1. More Refrigerator and Freezer Capacity

Photo Credit: Courtesy LG

Instead of going to the store every day, we’re buying and storing more food at home. Refrigerators are essential for short term fresh food storage and leftovers. Freezers are important for longer-term preservation and frozen goods.  When designing kitchens in the future, we’re going to pay more attention to refrigerator and freezer capacity.

2. More Cooking at Home

Photo Credit: Courtesy AJ Madison

New kitchens will be designed for healthy meals, food prep stations, and storing leftovers. You might also find yourself using those fun small appliances like your juicer, slow cooker, ice cream maker, or food processor.

3. Cabinet Space, Pantry, and Dry Food Storage

Photo Credit: Courtesy AJ Madison

From COVID-19 we’ve learned that keeping an organized pantry is key for easier home-cooked meals. Dry goods such as rice, beans, grains, and oats are a low-cost way to feed your family. Elevate your cooking game with a hidden pull-out rack for spices and dry herbs. Airtight storage containers are a great way to store baking ingredients, cereal, loose-leaf teas, and coffee.

4. Easy-to-Clean Appliances, Kitchen Cabinets, Countertops, and Fixtures

Photo Credit: Courtesy AJ Madison

New kitchens will be designed with cleanability in mind. Low maintenance cabinet finishes, faucets, tile, and fixtures will be a top priority. For appliances, that means coated finishes like smudge-resistant stainless steel will become more popular. Consumers will look for countertops that are non-porous, scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, and even antimicrobial.

5. Smart Appliances and Smart Home Technology

Photo Credit: Courtesy Summit

Smart appliances help consumers troubleshoot service problems, reduce food waste, and explore new recipes.

6. Kitchen Appliances That Sanitize

Photo Credit: Courtesy AJ Madison

Dishwashers, washers, and dryers that are designed to keep your family safer. For large kitchens and homes, it’s convenient to have more than one dishwasher. Whether the extra dishwasher is in the kitchen, bar area, guest suite, or even outdoor entertainment space, having extra cleaning capacity is an added convenience.

7. Focus on Outdoor Living, Self-Sufficient Gardening

In some parts of the country, consumers are running supermarket shelves dry. COVID-19 proved that our food supply is limited. Starting a home gardening project is a great way to get homegrown veggies and save money. You can store your homegrown produce with a long-term food preservation technique like flash freezing or canning.

8. DIY Kitchen Remodeling Projects

Photo Credit: Courtesy AJ Madison

Replacing your old energy-hogging appliances can actually save you money in the long run. Consider an easy to replace appliances such as a freestanding refrigerator, front control range, faucet, or dishwasher. There are many fun appliances finish for a fresh new look. Stainless steel is forever, but consider alternatives like slate, black stainless, sunset bronze, Tuscan brass, or matte white. You can also easily upgrade the color palette in your kitchen.  A new coat of paint on your walls or cabinets can give your kitchen new life.

9. Investing in High-Quality Home Appliances Built to Last

Photo Credit: Courtesy AJ Madison

Over the years, most appliances will require maintenance. If your appliance needs service, it pays to have a warranty in place. Investing in a warranty at the time of sale will give you peace of mind, and will save you hundreds of dollars.

The post 9 Ways COVID-19 Will Change Kitchen Design Trends In 2020 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

1. Update Bath Towels

Photo Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue/ Jo Malone

Sometimes it's as simple as updating your bath towels. Pick up soft, luxurious towels to enhance your space tenfold.

Price: $150

Purchase it here

2. Add Candles For Atmosphere

Photo Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue/Jo Malone

The power of candles is often overlooked, but after a long day of zoom calls or running around with the kids, then a candlelit soak in the tub is exactly what you need. Remember, you can never have too many candles.

Price: $65

Purchase it here

3. Add An Essential Oils Diffuser

Photo Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue/Lafco

Essential oils are great for relaxation. Depending on the essential oil, the effect can vary from calming to promoting sleep and releasing endorphins to release stress and anxiety. Adding an oil diffuser to your bathroom will help you unwind and adds a pleasant scent, keeping the space fresh and inviting.

Price: $115

Purchase it here

4. Upgrade Your Bathrobe

Photo Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue/ Roberto Cavalli

It's time to invest in a new bathrobe, or if you don't have one yet, it's time to get one. Wearing a soft, cozy bathrobe is an experience you normally find at spa's, but it's just as easy to accomplish at home.

Price: $295

Purchase it here

5. Soak In Bath Salts

Photo Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue/ L'Objet

If you want to make your bathtime more relaxing opt-in for some bath salts. Choose from muscle-relaxing salts to sea-infused salts and more to enhance your soothing experience.

Price: $60

Purchase it here

The post How To Transform Your Bathroom Into A Spa-like Sanctuary appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

How To Add Color To A Space With Natural Light

Photo Credit: Courtesy Brabbu

A living room with large floor-to-ceiling windows is the ideal background for experimenting with different colors and textures since it highlights these elements. Take for instance this living room from Brabbu and PTang Studio. The two Dukono 2-seat sofas impose a presence on the room as their reddish-yellow tone makes a bold statement.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Brabbu

How To Add Color In The Kitchen

Photo Credit: Courtesy Brabbu

Kitchens often adopt a neutral palette, say for instance grays, silver, white or black. This is a perfect opportunity to introduce color here as any color, whether red, blue, yellow, or green will suit. This kitchen is accentuated by two NAJ Counter Stools. The garish color and smooth texture of the stool provides a sophisticated yet comfortable presence. The elegant legs are the added touch of luxury this space warranted.

How To Add Color To Any Room In The House

Photo Credit: Frette/Saks Fifth Avenue

One of the easiest ways to introduce color into the home, without putting in too much effort is to choose decorative pillows. Cushions and pillows are considered the key elements of final touches and are a great way to add subtle pops of color to any room, whether it's the living room or the bedroom. This Frette lux tile decorative cushion would be a great addition to any home.

Price: $500

Purchase it here

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Brabbu

The post Here’s How To Add A Pop Of Color To Your Home When You Don’t Have Time To Paint appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Frette

Luxury hotels and yachts dress their beds with Frette, so you should too. Historically, Frette linens have been featured everywhere from the altar of St. Peter’s Basilica to the dining car of the Orient Express, and more than 500 European royal families have slept beneath its sheets. The Italian brand known for its chic, original designs and inimitable finish and feel, offers a range of products from loungewear to bath linens and bed linens. Here are three must-have items for your bed linen collection.

Frette Doppio 300 Thread Count Pillowcase

From the Doppio Collection. Gossamer sateen Doppio pairs simplicity with the highest quality. Versatile and silky smooth, you will struggle to keep your eyes open as soon as your head hits this pillowcase.

Price: $185

Purchase it here

Frette Hotel Cruise Sheet Set - King

Rest easy knowing you're wrapped in luxury and comfort. The pristine Cruise Sheet Set celebrates the beauty of pure simplicity with its luxurious cotton sateen fabric and 4 line embroidery.

Price: $675

Purchase it here

Frette Bold Duvet Cover- King

Soft, smooth and lustrous, the Bold Duvet Cover is a sharp addition to any bedroom space. For a modern look that brightens up any interior, style with the Bold Boudoir Decorative Pillow and the Rectangular Light Quilt or the Luxury Herringbone Bedspread.

Price: Normally $700, now $650

Purchase it here

Sferra Millesimo Duvet Cover- King

Sferra is another Italian bed linen brand you will find in luxury hotels, celebrity closets and was the in-flight bedding for Pope John Paul II. This duvet cover is densely woven to a rich, polished sateen that's supple and bright. An Italian lace inset with a classic chain motif provides just the right touch of luxury detail, ideal for anyone who loves comfort as much as style.

Price: Normally $1,930, now $1,865

Purchase it here

Sferra Larro 420 Thread Count Fitted Sheet- King

Photo Credit: Nordstrom/Sferra

Larro's double-faced fitted sheet has a luscious hue and sleek hand on the reverse as it does its front. The color-blocked flange is contemporary styling at its best and will suit any bedroom.

Price: Normally $415, now $360

Purchase it here

The post How Millionaires Make Their Beds: 5 Luxury Bed Linens Successful People Own appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

If Alicia Keys were to write some songs about her homes, they'd all be hits, traversing New York, New Jersey and Arizona. And any new digs that may be on the horizon for Keys will surely exude luxuriousness, be personalized with the most eclectic artwork and, of course, include the grandest of pianos.

Keys and her husband, Swizz Beatz, purchased their New York penthouse from Lenny Kravitz for $12.75 million. They later sold it and eventually moved to the New Jersey suburbs, buying Eddie Murphy’s mansion which features a recording studio. Can you imagine Keys in the early mornings creating her melodies and powerful lyrics, both of which are likely inspired by her home surroundings? Perhaps you can picture Keys in her second home located in Arizona taking in the most astonishing canyon views?

Well, there's no more need for imaginations. Take a look below at Keys' homes, both past and present. As you visit, don't fail to notice some of the amazing lyrics written by Keys, extracted from some of her most memorable hits -each lyric corresponding perfectly with Keys' home decor style.

New York

Keys' New York luxury penthouse had a total of 6,167 square feet of living space, with an additional 3,000 square feet of outside terraces. Definitely representative of an Empire State of Mind.

It was only eight flights up to heavenly New York real estate bliss.

A floating glass staircase that led to a separate private master suite complete with spa, passing through a dressing area and private terrace, gave Keys the butterflyz.

Whatever stops you from dreaming, whatever tries to stop you from living, flip it. While, of course, living in AK style.

Welcome home, cause right now what you have to do, is you gotta amp yourself up. And if you lived here, you'd surely be amp'd up in luxury style.

New Jersey

A foyer where classical meets street-style. Where everything's going to be alright.

Living here provides a pocketful of dreams.

Hotter than a fantasy, longer like a highway. This bedroom is where the piano-playing Superwoman stands up and puts that S on her chest.

This girl is on fire, here in this dining room.

The world on a silver platter.

Arizona

Palatial living that knows no bounds.

Some people live for the fortune, some people live just for the view.

Some people want it all, and some people have it all.

Except as otherwise noted, all images courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty

The post At Home With Alicia Keys appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Summit

Photo Credit: Binyan Studios

This luxury rental tower in Midtown Manhattan hosts weekly yoga and HIIT classes, along with bringing in personal trainers and boutique fitness studios for events hosted by LIVunLTd. Dubbed the “Arena” is the residents’ own personal gym— equipped with Technogym cardio and strength machines, Peloton bikes, and basketball and squash courts. Residents even have access to Lululemon x Summit branded yoga mats and yoga classes.

525 West 52^nd Street

Photo credit: 525 West 52 Street

Also influenced by LIVunLTd, this two-tower, 392-unit luxury residential development in Hells Kitchen offers classes designed by LIV’s fitness and program director, Todd Allen, who was previously the Director of Instructor Development for FlyBarre. The classes are led by certified fitness experts and include core conditioning, cycling, and Pilates.

Amrit Ocean Resort and Residences

Photo credit: Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences

Spanning over seven acres in Palm Beach County’s picturesque Singer Island, Amrit Ocean Resort and Residences offers residents a personal wellness assistant available 24/7 via app, text, call or facetime to curate a fitness plan based on your needs. Additionally, Amrit offers daily on-site programming of yoga, meditation and alternative fitness classes by industry experts.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach

Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach

Perched on the shores of Surprise Lake, residents at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach, have access to a medical concierge with award-winning author of The South Beach Diet and cardiologist, Dr. Arthur Agatston who can craft a fitness plan for residents to help them achieve their physical and mental goals at home.

