The Grand Tourist with Dan Rubinstein

If you’ve ever popped open a bottle of champagne, you likely have one enterprising woman to thank, an entrepreneur who battled immense odds to build a legacy that would thrive for centuries to come. On this very special episode, sponsored by Veuve Clicquot, Dan steps back in time to investigate the remarkable life of a young, spirited widow in early-19th-century France through the eyes of designers, historians, winemakers, and experts. It’s a story that not only informs one of life’s great luxuries we take for granted today, but an inspiring tale about innovation, perseverance, and hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London- and New York–based designer Martin Brudnizki has added a wonderful dose of whimsy, color, pattern, and sophistication to some of the best hotels, private clubs, restaurants, and private homes around the world. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Swedish expat on his breakthrough projects like The Ivy, whether or not the naturalized British citizen is a true monarchist, his fears of international beige, and his one bit of advice to any young designer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, one space in New York’s SoHo neighborhood was considered hallowed ground for lovers of design: Moss. It mixed high and low, introduced radical new talents to the industry, was beloved by the media, and changed the conversation and level of expectations forever. On this episode, Dan speaks with its founder, Murray Moss, on how it all happened, his first career in fashion, living with Parkinson’s, and the one thing he loves in his collection that’s absolutely worthless. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the natural world as his muse, acclaimed painter Walton Ford brings wild tales to life in resplendent color and drama. Celebrating an expansive show of his studies at New York’s legendary Morgan Library & Museum, the artist speaks with Dan about his humble beginnings in the art world, getting discovered by the late Paul Kasmin, his frequent comparisons to John James Audubon, how he conceives his highly imaginative works, and why the legend of King Kong isn’t the story you think it is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most influential editors of her generation, Linda Wells transformed how we view the world of beauty and wellness. After decades at Allure magazine as its founding editor, she went on to launch a new label at Revlon, and she is now the editor of Air Mail Look, a beauty spin-off from the popular newsletter start-up from Graydon Carter. On this episode, Dan speaks with the enterprising journalist on her days as an assistant at Vogue, how she faced criticism and mansplaining when launching Allure, her thoughts about Ozempic, and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Designers George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg of firm Yabu Pushelberg have helped define luxury interiors for decades, especially hotels. On this episode, the Toronto- and New York–based duo—who are partners in life as well as work—speak with Dan about how they got started, how their family experiences of hardship informed their outlook on their careers, how they manage their ultra-prolific office, their unique brand of “high humble” design, their growing portfolio of products, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artist and filmmaker Alex Prager is one of the most exciting photographers of her generation. She creates dramatic and nostalgic works that embody the best of film and cinematic culture and that speak to universal themes of love, loss, fear, and transcendence. On this episode, Dan speaks with the self-taught dynamo (represented by Lehmann Maupin) about how she got started, her upcoming first feature film, and her heartfelt advice to anyone who’s ever thought about picking up a camera.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few interior designers have reached the heights of Kelly Wearstler. In the past 20 years, she’s gone from an L.A. upstart to a major force in the world of design. On this episode, Dan speaks with design’s leading lady on how she got started, her rapidly expanding experiments with AI, how she manages her growing empire, and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The late legendary French couple Claude and François-Xavier Lalanne worked separately but exhibited under the family name: Les Lalanne. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of their first show together, New York’s Kasmin gallery has staged an incredible show with rare, often fantastical pieces. On this special episode, Dan speaks with guest curator Paul B. Franklin about the legacy of this dynamic duo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Milan Design Week is the most exciting time of year in design. On this special episode sponsored by Kartell, Dan reports from the Salone del Mobile fair to catch up with a quintet of industry powerhouses: Lorenza Luti, Philippe Starck, Piero Lissoni, Patricia Urquiola, and Roberto Palomba. Up for discussion is everything from the first designs made using artificial intelligence, the impact of sustainable materials on design, and the perfect place in the dynamic metropolis to find some peace and quiet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As one of the most influential and admired interior designers of his generation, Pierre Yovanovitch has helped to usher in a new era of so-called quiet luxury. Celebrating 10 years since the launch of his own furniture line and the opening of a new gallery in New York, Dan speaks with the Paris-based trailblazer about his youth playing piano, what it was like working for fashion legend Pierre Cardin, how his American clients actually vary from his French ones, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by Lumens, Dan speaks with three incredible talents in the field of design: Pierre Marie, a French talent whose sense of color and artistic hand create everything from scarves for Hermès to fantastical works of crystal; Alyssa Kapito, a New York–based interior designer whose love of elegantly simple interiors is explored in her first book; and Frederik Molenschot, a Dutch genius whose love of the built environment creates mind-bending and monumental works. