Design Explorer
I'm Baron, and my travels are pursuits of inspiration. I find magic in the details, the feel of crafted wood, the palette of a sunset, the taste of local flavors. I seek places where design and culture dance, whether it's in a boutique hotel that feels like an art installation or a meal that tells a story with each course. Here, I share curated experiences that illuminate the intersection of design and authenticity, offering you a path to not just see new places, but to feel them unfold.
In my late thirties, balancing the vibrant chaos of Brooklyn's creative scene, the exhaustion set in as I navigated the pressures of maintaining my burgeoning career as a Creative Director. The daily grind felt heavy, and eventually, I embarked on a spontaneous journey to Mexico. As I traced the intricate tile work of a sunlit courtyard, the warmth beneath my fingers and the mingling aromas of citrus and mezcal shifted something inside me. It was here I realized my previous attempts at finding inspiration through apps and corporate wellness retreats felt hollow. This trip was different; it rejuvenated me, marking the beginning of my quest for authentic, design-rich experiences that echoed back to the core of my aesthetic values.
Today, my journeys are a mosaic of aesthetics and sensation. I juggle the intensity of design projects with restorative trips that offer solitude and creativity. Sometimes it's an intimate getaway with my fiancée where we savor local delicacies, other times a solo adventure where I capture the world through my lens. Yet, I carry the fear of blurring genuine encounters with manufactured ones, a gnawing concern of succumbing to monotony. This keeps me vigilant, always pushing to redefine my approach and maintain the vibrancy that fuels my creativity. Balancing these elements remains a work in progress, but every trip teaches me a little more about the art of living differently.
I write for those on the precipice of reinvention, the burnt-out innovators, the executive trapped in routine. My son often joins me in these explorations, his budding curiosity reminding me of the world’s endless tapestry. My goal is to leave a legacy of mindful travel; experiences meticulously crafted, where design and culture unite to form unforgettable narratives. While I navigate this ever-evolving journey, I want others to find inspiration and courage to create their own paths. The stories I share are my way of connecting, hoping to light the way for those who dare to see the world anew.
I believe travel is the canvas where design and culture merge into an artwork of renewal. Each journey is a chance to find beauty in the details and to engage with stories that stir the imagination. It's about discovering places that not only fit my aesthetic ideals but also honor the rhythm and soul of the locale, ensuring that luxury and sustainability coexist harmoniously.
Afternoon shadows stretched across the courtyard, whispering secrets of history. I felt grounded by their timeless dance.
Wooden shavings underfoot and the scent of fresh lacquer. Craftscraft simplicity told stories through each curl.
A symphony of muted pastels greeted me. Light did the teaching, colors the feeling.
Morning light filtered through handcrafted blinds, casting geometric shadows
The gentle clink of porcelain cups in a terracotta-tiled café corner
Slow-dancing shadows on textured limestone walls at dusk
The aromatic swirl of artisan coffee mingling with worn leather and fresh ink
Hand-stamped linens laid across a reclaimed wood table
Echoes of laughter over a dimly lit, marble-topped bar
In Tulum, Mexico, La Valise isn't just a stay; it's a celebration of design and culture. Here, the textures, sounds, and sights weave stories of inspiration, connection, and creative renewal. This journey is about finding beauty in every detail and leaving recharged with inspiration and memories.
In Tulum, the gentle rhythms of the ocean meld seamlessly with La Valise’s thoughtful design, making each moment a tapestry where work meets inspiration. Here in Mexico, I find clarity in the blend of cultural vibrancy and quiet solitude.
A sophisticated celebration for friends seeking design excellence, Michelin dining, and cultural discovery at La Valise Tulum.
A seven-night escape at La Zebra exploring texture and tone, celebrating design's intersection with life's quiet rituals. From cenote swims to mezcal evenings, each moment orchestrated with intent. I carry not just memories, but inspirations waiting to unfold.
In Tulum, I found my creative sanctuary at La Zebra. Mornings devoted to projects under natural light, afternoons revealing local artistry. The ocean hums its constant tune, turning tasks into meditative moments. From mezcal's earthy tones to locally made ceramics, Tulum is a canvas of endless inspiration.
In Tulum 2025, our circle gathered at La Zebra to mark milestones with style. From shared laughter around curated dining tables to private tours of ancient Mayan ruins, every moment was a dance of cultural immersion. Tulum's vibrant energy fueled our connection, crafting memories of joy and inspiration.
I hope these perspectives inspire you to seek out spaces where design and culture converge in meaningful ways. May your travels lead you to places that awaken your sense of beauty and wonder.