James Magni’s mantra is not just a reflection of his dedication to design, but is also evident in the finished product of anything he touches. Named as one of Architectural Digest’s Top 100 Designers and famed for his signature aesthetic of “Global Modernism”, James Magni’s award winning designs are frequently lauded by the press for sinuous simplicity with strong, sophisticated architectural back
grounds. The New York Times declared, “…prophetic designer Magni, is trim, tailored, as a Jil Sander suit.“ In 2007, Robb Report Luxury Homes honored Magni Design Inc. as part of their “Top 40 Interior Designers” worldwide. With a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Magni’s love for residential design was born when he took a job with Dallas firm HMBH Architects. Now, with his Los Angeles-based company, Magni Design, Inc., the designer works with an impressive list of clients from around the world, taking how they live their lives functionally and aesthetically, and formulating design concepts specific each project, client, location and budget. Magni — who travels extensively searching for unique items — describes his design style as “Modern Globalism” and takes his cues from international influences including French items from the 1930s and ’40s, Asian elements, handcrafted African tribal pieces and, most importantly, art. Influenced by such design greats as Mies van der Rohe, Carlo Scarpa, Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann and Maxime Old, Magni also incorporates his past training into his interiors, often taking a very architectural approach. “I have immense respect for architects,” Magni says. “Interior designers must understand what the architect is doing and dovetail seamlessly with his or her work. I frequently go back and read about great architects’ philosophies ranging from Le Corbusier to Andrea Palladio.”
Architecture and design, where projects can take from 3 to 5 years, have allowed Magni to work on his true love — furnishings, art and sculpture — which he believes to be three all in the same. In 1996, when Magni was unable to find items for his projects, he decided to create the Magni Home Collection, sculptural furnishings, rugs and contemporary upholstery that began as a few pieces and have successfully grown into an ensemble the likes of an art collection. Quality materials including luxurious fabrics, woods, metals and finishes, such as cast bronze, hand-polished stainless steel, macassar ebony, rosewood, sharkskin, parchment, leather and recycled materials, create the ultimate look of modern elegance. “Quality is everything to me,” Magni says. “I believe these pieces will be tomorrow’s collectibles.”
09/04/2026
A closer look at Giant Nail with Diamonds by Joel Morrison, recently installed in one of our projects. The monumental stainless steel sculpture transforms a familiar industrial form into an unexpected statement on scale, material, and luxury.
Artist: Joe Morrison Joel Morrison
Gallery: Alon Segev Gallery Alon Segev
09/03/2026
The Athens Bench, recently installed in our Carla Ridge project. Defined by its beveled edges and clean, architectural form.
Available through Magni Home Collection. Link in bio to connect.
08/28/2026
As Carla Ridge approaches installation, James Magni and Senior Designer Gabriela Nehorayan take us through the powder rooms, highlighting the details that define each space.
A closer look before the project comes together.
08/26/2026
Behind the scenes with the Manhattan Table.
Every piece is carefully inspected before leaving the workshop, with James Magni remaining personally involved in the quality and craftsmanship behind each design.
08/22/2026
A closer look inside Carla Ridge. James Magni and Senior Designer Gabriela Nehorayan walk us through the entertainment room and sculptural staircase as the residence comes together.
08/18/2026
As Carla Ridge nears completion, James Magni and Senior Designer Gabriela Nehorayan walk through the residence, highlighting the details, materials, and design decisions coming together in the final stages.
08/14/2026
An inside look at the early stages of installation with Jason Kalman. From coordinating the details on site to bringing the vision into place, here’s a glimpse of the process before the final reveal.
08/11/2026
A look inside Carla Ridge as it takes shape. Principal James Magni and Senior Designer Gabriela Nehorayan walk through the residence, sharing a glimpse of the design in its final stages before completion.
Interior Design: Magni Kalman Design & Magni Home Collection
Architect: McClean Design
07/28/2026
The Art of Modern Design by James Magni and Jason Kalman was celebrated at Alba in West Hollywood, where clients, collaborators, and friends came together to mark this milestone.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us for the evening, and to your continued support and the lasting relationships that have been part of the studio’s journey.
The Art of Modern Design is available through Phaidon and other fine book retailers. Link in bio.
07/24/2026
Among the residences featured in The Art of Modern Design, Tower Road reflects Magni Kalman Design’s timeless approach to contemporary living. Jason Kalman shares what makes this project especially meaningful, including the thoughtfully curated art collection that informs and enriches the home’s design.
Available for purchase through Phaidon and other fine book retailers. Visit the link in our bio to order your copy of The Art of Modern Design.
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