The Golden Key

A masterclass in designing the most captivating yet livable collector homes, Guillaume Coutheillas—a Paris-born founder of frenchCALIFORNIA—is the creative act behind one of the most publicized Tower residences at Four Seasons Private Residences 706 Mission.

When it comes to creating showpiece spaces, Guillaume is known for his artful mix of Parisian sophistication and relaxed California luxury. A fixture on the pages of Architectural Digest, Wallpaper*, and other haute design chronicles, and a member of the Design & Art Advisory Council for Salon Art + Design, New York, Guillaume is uniquely positioned to lend his savoir-faire on the latest in the world of collectible design and to share his perspective on creating memorable spaces for holiday entertaining.

GC: Collectible design is experiencing a fascinating shift, with sustainability, craftsmanship, and storytelling taking center stage. There’s a growing appreciation for pieces that celebrate material authenticity—designs that let the beauty of natural stone, wood, and metals shine. At Salon Art + Design, I noticed a particular buzz around hybrid creations that blur the lines between art and function, where designers push boundaries with innovative forms while remaining rooted in traditional techniques. Another key trend is the embrace of imperfect or organic shapes, which reflect the broader cultural shift toward individuality in design. Collectors are also increasingly interested in provenance—designs that come with a story, whether it’s a piece crafted by an emerging studio or a limited edition by a renowned artist.

GC. I designed The Tower residence at Four Seasons Private Residences 706 Mission to reflect the lifestyle of a sophisticated, well-traveled collector. Drawing inspiration from San Francisco’s rich cultural landscape and proximity to institutions like SFMOMA, the residence embodies a seamless interplay between contemporary design and vintage elements, creating a narrative-rich environment that feels deeply personal and layered with meaning. Infusing warmth and character into a modern space was a priority. This was achieved through curated contrasts—limewashed walls soften the architecture, while curved furnishings and unexpected placements of artwork bring a sense of playfulness. Every piece was chosen to tell a story, blending global influences with a focus on livability and authenticity. The result is a home that is not only visually stunning but also feels intimate and inviting.

GC: San Francisco’s art and design scene is in the midst of an exciting renaissance. The city is reclaiming its place as a hub for creativity with a thriving art community supported by a resurgence in gallery openings, exhibitions, and art fairs, further energized by the new Institute of Contemporary Art in San Francisco. Now in its 10th year, FOG Design + Art showcases an inspiring blend of fine art and design. Exciting new showrooms, like Scott + Cooner, provide platforms for curated collections, including frenchCALIFORNIA's vintage finds, available on 1stDibs and displayed at Four Seasons Private Residences 706 Mission.

GC: Crafting festive environments for holiday celebrations begins with setting the mood. Lighting is everything—it should feel warm, layered, and inviting. I often use dimmed, indirect light paired with candles or string lights for a soft, ambient glow. The playlist is the heart of the gathering, so I love curating music that feels chic and personal. My custom frenchCALIFORNIA Holiday Playlist, for instance, offers a sophisticated French twist on holiday music, featuring French versions of classics and nostalgic American takes on French songs. For tablescapes, I gravitate toward organic, tactile elements: natural linens, vintage glassware, and real silver flatware. Adding fresh greenery or seasonal flowers brings life and texture to the table. 

1. Astier de Villatte ceramics: 

Their handmade pieces are timeless and bring a sense of artistry to everyday dining.

2. Art by my brother Sebastien Coutheillas:

His work feels personal, innovative, and deeply connected to our shared creative journey.

3. Vintage items:

From mid-century furniture to rare design objects, vintage finds add history and character to any space.

4. Real silverware:

Flatware from auctions or inherited from family—use it daily, not just for special occasions.

5. Accent chairs:

A thoughtful, sculptural chair can serve as a functional art piece and even make for an unforgettable gift.

My custom frenchCALIFORNIA Holiday Playlist is designed to elevate seasonal gatherings. It features a chic blend of French holiday classics and nostalgic American interpretations, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional holiday tunes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a cozy gathering, this playlist adds a stylish and festive touch to the atmosphere.