Natalie Massenet

When encountering remarkable furnishing or artwork adorning the homes of intriguing and well-known personalities, it often ignites a desire to curate similar treasures for our own living spaces. This aspiration extends beyond aiding friends in settling into new homes; it also assists interior designers in sourcing art that harmonises with their creative visions. While glossy home magazines spin elaborate tales of collectors’ treasures, they inevitably leave readers yearning for comparable pieces that resonate with both their tastes and budgets. I am eager to shift the focus towards elevating a singular artwork as the centrepiece, which will bring sophistication and style to any home. Rather than regaling with the “grand” or “humorous” stories of celebrity collectors, my aim is to spotlight a standout piece in their homes as a beacon, guiding us towards discovering similar works that we too can proudly call our own.

Erik Torstensson and Natalie Massenet Image source WSJ Photo Credit- Magnus Mårding

Natalie Massenet is a renowned and prominent figure in the fashion industry, presently residing with her partner at their country retreat nestled in the rolling hills of the British countryside. Her impact on the world of online shopping has been significant, having pioneered the revolutionary e-commerce platform Net-a-Porter from the comfort of her Chelsea abode in London back in 2000. In a significant development in 2015, Net-a-Porter merged forces with the Yoox Group, culminating in the establishment of the YNAP (Yoox Net-A-Porter Group). Following her tenure as CEO of Net-a-Porter, Massenet’s commitment to innovation propelled her to join forces with investor Nick Brown, giving rise to the prestigious private equity fund, Imaginary Ventures. This endeavour is dedicated to nurturing emerging retail brands, boasting a diverse portfolio that includes illustrious names such as Glossier, Farfetch, Reformation, and SKIMS, among others.

In the Green Room, sofas by Vincent Van Duysen for Arflex flank a bespoke oak table sturdy enough to dance on. Image source WSJ. Photo Credit- Magnus Mårding

Natalie Massenet and Erik Torstensson’s country house is the perfect marriage of classic Georgian and Edwardian architectural styles, renovated to chic perfection. Against a backdrop of muted tones, soft beige, and gentle greens, the residence radiates that quintessential British charm. Infused with character, the home features unique details like the crescent-shaped outdoor pool, Frank Gehry-designed wooden stools in the bathrooms, and Marion Verboom’s striking totem sculpture in the lounge.

In the Yellow Room, a daybed by Charlotte Perriand next to a polyhedral dry bar by Ico Parisi is a favourite napping spot. Image source WSJ. Photo Credit-Magnus Mårding

In Massenet’s primary living space, a delightful fusion of geometric patterns and harmonious hues sets a vibrant tone. Bathed in a warm yellow palette, the strategic arrangement of furnishings and curated artworks orchestrates a symphony of colours, imparting a serene sense of cohesion throughout the room.

In the couple’s main bathroom, a Wiggle stool (front) by Frank Gehry. Image source WSJ. Photo Credit-Magnus Mårding

The sofa and chairs, crafted by Charles Pfister for Knoll in 1971, complement the coffee table, a stunning representation of Axel Vervoordt’s mastery of the Wabi-Sabi aesthetic. Adorning the left wall, a collection of Picasso prints is artfully displayed to create a mesmerising three-dimensional effect. Rather than mere decorations, these prints serve as focal points, akin to sculptural installations, enriching the room’s overall ambiance.

A “half-moon” swimming pool designed by Miranda Brooks, who also oversaw the garden design. Image source WSJ. Photo Credit- Magnus Mårding

Gracing the expansive wall of the main living room is a captivating creation by the renowned German abstract artist, Imi Knoebel. Revered among discerning art connoisseurs, Knoebel’s works are celebrated for their pure abstract forms and minimalist compositions. Exploring the interplay of colour, form, and material, Knoebel is a virtuoso in both painting and sculpture, pushing the boundaries of creativity with basic materials like plywood, aluminium, and fibreboard. Inspired by abstract visionaries such as Malevich and Mondrian, Knoebel’s oeuvre offers a contemporary and architectural perspective, characterised by a refined vocabulary of forms.

