With projects around the globe, Columbian born architect and interior designer Juan Montoya is well known for his restrained yet layered luxury. Throughout his diverse projects, modernity is infused with a sensuous mix of elements and international influence. But at his own country house, La Formentera (named after a Balearic Island off the Mediterranean coast of Spain where he spent a year), in the Hudson Valley, a new talent emerged. Without any formal landscape training, Juan transformed over 100 acres of undeveloped property into a magnificent refuge, mixing the power of nature with sensitive and sophisticated art installations. Please join Susanna and me for a visit to the beautiful house and garden at La Formentera.
The house is a warm and welcoming multi-leveled structure filled with towers of books, art and an eclectic global style. With a soaring 26 foot ceiling, the living room ceiling is beamed with Japanese style straw matting of bamboo.
A high low mix expresses Juan’s interests with a cheeky insouciance.
A separate studio also serves as a guest house with Juan’s overflowing art and antiques collections. Below, an early 19th century daybed made in France for Swedish royalty, who eschewed typical French gilded finishes for white.
Throughout the house and property is a constant reminder of the relationship between house and nature
with thoughtful manipulation of and enhancements to the grounds,
including the spectacular pool with design inspired by Swedish palaces.
Thanks to Juan for a most inspiring day and his partner Urban Karlsson for such a delightful lunch.
We now understand the magic of La Formentera. Thank you so much for sharing your idyllic paradise!
What a beautiful place. A work of art.
I love the miniature Tintin with his dog, Milou.
Ah, the power of green! Beautiful garden and aesthetic. Just ordered the book on La Formentera.
Thank you for awakening us to all in your post.
What an undertaking!
A Wonderful Home! Wonderful People! & a Wonderful Dog!
Juan Montoya’s home is really House Beautiful House and Garden! How can Susanna be so stunned that Mr. Montoya could design such a beautiful garden? Mr. Montoya has been working in design for a very long time. He has traveled the world and seen many many beautiful inspirational sites. Mr Montoya’s designs, whether interior or exterior are top notch. He has a very trained eye. Instinct. His garden is lovely.
Thank you for another wonderful visit.
The nicest designer of all….and the only designer that can handle ‘overscale’ as grandeur.
This might sound silly but is there any kind of landscape/design service. Nice