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As one half of the famed Campana Brothers, Humberto and his sibling Fernando ushered in a new era of design that blended craft, industry, and notions of ecological and social responsibility. Following the tragic passing of Fernando in 2022, Humberto carries on today as the head of Estúdio Campana. On this episode, Dan and Humberto chat about growing up in a conservative Brazilian household during the dictatorship, how some of his most famous pieces came to be, the future ahead of him, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sometimes the most influential people in culture and style are so because they elevate and amplify the work of others. Legendary perfumer Frédéric Malle, through his brand Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle, is one of those trailblazers. What started as a long-shot experimental concept has become one of the most highly regarded players in the fragrance world. On this episode, Dan and Malle discuss his youth in Paris, the scent he hates the most, how he bet it all on the launch of his brand, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anyone who has ever strolled through the streets of Rome, ridden a gondola through the canals of Venice, or tasted freshly made pasta in Sicily has had this thought: I could get used to this. On this episode, Dan speaks with a quartet of experts on all things Italian real estate: Diletta Giorgolo, head of residential for Sotheby’s International Realty in Rome; designer and Chicagoan-turned-Milanese Eric Egan; Emily FitzRoy of Bellini Travel; and YouTuber (and Tuscan homeowner) Julie Montagu, Viscountess Hinchingbrooke. Everything is on the table, from the appeal of the so-called one-euro homes to the White Lotus effect, plus all the layman needs to know to make the leap. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Designing a successful hotel today is quite the undertaking, but designer and entrepreneur Kit Kemp does it all. On the eve of the opening of her third property in New York, Dan and the British talent discuss her upbringing in the English countryside, how she built her first hotel with no formal training in the ’80s, how she describes her unique and colorful sense of style, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This Dutch designer has left an indelible mark on how we view the role of design in our lives. Through his ingenious housewares, elegant furniture, and playful interiors, he is part of a pantheon of talents that has ushered design into a more artful discipline. But his ideas and thoughts on what it all means are downright serious. On this episode Dan speaks with Wanders on his early career creating lamps for the Dutch postal service, how his famed Knotted Chair came to be, his new collection for Poliform, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few can claim a client roster quite like artist and stage designer Es Devlin, including museums, fashion brands, theater companies, and the Olympics, to a list of rock stars like U2, Adele, and Lady Gaga. On this episode, Dan speaks with the British talent on her first monographic museum retrospective, taking place at New York’s Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, how she transitioned her work from stage to stadium and back again, the impact of emerging technologies on her portfolio, and most importantly . . . What is Beyoncé like? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the season nine premiere, Dan speaks with British actor, Tom Hollander, who plays the infamous literary genius in the new TV series “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans.” Tom shares his memories of growing up in Oxford, getting a big break on “Absolutely Fabulous,” joining cinematic history in “Pride and Prejudice,” playing the murderous villain in smash hit “The White Lotus,” and how he explored the inner workings of a controversial figure during his epic downfall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the genius chef behind New York’s Eleven Madison Park, Daniel Humm is at the forefront of fine dining culture. And in 2021, he shocked the food world when he turned the Michelin three-starred restaurant completely plant-based. On this episode, Dan and Daniel chat about his new book, “Eat More Plants: A Chef’s Journal,” how he started his career in cooking at the tender age of 14, what it was like emigrating to the United States, how he handled the criticism he faced when he put his beloved restaurant’s reputation on the line, and his thoughts on french fries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For four decades, this New York designer has changed the hotel game, turned restaurants into must-see destinations, impacted the daily life of cities, and brought a sense of style and ingenious spectacle to Broadway. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Tony Award–winning David Rockwell about his teenage years growing up in Mexico, some of his groundbreaking projects like the original Nobu, the state of American theater, the future of travel, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the city so well-designed, they named it twice: New York, New York. On this special episode sponsored by Ann Sacks, Dan speaks with four leading figures in his hometown’s design scene to explore the trends, movements, hotspots, and personalities that make Gotham the beating heart of the design world, including Alexandra Cunningham Cameron, a curator at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum; Oren and Tal Alexander, co-founders of real estate firm Official; David Alhadeff, founder of powerhouse gallery The Future Perfect; and Michael Diaz-Griffith, executive director of the Design Leadership Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s a new generation of jewelry designers that is bringing back artistry, narrative, and a sublime sense of luxury. On this episode (with some guidance from Levi Higgs, influencer and Head of Archives and Brand Heritage at David Webb), Dan speaks with two emerging talents: Emmanuel Tarpin, a French wunderkind known for turning his love of nature into one-of-a-kind, high jewelry pieces; and New Yorker Jean Prounis, whose eponymous line Prounis creates fine jewelry inspired by the natural world and her own family’s unique