Solé Mia

Photo Credit: The Shoreline

Wellness and fitness are at the forefront of the lifestyle at Solé Mia’s The Shoreline. Taking advantage of Miami’s sunny days, the property offers a 10-acre running trail around South Florida’s first 7-acre man-made crystal swimmable lagoon and neighboring Oleta State Park. For the rainy days, a spacious fitness center is equipped with Peloton bikes and fitness on demand to keep you on track.

The post Go Hard And Go Home: 5 Luxury At Home Fitness Studios From New York to Miami appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

“Our main focus went through escaping the cross-design that has been done in the past using other brand’s style pieces but at the same time trying not to escape the Maison Valentina identity and its luxury authenticity,” said designer Joao Matias.

Here are Maison Valentina’s latest KOI additions.

PETRA bathtub
Blending Ibiza marble and wood, this bathtub draws inspiration from the ancient city of Petra. Matching the visual uniqueness of the stone city, the tub combines glossed wood and disparate shades of white in a luxurious look.

PETRA washbasin
With its intense dark body and melted-marble-like sink, the washbasin is a natural complement to the PETRA tub.

TORTOISE washbasin
The Tortoise hard outer shell has for century made for an opulent raw material. Its one-of-a-kind decorative pattern is fully revealed with this washbasin, speckled with hues of black, grey and golden.

KOI Mirror
Able to add a contemporary touch to any bathroom design, this mirror fuses design references from two distinct cultures. Its overall shape reminds of the family crests of European nobility, while its two side openings evoke carp scales – a major Japanese symbol.

KOI Soap Dish & ELLA towel ring
Shaped like carp scales, these are two other pieces that borrow its design from the rich Japanese sensitivities.

ELLA puff
Harking back to ancient Greece, this puff offers both relaxation and luxury.

Images courtesy of Maison Valentina 

The post Maison Valentina Unveils New KOI Collection Pieces appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Uniqlo has commanded the retail scene in recent years as the go-to destination for staples like white oxford shirts, to tan peacoats, to traditional options that seem refined, understated, and elegant. Their collaboration with Eames for this new line of products blends their simplicity in appearance with the matching quality of craftsmanship in a product, which Eames and Uniqlo both share. The SPRZ NY collection is part of an ongoing collaboration Uniqlo maintains with various brands and artists to incorporate other forms of art in their design. In a recent statement from Uniqlo, the company explained, “SPRZ NY (for "Surprise New York") is a global project where art and fashion meet, creating something magical. SPRZ NY items are inspired by famed and influential artists of our time and include specially designed products like T-shirts, outerwear, innerwear, and more. This season's Eames collection is part of UNIQLO's ongoing collaboration with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York under the SPRZ NY project.”

Eames famously came into its now iconic stature in design in the mid-20th century. A pioneer of the mid-century modern look of home interiors, Eames remains a stalwart of design and décor options with incredibly well crafted pieces that have recently come back into popularity as a retro-chic design tactic being used by more and more designers. With this collaboration with Uniqlo, the brands legacy will be reaching a new era of homeowners and designers in a younger, millennial crowd.

The post Eames and Uniqlo Launch Collaboration Collection appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Find the right cart.

A good bar cart should be a focal point, that draws people together. It doesn’t need to be a big piece, but rather a small, portable table, preferably tiered, that can hold everything the home bartender may need at his or her disposal, glasses, booze, cordials, tumblers, even garnishes. A bar cart should be an elegant piece to compliment any home. Here, two different bar carts offer the same refined, though practical approach, for two very different aesthetics.

Ethan Allen, $1,699

Not all bottles are created equal.

Bar carts are not infinite spaces. The curating of bottles should be those that have a great finish to the glass and a well-designed label on the front. Even ones with an interesting glass bottle like Crystal Head vodka can make great additions to classic shapes like Bombay Sapphire gin's look. That said, there’s no need to have bottles on their that will never be touched. If you don’t care for a certain spirit, don’t keep it on there. Though for staple spirits, it’s always a generous gesture to guests to keep some in the cupboard as a back up. As you plan which bottles make it onto your personal top-shelf selections, consider the following elements when designing the look of your cart: bottle shape and size, interesting labels, and the color of the spirit inside. It’s nice to always have a mix of whiskies, gins, rums, vodkas, and cordials. Above all else though, include spirits you will enjoy drinking, because no bottle looks worse than with a layer of dust on it.

Decant tell you enough.

While top shelf booze at the ready is great, there are always the labels and spirits that may not be so high-class, but hold a special, sentimental place in our hearts. If there’s a bottom shelf whisky or flavored vodka your significant other may enjoy (but be a little embarrassed by) there’s no need to get rid of it all together. Having a glass decanter can be a great way to hide that bottle of Sailor Jerry Rum while still having it on hand.

Those in glass houses…

Finding the right glassware is important to completing any cocktail. Having a good mix of highball glasses, old fashioned glasses, and champagne glasses and flutes are important to matching the right cocktail to the right drink. Glasses should also go on the middle or lower tier of any bar cart, away from the bottles and covered from any spills or drippings from the flight above.

A little extra.

Cordials, or liqueurs, are an important fixture in any bar cart. With hundreds of different options, one more specific than the next, stocking a bar with cordials means knowing one’s own tastes enough to not oversaturate the bar. Like White Russians? Be sure to have Kahlua. Cosmopolitans? Have some triple sec ready to go. These bottles are also filled with sugar though, and a little goes a long way. Be sure to be careful when pouring unless you’re ready to unload everything to wipe the cart down.

…and Jack came tumbling after.

The final, and most important piece to a bar cart, is having a solid tumbler or two at the station. For any cocktails that require a good shaking, having a few metal tumbler is important to not need to be running back and forth to rinse out.

The post Build The Perfect Home Bar Cart With These Tips appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

HearthCabinet has created a “ventless fireplace”. An actual flame that requires no flume, gas, chimney, or even electricity, and without having to succumb to those twist on colored flames or, heaven forbid, the TV fireplace. The product works by burning through alcohol gel cartridges, similar to those of a Sterno under a chaffing dish. Each unit is single use and burn out rather than growing into too big a flame, meaning there’s no plume of smoke to fill the living room when shifting the logs. Each cartridge of the alcohol gel burns for about two to three hours and doesn’t need to be vented.

Each fireplace is also about the size of a paper box, and therefore customizable to any home or setting since they don’t need a whole chimney built into them, making them perfect for apartment buildings. The trend is also taking off with some of New York’s biggest names with fashion icons like Diana Berkeley of Alice and Olivia recently installing one in her home. The fireplaces are the perfect thing to add the right amount of heat to your apartment this winter.

The post This Fireplace Is Perfect For The City appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Returning to London for its 15^th year, the London Design Festival is bringing some of the most innovative and creative design minds across art, sculpture, and furniture design to one location. Basically, this is where the world decides what the next cool thing you must have in your living room is going to be. In the past, its been a Tom Dixon chair, which 500 were given away to whoever could grab them fastest in Trafalgar Square. This year, it could be anything from pepper mills with an interesting handle, to eggs that open into bowls for the kitchen, the sofas repurposed from military parachutes. The world is their oyster for the designers on display September 16^th to the 24^th, and we’re waiting to hear. Be sure to check out these highly anticipated exhibits.

Villa Walala by Camilla Walala

This sculpture, a home, scaled down into a courtyard in Broadgate, features some eye-catching color schemes. It’s buzz about town already is creating a sense that while you may not build one for the kids out back to play in, the visual stimulus and color explosion so popular in the sculpture is about to be a big part of color schemes in your home styling.

Chromatic Sequences by Helena Jongerius

This Dutch designer blends soft softer pallets with ceramics and minimalist materials to create décor objects that feel organic in more minimalist, modern homes.

Beautality

The cross-section of function and beauty, this group of Brazillian artists and designers creates home furnishings that feel welcomed in any design. A modern approach to useable features in the home, each work feels lived in and charactered.

Heal’s AW17 Collection Launch

In collaboration firm Jestico and Wiles, Heals will be launching their AW17 collection at their outpost in Tottenham Court Road. The highlights of the new collection are the opulent color pallete and finer, scandanavian textures. The balance creaetes unique textures that help bring to life a room caught in the mundane routine of sleek, clean lines of modern design.

John Hogan at the USA Guest Pavillion

From the American perspective, John Hogan is coming to the forefront, continuing the trend of alternatives materials and clean lines. This trend’s growing appeal is rooted in its ability to blend well into any design with neutral tones, in materials and shapes that are anything but.

The post 15th London Design Festival Is About To Change The Game…Again appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Nicknamed “Thor,” Syndergaard has been sitting out with a lat injury since April. His teammate, pitcher Robert Gsellman, and girlfriend Alexandra Cooper have been sharing the residence with him while he’s nursed back to health.

Noah Syndergaard and Robert Gsellman in their Manhattan View at MiMA apartment

And during his down time, the small-town Texas transplant, who signed with the Mets on May 12, 2015, is quite enjoying the view.

“One of my favorite things about living at Manhattan View at MiMA is the views,” he says. “I can see the entire New York City skyline, including the Empire State Building, from almost every room in my apartment.”

Within the apartment’s 1,200 square feet, designed with oak flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows, an open living room offers plenty of space for a sizeable couch, on which Syndergaard can lounge while watching his team play on a huge flat screen TV.

Each bedroom features an en suite marble bathroom, with deep tubs, perfect for recovery and relaxation after a strenuous game. Syndergaard also keeps a set of golf clubs in his bedroom.

The kitchen is equipped with the latest Gaggenau appliances for both quick-prep and slow-cook meals.

Exceptional smart home technology allows Syndergaard to enter his residence through keyless access that is controlled with his smart phone. A Sonos sound system, the TV and the lights are also managed via phone.

The condominium collection was designed by interior designer Jamie Drake, who is known for working with A-list clients, such as Madonna.

Once he’s fully recovered, Syndergaard will be able to fully indulge in the complex’s over 44,000 square-feet of amenities, including a private Equinox, an indoor pool, a basketball court, a golf simulator, a karaoke room, a rooftop terrace, and a technology center, with Apple computers and complementary FIKA coffee, among many other luxuries.

“Coming from a small town in Texas, this is something I always dreamed of having,” Syndergaard says or his new home.

Images courtesy of Greg Salvatori

The post Inside Mets Pitcher Noah Syndergaard’s Sky-High NYC Pad appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

For culinarians who enjoy cooking as a team, designers are implementing two of every appliance––ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, etc.––into new-design kitchens.

This his-and-hers trend is heating up in kitchens at Gramercy Square, One West End, and 160 Leroy Street, all newly-constructed residential developments in New York City.

Gramercy Square

Gramercy Square’s four architecturally distinct residential buildings (The Tower, The Boutique, The Prewar and The Modern) were conceived and designed by architecture firm, Wood Bagot and built by Clipper Equity and The Chetrit Group. The spacious kitchens at The Boutique, a collection of eight full-floor residences, are each equipped with two Sub-Zero refrigerators, two top-of-the-line ovens, and a stovetop. All design materials and finishes––including white painted oak cabinetry, honed Calacatta marble countertops and backsplash, and walnut toned flooring––are by Italy-based design firm Canova.

