Federika Longinotti Buitoni is the Founder of one of the most beautifully curated tabletop destinations and online platforms; Collecto. Born and raised in Venezuela and immersed in both Latin American and European cultures, Federika carries a wonderfully unique perspective around entertaining and everything art de la table! Upon noticing a lack of distinctive online platforms when putting together her own wedding registry in 2018, Buitoni embarked on a creative journey to build one herself. Five years later, Collecto has established itself as a thoughtfully curated collection of beautifully crafted objects for home, from hand-finished Murano glasses to Casa Cabana‘s artisan-made dinnerware, and everything in between! Inspired by her maternal grandmother’s love of entertaining, Collecto’s ethos isn’t merely about shedding light on distinctive pieces rooted in high-quality craftsmanship and design, it is rather about connection; inspiring others to gather at home around a beautifully set table, creating long lasting memories.
Prior to launching Collecto, Federika completed internships at Oscar de la Renta, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Moda Operandi (hired as Moda’s very first intern!!), subsequently taking on full-time roles within Moda’s public relations, trunk show, and production teams. Ultimately, her years at Moda shaped her discerning eye for contemporary and sophisticated style, which she has so beautifully applied to Collecto’s thoughtful assortment of emerging and established brands. In addition to a unique selection of tabletop pieces, Collecto also offers young couples a highly personalized registry experience as well as bespoke curation services for interior designers and clients.
We couldn’t be more delighted to sit down with our dear friend; Federika, and chat about what living beautifully means to her, where she turns to for inspiration when setting the table, and what she looks forward to most as she prepares to visit us at Maison Carlyle for Collecto’s inaugural Canadian trunk show this spring!
Where did you grow up and how has your past shaped your design aesthetic?
I was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, a beautiful city surrounded by mountains, with the most perfect weather, where the streets are covered in trees, and the bright ‘guacamayas’ (macaws) come visit every morning. Living surrounded by nature continues to be very important to me. My grandfather was an architect, born in Germany, and although I never met him, I know he has had great influence in my aesthetics and passion for design. My mother followed his footsteps as an architect and her love for design was always apparent in the architecture and interiors of our home.
How would you describe your personal style?
When it comes to fashion I am quite classic. I love an elegant, timeless piece. However, I like to have more fun when I design tablescapes. I love a vibrant table, mixing unexpected colors, textures and prints. I have learned that the feel of the table setting has an influence on the gathering – the conversations, the emotions – so usually lively is my go-to.
Who are some of your style icons?
Lee Radziwill and Lauren Santo Domingo.
How did you start your company and what do you love most about what you do?
I started Collecto after going through the process of designing my wedding registry and feeling underwhelmed by the platforms available. I was looking for a sophisticated selection of unique brands and couldn’t find it anywhere. I decided to curate my own registry, and in the process, I discovered incredible tableware brands. Sourcing new brands is something I really enjoy. I’ve developed my eye and instinct throughout the years and I love discovering a brand I had never seen before, seeing its potential, and sharing it with the world. I also love strategy and coming up with ideas to continue building our brand.
Where do you turn to for inspiration when setting the table?
I trust my gut more than anything. I like exploring and mixing pieces and colors that don’t necessarily go well together on paper, but when you put them on the table they work like magic! Travelling is a big source of inspiration for me, especially when it’s a place I have never been before – it’s such a special feeling to have.
What would your dream project be?
I have always dreamed of launching our own tableware line at Collecto, collaborating with artisans in Europe and Latin America to create pieces that bring forth my roots and the craftsmanship techniques that have been passed down by many generations.
If you could hire any decorator and/or architect from the past to design your home, who would it/they be?
I would have loved to live in a home designed by my grandfather Federico Guillermo Beckhoff. His ethos revolved around the idea of integrating nature in our living spaces via indoor and outdoor terraces and open spaces so the gardens and nature were always visible. Since nature is such a big passion of mine, my dream garden would be designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx.
If you could invite any three individuals from the past, who would they be and what would you serve for dinner?
