful cuisine; the blue of the Aegean Sea; the magical natural light that makes everything look gold and radiant; Greece’s architecture and historical sites.

PV- What are in your opinion the three sites to see in Greece as an interior designer?

AV- There are so many that three would be somewhat short… However, I will point out principally:

• The Acropolis museum, as well as several ruins from the antiquity all over the country
• The Monastiraki flee market in Athens, which offers so many interesting items. 
• The cultural centers like: The Megaro Mousikis and The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

PV- What fabulous things did you bring back from Greece?

AV- I had the chance to do shopping remotely for one of my projects, thanks to technology! It was like having my client next to me during the process – it was so exciting!

I brought for our home a wonderful collection of assorted bronze walnuts and almonds, which I am still debating how to use. A fantastic pair of antique mirror frames in bronze and a Nancy Daum vase to add to my collection.

PV- What is your next project?

AV- I just submitted the design of a rug “Bugambilia” for the OBEETEE/DIFFA project. It is the kind of project that makes me so happy, since it is a way to pay back to my community and express my gratefulness to life. In the fall, I am starting the renovation of a small prewar building in the city. I am also renovating a kitchen in an ongoing project in the west village and I will decorate a home in Long Island.

There is also a project that I have being working for a while, that I will share with you all once it is ready; hopefully in a future interview with you. 

Bunganbilia rug by Asler Valero for OBEETTEE DIFFA