Photo by Kirsten Francis
Founder of Alfredo Paredes Studio and the former Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Ralph Lauren, Paredes is celebrated for his timeless elegance. With a career marked by an unwavering commitment to sophistication and style, Paredes has now brought his expertise to Kassatex New York to create collections that are the perfect finishing touch to any pied-à-terre or manor.
Paredes found inspiration for this collection through his love of found objects from travels, drawing from diverse cultural influences, family heirlooms, and vintage menswear. From the crisp lines of a men’s tuxedo dress shirt to artisan-crafted pieces from Japanese bamboo weaving masters, Paredes combines these elements to create a collection that seamlessly marries refinement with comfort.
Each piece reflects Paredes’ keen eye for design and his passion for creating products that evoke a sense of luxury and tranquility that will transform any bathroom into a stylish and comfortable sanctuary. We sat down with Alfredo at home to dive deeper into the collection– read on for our exclusive Q&A.
Video by: Julie FlorioQ&A with Alfredo Paredes
Kassatex: Can you tell us about the specific design elements you drew inspiration from for this collection?
Alfredo Paredes: Travel has always been a passion of mine. My creative process is influenced by vintage finds and antiques then developing a narrative that incorporates these elements. Growing up surrounded by my family’s heirlooms has been a constant source of inspiration for me as well. I’m fascinated by the crisp lines of a well-worn vintage tuxedo dress shirt and hand-crafted pieces from Japanese bamboo weaving masters. These details aren’t just about looks, they bring stories and feelings that bring my designs to life.
Kassatex: How did your background and experience influence the designs of these bath collections?
AP: My career has always been inspired by storytelling. For this collection, I knew I wanted to create something timeless that adds a perfect finishing touch to any pied-à-terre. I see this collection as its own story, one that is reminiscent of my past.
Photo by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: What aspects of Kassatex’s brand and products appealed to you as a designer?
AP: I was impressed by Kassatex’s dedication to quality and luxury. They create products that are not just visually appealing but are made of the highest quality that feels aligned with my designs. I’ve enjoyed collaborating with others who share a passion for creating spaces that are meant to be experienced.
Kassatex: How do you see your design philosophy reflected in the bath collections with Kassatex?
AP: My design philosophy is finding a blend of comfort and a curation of historical and cultural inspirations associated with the home or the area. You can see these elements come to life in the collections.
Photos by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: Can you describe the materials and textures used in your bath collections?
AP: The collections feature materials such as sculpted resin to emulate bamboo weaving, 600 gsm cotton for softness and absorbency, and bianca viola marble creating a Greco-Roman inspired look.
Kassatex: What is the most important aspect of design when creating a bath collection?
AP: When it comes to bathrooms, functionality is at the heart of any good design. Minimalism with a seamless flow makes a bathroom’s design feel timeless. The collection should reflect the style and feel of the home while creating a comfortable space. I like to keep this classic and minimal with stark white finishes folded neatly in accessible areas. I always opt for an organic color pallet.
Photo by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: What are some key features of the bath collections that you believe stand out?
AP: I really like the bamboo woven detailing in the Mambo collection, the softness of the Alvaro towels, and the simplicity of the Viola marble pieces.
Kassatex: What is your favorite piece from the bath collection and why?
AP: I like the Hemingway pieces. The hemstitching and pleated border is timeless making it a perfect fit for any bathroom. The minimalist and classic design adds a comfortable flair, perfectly enhancing the space.
Photos by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: What trends in bath design do you think will be important in the coming years, and how does this collection address them?
AP: Bath design is simplistic, without being repetitive, as each designer will make it their own. The idea for a bathroom can vary, but the essence is consistent with the idea of intimacy and luxury. Spa-like bathrooms that serve as an escape from the home will always be in style. We design bathrooms with rich marbles, stone, and woods to contrast with the rest of the home and feel like a different experience upon entering the space.
Kassatex: Most memorable bathroom from your travels?
AP: The bathroom at Amangiri in Utah, facing the mesa. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Photos by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: Favorite design style?
AP: My favorite design style is narrative-driven. I never tackle a project without fully understanding the background and needs of who I’m working with, and I think from there, something really personal is born. There’s multiple ways to design a space, but my way of seeing it is that design is unique to an individual, and that is the real style behind a project. I also think incorporating naturistic materials into a space is key. Stone, marble, warm woods- all of these add to a space.
Kassatex: Most inspiring travel destination?
AP: Paris. There’s just something about the city that never fails to inspire me.
Photos by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: Most cherished design project?
AP: I’ve been a part of so many special projects, but my most cherished would have to be my family home in Locust Valley. This project for me wasn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a home that feels lived in and loved, where every object has its own story.
Kassatex: Essential item in your bathroom?
AP: Beautiful towels, they’re a small luxury that makes a big difference in any bathroom space.
Photo by Kirsten Francis
Kassatex: Design mentor or inspiration?
AP: My relationship with Ralph Lauren has shaped and inspired a lot of who I am today, from a creative standpoint.
Kassatex: What’s your design mantra?
AP: Incorporating storytelling into every design.
Kassatex: What are you most excited about for the future of your collaboration with Kassatex?
AP: I’m excited to see our work and collaboration take shape. It’s rewarding to witness something we’ve been working on come to fruition. Sharing that experience with others makes it even more enjoyable.
Photo by Kirsten Francis
Shop the Alfredo Paredes Collection here.