Design

Alfredo Paredes Shares His Valentine’s Day Gift List

The visionary creative curates a selection of unique ideas that meld modern taste with individual attention

February 9, 2024

Armoire, elegant watch, floral painting, candle, and owl sculpture on a pink background.

After years spent masterminding the stores, restaurants, and homeware designs for Ralph Lauren, Alfredo Paredes broke out on his own, launching his namesake design studio in 2019. Since then he has since conceived a multitude of private residences around the globe that creatively layer sumptuous textures and earthy neutrals with thoughtfully selected elements that convey a visionary aesthetic and tastefully organized creative spirit. His firm also conceived breathtaking commercial spaces as well, including chef Laurent Tourondel’s whimsical South Florida restaurant, Dune.

Additionally, Paredes has introduced a wide range of furniture with EJ Victor that elevates traditional shapes with considered embellishments and has introduced a collection of dashing rugs with gentlemanly patterns and palettes.

Below, the visionary creative turns his sartorial style to Valentine’s Day gifting, offering a selection of unique ideas that meld modern taste with individual attention.

Man in a casual blazer and jeans sitting on a desk, surrounded by books and art in a stylish, modern room. — Alfredo Paredes. Photo: courtesy of Alfredo Paredes

Black and white photo of a child with curly hair in a heart-shaped frame with a white background.

1. Match Heart Frame

“This vintage pewter heart frame is a perfect Valentine’s memento, a classic, stylish home for a memory with a loved one immortalized by a photograph.”

White owl sculpture on a textured rock base, minimalist design against a plain background.

2. August Nymphenburg White Bisque Barn Owl

“Owls are a symbol of good fortune—a happy reminder of being lucky in love. Gifted household objects also serve as a sentimental reminder each time they’re passed.”

Bouquet of peach and pink peonies with dark green leaves against a dark background.

3. Richard Phibbs, Flower Bouquet Photograph

“I love gifting art pieces for special occasions. It’s a token that can live on. This photograph by Richard Phibbs, a personal favorite, is a permanent take on Valentine’s Day flowers. His work is in my own home and many of my projects.”

Silver cup with a smooth finish and a decorative braided base, reflecting light on a plain white background.

4. Hermes Chain Link Vase

“An elegant accent to any table scape and the perfect vase for red Valentine’s flowers.”

5. Flamingo Estate Ancient Agrigento Olive Tree Candle

“Candles are a romantic staple. I love this Olive Tree candle by Flamingo Estate.”

Wooden cabinet with two doors and dark handles on a raised base

6. Ventana Bar Cabinet

“For a statement, I love gifting design pieces. This bar cabinet is ideal for the design-minded mixologists in your life. Perfect for a bar and glassware display.”