Every creative I’ve ever visited with will tell you there are leaders in their field who inspire them. Those whose work is so profoundly unique, it stirs something in us, and makes us crave that nebulous element that makes it stand apart from the others. It’s not a stretch to refer to them as icons.

There are soooo many designers whose work stops me in my tracks, but, one of my longest-held design icons are husband and wife team, Stephen Alesch and Robin Standefer, more often known by their firm’s name, Roman + Williams.

It’s difficult to put into words the vein of style, but the aesthetic is layered, full of character and warmth, classic, yet unpredictable. It’s the ultimate soulful style - I guess that’s why I love it.

Roman + Williams’ extensive portfolio includes numerous hotels and restaurants. A recent addition and namesake destination, RW Guild in New York City - is a mecca of sorts for design junkies. High on my bucket list, for sure. Thankfully, though, I get to experience their work frequently by way of Hotel Emma here in San Antonio.

In my mind, design is really all about creating an experience - an expression of art that develops an atmosphere. You don’t just “go” to Hotel Emma - you experience it. The history of the building, the incredible, collected furniture appointments and finishes, even the aroma are transportive.

I love that I can stop by, grab a coffee (or a cocktail), walk around, and just take it in. I notice a different detail every time.

It’s the place I go when I feel “stuck” or uninspired on a design, and always leave full of energy. Our icons do that for us. They create openings, channels where the “what if’s” can flow freely. Thank you, Robin and Stephen, for being two of mine!