Up High in a Norman Foster-Designed Tower, frenchCALIFORNIA Created a Hotel-Inspired Apartment for a Globe-Trotting Couple
In the heart of Manhattan’s ever-evolving skyline, Norman Foster’s SELENE tower stands as a testament to cutting-edge design. With its undulating glass façade and impossibly slim profile, this 64-story architectural marvel is home to a select group of elite residents, from international business moguls to Hollywood icons like George Clooney and Cindy Crawford. But it’s the interior of one sky-high apartment that has really caught the eye — a sophisticated, hotel-inspired pied-à-terre created for a globe-trotting couple by the Paris-born, Los Angeles-based designer Guillaume Coutheillas of frenchCALIFORNIA.
Having previously worked on several model residences within the SELENE tower, Coutheillas was already familiar with the building’s imposing yet sleek design. His intimate knowledge of the tower’s sophisticated architecture, paired with his penchant for blending vintage and contemporary pieces, made him an ideal choice for this high-profile project. For the couple, who frequently travel the world and were drawn to the SELENE tower’s extraordinary panoramic views, the design brief was clear: create a serene, functional sanctuary that is both refined and effortlessly stylish.
A Global Blend of Old and New
For globe-trotting clients, midtown's SELENE building was hard to beat. "Incredible views of the city were extremely important to them, and they were completely taken by the unparalleled views this building offers," says Guillaume Coutheillas of frenchCALIFORNIA.
When it comes to interiors, the couple wanted more than just luxury; they wanted to capture a feeling of cosmopolitan elegance — a space that felt like an exclusive hotel suite while still maintaining warmth and character. It was the balance of these elements that Coutheillas excelled at, bringing his distinct Parisian touch to the Manhattan skies.
The designer’s approach was to blend collectible vintage pieces with sleek, contemporary furniture, resulting in a space that feels both timeless and current. Using platforms like 1stDibs and Etsy, Coutheillas searched high and low for European furniture and accessories, unearthing hidden gems that added a sense of history and soul to the apartment. From an antique Venetian mirror to mid-century modern chairs, each item was carefully selected to elevate the space while adding layers of depth and personality.
The vintage pieces work in perfect harmony with the apartment’s modernist architecture, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the city below. The contemporary side of the design emphasizes clean lines, neutral tones, and an emphasis on comfort — everything a frequent traveler needs after a long journey. The result is a refined yet approachable space that perfectly suits the couple’s jet-setting lifestyle.
Parisian Influence with New York Views
For globe-trotting clients, midtown's SELENE building was hard to beat. "Incredible views of the city were extremely important to them, and they were completely taken by the unparalleled views this building offers," says Guillaume Coutheillas of frenchCALIFORNIA.
As the couple both speak French and share a love for Parisian aesthetics, Coutheillas infused the apartment with elements that felt both distinctly French and undeniably New York. The chic, minimalist style of the French capital shines through in the soft color palettes, bespoke furnishings, and the luxurious yet unpretentious atmosphere of the space. But it’s the towering views of Manhattan’s skyline and the carefully curated selection of modern art pieces that root the apartment firmly in the heart of New York.
An artful juxtaposition of textures further defines the apartment’s elevated vibe: from rich velvet cushions to sleek, glossy wood finishes, each texture invites touch and indulgence. The open-plan living area is an entertainer’s dream, with subtle zoning that feels open yet intimate, perfect for hosting guests or enjoying quiet moments of solitude.
Functionality Meets Style
While the apartment exudes high style, it is also designed with the practical needs of its owners in mind. Given their frequent travels, functionality was key. Custom cabinetry, discreet storage solutions, and intuitive lighting all come together to create a home that’s both beautiful and incredibly functional. The couple can easily move between spaces without missing a beat — whether it’s a late-night snack in the kitchen or a relaxing retreat in the master bedroom, every inch of the apartment serves a purpose.
The couple’s frequent travels also influenced the overall mood of the apartment. In many ways, the space acts as a collection of the couple’s adventures, with carefully chosen pieces that evoke memories of their trips and experiences around the globe. A striking sculpture from South Africa, a pair of vintage French lamps — these items are more than mere decor, they’re personal stories, adding an extra layer of intimacy to the design.
A Hotel-Inspired Luxury That Feels Like Home
For globe-trotting clients, midtown's SELENE building was hard to beat. "Incredible views of the city were extremely important to them, and they were completely taken by the unparalleled views this building offers," says Guillaume Coutheillas of frenchCALIFORNIA.
Ultimately, the apartment reflects the couple’s desire for a high-end living experience that feels luxurious yet personal. The hotel-inspired atmosphere isn’t cold or detached, but instead, invites relaxation and comfort. It’s a space where the couple can unwind after an international flight or host friends from across the globe, without ever feeling out of place.
Guillaume Coutheillas has once again proven that his expertise lies not just in creating beautiful interiors, but in designing spaces that reflect the lives and personalities of those who inhabit them. In the case of this stunning Manhattan apartment within the SELENE tower, he has achieved the perfect balance of global elegance, high style, and functional design. The result is a timeless pied-à-terre that truly rises to the occasion — with the sky as its only limit