Susan Fales-Hill, writer and philanthropist

(Photo: Julie Skarratt (portrait); Bobby Doherty/New York Magazine (linens); Courtesy of the Vendors (remaining))

I use a Cartier fountain pen when writing longhand. I love going to the store and walking past all the glorious jewels when it’s time to replenish my cartridge supply. 767 Fifth Ave., at 59th St.; 212-457-3202

This period of my life is less about acquisition and more about maintenance. Yuri Yanchyshyn of Period Furniture Conservation will treat your antiques like a long-lost relative and lovingly restore them to splendor and, most important, usefulness. 37-18 Northern Blvd., nr. Steinway St., Ste. 407, Long Island City 718-361-5590

(Photo: Courtesy of the Vendors (crystal); Bobby Doherty/New York Magazine (Kara Walker silhouette))

The home department at Bergdorf Goodman is always a pleasure�I particularly love its crystal section. To me, more is more, and it is neither shy nor minimalist. 754 Fifth Ave., nr. 58th St. 212-753-7300

I could do with a Kara Walker silhouette. Her work is the visual equivalent of what I’d like to express in my writing. Bernardaud, 499 Park Ave., nr. 59th St.; 212-371-4300

(Photo: Bobby Doherty/New York Magazine (sandwich); Courtesy of the Vendors (silver basket))

Sant Ambroeus, the Milanese transplant, has become an Upper East Side canteen. It’s the perfect place to bring my daughter for a gelato after school, and it’s a great spot for a family dinner on a Sunday night. 1000 Madison Ave., nr. 78th St.; 212-570-2211

Anything having to do with l’art de la table delights me: silver baskets for presenting fruit or rolls, china sets for different times of day and year, beautiful linens, or unusual service items like a giant sugar cellar for sweetening one’s strawberries. Christofle, 846 Madison Ave., at 70th St. 212-308-9390; D. Porthault, 470 Park Ave., nr. 58th St. 212-688-1660

Every fall and spring, I attend American Ballet Theatre performances with the regularity of a devout churchgoer. In fact, the Met Opera House is my cathedral. Lincoln Center Plaza, 212-362-6000