The Boutique, Gramercy Square

"With the Union Square farmers market steps away from the Gramercy Square residences, haute cuisine will meet haute living,” says Erin Hynes, an associate at Woods Bagot. “With the growth of artisanal cooking by home chefs, the kitchen was designed to provide a wonderful space for amateur Food Network stars."

One West End

Custom, Jeffrey Beers-designed Scavolini kitchens, with two of every appliance, are integrated into every residence at One West End by Elad Group and Silverstein Properties. Select residences feature two ovens, dishwashers, sinks, baking stations, and coffee stations in each eat-in kitchen, designed with Dornbracht fixtures; walnut cabinets with champagne matte glass panels; and Calacatta Borghini marble on the waterfall edge countertops, backsplash, and cabinetry framing. Appliances include a Wolf cooktop, range, and two ovens; a Sub-Zero refrigerator and wine refrigerator; and two Miele dishwashers. A built-in coffee system by Miele, separate baking station, and bar station complete these state-of-the-art, contemporary kitchens. The 42-story condominium is the first and tallest residential tower to rise in the new neighborhood of Riverside Center on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.

One West End

“I love hosting with my family at our home in New York. It's the perfect opportunity to cook with the ones you love and to entertain your closest and dearest friends,” says architect Jeffrey G. Beers, founder and CEO of Jeffrey Beers International. “That passion and my inclusive lifestyle drives me and my team to design modern kitchens with dual amenities. We like the idea that the kitchen is a shared spaces for couples, families, and friends to cook, unwind, and laugh together.”

160 Leroy Street

Ian Schrager's iconic 160 Leroy building is designed by architects Herzog & de Meuron with 57 custom apartments. The eat-in kitchen, designed by Bulthaup with Scandinavian larch wood cabinets and hand-selected sivec marble slab countertops and backsplash, opens to the family room for everyday entertaining. Fully-integrated, dual appliances include Sub-Zero refrigerators, Wolf ovens, Gaggenau cooktops, and Miele dishwashers.

160 Leroy Street

“Starting in the 1930s, apartment buildings in New York City defined the modern lifestyle in every way,” says Schrager. “We wanted to take the best of that golden era and bring it into the future, reimagining it for the contemporary residents and families.”

160 Leroy Street

Images courtesy of Evan Joseph / ISC

The post Couple Kitchens: His-And-Hers Cooking Appliances Are Heating Up These NYC Residences appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

By definition, sustainable architecture is one that seeks to minimize negative environmental impact by moderating the use of materials, energy, and development space, so as not to disrupt the Earth’s ecosystems. The growing awareness of natural-resource limitations has allowed the greater emergence and greater popularity of green building methods.

Lodge Home at Calistoga Ranch

Jim Tinson, CEO of Hart Howerton, a multi-awarded architectural firm that works nationally and internationally, discusses an extended meaning of sustainability, moving it further from patterns of architectural strategy to those of deeper mind-body conversations: “When we start discussing sustainability to our clients, they really get interested when we discuss wellness and health in terms of architectural solutions. Sustainability does have a direct connection to personal, as well as environmental, health, and wellness.”

The intricate relationship between feeling well and living well has been consistently researched, mostly with the same finding: that contact with nature is beneficial, leading to improvements in mood, cognition, and overall health. Breathing good air, seeing nature, both in and out of doors, allows humans to feel better, think more clearly, and become more socially connected. Mind-body conversations can be enhanced by how we live and the dwellings that we live in

Hart Howerton’s recent work exemplifies this connection between well-built and well-being, in terms of sustainable residences and community developments. A good example of the former is a residential project based on the remote Esther’s Island on Massachusetts’ Nantucket coast, Esther's Island Cottage. The compound on Esther’s Island is deferential in its design to the coastal traditions of the island.

Through an integrated project-planning approach, construction specialists, energy experts, and designers all collaborated to develop comprehensive green solutions to the project, obeying LEED Gold Standards for Homes. The homes use multiple alternative clean-energy sources, a state-of-the-art septic system and leaching field, water-efficient fixtures, and renewable or reclaimed materials. With no access to utilities, a wind turbine and solar arrays provide the compound with 90 percent of its energy (propane is used for cooking and limited backup for supplemental heating). There is also a vertical-axis turbine, which spins like a barber’s pole and is efficient in low wind.

Defined by the use of sustainable strategies, materials, and narratives, Hart Howerton is also known for its sustainable work in luxury residential and recreational communities in uniquely eco-sensitive areas.

One of the most well-known is the Santa Lucia Preserve in California, a 20,000-acre preserve in the Santa Lucia Mountains, where the design team helped develop the community. “Our primary design philosophy is to subordinate the architectural design and buildings to the continuity of the landscape,” David Howerton, landscape architect and chairman of Hart Howerton, noted on the preserve's website.

­It looks more like a national park than a luxury housing development. There are redwoods, live oaks, and native grasses. When Santa Lucia Preserve founder Tom Gray and partners purchased the intact property in 1990, their vision was singular: to respect the bio-diversity of the preserve in perpetuity. Only 300 home sites are on the owner-governed community, and permanent conservation deeds have been placed on 90 percent of the land. When it comes to architecture, treading lightly is the obligation, not the option.

Lodge Home at Calistoga Ranch

SB Architects, a San Francisco-based firm, is one of the leading companies to use green practices. Of the company’s mission, the firm’s majority partner, Scott Lee, explains, “Our team honors each architectural site by designing solutions that are inspired by three things: regional vernacular, local materials, and the unique sense of place inherent to each property. So, our client conversation revolves more around an active dialogue on how together we create iconic, authentic, and sustainable projects.”

The client conversation was easy in the creation of the Hillside House in Mill Valley, California, near San Francisco, as the architect and the client were the same person, Lee. This home is the first LEED for Homes Platinum-certified house in Marin County and is one of only a handful in California. His personal residence, the home was designed in direct response to the site, trees, and views.

Carved into a steep hillside, and set amid towering oaks, the four-story home is constructed around the trees, driven by the views, and defined by the intimate relationship between indoor and outdoor. Private living zones are set on their own floors, and every space has a private terrace. Built on an infill lot close to town, the house is designed to maximize solar orientation for the photovoltaic panels, passive heating, and cooling. Local availability, recycled content, and sustainable production drive the selection of each material, appliance, and detail.

With the iconic Calistoga Ranch in Sonoma, it was up to SB Architects to create a resort on a 52-acre California live oak parcel and not despoil or do damage to the ancient trees. So, the Lodges at Calistoga Ranch were formed around the trees, with many lodge terraces built with ancient trees growing up through the terraces.

There is, no doubt, the emergence of a certain architectural trend: creating stewardship, not ownership, of land; personal wellness follows clean energy; listen to the voice of the land. Follow the sun.

Many homes are now designed as sustainable luxury condos in sustainable buildings, making many into sustainable, urban resorts, where wellness is the new luxury.

Residences at Oceana Bal Harbour

A 240-unit luxury condominium completed in 2017, Oceana Bal Harbour, lies in the enclave of Bal Harbour, Florida. The developer, Eduardo Costantini, is also an art collector, who preserved natural greenery––about 70 percent of the property’s land––by utilizing trees, reflecting pools, and lawns. The glass tower is LEED-certified and resource efficient, using less water and energy, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Other green and sustainable features include special turtle lighting, which offers low-wattage/long-wavelength amber LED sources, so that turtles will not be confused by artificial light. Another green addition is the planting of native flora and fauna, in order to allow for less exotic plant water consumption. Finally, the entire building is wrapped with two layers of insulated glass. The walls consist of one layer of laminated glass, followed by an inch of air duct to absorb noise, and another layer of laminated glass. Thus, noise pollution is minimized.

The luxury condominium sits parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, with units ranging from $3 million to $30 million. Residents also co-own the Oceana’s significant art collection, composed of master works by internationally acclaimed artists Jeff Koons, Callum Innes, An Te Liu, Jorge Méndez Blake, Taryn Simon, Juan Uslé, and Garth Weiser.

The addition of original art complementing the beauty of the environment adds an important wellness criterion to those who live well at Oceana Bal Harbour.

Muse Residences in Miami combine other relevant wellness criteria, garnered from wellness and mind/body research from Dr. Deepak Chopra and Delos. This collaboration began work at the Stay Well rooms and suites at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Now, they have moved into another dimension in Miami with an exceptional concept that combines wellness with architectural synchronicity. The 68 residences will be ready for move-in in January of 2018.

A few ideas that enhance the Muse wellness experience are air-purification systems that remove allergens, toxins, and other pollutants; water-filtration systems that reduce chlorine, lead, and other pollutants to provide the cleanest water possible; and the circadian lighting system that creates lighting conditions that mirror natural sunlight throughout the day, keeping one’s circadian rhythm in check.

Arguably, it could be said that sustainability, originally defining a trend, has become more of an ethical commitment to both the environment and consumer. For the environment, cleaner water, better air, and a greener world; for the consumer, a way of living that allows deeper engagement, enjoyment, and enlightened wellness.

Images courtesy of SB Architects / Oceana Bal Harbour

This story is featured in the Summer/Fall 2017 issue of Haute Residence magazine.

The post Green Intelligence: A Growing Trend Toward Architectural Sustainability and Eco Sensitivity appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

“Working here, working with Zaha when she was still with us, it becomes a bit of a mindset, or a way of thinking, or an attitude toward design that we all share,” says Lépine. Over a decade ago, he walked into the former school that housed the award-winning London studio of the late architect as the new associate director––one of only a handful of the nearly 150 professionals at her world-renowned architecture firm, Zaha Hadid Architects.

Since then, Zaha Hadid Architects has shifted headquarters, completed a multitude of projects across the world, embarked on others, hung in inertia on suspended designs, and reaped a bevy of accolades. During that time, ascending to the senior management team within the office, Lépine has left his own mark on the company’s progressive architectural mores as much as he has absorbed Hadid’s revolutionary desire for experimentation.

One Thousand Museum

“She [was] an incredible character,” Lépine says. “She always pushed the design. It was really a joy to be able to be here in this office, while she was still here and to work with her, to hear how she commented on designs… everyone who works here has a passion for testing design possibilities, and that’s something that she always stressed, or always wanted to encourage. She was constantly looking for fresh ways to investigate and look at a design problem; to keep architecture alive, really, to keep it invigorated.”

Having helmed several grand projects across the globe, from New York to Chengdu, China, Lépine is eager to grasp and parse the intricacies of a building, as it slowly emerges, first, in his mind, then on computers and, eventually, on the ground.

“I like to fully understand a design opportunity,” he explains, “to question what are the givens, what are the variables, before launching into a preconceived idea̅––to let an understanding of the problem naturally guide the solution, so that the solution is never forced̅, and then take a step back and evaluate what’s available so that a well-interrogated design emerges––one with strength and merit that can go the distance.”

Lépine’s rigorous approach to architecture, as well as to its travails and promises, has cobbled a flourishing career that did not always seem destined. He grew up in Rock Hill, a former textile hub dubbed “the gateway to South Carolina.” On the cusp of adulthood, he moved an hour south to Columbia, the state’s capital, to attend the University of South Carolina. Excelling in his studies, Lépine graduated with a degree in finance. But then, he switched fields and obtained a master of architecture at Clemson University in 1999.

