The best artists are those dedicated to their craft. And in a hotel exquisitely merging the finest design, architecture, and interiors with a buzz-worthy international collection of contemporary art, it’s no surprise to discover that the newest additions to the dream team behind the Hotel’s scenes are as finely curated as its sculpture and paintings.
As Impressionist artist, Edgar Degas, once said; “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see”. It’s a sentiment that echoes through the output of each latest member of the senior team: Executive Chef Thierry Papillier’s dedication to creating memories; Executive Pastry Chef Gregory Chrismant’s infusion of love into each creation; Italian Chef Luigi Frassanito’s free-spirited ‘cucina libera’ artistry; Director of Catering Ayça Çivgin’s eye for detail and passion for connection; and Hotel Manager Martin Kipping’s heartfelt oversight of the entire operations masterpiece.
Together, this formidable team of dynamic hospitality leaders guide Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya – named ‘Kuwait’s Leading Luxury Hotel’ at the World Travel Awards 2021 – towards ever-greater boundary-pushing creativity.
Meet the newest artists behind the Hotel’s hospitality scenes
Overseeing every immersive experience at the creative city haven, Hotel Manager Martin Kipping is delighted to welcome the new team additions. “I always strive to be an excellent host to every one of our valued guests,” he comments, “and it’s exciting to offer them such prodigious talent honed across the globe.” Just as a beautiful piece of art resonates after the viewer has left the gallery, Kipping is clear when it comes to his driving force: “to create meaningful experiences that stay with our guests, long after they are gone.”
Far from being a solitary pursuit, every great artwork requires a team of visionaries to bring it to life as Executive Pastry Chef Gregory recognizes. “Alone, I cannot achieve anything,” the French culinarian from Cannes comments. “I make it my priority to prepare my teams to succeed with my support, teaching and motivation.” His human-centric approach and natural humility belie a stellar career in the sweetest culinary art of all, including senior positions at several Michelin-starred restaurants as well as Mandarin Oriental properties in Dubai and St. Vincent.
Having spent the last decade developing his skills to secure a coveted Four Seasons role – a 10-year personal goal – Italian Chef Luigi’s warmth and creativity have found the perfect home in the casual elegance of the Hotel’s Dai Forni restaurant. Classy Italian comfort food gets an expressive Luigi twist via his unique ‘cucina libera’ – free cuisine: “a direction and style I created myself as it allows me to devise unique recipes on my own without being tied to any cooking styles or combinations.”
“At its heart, hospitality is an opportunity to show love,” shares compassionate Director of Catering, Ayça Çivgin. Ensuring that every event showcases the team’s artistic vision is no mean feat, but the ‘face of Four Seasons Kuwait for every wedding’ brings inimitable calm alongside organisational skills honed over 22 years in high-end establishments including Jumeirah Royal Saray, Bahrain and Soho House, Istanbul. With Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait’s two stunning ballrooms and five meeting rooms as her canvas, Ayça’s creativity and care are given the space they need to shine.
“I don’t serve food. I serve memories,” states Executive Chef Thierry, who oversees the Hotel’s five restaurants and lounges with a generous and personable approach ideally suited to sociable Kuwaitis. Guided by the desire to craft an experience that extends beyond the plate, he brings 15 years international experience to his dream role in Kuwait. “To have such an accomplished team all under one roof is a dream,” he concludes. “It enables us to deliver a memorable world-class experience to every one of our diners, whatever the occasion.”
A sense of wonderment is at the heart of the entire Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya experience. From the voluptuous beauty of The Etymology of the Baroque, a bronze sculpture crafted by London-based Marc Quinn, to the Lobby’s stunning Crystal Chandelier by Lasvit – the largest ever produced by the master glass designers – eye-widening pieces from an array of global talent enhance every public area. Lighting throughout is custom designed, with top-flight international design talent fashioning every aspect: architecture by Gensler of San Francisco; interiors by Yabu Pushelberg of New York; and two restaurants by Kokaistudios of Shanghai.
To immerse in the artistry of the people and surroundings of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya, contact 2200 6000 or follow @FSKuwait on Instagram.
