What does luxury mean to you?
Being free to do what I want. Today I'm in my designer role, but tomorrow I might be called on to be a benefactor to an emerging creative.
And which little luxuries do you love?
Silk pocket squares and cashmere mufflers.
Do you have a favourite car?
A Jaguar. I own two – I'm very attached to that particular Jaguar green.
What about a favourite timepiece?
Since I bought Maxim's restaurant in Paris in 1981, I've worn the same Maxim's watch.
Which fellow designers' work do you admire?
Balenciaga, in particular, but also Courrèges and Paco Rabanne, because they all have their own authentic style.
What's your favourite view?
The Mediterranean and the landscapes of Tuscany.
Do you collect art?
All my life I've collected modern and contemporary art, but I don't have a favourite artist; emotion is my sole guide.
Do you have a favourite piece?
My latest acquisition, a sculpture by Patrice Breteau.
Do you have a dream house?
I'm lucky to already live in it: the Palais Bulles on the French Riviera, designed by the architect Antti Lovag.
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Advertise with NZME.Do you collect anything else?
I have one of the most important art nouveau collections – it's on show at Maxim's Museum.
What do you like, more than anything, to eat?
Pasta with white Alba truffles at Maxim's.
And to drink?
Côtes du Luberon.
Is there one hotel you love to stay in?
My namesake, The Pierre, in New York.
Where do you escape to?
My bedroom, to design at night, in silence.
Which "luxuries'"are necessities for you?
To eat in my restaurant, stay in my hotel and manage the company I launched 70 years ago.
- The Daily Telegraph