Pablo Picasso, the Dalai Lama (although still alive), and Coco Chanel. I would want them to feel at home, in a warm cozy environment where we can have conversations that last for hours. I would serve homemade pumpkin raviolis with butter and sage sauce to start, a roasted salmon with a simple arugula salad as a main course, and strawberries with crème fraiche as dessert. A fun cocktail for aperitivo, and a Sancerre to serve with dinner.
What are some of your indispensable items when entertaining, and how do you ensure a memorable dinner party?
When entertaining feels effortless and natural it always leads to a fun soirée. Three things: great food, great music, and great company. Always have candle holders and candles – it is an easy way to set the mood and bring romance to the evening. For music, I like playing bossa nova as guests arrive and mingle, and then increase the beat as the evening evolves. Have a few playlists ready so you don’t have to worry about it during the gathering.
What tabletop items do you invest in, and which ones do you save on?
I like investing in silverware and dinnerware, timeless pieces that can be passed on for generations for years to come. I don’t splurge on glassware yet, although I do have my Macchia su Macchia glasses in different colors which I love, but use simpler glassware for wine. I think investment pieces change based on the stage of life you are in.
What does living beautifully mean to you?
Living beautifully to me means finding pleasure in the simple things in life – a walk in nature, a fun evening with friends, or a long cuddle in bed with my baby.
How do you make every day feel special in your home?
If we love the aesthetics of our homes, and feel warm and cozy the second we walk in the door, this will immediately make an impact in the way we live our lives. I use a lot of natural materials, warm light, and nature, and it feels like a breath of fresh air every time I come back home. It really does feel special every day.
What is your typical morning routine?
It has been quite different the past few months since I had a baby a year ago! Usually I meditate after I wake up, do a little bit of journaling, and head out for a run, or yoga or workout class.
How do you like to unwind after a busy day?
I love watching a great film with my husband. It’s a way for me to really disconnect, and get transported to a different era or story.
What do you love most about living in Miami?
I love being close to nature – the beach is always a great way to recharge.
While traveling, are there any objects you enjoy collecting?
I don’t tend to collect pieces in a particular category but I do love collecting items that are unique to the countries and cultures I visit. Rugs, baskets, linens….
What is at the top of your bucket list?
Travel to Australia and New Zealand and do a yoga teacher training program.
What are some of the greatest lessons you learned from your parents?
I feel so lucky with my upbringing, my parents taught me so much it’s hard to choose. My father is Italian and he instilled in us that European joie de vivre, to enjoy the simple things. My mother is a very strong woman, her life motto is never take no for an answer. She is also an entrepreneur and an incredible mother so she taught me by example that we can be both great at both.
What can we expect to see from Collecto in the near future?
We are starting to do a series of trunk shows this year, starting with Montreal early May which we are thrilled about! The experience of seeing our tables in person is quite unique and I am excited to bring our pieces to different cities and continue to nurture this love for entertaining that we share.
Federika's Favorites
Favorite Travel Destination?
Italy and Brazil.
Favorite historic house museum?
The Louvre, also because I absolutely love Paris.
Favorite interior of all time?
It’s very difficult to pick only one! But one that comes to mind is La Mamounia Hotel in Marrakesh, it’s incredibly iconic and very different from the interiors I see every day.
Favorite design book(s) you most often turn to for inspiration?
Any book from Le Corbusier, Lina Bo Bardi, or Oscar Niemeyer.
Favorite movie(s) every design lover should watch at least once?
The Talented Mr. Ripley for the fresh, breathtaking scenes, and The Grand Budapest Hotel, or any Wes Anderson film, to spark that whimsical magic.
Favorite home scent?
Sandalwood – warm, moody and slightly sweet.
Favorite linen brands?
Favorite hostess gift?
Hand-embroidered cocktail napkins.
Favorite family tradition?
Having lunch and dinner together at the table every day.
Favorite piece of advice from your mother?
Never give up on your dreams!