At the dawn of the new century, Lépine crossed the pond and settled in London, in its exhilarating amalgam of architectural styles that straddle eons and influences. He spent six years as associate at the tech-savvy architecture firm Foster + Partners. Here, he pursued research and development, and mastered advanced digital technology. It helped him to not only overcome daunting design hurdles but also to appreciate “the relationships between geometry and physical materials: how a design is documented, how a design is communicated, and how complex pieces are then fabricated,” he says.

This deep understanding of the tangled connections between architecture and design, as well as space and life––as robust as the foundations on which Lépine’s creations grow––shapes his lectures at the Architectural Association in London, where Hadid studied and later also taught. It also infuses his leadership as project director for One Thousand Museum.

“[This] background helped guide early decisions on One Thousand Museum,” Lépine says. “For example: the geometric set-out, the refinements to the building form, looking for opportunities, where we could control complexity but also opportunities to simplify, while retaining the overall dynamic of the design.”

A 62-story, 83-unit luxurious condominium tower on the prestigious Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, One Thousand Museum is a pinnacle of talent and tenacity, a success of professional and personal significance. It is one of the few skyscraper residences conceived by Zaha Hadid, whose formidable, horizontally inclined designs of public buildings earned her the Pritzker Prize. It is also one of her last concepts before she died early last year in Miami.

“Her passing was a tragic loss,” Lépine says, “but we are consoled by the fact that her tower is getting built, and it’s getting built very much in line with the original vision. We’re all dedicated to seeing the project through––including the client––and remaining faithful to the design.”

Since its early inception, the blueprint for One Thousand Museum hasn’t changed much. Rather, it has continuously evolved to reach a crest of refinement that reflects Zaha Hadid Architects’ proclivity to work within and yet improve on the innate possibilities that projects offer.

As a result, the design is striking––a rare masterpiece of exoskeleton construction that breaks the glistening Miami cityscape. Bearing the weight of the concrete building, the steel-and-glass exterior sensually curves toward the clouds, appearing slender and sturdy at the same time.

Signature Towers

“We always intended for the exoskeleton, the main expression of the building, to have a strong presence, both inside and out,” Lépine says. “So this sculpted piece of architecture, or structure, which is the primary building expression, gives unique character to each unit. Although we didn’t design the units themselves, there’s very much the presence of our design in each unit.”

Over half of the boutique lofts are reportedly already presold for hundreds of millions of dollars. One Thousand Museum, which began its skyward race in 2014, is the first residential project Lépine is reassuringly raising to fruition––a feat in an industry wrought with unmaterialized testaments of architectural mastery. The completion date is slated for late 2018.

“It’s exciting,” Lépine said on seeing One Thousand Museum soar to life, “especially since I’ve come such a long way on a lot of other projects just to see them stall out or be put on hold. And I guess that’s the nature of architecture, especially working at a firm like Zaha Hadid Architects, where every project is special, but because of that, there is that element of risk, and quite often projects get put on hold, they get stopped. So, when you do see one break ground and start to go up a few floors, it is a good feeling.”

Lépine’s very first venture at Zaha Hadid Architects––Dubai’s Signature Towers that were to incorporate an office, hotel, and residential super-high-rises––still languishes under the emirate’s strained market. Another project, much closer to One Thousand Museum, also grinded to a halt before it could take off. Only five miles away from the condominium tower, across Biscayne Bay, is the intended site of Collins Park Place. Lépine worked on the airy public garage and plaza Hadid envisioned in Miami Beach for five years, paring down the initial plans, whose cost nearly doubled the city’s $27 million budget. In 2016, less than a month after Hadid’s death, however, City Hall shelved the project, displeased with the reduced space Zaha Hadid Architects proposed to remain within the financial boundary.

Collins Park Place

Despite the dead ends that branch off the steep ascend to architectural acclaim, Lépine hones on the constructions that are steadily taking shape––like One Thousand Museum, Egypt’s office and retail Stone Towers, and the New Century City Art Centre, the largest cultural building in China. All three structures––explorations of individuality, clarity, and functionality––carry Hadid’s legacy and Lépine’s vision. Spun over their joint projects, the artistic parallels between Hadid and Lépine appear to converge. As evidenced in he designs, for Lépine, much like for Hadid, architecture is an expression of contemporary urbanity, an extension of life and an expansion of a postmodern landscape.

Images courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects

This story is featured in the Summer/Fall 2017 issue of Haute Residence magazine.

The post Chris Lépine Is Blazing Architectural Heights appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Split in nine disparate categories, World Interior of the Year awards recognize the best designed restaurants, hotels, retail, residential and office spaces around the globe. This year, a little over a third of the 78 finalists hail from Greater China – four from Taiwan, five from Hong Kong and 19 from the mainland.

Back in 2011, which marked the beginning of the competition, Chinese finalists made up less than 10 percent, according to CNN. Today, Chinese entries populate every category.

MISA Studio

Among the finalists are Bamboo’s Eatery, conceived by Minggu Design, in Nanjing, the capital of China’s eastern Jiangsu province; Shanghai’s Jian Li Ju Theatre by More Design Office; as well as WJ Design’s studio for MISA, a tech company in Hangzhou, south of Shanghai.

The increased tally of Chinese finalists reflects the evolving affinity for architecture and design in the country, Tim Kwan, co-founder of Office AOI design firm, said to CNN. Since the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Kwan said, new construction opportunities have elevated the emphasis on uniqueness and ingenuity, that blend futuristic and historical references.

Jian Li Ju Theatre

This is not the first time, however, when local Chinese companies are dominating the World Interior of the Year. In 2016, the overall first place was taken by a retail space in Hangzhou.

The 2017 winners will be announced in November, when the finalists will present their designs at the three-day long Inside World Festival of Interiors in Berlin.

Images courtesy of Inside Festival

The post Chinese Interior Design Firms Dominate World Interior of the Year Shortlist appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

“But it goes beyond that; we want our client to feel and leave a unique experience though the lines and materials,” he says.

Crafted with golden arches and an elongated shape, the Colosseum mirror is a more modern design for a vanity mirror.

With long, oval rings that rotate, the Colosseum floor mirror allows for versatility and a heightened reflection of light in a room.

The Colosseum Tall Storage offers dual functionality as a bathroom mirror and a concealed storage space.

Maison Valentina is a luxury bathroom brand that provides a collection of high-end bathtubs, washbasins, mirrors, lighting, and more, designed with the finest materials––such as brass, marble, wood, glass––combined with rare handwork techniques and contemporary design.

Images courtesy of Maison Valentina

The post Bathroom Mirrors Inspired by the Flavian Amphitheatre: The Colosseum Family by Maison Valentina appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

With a talent for math, Magel worked in accounting and software consulting. In her late 20s, however, she resigned from Pricewaterhouse to pursue what truly made her happy. From working with developers and architects, to owning a home and beachwear store, Magel found her forte in interior design.

Having just finished a $24 million residence in Sagaponack, wrapping up homes in the Hamptons and embarking on new projects in New York, Magel talked to Haute Residence about her craft, its challenges and rewards.

You recently finished a project at Sagaponack, New York. What house is it?
It is a big house – 11 bedrooms. It took about a year and a half. We built it from the ground up, with breaking ground, designing everything and including the furniture, it took an year and half, which was pretty fast.
I really wanted to do a European modern farmhouse. I prefer sort of European interiors with the rustic wood – so that was my inspiration. But I wanted it to be more beach-y, clean, open.

The house Magel furnished in Sagaponack.

What challenges did you face?
The main things were that it is a $24M house and it is at the beach. Making a house feel substantial and high-end without being over the top – because it is at the beach and it is farmland out there – I really needed to figure out how to do that. I wasn't sure. [I had to] really think about getting a luxurious product without being ostentatious.
The other thing was, I mean, when you are building a house from scratch ... You know, all of the tiles needed to be there, before anything else. So, that means I had to have some ideas for all 12 bathrooms very early on and I have to say that was very challenging. I didn't even know what I was going to do in half of the bathrooms. I tried to use classic tiles. I used a lot of Belgian bluestone, calacatta gold, carrara. I used a lot of white marbles and big black stone. So, at least, when I started building off of those, I would have a classic base to start with.
I just love natural stuff. In the house I made sure that I do not use any synthetics. I use all natural materials. Even in my fabrics, my threads, I do not use any synthetics.

What is it like, as an interior designer, to have been involved in creating the house from the very beginning?
I think the reason the house is very successful is that the finishes, the architectural details go with the furniture. It was a whole look being done together versus someone designs the house and then you have to come in and have to make a decision what furniture go with the look of the house. I think it is super important to have an [interior] designer on from the very beginning and I don't think people realize that. They hire an architect, they finish the house and then they bring a designer in. But for us to work on the kitchens, the bathrooms, the fireplaces, pick the floor, you really are going to get a whole overall design. I think that the main thing is being cohesive.

The house Magel furnished in Sagaponack.

Do you have a favorite part of the house?
I actually love the junior master wing that [has] the bathroom with the black cabinet and a big oval tub. I like that bedroom down there – it is very relaxed. I also love the living room – the fireplace is my favorite thing in the house. It is a form of calacatta gold and it is special. I just love how you walk in through the front door and look straight out at the back of the house.

When working on homes, what is your relationship with clients?
Obviously, it is their home and everybody has sort of things that they like or don't like just because maybe they grew up with it. I do a lot of upfront research. I make sure that they send me a lot of images of things that they don't like, that they like. But then, I really try to narrow it down. I tried to collect most of that information upfront, so that I am presenting things that they are going to be comfortable living with. It is a collaboration but I am trying to educate and narrow things down, so that they have some good choices that they are going to be comfortable with.
As a designer, a lot of it is about educating people. These are the things that we can do that stay in the realm of your comfort zone – whether it is budget, style, color.

The house Magel furnished in Sagaponack.

How would you describe your work process?
I think that every designer works in a different way. I mean, I have my particular system, which is collecting a lot of information from the client, images that I love myself to be inspired. Then you are taking into account a budget – there are so many details that you need to create art, basically. It is being an artist. So, it is hard to describe my process of how I get to the end but it is collecting a lot of data and then, sort of, deciding how all of that fits together.
I really, really use a lot of texture. I make sure that there is a soft fabric and then there is a hard surface – maybe a wood or a metal. Because I do not use a lot of pattern, I have to really be creative with textures.

Why don't you use patterns?
I am just not attracted to them. I like one or two in a corner but when I come to a room, I like it to be easy on my eye. I do not want to see a lot. I want to sort of just get enveloped into the room and I find that patterns can be jarring to the eye. I like it in, maybe, a dining room or a room that you don't spend a lot of time in.
But you know, I go through phases. Sometimes I am more into patterns than others but for the most part I am not a big pattern or color person. Unless it is an accent, I do not mind an accent of color in my art – meaning, one or two pillows, maybe a rug, but these are all things you can move if you get sick of looking at them.

The house Magel furnished in Sagaponack.

Are there any styles you particularly like?
I am eclectic, so I probably take little things from everywhere. I am taking little bits and pieces from anything that I like.

Do you have a favorite project ever?
Not really a favorite. I love them all. I get very, very involved when I am doing a project. This [last] one was amazing because I didn't really have a client. I got to do what I wanted to do and I think you can really see that. But I like all my projects. At the time I am doing them, they are always my favorite. And then I move on to the next one.

