Michael Lee

Artist. Visionary. Philanthropist.

Michael Lee has always had a passion for finding beauty in the unusual, the over-looked and the discarded. Finding inspiration from the past, the Michael Lee Collection reflects Lee’s unique ability to find perfection in imperfection creating unique, one of a kind environments and experiences in the mediums of art, architecture and music.

Named by Architectural Digest as one of the Top 100 Designers, Texas born Lee is known for dramatic renovations and salvage that have transformed forgotten properties into real estate masterpieces. Lee believes every structure has a story and his mission is to add another chapter. A 1911 Dallas Exchange Building became a Parisian manor and car museum while a rustic beach bungalow was re-envisioned into a cliff side Southern Meditteranean Villa under Lee’s creative direction.

“Everything we need is already on this earth – it’s about seeing things differently.” Bridging past and future, Lee incorporates antique architectural details into the design of his homes; where antique doors, stone mantles, and antique lighting coexist with the new in a seemingly effortless harmony. Lee credits his success with encouraging clients to surround themselves with things they love and not what they think they need. “It’s not about decorating and filling space – it’s about creating an environment for living and enjoyment.” says, Lee.

Expanding his work, Lee is preparing his first art exhibit “Shadows and Souls” scheduled to debut in the Spring of 2010. The body of work captures light and shadow from the unknown. Combining the mediums of photography and various media experiences “Shadows and Souls” explores the connection to the ethereal around us.

Through his Elephant Rock Foundation, Lee is working to inspire the present. Providing grants to up and coming musical artists Lee continues his commitment to bring beauty to the world.