Shigeru Ban, born in Japan in 1957, is an exemplar of the radical contemporary architect who is as much inspired by structural engineering problems, unfavourable site conditions and budgetary limitations as by anything more positive.

ECONOMIST: Building design

Indeed, touring the property's two houses with her is akin to tagging along with a museum docent fitting, considering that the De Soles are major supporters of the Aspen Art Museum, which is set to open a new building by architect Shigeru Ban in 2014.

WSJ: The House That Gucci Built