Luciana Fragali and Andre Wanderley, architect and interior designer, respectively, at Design Solutions Miami, had several sketches for living spaces ready before they were hired any a Los Angeles couple to design their new Coral Gables home. Throughout an interview, Fragali and Wanderley listened to the prospective clients' desires for privacy from adjoining houses, their wish to capture the family's passionate spirit, and  to balance her preference for raw, edgy architecture with his favoring of refined sophistication. The DS Miami duo's sketch pad quickly filled with outlines of what would eventually become the Coral Gables residence, which so effortlessly seems to unite all of the above.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The clients were drawn to the structure's architecture - a contemporary gem in a traditional neighborhood - as well as its location. The grounds are lush, and the residence is closely located to prominent schools for their children. That said, the interior still needs plenty of work in order to provide a level of personalization and reflect the owners' fondness for sophisticated, modern design.

"We had to look at every detail in the roman enhance it," said Fragali. "It was a full gut job requiring major renovations." The DS Miami team began by looking up. The interior designers removed the standard recessed lighting, remodeled the soffits for a cleaner look and selected - or designed - sculptural fixtures as statement features throughout the home.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

One such piece, a custom bar/staircase the duo dreamed up, illuminates the dining and family room, a space that would have been traditionally used for additional storage and often forgotten. "People often pass by the dining room in their home," said Wanderley. "So, to truly use it and not take it for granted, you have to really make it a cool space." In order to do so, Wanderley paired four natural cane-woven Colony armchairs with a vibrant indigo rug and sculptural organic butterfly-shaped glass dining table, all curated by Anima Domus Miami. Wanderley went on to explain, "you see the table from the entry, so I wanted a see-through scene to the living room, but also something sculptural."

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

When designing the interior layout of the space, Fragali wanted to ensure that each space had its purpose while fusing it modern, yet edgy design. The first-floor flows as an elongated tunnel, combing the living room, kitchen and dining room in one lengthened space. The first space to greet you is the lounge area. The family enjoys regularly hosting guests and throwing dinner parties. For that reason, it was essential to have an informal area to hang out and entertain.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The DS Miami duo knew the entry lounge would have to be a firm representation of the couple's innovative and edgy style. With the help of trusted partner, Anima Domus, they brought in two vital pieces to the space. The first, being the original 1227 floor lamp in crimson red by George Carwardine, and the second being a 77-inch Odino mirror by Moltenu & Baron, which leans of the 24-foot entry wall. "The mirror is massive," said Fragali. "And it makes the most dramatic first impression."  The former gives an illusion of color and the latter creates an illusion of depth.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

That same attention to detail inspired the duo's thoughtful use of materials throughout the residence. Walnut paneling, used generously and to great effect, warms this modern kitchen designed with black Marquina marble and top-of-the-line Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances. The same walnut wood was used on the top kitchen cabinets, as well as on the butcher block-topped island. It also presents itself as a "floating frame" around the kitchen, separating the lounge and the living area.

"I love the color, balance and tightness of the walnut's grain," said Fragali. The wood balances sleek counterpoints such as the Venetian plaster encasing the entire floor and the main level's matte black Marquina marble wall.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The result is a study in bold yet comfy furnishings, such as the living area's Pixel modular sofa - upholstered in a linen and low-profile chenille blend - adjacent to which, sit two extremely comfortable Belaire armchairs for ultimate relaxation, which add a harmonious contrast as well.

When deciding whom to trust with the furnishings of this magnificent residence, it came as no surprise that the DS Miami team enlisted the help of Anima Domus Miami. After a decade-long friendship and over 100 design collaborations, it was apparent that this partnership was built for success. Design Solutions was tasked to create a modern, edgy and welcoming environment, while Anima Domus would provide the luxurious furnishings seen throughout the spaces.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

"The point here, was to create drama or a showpiece," Wanderley adds. The living room's TV wall unit was designed with this principle in mind. The black-slatted wood paneling and mirror-backed shelves re as unique as the home itself. Likewise, the house exists to enrich the daily lives of the owners. "When a home is contemporary, you need to be careful not to make it untouchable," Fragali added. "I would call this edgy contemporary, but also, soft. To me, it feels like the right reflection of the people who live here."

The post Thanks To Trusted Partner, Anima Domus, Design Solutions Miami Does It Again With Coral Gables Home Boasting Wood and Metal Accents appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

This duplex spans the 10th  and 11th floors and is one of the only turn-key residences in the building, and one of four developer residences remaining. Encased in floor-to-ceiling windows, the condo offers a panoramic view of the city which envelops residents as soon as they arrive home. The condo is outfitted with furniture from B&B Italia, one of the top furniture manufacturers in the world, whose pieces were designed by Patricia Aquila.