How do you combine luxury with the intimate and everyday that form somebody’s home?
I think you can do very beautiful architecture and lighting and get the glamour and get the wow. But then, I want to make a home feel comfortable. I want to be there and watch TV, right? I want my bedroom to be comfortable. So, you pick and choose the rooms where you want to have that wow factor and also lighting. I think that lighting can be so beautiful.
So, it is just balancing those two things – and I want comfort when I am at home. But I think you should find a way to be comfortable and still make a statement and still have pieces that are wow factors in the room.

The house Magel furnished in Sagaponack.

You adhere to environmental and social responsibility – how does this translate in your projects?
Right now, I am just about to build a house that is very cutting-edge in regards to the environment and even personal health. I am building a home that is mold-free. It keeps the moisture out of the house, has a great air flow in and out of the house. We are working on using healthy materials. I think that our homes have got very, very toxic. So, right now we are doing a lot of research into building this next home that is going to be low chemicals.
I was very involved with a non-profit that was helping women artists create things. So, when we can we are buying back goods from women artists and overseas. The fabrics we use – we try to use as many as we can find that don’t have a lot of dyes, not a lot of chemicals. The same with rugs. It is a hard thing to do at this point because there are so many chemicals out there in our goods, but that is where, I think, using these more natural materials [is important]. We are working on a furniture line that is low in VOCs [volatile organic compounds that are emitted as gasses and have adverse health effects].

What brands do you prefer to work with?
I use a lot of Holly Hunt fabrics. I use Rogers and Goffigon. I love BDDW – they have beautiful furniture. Monc XIII is one of my favorite stores – I buy a lot of accessories from them. But it is different for every project. I also tend to make a lot of the pieces because I want the house to be unique or maybe I need a certain size and when I come to make things, I am able to create the bed exactly the size I need it, to do the sofa exactly the size it needs to be. So, I make a lot of the things in my houses.

The house Magel furnished in Sagaponack.

What is next for you?
I have five projects right now in NYC – I have a townhouse, I have two condos, I have a loft. They are all downtown, interestingly.

Is that a lot of projects to have?
It just depends on the size. I mean, if it is a big house in the Hamptons, I might take up only a couple of those. But five is a good amount. I have other things that I am wrapping up, but I am just starting five new projects in New York. I take on anywhere between two to 10 usually, depending on my schedule.

What things are you wrapping up?
I have houses in the Hamptons that I am wrapping up. When you are doing a big house, you know, you have a few guest bedrooms that still need to be finished or you need to start a basement. When you have huge houses, you usually have clients for two to three years and you have already done the main parts of the house but then you start on the pool house and you start on these less important areas.
I have a lot of clients that I have had for years. I have a client in the Hamptons that now just bought a place in Tribeca and so I am working on her place now, but I have spent years working on her place in the Hamptons. And it is great when you have [long-term] clients – you already know each other, it is a good relationship and it allows more creativity because the client trusts you.

Visit Tamara Magel’s website here.

Images courtesy of Tamara Magel

The post Interior Designer Tamara Magel Talks about her Craft, Projects, Challenges and Rewards appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Fernando Mastrangelo With Escape Desk and Bench

Striations meld and fold into themselves, one color merges with another, yet maintains its own subtle identity. Silica, with its lava-like texture, often composes the foreground, and hand-dyed sands are stratified as they change in tone, suggesting layers of earth and distant mountain ranges. Powdered glass infers clear skies and bodies of water.

Escape Bench

Fernando Mastrangelo’s language speaks an intuitive, experimental, yet experiential phrasing of unusual material. The results are full of memorable possibilities, all of which allow the viewer to disengage from reality for a short time, and ponder the forms, functions, and materials that comprise Mastraneglo’s furnishings.

Escape Coffee Table

This month, Mastrangelo debuted the new Escape series at two galleries: Maison Gerard in New York City and Rossana Orlandi’s gallery in Milan, Spazio Rossana Orlandi.

Mastrangelo has always used atypical materials. In the past, he used salt, coffee, sand, glass, BB pellets, and cement to cast sculptural objects that combine fine art with sculptural furnishing principles. His work is both rugged and refined, durable and delicate, formal and functional.

Escape Book Case

He has exhibited extensively throughout the U.S. and internationally, and his work has been discussed in both print and cultural contexts. In 2008, the Brooklyn Museum acquired one of his works, subsequently exhibiting it in their critically acclaimed 2012 Connecting Cultures show. In 2016, Mastrangelo established FM/s (Fernando Mastrangelo Studio), an experimental art and design studio that specializes in unique sculptural objects, conceptual design, and comprehensive interior environments. Additionally, Mastrangelo is the founder of MMATERIAL, a made-to-order line of minimalist sculptural objects that he conceptualizes and creates from his studio in Brooklyn, New York.

Interior Environment

Mastrangelo has been a practicing sculptor for over a decade. In a recent interview, he said, “The idea of making furniture and using natural materials came from my sculpture practice. I've been casting unique materials for about eight years now, so it was a pretty fluid translation.

Powdered Glass Drift Mirror

“My sculptures were always highly engineered objects, and all of the technical knowledge was carried over to the furniture. As with most creative endeavors, you learn from work to work what is possible," he says. "Thinking about how I can push the processes of what we do at the studio becomes the main source of inspiration."

Escape Bench, front view

He feels that designing furniture with natural, often granular materials, “is our gateway to educate architects, interior designers, and collectors as to what is possible with the materials we use, coupled with the infinite amount of possibilities they present.” Using such unique materials in simple designs, the creative possibilities do indeed seem endless.

Escape Desk

Images courtesy of  Jacob Gossett

The post The ‘Escape’ Series: New Sculptural Furnishings of Fernando Mastranegelo appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

The pair collaborated to present an exclusive design exhibition, called Wander from Within, featuring a new, artisanal furniture collection co-designed by Cheng and Uchida. Their collection, entitled Khora, consists of seats and tables attached to woven or gridded screens that cast patterned shadows. They are handmade, using Japanese bamboo and chestnut, and incorporate traditional lacquering techniques and Washi paper. The exhibition will run through April 8 at the Villa Necchi Campiglio, Milan, coinciding with the annual Milan Design Week, the Salone del Mobile Milano. The furniture designs explore the nuanced essences of the Japanese tea ceremony: peace, mindfulness, restraint, harmony, and quiet.

Uchida’s works are held in permanent collections at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the M+ Museum in Hong Kong, among others. Combined with Cheng’s unique use of fine detailing, the collection prompts a re-evaluation of space and nature-culture connections in sequestered settings.

The five-piece Khora collection was the last collection by Uchida-san, who died in November 2016 before the completion of the project. Thus, the Milan exhibition is also a tribute to Uchida and his exceptional career.

Shigeru Uchida

Guests at Wander from Within experience the development of the collection, including design concepts and a prototype of Uchida’s famous Tea Room, where he and Cheng held their final design meeting.

Throughout the journey, images and furniture are accompanied by haiku. On the opening night, master craftsman Chuzo Tozawa, who created the prototypes of the collection, was also present to demonstrate the compelling art of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, as it defines the furniture pieces.

“It’s a great honor to unveil my first furniture collection, co-designed with master designer Shigeru Uchida, during the Milan Design Week," said Adrian Cheng at the opening. "Unquestionably, furniture has always evoked a personal sentiment: It means home, it means relaxation, it also means family time. But what Uchida-san and I wanted to explore together was something beyond that."

The philosophy behind these furnishings infer traditions of the traditional Japanese tea culture, finding calmness in the state of sitting, as the mind focuses on the light and shadows of its immediate surroundings. The exhibition endeavors to craft spaces to allow the mind to both wander and focus, breaking away from internal and external enclosures.

Khora Exhibition

“What Wander from Within celebrates is the spirit of mindfulness. and Japanese tea culture combined with true craftsmanship. With this collection, we are re-exploring the power and role of furniture, particularly through the simple act of sitting.”

Images courtesy of Adrian Cheng

The post ‘Khora:’ An Artisanal Furniture Collection by Adrian Cheng and Shigeru Uchida appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

'Liongate' Estate

He has been associated some compellingly large projects also: His update of the 24,000-square-foot Bel Air home, "Liongate," once owned by country singer Kenny Rogers, recently sold for $46 million. His designs can be seen at the Italian Renaissance-inspired "Hadrian Villa," a 12,000-square-foot suite at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. And his Macau projects include the Venetian Macao, the Sheraton Grand Macao, and the Conrad Macao, among others.

'Hadrian Villa' at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas

The modern, luxurious aesthetic is a look that Nix has as his signature. In all, his vision avoids the trendier aspects of design, inclining rather toward colors and textures that last beyond the here-today, gone-today styles of the day.

Kirk Nix Bedroom

As founder of KNA Design, Nix oversees a staff of over 40 designers, deploying diverse ranges of design expertise, from architecture, to interior design, to furnishings. He has also created interiors for private estates and residences worldwide.

Trousdale Estate Living Rom

Most recently, however, Nix has moved into two new areas: partnering with Palecek, a luxury, eco-conscious furniture group based in the Bay Area; and Loloey, a luxury rug and carpet company based in Milan. For Palecek, he has created a new line of accessories, furniture, lighting, and wall decor; and for Loloey, he has created new rug designs.

Kirk Nix/Palecek Paxton Chair

Haute Residence asked Nix about these new ventures.

Haute Residence: In your residential interiors, and especially with the new Palacek dimension, how do you determine your design themes and language? 

Kirk Nix/Palecek Square Dining Table

Kirk Nix: I consistently feel like a diplomatic envoy navigating these waters! As from authenticated, Old World European interiors, to progressively contemporary environments, we are constantly developing a universe of new solutions. It is wise, always, to spend time with the client to understand what the architecture requires, what the end user desires, and ultimately, what they both need.

Kirk Nix/Palecek Living Room Detail

HR: In regards to your new line of furniture, did you feel this step was a natural progression for your interior design work, or was this something you had always wanted to do? 

KN: I have been designing bespoke furnishings for our hospitality and residential endeavors for what seems like eons. It was an easy transition to collaborate with the folks at Palecek to create 140 new pieces for our collection. A storied brand like Palecek has an illustrious history––once I immersed myself into their culture––it was effortless and fun to interpret it for the 21st century. The Palecek family has been enormously supportive of the work. I am honored to work with them. I am also honored to work with Loloey Rugs in Milan.

Kirk Nix/Loloey Carpet, New Oder 'Coup De Foudre'

HR: It has often been said that interior designers use a lot of more of their brain than others: You must be an artist, a spatial interpreter, and an architect. When did you know how to do these things?

Kirk Nix/Loloey Rug, 'Run For Cover'

KN: As a military brat from Alabama, our constant upheaval and travel instilled an early interest in the differences between each location. Yet, with each, the people were remarkably similar. As I developed an interest in design, I learned early on about the crucial nature of two influences: that of a building’s architecture and how that reflected the unique attributes of place and time.

Kirk Nix/ Palecek Lamp Designs

I truly believe that interiors must reveal themselves to their inhabitants as a series of seamless experiences. It is my job to ensure that client expectations are met, exceeded and ideally redefined. It takes practice and I strive to learn something new with every project.