In the Green Room, totem sculpture by Marion Verboom Image source WSJ. Photo Credit： Magnus Mårding

If you’re aspiring to infuse their living spaces with the spirit of Imi Knoebel’s creations, several promising artists warrant attention, each offering a unique perspective despite varied artistic styles. Among them, Brazilian artist Paulo Monteiro emerges as a hidden gem in the art world. His recent rise to prominence culminated in New York’s PACE gallery unveiling his solo exhibition, “Undefined Inclusion,” last autumn, garnering significant acclaim and anticipating further recognition.

Paulo Monteiro

Sofas and cube chairs designed in 1971 by Charles Pfister for Knol, and a stone coffee table by Axel Vervoordt. Pablo Picasso lithograph and artwork on the wall by Imi Knoebel. Image source WSJ

As a co-founder of the collective “Casa 7,” dedicated to revitalising Brazilian painting, Monteiro’s works have earned recognition from esteemed institutions like MOMA. His minimalist, geometric compositions underscore the authenticity of the materials he employs. Monteiro’s lines flow organically, dynamically and yet composedly, reflecting a seamless fluidity of form. For Monteiro, paint transcends mere colour; it serves as a tactile medium for artistic expression. With price points ranging from approximately $10,000 for smaller pieces to around $100,000 for larger works, Monteiro’s art offers accessibility without compromising on sophistication.

For those looking to enhance their home aesthetics with geometric and colour-blocked artworks, New York artist Sarah Crowner is more than worthy of consideration. Crowner seamlessly integrates architectural principles with scenography, presenting stitched canvas compositions that play with geometry, proportion, and spatial cohesion. While paying homage to the hard-edge abstractionists of the 1960s and 1970s, Crowner’s approach diverges from traditional painting, as she transforms cut canvases into irregular geometric shapes.

Imi Knoebel

Beyond the confines of the gallery, Crowner’s influence extends to performance art and interior design. She has contributed both paintings and costumes to productions such as Jessica Lang’s “The Blue Garden” for the American Ballet Theater. Moreover, Crowner has been commissioned to create a series of interior works for the Wright Restaurant at the Guggenheim Museum in New York, showcasing her versatility and creative breadth.

Paulo Monteiro- Undefined Inclusion, Pace New York

Those in search of art ranging in price from thousands to tens of thousands, the late Wassef Boutros-Ghali, scion of a political dynasty, offers an intriguing option. Educated in architecture, he left a significant legacy consulting for the United Nations on environmental and urban matters, with projects spanning Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Sudan. Upon immigrating to the United States in the 1970s, he transitioned to abstract expressionism and minimalism, drawing inspiration from Rothko and Reinhardt. Earlier this year, London’s The Arts Club paid tribute to him with a solo exhibition.

Works by Wassef Boutros-Ghali

Works by Wassef Boutros-Ghali

The Arts Club London

As we wrap up our exploration of Natalie Massenet’s remarkable art collection, it’s worth highlighting the insightful advice she shares from her journey as a young professional woman who rose to great heights. Alongside presenting alternatives for her carefully curated pieces, you too can emulate her discerning taste and elevate your home to the same level of sophistication. Remember, all limitations are self-imposed, implying that our potential is often constrained by our own beliefs and perceptions. Similarly, plans made in advance may not always unfold as expected, emphasising the importance of adaptability and openness to new opportunities. Lastly, she encourages us not to shy away from challenges just because the path ahead is unclear, as perseverance and determination are essential virtues in overcoming uncertainty. By embracing these valuable pearls of wisdom, you can navigate both professional and personal endeavours with grace and confidence.

-the end-

Text: Luning

Copyediting: Rosie

Sarah Crowner. Image courtesy of VOGUE