story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Modernistic floating cubes placed in deconsecrated churches, marble stools shaped like plastic ones, and storage spaces retrofitted into stunning galleries: The creations of designer Massimiliano Locatelli are the epitome of Italian cool. On this episode, Dan speaks with the sharp-tongued architect about his stunning portfolio, and his new line of furniture created from a lifetime of wild experiences and extravagant clients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by Lumens, Dan meets three extraordinary studios in the field of design: British upstart Tom Massey uses radical materials and a sustainable approach to his gardens; Brooklyn and Athens–based duo Eleni Petaloti and Leonidas Trampoukis of Objects of Common Interest create spaces and objects that defy convention (but don’t call them “Instagrammable”); and Venice-based Lucia Massari produces wild, ultra-contemporary examples of Murano glass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A towering figure in postmodern dance, Lucinda Childs has injected an elegant spirit of collaboration, artistry, and whimsy to the artform. On this episode, Dan speaks with the legendary choreographer on her days learning from the likes of Tanaquil Le Clercq and Merce Cunningham, creating her groundbreaking performances with Philip Glass and Sol LeWitt, and the time a severe injury almost ended her incredible career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gadgets, accessories, furniture, computers, and even robots: In recent memory, the language of good design has been shaped and driven by Yves Béhar, founder of Fuseproject. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Swiss-born impresario on his early career with Frog Design, what motivated some of his most famous projects like One Laptop Per Child, what he thinks about A.I. and the housing crisis, and his latest endeavor, the all-electric TELO Truck. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Country homes squeezed into wedges, cars that look like they’ve been inflated like a balloon, and sculptures created by ordinary people interacting with quotidian objects—the works of Austrian artist Erwin Wurm defy expectations. On this episode, Dan speaks with the smartly subversive talent about his famed One Minute Sculptures, how the Red Hot Chili Peppers were inspired by his oeuvre, and how a period of tragedy in his life marked a turning point in his career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A household name in food and fine dining, Eric Ripert has elevated seafood to new heights with his legendary New York restaurant Le Bernardin. On this episode, Dan and the maestro speak about his upbringing in the tiny principality of Andorra, how he cut his teeth in the demanding kitchen of Joël Robuchon, his fond memories of Anthony Bourdain, how his Buddhist faith keeps him grounded, his latest must-own book  “Seafood Simple,” and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This artistic icon is something of a graphic design daredevil. Or perhaps a prophet. Through his wildly inventive works, he challenges conventions and communicates ideas that can alter the way we perceive society. On this episode, Dan speaks with the legendary creative on his latest book, “Now Is Better,” why he’s much happier than his documentary, “The Happy Film,” suggested he is, and reflects on his successes and admiration for book publisher Phaidon that is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This American artist not only creates beautiful things, but also beautiful communities. Through his groundbreaking installations, sculptures, performances, and public programs, he preserves the past and translates it into meaningful experiences for the present. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Chicago-based visionary on the power of ceramics, how the Black experience shapes his work, how he came to hold the archive of Frankie Knuckles records, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the world of collectible design, Nikolai and Simon Haas have forged their own path to success by creating everything from sofas with monstrous feet and alien-looking sculptures to adorable porcelain tea sets. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Los Angeles–based brothers on their meteoric rise to fame, how Tobey Maguire and a highway accident factor into their unlikely origin story, and how they’ve emerged from the post-pandemic era wiser and more creative than ever before. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If there’s one magazine that truly sets the standard for excellence in design, it’s Architectural Digest. On this episode, Dan speaks with Amy Astley, the title’s Editor-in-Chief, about how she broke into magazines, her years at Vogue, breaking boundaries by launching its spinoff Teen Vogue, her thoughts about taste in the Instagram era, and the importance of embracing the new to stay relevant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Designer, artist, iconoclast—Gaetano Pesce has been a creative force for more than 50 years. Celebrating his legacy in a new book, “The Complete Incoherence,” the Italian-born legend chats with Dan about the most important muses of his life, how he predicted the limited edition object, the meaning behind his imaginative work, and his absolute favorite New York restaurant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few jewelry houses can match the elegance and craftsmanship of Van Cleef & Arpels. On this episode, Dan speaks with the brand’s president and CEO, Nicolas Bos, from its headquarters in the heart of Paris. The pair discuss the origins of the house and its famed Mystery Set, the emergence of gender-neutral attitudes in the field, and the executive’s undying love for the film "Barbarella." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stylists have more creative cache than ever before—now often acting as tastemakers, designers, creative directors, and even artists. On this episode, Dan speaks with three talents from the worlds of fashion, food, and interiors to discuss their inventive and unpredictable careers: Alastair McKimm, editor-in-chief of the respected fashion magazine i-D; Laila Gohar, an artist who uses food as her medium; and Colin King, a stylist for magazines like Architectural Digest and the author of the new book Arranging Things. