I enjoyed Steve Cuozzo’s column “Hotel Hell” (May 12).

Although I am in total agreement on the Carlyle’s “heavenly” review, the beautiful interior design, by the legendary designer Thierry Despont, is without a spot of chintz.

The lobby has glistening black marble, almost mirror-like in appearance, and the Dining Room is one of the most romantic restaurants in New York, with its pure chocolate walls teamed with what must be the closest paint color to a creme brulee.

It is a divine place, void of all chintz and restored to its original splendor.

Trish O’Connor, Washington, DC