Cast Away

One could say curiosity got the best of Yuri Xavier. The Brazil native and recovering actor, who co-owns Ligne Group, a Houston-based firm specializing in high-end interior-design brand development, recently launched his podcast, Minded. “I wanted to talk to leaders, experts in their field, and thought, ‘Why not just call them up and ask if they would like to talk,’” he says, cheekily adding he’s “perfected the art of stalking.” His guests have included celeb stylist Jeanne Yang and Michael Papadeas, a global exec of the Frieze art fairs. In that spirit of curiosity, can you spot the fib about this up-and-coming media maven?

Phoebe Rourke
IMG_9006-Edit-Edit
IMG_9006-Edit-Edit

1. As a teenager, Yuri was a soap opera star, having had a lead role in Chiquititas, what he calls “a Brazilian version of High School Musical.”


2. Growing up in Rio, Yuri trained in the local martial art of jiu-jitsu, but never rose beyond the rank of a blue belt. “Still, I am dangerous: I am a black belt in karate.”  

3. While living in L.A., he starred in exactly one episode of Days of Our Lives before he was fired. “They didn’t know I didn’t speak English at the time. But I did meet my wife, who was a stylist that day!”

Art+Culture
Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

How did you get to where you are today? The present moment is a combined history of my family, my time as an athlete, my passion for learning, and my desire to see the world be better. I grew up as a successful springboard and platform diver, however, an injury caused me to seek alternative treatments to heal my body. In that process, I discovered the power of yoga, exercise, meditation, mindset, and nutrition. This holistic approach eventually led me to open a Pilates and cycling studio called DEFINE body & mind. I opened studios around the nation, and after selling most of my business between 2017-2019, I was ready to explore how I could make an even greater impact on the wellbeing of our community. In 2023, I started actively working on a brand new multi-family/apartment concept called, Define Living. The idea focused on offering health and wellness services within a beautiful apartment setting to increase the wellbeing of our residents. Having a strong sense of community is the number one factor in living a happy life, so why not build a community where daily fitness, cooking classes, and social connection are the norm? We opened Define Living in March of 2024, and we couldn’t be happier with how things are being received. We are already looking at building more concepts like this in the Houston area and beyond.

Keep Reading Show less

THE STANDARD BEARER FOR LUXURY

We built The Village communities to exemplify sophisticated retirement living in Houston, surrounded by the heritage neighborhood of River Oaks, Tanglewood and Southampton. Each offers impeccable designer finishes and Aspenwood service detail with dining and resortstyle amenities making them premier locations for discerning Houstonians and their families. Impressive, spacious residential floor plans, generous natural light, and expansive terraces allow a new level of indoor-outdoor living. Beautiful spaces are designed for entertaining, fitness, and relaxation with a dedicated team to provide a secure lock and leave lifestyle for our members.

Keep Reading Show less

Valentino, Debbie and Rudy Festari

A STYLISH CROWD of more than 350 gathered at a River Oaks Country Club luncheon to celebrate Italian culture in Houston and take in a bright fall fashion show from Saks Fifth avenue.

Keep Reading Show less
Fashion+Home