Kirk Nix/Loloey Rug, 'Time After Time'

Images courtesy of KNA Design

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Woolworth Building

By the time Frank Winfield Woolworth was ready to build his corporate headquarters on 233 Broadway in New York, he controlled nearly 600 five-and-dime stores. He wanted his headquarters to be an elegant statement that would enhance his company’s reputation. And he got what he paid for, as the building, upon completion, was dubbed The Cathedral of Commerce. There were reasons for this: It was built in the neo-Gothic style, and looked very much like a cathedral. Ironically, the Woolworth Building outlived the Woolworth Company.

Woolworth's, 1960, historic image

The building is still an iconic silhouette on the Manhattan skyline, but it has now evolved into something new. The Woolworth Building will soon be home to 33 residences, spanning the 29th to 58th floors. While all the units are slated for completion in Fall 2017, Alchemy Properties, one of New York City’s leading real estate development and investment firms, recently revealed two model homes, 38A and 38B, that comprise the whole 38th floor of The Woolworth Tower Residences, with a private entrance at 2 Park Place.

Model Residence Living Area, 38A

Model residence 38A, a 3,282-square-foot, three-bedroom was conceptualized by Manhattan-based interior designer Alan Tanksley. Inspired by Woolworth's historic architecture, he used rich tones, offset by modern art, including works by Sarah Anne Johnson and Arne Svenson.

38A Kitchen

Alan Tanksley well understood the task of combining the early 20th century history with 21st century interior design, as he comments: "The trademark of The Woolworth Building is its extraordinary design and supreme craftsmanship. With that in mind, we paid microscopic attention to details and used the highest level of custom finishes, furnishings, and carpets at our disposal to be worthy of this iconic building."

38A Master Bedroom

Tanksley created a bespoke environment, enhanced by custom carpets by Martin Patrick Evan, hand-printed wall coverings by Fromental, and custom designed upholstery in collaboration with DUNE furniture. Special millwork was accomplished by the English company, Clive Christian Interiors. Three-bedroom homes at the Woolworth Tower Residences start at $9,575,000.

Model residence 38B is a 2,548-square-foot, two-bedroom home. Its design was conceived by Manhattan-based interior designer Eve Robinson, known for her regular participation in the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club Decorator Show House.

"The new interiors of the model apartment reflect the elegance and sophistication of the original building and elevate them to a modern, fresh 21st century design," Robinson says. "We carefully curated a mix of important vintage and contemporary furnishings and created a space that is not only forward thinking, but also timeless. The colors from the sculptural terracotta ornament on the exterior of the window jambs served as inspiration for the interior palette in the apartment."

Model Residence 38B Living/Dining Area

The brightly colored terracotta window surrounds inspired her to pair golds, teals, and purples throughout the home with decorative wallpapers by Trove, Philip Jeffries, and Alpha Workshops to reflect and enhance the natural light. Works of art by Jessy Cho, Curtis Jere, and Eric Piasecki, among others, are shown throughout the residence. Two-bedroom homes at The Woolworth Tower Residences start at $7,250,000.

Master bedroom, 38B

These modern, historic, and timeless residences offer a reflective combination of 20th century architectural history and 21st century interior design. Alan Tanksley and Eve Robinson understood how the past informs the present, and depicted historic balance through their unique design language and artistic vision.

Second Bedroom 38B

These modern, historic, and timeless residences offer a reflective combination of 20th century architectural history and 21st century interior design. Alan Tanksley and Eve Robinson understood how the past informs the present, and depicted historic balance through their unique design language and artistic vision.

Images courtesy of Travis Mark

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Eric Chang and Daniel Hellman at work

Now, in its eighth year, the duo's company, Hellman-Chang, still Brooklyn-based, is now considered to be at the forefront of the ultra-high-end furniture industry––mainly because of the popularity of their furniture with their clientele. Hellman-Chang furniture can be found in the offices of Fortune 500 CEOs, and in the interiors of high-end hotels, including The Setai, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, The Waldorf Astoria, The Ritz Carlton, The Four Seasons (their first client), The Mandarin Oriental, and The Intercontinental. Their furniture is also featured on TV and in movie productions, such as The Today Show, Sex and the City 2, and Gossip Girl.

Chang’s personal style, reflective of his design style that defines minimalist yet elegant, led to a collaboration with the men’s fashion house, Canali. He was most recently featured on a VIP panel at Miami’s Art Basel. But where you really might have seen him, away from the woodworking space, is on UBS. He is currently the face of UBS Bank’s international rebranding campaign that features business leaders in creative industries. He was selected and photographed by Annie Leibovitz for the UBS campaign and is now featured in print, online, and outdoor ads. In addition, he has been named one of Cadillac’s brand influencers.

Haute Residence spoke with Chang about his origins and furniture philosophy and Hellman-Chang’s plans for the future.

Mercer Cocktail Table, Medium Walnut With Brass

Haute Residence: Where were you educated? What were your first design projects? And what did you learn, from both a challenge and a solution perspective, about your abilities? 

Eric Chang: Dan and I were self-taught in design. I studied finance and marketing at NYU Stern School of Business and Dan studied classical guitar performance at Northwestern. But we both loved woodworking and have been friends since sixth grade.

Our first design projects together were some coffee tables and bookshelves that we built over the summers during high school and college. After we graduated college, Dan and I started building furniture on nights and weekends, and shortly after, we designed our Z pedestal, the first piece introduced into our line. In the beginning, we went through quite a lot of experimenting and self-discovery to figure out our design language.

Sternum Chaise in Brandy Walnut

HR: On your website, this sentence appears: Recognized as an artist his entire life, his innate skills in sketching, photography and bold design define the look and emotional themes of Hellman-Chang. Can you explain what emotional themes there are and how they are translated through your interior designs?

Avery Chair, Walnut With White Upholstery

EC: There are visceral reactions we want others to have when they see our pieces. We want them to walk around it, explore all the details and touch the lines. As such, there’s a lot of movement in our design, and a strong focus on negative space and the way lines and surfaces interact with each other and with light. While it all has fluidity and dynamic movement, there is a similar emphasis on a sense of calm and balance.

Lin Dining Table in Ebonized Walnut

HR: We worked with a well-known interior designer, who said that if you put on your design glasses, good design and terrible design are everywhere. She also said that architects and interior designers see everything from a different perspective. Do you think you see things differently from others who are not designers?

Nola Round Table, Black With Gold Leaf

EC: I can only speak for myself, and I do break everything I see down with a critical eye. I’m always looking at proportion, texture, color, and just thinking about how the way things are designed to make me feel.  More often than not, though, I try to ask myself what the designer was trying to accomplish, or what they were feeling or thinking when they were designing. Or more importantly, who were they designing it for? I may suffer from design empathy.

Z Ebonized Pedastal

HR: What are your processes in the creation of a great furniture design? I have been told by other interior designers that there is a sense of lightness and rightness when you have conceived and executed a great chair, or couch or table. Is that true for you?

EC: It’s all about how it makes me feel. I know that when Dan and I feel excited about a new design, others will feel a similar reaction, and we have something to introduce into our line. It boils down to an aha moment of feeling. At the same time, the core principals of our design still rely on proportion and timelessness to ensure it will never go out of style.

Tao Daybed

HR:  Talk about what you are you are working right now and what you will be working on in the coming year.

EC: We are focusing heavily on rounding out our collection with a deeper seating collection. This is going to include a number of dining chairs, more lounge chairs, and sofas and sectionals. We will follow that up with a lighting line as well.

Tao Loungechair In Espresso Walnut

Sofa In Espresso Walnut And White Upholstery

HR: What are your goals for the future? What do you want to do, in terms of interior design and furniture design, that you have not done yet?

Parker Dining Table

EC: We eventually want Hellman-Chang to be synonymous with everything luxurious for the home. So, beyond furniture, this would include lighting and then hopefully textiles and possibly hardware and accessories. We learn tremendously by working with the best interior designers in the world who are able to reinterpret and help us understand how our clients visualize and use our pieces, and that knowledge continually improves our collection. It would certainly be fun to use what we’ve learned to create a full signature Hellman-Chang environment.

Sofa

Sternum Chaise

Images courtesy of Hellman-Chang

The post Eric Chang on Co-Founding Hellman-Chang, His Interior Design Philosophy, and Future Endeavors appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Haute Residence: You famously designed the interiors for One57, perhaps the most elite building in the city. What does the very top end of the market want now that is different from when you did One57?

Thomas Juul-Hansen: While we are still seeing a saturated market of uber-luxury inventory priced above $20 million, the steady increase in the cost of construction and land is encouraging developers to create more efficient floor plans at a higher price per square foot, allowing designers to maintain the integrity of layouts, finishes, and amenities. The impeccable design we see at One57 is still apparent in many other developments, but as the market shifts, the parameters developers are operating within continues to shift as well.

HR: Is there a New York look?

TJ: Luxury buyers, regardless of the city they are investing in, all want the same primary features, such as top-of-the-line kitchens, well-appointed interior layouts, and walk-in closets. However, New York design typically showcases clean lines and simple, functional floor plans.

A bedroom and living area at 50 West St. in New York City's financial district offer Hudson River panoramas.

Design rules you like to break: Many of the projects we spearhead are based on specific planning strategies, so we tend to stick with a specific standard of design rules, based on the aesthetic we’re aiming to achieve.

Most interesting room to design: Bathrooms. I find that the more confined a space is, the more potential there is to create an innovative solution.

Greatest influences for your design: Nature. A lot of our work involves the use of natural materials, resulting in a variety of textures, colors, and experiences to draw from. Nature is never dated, so being inspired by it helps ensure a timeless design.

The room in your home you are happiest with: Definitely my living room. Because people typically spend most of their time in the living room, I always prioritize this space, whether for my own home or other residential projects I’m designing.

Images courtesy of Thomas Juul-Hansen / DBOX

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The art hotel is a living trend, with The Thief in Oslo and The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas leading the pack, due to their disruptive artistic differentiators.

Draw by Antony Gormley

The Thief in Oslo, Norway is full of original art: all 119 rooms, the lobby, and restaurant interiors and elevators, have contemporary artwork on walls, on floors, and near furnishings. Its art is a part of The Thief's circulatory system; the works have been integrated into an emotional dramaturgy, bringing the hotel into an art gallery dimension.

It’s been said that approximately $1 million of artwork embellishes each room. Upon entering The Thief, a cowering statue by Antony Gormley called Draw, is prominently positioned, giving the visitor a sense of the hotel’s contemporary Zeitgeist as soon as they walk in.

Cowboy, The Horse by Richard Prince

Once inside, a large floor-to-ceiling, inkjet-on-canvas work called The Horse Thief, by Richard Prince dominates the lobby. Also in the area is the colorful sculpture by Niki De Saint Phalle, Le Grand Rossignol.

Le Grand Rossignol Niki De Saint Phalle

Other works can be seen and touched: Andy Warhol’s from the Ladies And Gentlemen collection, plates by Damien Hirst, a new sculpture by Jeff Koons, digital prints by Marianne Heske, ink drawings by Bard Breivik, lithography by Bjorn Ransave, etchings by Astrid Sylwan, a series of photographs by Bryan Ferry, and digital elevator art by Julian Opie, where supposedly still video images of women blink and sometimes wink at those riding the elevators.

