We love Belmond El Encanto, an iconic Santa Barbara luxury resort hotel that sits atop the Riviera like a sparkling jewel. There is no more sublime spot for a gourmet meal than on the hotel’s broad terrace overlooking the ocean, city and Channel Islands, a splash in their heated pool, a massage in the spa, or a heavenly rest in one of their charming bungalows.

And we applaud the 5-star Belmond El Encanto for providing a unique and exciting stage for creativity unlike any other. Working with The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) the hotel has an Artist in Residence Program that brings talented artists and their work to the hotel’s so that guests can enjoy all the comforts and conveniences of its five-star hospitality together with the special energy of artists at work.

The second installment of Belmond El Encanto’s ongoing collaboration with MCASB is Canadian designer Philippe Malouin, recently named designer of the year at Salone del Mobile in Milan. Malouin has brought his diverse portfolio of tables, rugs, chairs, lights, art objects and installations to Belmond El Encanto for all to enjoy. In tandem with a display of his designs in the on-property Artist Studio, Malouin’s residency at the resort includes additional art education experiences. Guests have the exclusive opportunity to delve deeper into Malouin’s craft with panel discussions throughout his residency. Go now and interact with him and his creations. Belmond El Encanto, 800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, (805) 845-5800. http://www.belmond.com/ElEncanto‎