Karine Monié

Mei-Lan Tan and Victor Lefebvre, the young duo behind Umé Studio, have different backgrounds but share a vision and great love for materiality. From an Indonesian family, the U.S.-born Tan studied at Cornell University before working under Caroline O’Donnell. A native of France, Lefebvre was educated there and in Japan. After practicing at Kengo Kuma in Paris, Lefebvre received a state research grant that led him to move to Kyoto and establish a practice.

A few steps from chic Avenue Montaigne and the renowned Champs-Elysées sits the elegant Haussmann building where Stéphanie Coutas found her personal refuge. Spread over 3,875 square feet, the four-bedroom apartment initially comprised a series of enclosed rooms. For this project, which kept Coutas busy for 18 months, the French designer wanted to create more flow and highlight her extensive art collection.

Whether home or hotel, colors, materials and motifs inject personality into any space, defining and giving it soul. From Denver to New York to Los Angeles, three audacious examples push the limits of design to exceptional results.

The namesake and creative director of the eponymous firm NICOLEHOLLIS pays a lot of attention to context and purpose when designing a new space. Established in 1948 by John and Elinor McGuire, McGuire Furniture reflects a sense of luxury combined with the laid-back spirit of coastal California. The collaboration between these two titans of design seemed destined for success.

Creating a home that seamlessly blends art, architecture, design, and nature requires a strong creative vision but also needs highly skilled individuals and teams to bring it to life. Located in the historic neighborhood of Alamo Heights in San Antonio, Texas, this modern house achieves that coveted blend.