From Ladies And Gentlemen Collection, Andy Warhol

Much of The Thief’s collection is on loan and is switched out every six months from one of its partners, Renzo Piano architected Astrup-Fearnley Museum of Contemporary Art, which happens to be located next door to the hotel. The Thief seems therefore, to be the experiential adjunct to the Museum, where guests become art experiencers, rather than simply viewers.

TiTi Bird by Jeff Koons

In a similar, but more overwhelming way, The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas, is the 3,005-room Las Vegas resort that allows the guests to live and be immersed in art experiences, often through digital technology.

Moving Poppies, Lobby at The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas

The Cosmopolitan has partnered with New York City’s Art Production Fund and Artspace, the leading online marketplace for contemporary art, to curate a collection of art within 46 high-end suites in the resort’s West Tower.

Art-o-mat by Clark Whittington

In addition, The Cosmopolitan features six Art-o-mat machines, each dispensing a variety of original artwork. Created by artist Clark Whittington in 1997, Art-o-mat machines are made from cigarette vending machines that have been repurposed as a vehicle, featuring small works of art by more than 400 artist collaborators from across the world.

No Feeling Is Final, Didgital art by Yorgo Alexopoulos

Throughout The Cosmopolitan, a variety of digital art is on display, and arguably, the most disruptive are the Lobby Digital Experience. Eight 15-foot digital columns and a panel spanning the length of the front desk continuously display a curated library of digital art, transforming the space into a living narrative, combining the constant movement of human shadows, flowers, fish, and landscapes.

Starbucks art

In addition, French artist and photographer, Georges Rousse, features his first-ever permanent public art installation inside The Cosmopolitan’s Starbucks location. So everywhere you walk, art is nearby, even in the garage.

Parking Garage, Renta Wallworks

The WALLWORKS garage is a mural and graffiti art installation in the multi-level parking garage and stairwell pool entrance areas. Artists Curtis Kulig, Shepard Fairey, Kenny Scharf, Shinique Smith, Retna and ESPO contributed to these lower area murals.

Black Pump, Roark Gourley

The interiors, including the rooms, garages, walkways, and lobbies, of hotels such as these are redefining the guest experience, and allowing guests to take artistic ideas away, with the possibility of creating similar art experiences in their own high-end homes. This is what art is meant to do: engage, immerse and sometimes disrupt. It has, within the past years, moved from the art gallery to the living space, expanding and combining the best of form and function.

 Images courtesy of The Thief / The Cosmopolitan Of Las Vegas

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The three criteria are: commodity, or how a building or chair serves a useful function; firmness, or basic endurance, how the building or chair stands the test of time; and delight, how much the viewer or owner finds pleasure in the beauty of the building or chair.

The Porsche Design Group, located near Stuttgart, Germany, is a substantial example of a company that has re-purposed these classic Vitruvian benchmarks into a substantial sports-lifestyle brand. The Porsche Design luxury brand was established in 1972 by Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, grandson of Ferdinand Porsche, founder of the Porsche automobile company.

Today, Porsche Design creates clothing, Titanium eyewear, watches, leather products, and luggage. It has also created interior design products––kitchens, chairs, tables, sofas––all having the Vitruvian elements of endurance, functionality, and joy. There are Porsche Design stores worldwide.

The latest and most certainly imaginative evolution of the Porsche Design brand is the Porsche Design Tower in Sunny Isles, Florida. It will be opening soon, and is a showcase for the Porsche interior design collections. It is also the first of its kind with the Porsche Design name. Another is in process in Frankfurt, Germany.

One of its unique features is its Sky Garage system, a robotic parking garage, having 284 parking spaces for 132 units, allowing residence owners to park two or four cars right outside their unit. The owner’s cars can be driven to an elevator, called a Dezervator (named after the Tower’s developer, Gil Dezer) and sent up to the owner’s residence.

Dezer Development has sold 126 of the tower’s 132 units. But the good news is that the four-story penthouse is still for sale for $32 million.

The 19,000-plus-square-foot, four-level penthouse features full-length windows, 20-foot ceilings, and a private interior elevator. Arguably, the most spectacular feature is the in-unit garage, that has eleven garage spaces for eleven vehicles. The interiors of the Porsche Design Tower have been created by Porsche Design aided by Michael Wolk Design Associates, Miami.

The interiors and the public spaces combine Porsche Design dimensions of the old Vitruvian formula, but with an evolved, contemporary approach.

Images courtesy of Porsche Design Group / Porsche Design Tower

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Let’s all just face it, water isn’t fun. It never was, and anyone that told you otherwise was lying. That’s not saying that drinking water isn’t important, and a necessary life function, but its just not a fun thing to do. Luckily, there’s an answer—Soda Stream’s Aqua Fizz.

Seltzer is fun, bubbly, and the healthiest alternative possible to soda while still having the carbonated bubbling. This machine is simple, easy to use, and sized perfectly. For all those living in cities like New York or Los Angeles, where counter space and kitchen sizes come at a heavy premium, buying a new countertop appliance can mean facing an irksome reality, turning most things down because they just can’t fit no matter how practical they are. (Looking at you, mixers and food processors.) The Soda Stream though stands at just over 17 inches high, well within the height of most cabinets, and only 6 inches wide.

The product comes with a CO2 can, where the bubbles are coming from, two glass carafes, and caps for both bottles.

The machine is also ridiculously easy to use. The space for the bottle opens with a latch for easy access to lock things in, and the boring water turns into brilliant seltzer with a simple touch of a button.

Whether you like seltzer really bubbly like Polar or less carbonated like Perrier is up to you, and the longer the hold on the button, the bubblier the bottle will be.

This is a perfect product for any home. Between the stainless steel finish, black liner, and compact design, it’s the perfect fit for any seltzer-lover to have their fix on demand.

The post This Is The Answer To Making Water Fun Again appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

At the forefront of the building, an infinity loop motor court circles an enormous ornamental bronze pumpkin, dotted in black stone––an original work of art by illustrious Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama that was commissioned for Sky

At the forefront of the building, an infinity loop motor court circles an enormous ornamental bronze pumpkin, dotted in black stone. It’s an original work of art by illustrious Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama that was commissioned for Sky, as were several other pieces showcased throughout the building. In the “Art Library” of the lobby, Kusama’s twin Infinity Nets paintings hang above the fireplace at each end as additional pieces of aesthetic elegance.

On Kusama’s artistic vision for each piece, we spoke with Fabian Lang, who is the director of sales for Victoria Miro, London’s acclaimed contemporary art gallery, and who worked with Kusama to curate custom artwork for Sky.

Haute Residence: Yayoi Kusama created several custom pieces for Sky. How does each piece align with her artistic style and vision?

Fabian Lang: While Kusama's extraordinary artistic endeavors over the past 70 years have spanned painting, drawing, collage, sculpture, performance, film, printmaking, installation, and environmental art, as well as literature, fashion, and product design, an enduring feature of her art is the intricate lattice of paint that covers the surface of her Infinity Net canvases. Composed of repeated, looping brush marks across the canvas, each of which leaves a negative dot at its center, Kusama’s nets suggest an endless lattice, conjured less by hand, it seems, than emanating from deep within the psyche. Forging a path between abstract expressionism and minimalism, Kusama first showed her white Infinity Nets in New York in the late 1950s to critical acclaim. She continues to develop their possibilities in monochromatic works, which are covered with undulating meshes that seem to fluctuate and dissolve as the viewer moves around them. Obsessively handmade, the Infinity Nets are endlessly self-referential and self-generating. The ultimate, immersive expression of her lifelong exploration of infinity, illusion, self-obliteration, and repetition they attest to Kusama’s singularity of vision, her tireless commitment and legendary endurance.

HR: Specifically, talk about Kusama's vision for the bronze pumpkin sculpture in front of Sky.

FL: The pumpkin form has been a motif in Kusama’s art since the late 1940s. Coming from a family that made its living cultivating plant seeds, Kusama was familiar with the kabocha squash in the fields that surrounded her childhood home. It was in early childhood that Kusama also began to experience the terrifying visual and auditory hallucinations that left her “dazzled and dumbfounded” by repeating patterns that engulfed her field of vision, flashing and glittering around her, a process she referred to as obliteration. It was after Kusama’s return to Japan from New York in the 1970s that she began to revisit the pumpkin form. It has come to represent for her a kind of alter-ego or self-portrait­­––part-organic, part-conceptual–– and occupies a special place in her iconography. Enchanted by their “charming and winsome” forms as she describes them, the artist has said it is the pumpkin’s “general unpretentiousness” that appeals to her. Kusama’s bronze pumpkin sculptures integrate many key aspects of her practice: the repeating pattern of dots, a juxtaposition of light and dark, connotations of growth and fertility, and the almost-mythical status of the pumpkin in her art.

HR: Does Kusama intend to contribute original works to other New York-based projects in the future?

FL: Having established herself in New York in the mid-1960s by staging groundbreaking happenings, events, and exhibitions, Kusama feels a deep connection with the city and was thrilled to be welcomed so warmly on the occasion of her 2012 retrospective at the Whitney Museum of American Art. A major exhibition of Kusama’s work, focusing on the evolution of her immersive Infinity Mirror Rooms, will tour the U.S. and Canada next year, beginning at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C., in February 2017.

Images courtesy of Sky / Scott McDermott

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This mattress has the plush feeling of a warm hug, like tea on a rainy day, like not remembering if you need milk when you’re at the supermarket, and getting home to find just enough left. It’s so restorative and calming after a long day, there’s a chance it’ll do your taxes if you asked it to.

Yes, the DreamCloud has a lot of science behind it. Plenty of mattresses offer a bullet-pointed list on the tag of the tech that goes into sleeping. It would be simple to talk about the DreamCloud’s gel-infused memory foam, or patent-pending  “best rest” coils. That’s not what makes it the best mattress though. This is a mattress built for luxury lifestyle. From the cashmere top, to the tufted pillow-like upper layer, it’s a mattress that lives by and for those who prioritize comfort. 

Unlike most mattresses though, it’s a cost effective price for the level of luxury. Ranging from $1,075 for the full size to $1,499 for the California King, it’s a mattress that’s actually worth the money and that will last a lifetime. Yes, the purchase does come with a 1-year free trial, but if you need to return this mattress I’d assume its only because you refused to get up and go to work in the morning, choosing to stay in bed more. Hell, the company is so sure you’ll love this mattress, they’ve added handles to the sides so you can take it with you wherever you want a quick nap.

The post The Mattress So Good, You’ll Be Late To Work appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

#1: Mirrored Side Table

Available individually or in a pair, these sleek, mirrored side tables are adorned with geometric patterned sides. Made of wood composite and mirrored glass, they can be purchased from Neiman Marcus for $200 each.

#2: Sculptural Chandelier

Available at Jayson Home for $695, the Sussex Double Chandelier is reminiscent of modernist sculptural studies from the 1930s. The geometric chandelier is handcrafted with iron rods, and features an antique black finish.

#3: Angular Bookcase

Made of sheesham wood, this angular bookcase is a system of sharp, precise lines—a perfect home for books, photos, and accent pieces. It can be purchased from Anthropologie for $1,248.

#4: Geometric Shelf Console Table

This geometric console table by Regina Andrew Design is the epitome of contemporary sophistication. Ideal for an entryway or living room, the table is a blend of modern and rustic. It retails for $897.

#5: Cylinder Stool

Add crispness and visual space to your home bar or kitchen island with a set of metal, cylinder stools. The curved seat is supported by dark gunmetal in an open geometric pattern. Each stool retails for $85.

