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Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Sophie Edwards

MLB player José Altuve's modern Italian home exudes both elegance and comfort – it's a masterclass in simple sophistication

Jose altuve and his living room.

When Nina Magon set out to design a home for José Altuve, the second baseman for the Houston Astros, she wanted to celebrate his discerning taste. The result is a masterpiece of modern luxury.

The designer's firm is renowned for its philosophy of boldness, refinement, and sophistication, all of which is strongly embodied in Altuve's home tour. The Nina Magon touch comes through in how a neutral gray and black color palette has been used to create rooms that make a huge impact. Clean lines, luxurious finishes, and bespoke details coalesce to create a space that feels simultaneously contemporary and cozy. It feels like stepping into the future, but one can also imagine curling up on the sofa with a cup of tea.

'Our vision for the LA Residence was to create an Italian modern style home that exudes both elegance and comfort,' Magon tells Homes & Gardens. 'We meticulously selected European materials and luxurious furniture pieces to complement the home's clean lines and expansive spaces. The large windows and Nano Wall ensure that natural light floods the interiors, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Each room features unique, custom elements that make the home truly one-of-a-kind, from the custom playhouse in the playroom to the sophisticated trophy case in the game room.'

(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)

The living room of the home is the perfect embodiment of this energy. Huge windows fill the entire space with light, giving it a cozy feel, while sleek light fixtures and a stylish fireplace bring a modern sensibility to the space. A low, rounded coffee table provides contrast to the otherwise angular leaning of the room's lines.

This ambiance continues throughout the entire home.

(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)

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Creating a space like Altuve's Houston home is about more than furnishings and finishes; styling also plays a huge role in the cozy and comfortable energy of the home. Accessories like a gray woolen throw, black matte ceramic vases, and a mini bonsai tree are perfect for adding character and style.


If you are hoping to recreate the look of Altuve's home, Magon recommends embracing natural light, mixing modern and personal touches, using quality materials, and including custom furniture. First, she suggests, 'Maximize natural light by incorporating large windows and, if possible, features like Nano Walls that open up the space and bring the outdoors in. This not only brightens the interiors but also creates a seamless connection with nature.'

She continues: 'Combine clean, modern lines with custom elements that reflect your personality and lifestyle. In the LA Residence, we included a custom-built playhouse and a trophy case, adding unique and functional design elements.'

High-quality materials are also everything when it comes to making a home look modern, like Altuve's. Magon recommends: 'Invest in high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The use of big-format porcelain tiles, Kohler plumbing, and Compac countertops in our project adds a layer of luxury and ensures longevity. Consider custom furniture and decor to tailor the space to your needs and preferences. For example, the custom breakfast bench in the kitchen and the velvet chairs in the dining room at the LA Residence add both style and comfort.'


Modern interiors are a great way to make your home feel sleek, clean, and luxurious. José Altuve's space is the perfect example of how to create the look without it feeling too cold.


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