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Designer, educator, visionary: Toshiko Mori is one of the most respected names in architecture today. On this episode, Dan and the award-winning talent and professor at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design (and the former chair of Harvard’s Department of Architecture) chat about her influential projects in remote regions of Senegal, breaking barriers for women in the profession, her early memories of life in Japan, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All jewelry can sparkle, but the unique and often fantastical haute joaillerie by the German house of Hemmerle is a cut above. On this episode, Dan speaks with Christian and Yasmin Hemmerle, the dynamic couple and the fourth generation to run the brand from its headquarters in Munich. The trio discuss the company’s storied legacy as a supplier to the Vatican and the Bavarian court, how it elevates unusual materials, and why some Hemmerle pieces can take up to six hundred hours to create. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by Lumens, Dan meets three extraordinary emerging talents in the field of design: South Africa's Zizipho Poswa shares her memories of the women who raised her and inspired her bronze sculptures; Mexico's Fernando Laposse explains the impact of agriculture on his materially minded works; and Belgium-based Linde Freya Tangelder chats about how she walks freely between the worlds of product and collectible design. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since the 1970s, Alberto Alessi has been a trailblazer in the world of product design, working with a roster of all-star talents to produce legendary items for his family’s company, Alessi. On this episode, Dan speaks with Alberto about the time he partnered with Salvador Dali, his creations by the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh, and why it’s bad for designers to have a style. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Style, home, and food guru Athena Calderone has everyone buzzing. On this special call-in episode, Athena opens up about her career and answers burning questions from some of the leading names in her Rolodex, including Aurora James, Jason Wu, Jenna Lyons, Missy Robbins, Andre Mellone, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Austrian capital is a place with history around every corner, where layers of cultural complexity create an environment that endlessly rewards exploration. On this episode, Dan talks with hoteliers, curators, museum directors, and creatives who are upholding the legacy of a city bursting with art, design, music, and culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this season finale of the podcast, Dan shares an on-air meal with Gabriel Hendifar, artistic director of the acclaimed lighting and furniture brand Apparatus. Over various courses corresponding to phases of the impresario’s life, the two discuss the genesis of his growing company, the rule-breaking events he’s thrown, and why he’s going through a midlife epiphany. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some power players in architecture and design have outsized impacts on the built environment that will last for generations. On this episode, Dan speaks with real estate developer Harry Macklowe about some of the biggest deals in this legend’s career, how he got Steve Jobs to build the original Apple Store glass cube, his love of Art Deco and mid-century modern, and his latest project: One Wall Street. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Style icon and philanthropist doesn’t begin to accurately describe this very special guest on the podcast. On this episode, Dan and Deeda speak at her home about everything from her years abroad with her ambassador husband and her extensive years in fundraising to her new book that gives an intimate glimpse into the ultimate well-lived life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by TEFAF, Dan discovers five incredible works of art and design at the legendary fair in the Netherlands, from a rare clock by Josef Hoffmann and a so-called Bactrian Princess statue to a 19th-century painting by an overlooked master, an inventive contemporary piece made from glass and discarded ceramics, and a terra-cotta sculpture dating back to the Florentine Renaissance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by Lumens, Dan meets three extraordinary emerging talents in the field of design: London’s Tola Ojuolape chats about her explorations of various cultures that went into her lauded design for the Africa Centre; Paris’s Julien Sebban of Uchronia describes his mission to create ultra-colorful, radical interiors and furniture; and New York’s Jacqueline Sullivan explains her new downtown gallery that proudly blurs the lines between collectible design and the decorative arts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most skilled and thoughtful architects today, David Chipperfield applies his vision to everything from museums and grand public spaces to office towers and luxury retail flagships. On this episode, Dan speaks with the maestro on how he got his start, his famed rebuilding of Berlin’s Neues Museum, his second life in Galicia, Spain, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a trailblazer in art direction and graphic design for decades, Paula Scher is one of the most respected names in her field. Recently celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pentagram, the international design firm she joined as a partner in the 1990s, Dan and Paula explore the ins and outs of her incredibly impactful and creative career, her early days as an album cover designer, and just what good graphic design even is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Antiques dealer, art dealer, curator, interior designer, tastemaker: Belgian polymath Axel Vervoordt is one of the most respected names in design. On this episode, Dan speaks with Vervoordt on how he started selling objects as a teen, how he turned a former distillery into a world-class fine art destination called Kanaal, and what music you might hear when you visit him at home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.