#6: Modular Shelf

The Jonathan Adler Claude Modular System is a two-drawer unit that has unlimited configuration options. Available in white or wood-toned, the multi-functional, modern piece will make a statement in any space.

The post Create a Minimalistic Look With These 6 Unique Geometric Furniture Pieces appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

“When Poltrona Frau approached me, I was so excited because they’re such a leader in the industry, so renowned for the product and the quality and the prestige. So I said yes of course immediately,” Wang told Style.com.

Comprised of three matte black pieces, the capsule collection features two different beanbag styles (one in stitched leather, the other shearling), each buoyed by a minimalist brass frame, along with a trunk bar/drinks cabinet accented with linear gold detail.

The beanbag seats will reportedly retail for $8,800 apiece, while the gilded trunk will go for $18,500.

Photos and details courtesy of Design Boom and Style

The post Alexander Wang and Poltrona Frau Present Inky Luxury Collection of Lounge Furnishings appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

#1: Louis XV

The classic, baroque style meets modern design in this design by Philippe Starck, made by Kartell. The comfortable armchair is stable and durable, yet evanescent. Made in Italy, it retails for $450.

#2: Colored Louis XV

Inject some personality into your table with this set of four, orange lucite ghost chairs. Designed by Philippe Starck and made in Italy by Kartell, the set can be purchased for $1,660.

#3: Rectangular Side Chair

Designed by Retro Design, the $145 French Louis XV-style chair's clean lines are a unique twist on the classic baroque style design.

#4: Cowhide Stool

Bring old Hollywood glamour to your counter, bar, kitchen island or vanity. This stunning stool has a lucite base, with a white and gray cowhide upholstered seat. It can be purchased from Kathy Kuo Home for $1,572.

#5: Victoria Ghost Chair

The Victoria Ghost Chair, designed by Philippe Starck and made by Kartell, is the armless counterpart to the Louix XV design. This classic shape looks at home at a dinner table, and provides a stunning contrast to a mahogany, marble or metal topped table. A set of four is available for $1,400.

#6: Modern Chair

This “S” shaped lucite chair is sleek, sturdy, and rocks back and forth. Pair this chair with an ultra-traditional table to add a little fun to the dinner table. The ergonomically designed Slither chair can be purchased for $142 from Lux Mod.

The post 6 Luxury Lucite Chairs That Offer a Modern Twist on a Classic Shape appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

#1: Leather Chair

Add Old World sophistication to your space with an upholstered leather chair in distressed buffalo leather, accented with antique brass nail heads. Priced at $3,496, this recycled, weathered piece—available from Jayson Home—would add depth to a modern room, or blend into a traditional space.

#2: Metal Accent Table

This sleek accent table is made with hand forged recycled raw steel, available with a platinum powder or natural steel coating. The finish is eco-friendly and formaldehyde-free. The piece is designed by Tilde Furniture and retails for $4,000.

#3: Reclaimed Teak Stools

These rustic, reclaimed teak stools come with a light-gray finish and are available at Jayson Home for $195 apiece. The recycled wood stools would look stunning with a marble kitchen island or a metal bar top.

#4: Cotton Chaise

This checkered and striped upholstered cotton chaise is designed by MacKenzie-Childs. Its eco-friendly frame is made of sustainably harvested hardwood. The piece can be purchased from Neiman Marcus from $5,500.

#5: Steel Base Coffee Table

The clean lines of this modern coffee are made from a hand-forged recycled steel with a silver glaze finish and an eco-friendly snow white top, crafted from recycled paper. Manufactured by Tilde Furniture, the piece retails for $5,583.

#6: Console Table

This traditional, domestic wood table by Tilde Furniture is made with sustainable harvesting and eco-friendly wood. The cream-colored, painted and glazed base and cherry top are made with formaldehyde-free materials. The table retails for $8,875.

The post Get Back to Nature with These 6 Unique Eco-Friendly Furniture Pieces appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

#1: Marble Pedestal Table

A set of marble pedestals that flank an entryway will make a lasting impression to those coming and going. The slim silhouette, fretwork and marble base contribute to the timeless pillar’s graceful design. It can be purchased from Bliss Home & Design for $4,999.

#2: Gold Faux Bois

This textured, faux bois table—offered by Layla Grace for $581—lends an element of glamour to any space.

The sculptured iron base is finished with burnished brass and is topped with a pure white, round marble top. The uniquely elegant yet intricate design is the ultimate in luxury.

#3:  Curved Bronze and Marble

The C-shape, lightly-polished, plated bronze body of this curved accent table is punctuated by a honed white marble top.

The blended masculine and feminine elements—the rugged materials and curved base—make this table—purchasable from Interior Home Scapes for $747—a versatile accent piece for a range of decor styles.

#4: Wood and Lucite

This contemporary Jonathan Adler lucite end table is available at Neiman Marcus for $1,550. The piece creates an illusion, as the veneer finished wood top is anchored by transparent, lucent legs.

#5: Steel Sculpture

For an accent table that doubles as a statement piece, this $899 one-of-a-kind metallic work—available at Neiman Marcus—is a unique fit.

The sculptural base is made of stacked chrome-plated steel spheres and topped with a tempered thick glass top.

#6: Quatrefoil Table

Regina Andrew Design’s quatrefoil accent table blends vintage and modern, with its clover-shaped form. The earth-toned top—detailed with an abalone shell inlay—is supported by wood legs, and sports a silver lacquer finish. The classic design can be purchased from Zinc Door for $1,073.

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#1: Vintage Tulip Table

This mid-20th century tulip table still has its original smoked glass top, which is supported by a chrome base. Made in France, the vintage gem can be purchased for $1,995 from Jayson Home. Pair it with a set of lucite chairs to create a clean combination sure to add a refreshingly modern, yet elegant touch to any space.

#2: Sheet Metal Top Console Table

This rugged yet refined console table—available at Jayson Home for $1,695—is supported by a reclaimed pine base and topped with weathered sheet metal. Sheet metal detailing travels down the console legs, contributing to its industrial-style aesthetic.

#3: Textured Bronze Headboard

Tap into a softer side of metallic with the Christoval headboard from Neiman Marcus, whose pewter nailhead trim lends to its posh yet edgy look. The plush statement piece is available in twin, queen and king sizes, with prices starting at $699.

#4: Metallic Ottoman

Add some glimmer to your living space with a pair of these sleek, modern ottomans. The model has slim cushion tops, with polished stainless steel, inverted L-shaped legs. The multi-functional ottoman—which features white hair on hide with silver foil accents—would add shimmer to an entryway, polish to the end of a bed, or gleam to a living room.

#5: Steel Frame Chair

The Neo Chair, available at Jayson Home for $550, has a steel frame and chrome finish, topped with a burlap cushion. Sporting a unique, sinuous shape, the steel seat would be an excellent complement to any wooden or glass table, and would made make for a bold standalone piece.

#6: Mercury Glass Pendants

Install a row of mercury pendants over a kitchen island, dining room table, or home bar. These classic, mouth-blown mercury glass lighting pendants designed by Jamie Young Company are available at Bloomingdales for $297 apiece. The clean, streamlined design will add an element of refinement to any setting.

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It’s cold in the city. While the winter may be dwindling down, getting away to warmer weather would be the perfect respite to thaw that icy New York resolve. Miami is beautiful, particularly in the winter months, but the bustling city can get a little hectic. Fort Lauderdale though, a short drive away, offers a serene scene full of palm trees, sandy beaches, and the relaxing atmosphere travelers can make the most of. The city is full of amazing restaurants, crystal clear water, and amazing hotels like the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach.

The hotel stands apart from all other on the coastline. Stark white, the building features a unique hybrid of art deco and maritime design traits. The hotel also elevates shared amenities like the pool, bar, and restaurant high above the town below, giving guests an even better view of the swelling waves and swaying trees below.

The resort features two dining locations, each perfect to fit any kind of eater. Terra Mare is a more traditional restaurant, with a seated dining room and menu that features international cuisine, but focuses primarily on locally sourced ingredients from Southern Florida. Cornucopia Gourmet Market is the resorts sprawling, open marketplace, where pastries, flatbreads, juices, and more are prepared fresh daily in this open air bazaar. Atlas Cocktail Lounge also offers up libations throughout the day and night for those looking to take the edge off during their vacation. Night owls needn’t fear either, as the in-suite dining options are some of the best available with fresh cuisine prepared by the culinary team or recipes suggested to cook on one’s own.

A short ways outside of Fort Lauderdale is the bustling metropolis of Miami, where travelers can take in the culture, music, fashion, and culinary delights of the city. From shops like The Webster offering high-end fashion staples, to nightlife and bars to keep the party going all night long, the city is perfectly positioned to feel close enough to the action, yet far enough to decompress.

While other getaways may feel like a bit of a haul, and getting away can feel harder and harder after factoring in travel time, this beach resort is the perfect weekend pass to take a deep breath at.

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Along a tree-lined boulevard, the avenue Montaigne, French luxury is never more in vogue. From design in fashion to the architecture of the white, stone buildings that line the street, French style is always perfectly poised for any home.

While residential properties for luxury buyers are always considerably crafted to one’s individual tastes, the true bearer of artistic design can be found in the world’s greatest hotels. From Nicola Tesla to F. Scott Fitzgerald, the regal design and living quarters for hotels have become the best homes to some of the world’s greatest thinkers and artists. It should come as no surprise that the design used in these places still serve as the best possible template to bring into one’s home.

At The Plaza Anthénée, luxury is on full display. This Parisian retreat has become one of the most iconic hotels in the world. To just look at the hotel from the street brings excitement to the eyes with a belle époque aesthetic that immediately makes the hotel seem more like a palace that a stopping point for travelers. Inside the suites of the hotel, furniture is all matched to the same regal design. The hotel does an incredible job at bringing together unique furniture that is crafted down to every last detail with intricate design work. From the furniture used to the overall aesthetic, the hotel is a perfect example of keeping a theme current in every room. No minimalist or overly modern edges are featured in rooms at The Plaza Anthénée, rather every pieces in the room is ornate and unique. For all those designing new homes, this hotel’s use of detail can be a perfect conduit to proper style.

The exterior of the hotel also offers a unique example of design and landscaping for new homeowners. The intricate detail on the façade is matched perfectly by the rows of fresh flowers outside each window. The ruby red flowers give a perfect accent to the grey, stone building. With a level of luxury both inside and out that can’t be matched, this hotel is surely one for every new designer and homeowner’s inspiration board.

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While homes and houses are built to one tenants style and taste, hotels offer designers the rare insight into a third party's planning and concepts that are aimed to invoke the design of many rather than one resident. In doing so, Le Meurice has continued to construct an incredible landscape in each room. While Parisian design is often considered to express the beauty of the city, offerings at Le Meurice may reflect the inverse, handsome nature of Paris' architecture. Rooms are flecked in silver and grey as opposed to floral tones and tuften pinks. Large marble bathrooms express the same sense of grandeur while still feeling cozy and comfortable enough to rest and relax in. In the modern day, hotels are often consumed by sleek minimalist designs that leave interiors feeling rather bare. Le Meurice, on the other hand, excels beyond all recognition with a design that feels perfectly fit to the modern aesthetic while celebrating the rich history of Parisian interior decor.

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