Architectural Cases

Guillaume Excoffier, a renowned French art dealer and interior designer, has meticulously curated a stunning apartment in Beirut that embodies a sophisticated blend of modernist architecture and an eclectic array of design elements spanning different historical periods. His passion for Beirut's often-overlooked modernist buildings, constructed during a period of significant economic growth between the 1950s and mid-1970s, inspired him to create a living space that not only respects the city's architectural heritage but also serves as a canvas for his unique aesthetic vision. The apartment, located in the vibrant Ashrafieh district, is a testament to the idea that diverse design philosophies can coexist beautifully, fostering an environment that is both intellectually stimulating and warmly inviting.

Excoffier's fascination with Beirut's modernist structures began in the early 2010s, leading him to explore and document a variety of buildings, from Brutalist office blocks to colorful tributes to Le Corbusier. These buildings often incorporated regional adaptations, such as shade structures and breezeways, to suit the Mediterranean climate, along with structural innovations for sloping terrains and reinterpretations of traditional elements like the Ottoman-era triple arches. This journey culminated in his collaboration with photographer Matthieu Salvaing on the book Modernist Beirut, published by Éditions Norma. This exploration deepened his desire to personally inhabit a piece of this rich architectural history.

In 2023, Excoffier discovered an ideal apartment in a 1952 building in Ashrafieh. What captivated him were the soaring 13-foot ceilings and a loft-like ambiance, which he felt created an "inside-outside" sensation, further enhanced by large windows offering views of Beirut's architectural tapestry—a mix of traditional Levantine structures, modern high-rises, and midcentury apartment blocks. After removing previous uninspired renovations, Excoffier established a "blank canvas" with concrete floors and period-appropriate windows, setting the stage for his design. His approach involves a deliberate dialogue between 1980s furnishings and pre-20th-century pieces, drawing inspiration from various sources, including a Mica Ertegun auction that rekindled his appreciation for the clean lines of Biedermeier furniture, seen as a precursor to modernism.

The drawing room exemplifies this philosophy, where iconic pieces like Philippe Starck's Dr. Sonderbar seats and Josef Hoffmann's Purkersdorf chairs engage in a conversation about ornamentation and its evolution. André Dubreuil's distinctive "Spine" piece adds an element of whimsicality, juxtaposed with a delicately embroidered slipper, reflecting the city's lively and unpretentious spirit. Excoffier notes that Beirut's social culture, where hosting 40 guests is considered an intimate gathering, discourages minimalism. He asserts that living with antiques doesn't necessitate a "froufrou and château-like" atmosphere; instead, it can be sharp and intellectually engaging, revealing the interconnectedness of design across eras.

Excoffier's interior design firm, established in 2023 after his departure from the Gabriel et Guillaume gallery, sees him dividing his time between Paris, Beirut, and Dubai. He continues his passion for "looking for things," meticulously searching markets worldwide for both clients and his personal collection. This treasure hunt extends from significant pieces like those by Jean Royère to everyday objects such as a soap tray. The apartment also integrates utilitarian items crafted by local artisans, including a custom-made sectional, a concrete dining table, bookshelves made from plastered construction bricks, and Arts and Crafts-inspired kitchen stools. Even unique decorative items like large, faded ice cream cones, reminiscent of Claes Oldenburg's sculptures, were found locally. These elements collectively transform his beautifully appointed space into a reflection of Beirut's dynamic and creative essence, echoing the adaptable spirit of the modernist architects who shaped the city's past.

Alix Earle, a prominent social media figure whose journey to fame was initially documented through her unfiltered university life, has expanded her personal and professional horizons, leading to a diverse portfolio of residences across the United States. From her family's opulent New Jersey estate, which regularly features in her reality series, to her transient yet luxurious dwellings in Miami and her current high-rise abode in Los Angeles, Earle's living spaces reflect her rapid ascent in the digital world. This exploration offers a glimpse into the architectural and personal evolution of her homes, each location marking a different chapter in her burgeoning career and personal life, providing her followers with a comprehensive look at where she unwinds when the cameras are not rolling.

Earle's rise began in 2020 on TikTok, where she captivated millions by sharing authentic moments of her student life at the University of Miami, encompassing everything from social outings to her battles with cystic acne. This candid approach resonated deeply, propelling her into viral stardom. Her recent Netflix reality series, 'Earle Meets World,' which premiered on September 4th, further immerses audiences into her dynamic life, navigating career milestones, romantic relationships, and familial dynamics. A significant setting in the show, and familiar to her long-time followers, is the Earle family's grand New Jersey mansion in Red Bank. This lavish two-story property, acquired by her father and stepmother in 2013 for $2.25 million, serves as a central hub for her family, including her younger siblings Izabel, Penelope, and Thomas. The home, located approximately an hour from New York City, has undergone several modernizations, now boasting a minimalist interior. Notable features seen in the Netflix series and behind-the-scenes content include an impressive fountain at the entrance, an expansive living area, a swimming pool with a cabana, and an outdoor entertainment zone complete with an oversized chess board. Additionally, her mother, Alisa, resides in the nearby coastal town of Point Pleasant, and Earle frequently divides her time between the Red Bank estate and her sister Ashtin’s apartment in New York’s Upper East Side.

Following her graduation from the University of Miami in 2023, Earle transitioned from dormitory living to a sophisticated apartment in Miami, which she initially shared with her long-standing friend, Kristin Konefal. However, by April 2025, she announced her departure from this rented Florida residence. Her subsequent move was to a $2.7 million house in Brickell, Florida, formerly owned by NFL player Braxton Berrios, with whom she had begun a relationship in 2023. Earle candidly shared on TikTok her apprehension about living alone for the first time after years with a roommate. Despite her move into Berrios's historic 1938 Miami property, which features six bedrooms, six bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a chef's kitchen, her stay was largely temporary due to her demanding travel schedule and Berrios's relocation to Houston for his NFL career. The current status of her Florida residency following her split from Berrios in December 2025 remains unspecified.

Most recently, Earle has established a presence in Los Angeles, renting a luxurious two-bedroom apartment. This downtown L.A. dwelling is characterized by its stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and a contemporary kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances and sleek white cabinetry. The primary suite is designed with luxury and convenience in mind, featuring a spacious walk-in closet, a marble shower, and a double sink vanity with integrated backlighting, making it an ideal setup for her popular 'get ready with me' video segments.

The extensive real estate holdings of Alix Earle, spanning New Jersey, Miami, and Los Angeles, mirror her journey from a university student gaining online traction to a full-fledged influencer and reality TV star. Each property, whether a family mansion or a modern urban apartment, represents a phase in her evolving career and lifestyle, offering fans a unique insight into the private world behind her public persona and highlighting the intersection of celebrity and contemporary living.