Creating beautiful environments is a passion for renowned interior designer Michael Lin. Born in Taiwan and educated in Argentina and the United States, Lin has honed a luxurious, classic modern style that reflects international influence and has worldwide appeal.

The versatile Lin has touched nearly every corner of the interior design world with his work, from the exquisite chair he created for Chanel boutiques (a collaboration with Peter Marino & Associates that was exhibited at the 2000 International Furniture Faire in Milan) to his solo design of hot L.A. nightclub The Velvet Room. Other projects include collaborations with Tommy Bahamas and DKNY, respectively, on the pool and terrace for the 2007 Esquire Magazine Signature Space. Also notable is Lin’s role as principal designer for Eat-well Restaurant, Los Angeles.

It is on large-scale luxury hotel projects, when he can bring together all of his knowledge and experience, where Lin’s talent truly shines. His sophisticated lobby lighting design welcomes guests to the W Hotel, Los Angeles. Also in L.A., he created the soothing outdoor lighting design for the Avalon Hotel, and as junior designer for the all-new Sunset Marquis Hotel in 2005-2006, Lin designed the majority of the furnishings as well as the layout for the luxury baths of the guest villas. The Sunset Marquis immediately became one of the Hollywood music scene’s hottest celebrity hideouts, a home away from home for the rock-and-roll elite.

Lin’s current role is as chief designer of the newly built Hua Shan Square, Shanghai China, which is an ultra luxurious lifestyle shopping center with attached 40 story service apartment complex. It is thought as one of the most expensive pieces of real estate in Shanghai. As chief designer he is responsible not only for supervision of the project as a whole, but individually responsible for the complete design and installation of the basement through fifth floors, including the lobby, conference rooms, retail public space, restaurants, and guest rooms.

Before striking out on his own in 2004, Lin achieved the level of vice president at FontanaArte SpA, one of the world’s premier lighting and furniture manufacturers. His tenure there and a Dallas based furniture company. Cantoni Design was significant in developing Lin’s expertise in the areas of both lighting and furniture design.

Lin counts an eclectic mix of artists, designers, and architects among his influences, such as Philippe Starck, Ettore Sotssas, Vicente Wolf, and Renzo Piano. He also appreciates the work of fashion designer Marc Jacobs, particularly his use of fabrics and materials to create casual luxury.

“People always say that in work, you must do what you love, and I have definitely found what I love,” says Lin. “I enjoy creating difference – difference in the choice of materials and combination of colors. As I work I try to think each project all the way through, even the simplest piece of furniture, considering usage, practicality, and proportion. I believe proportion is the key to beauty and style.

“I tend to design every space somewhat neutral or monochromatic and then let the furniture, accessories, and lighting each plays its role. I always put myself in the situation, imagining myself using the space. If I don’t like it, I won’t let my client experience it.”