Aquila was personally chosen by Zaha Hadid to furnish the common areas throughout the building, giving this home a unique bond that no other unit shares. Inside the home, the common areas are reflective of the local art scene in Miami, with splashes of bold, primary colors, and custom touches in collaboration with Manolis projects.

One Thousand Museum is a 62-story tower designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and developed by Louis Birdman, Gilberto Bomeny, Gregg Covin, Todd Glaser, and Kevin Venger. The building's striking exoskeleton design is an identifier for Downtown Miami and the city’s cultural nucleus. Its revolutionary design is recognized as one of the world’s most challenging architectural projects to date and the complex construction was helmed by Plaza Construction.

One Thousand Museum’s prestige is further amplified by unrivaled amenities, including a private roof-top helipad, indoor-outdoor 1KM wellness center with gym, yoga facilities, relaxation pods, and private rooms for spa services; a Sky Lounge for dining and events; an on-premises bank vault; access to a house car service; multimedia theater and more.

Address: 1000 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132

Price: $12.9M

For more information on this property, please visit: https://annasherrill.com/developments/one-thousand-museum

The post One Thousand Museum Presents One Of Its Only Remaining Residences appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Manny Angelo Varas & Giorgio Armani

MV Group USA is an award-winning Design-Build firm that specializes in collaborating with the world's top designers. Located in Miami, FL, and founded in 2007 by President and CEO Manny Varas, MV Group is ranked as the top builder for residences over $6M and ranked #2 for Top Florida builders by Build Zoom. The company has a diverse portfolio of clients; not only have they worked with large businesses looking to relocate to South Florida, but they are also sought after by top designers and architects to collaborate on projects. 

Here, are just a few of the top projects they have completed for some of the biggest names in Architecture and Design. 

Residences by Armani Casa 

MV Group is the exclusive partner of Giorgio Armani and Armani Casa in the United States. When Armani Casa decided to come to Miami for their first branded real estate venture in the country, MV Group oversaw a 4,000 square foot, multi-million dollar, oceanfront model residence and built 26 individual residences totaling over 50,000 square feet. 

This collaboration then extended to MV Group managing another 50,000 square feet of common areas and the first Giorgio Armani-certified design center onsite at Armani Casa Residences. The team commuted every three months from Miami to Milan to train and fortify their connection with the design house, allowing the company to act as a brand ambassador and Armani’s "eyes” in carrying out his overall vision. Studying every design detail and meeting the top standard that he holds for himself and his brand, MV Group USA accomplished the aesthetics of his architecture that translate into harmonizing ambiances.

“To create something exceptional,” says Giorgio Armani. “Your mindset must be relentlessly focused on the smallest detail.” 

Casa Palma

The project La Casa Palma is an 11,485 sq foot collaboration with world-renowned architect Kobi Karp and interiors by Borges+associates. 

“MV is a great company to work with. From the administration to the construction people, to the trades. They were just a pleasure to work with,” says the president and CEO of Kobi Karp Architect. 

Casa Palma sits on a nearly 30,000 square foot waterfront lot and offers an open floor plan and glass sliders for endless water views of Biscayne Bay. The contemporary estate features 6 bedrooms, 9 baths residence includes a movie theatre, gym, spa, wine cellar, glass elevator, reflection pond, and a separate guest house with private entry and sunset deck. The backyard overlooks the Miami Beach skyline and features a lap pool and a built-in chef's summer kitchen.

“MV group is the type of group we like to work with because they really respect the design, the selection of materials and it’s a real collaborative process, plus you know MV group is really one of the most honest, most respected contractors that we work with.” - President and CEO at Borges & Associates, Reinaldo Borges.

Journey’s End Home

Partnering with world-renowned interior designer Briggs Solomon, MV Group USA built a beautiful 9,000 square foot home located in the heart of Coral Gables. 

Greeted with double-height ceilings highlighted by the large picture windows allowing the sun to envelop the home's natural splendor. The entire home was gutted to create enchanting spaces integrating European White Oak floors throughout the residence, sinks with infinity edges, herringbone wood in the dining room, a wine cellar room connected to the 20-person theatre, and a 6 car- car lift garage. 

"Working with MV Group was by far a joy and ease.” Says Briggs Solomon, who has designed for celebrities such as Alex Rodriguez. “In collaboration with them, they understood what design elements were vital, and worked around our desires. They took the time to truly understand my vision and trusted our expertise. It has definitely become a relationship I look forward to continuing building in the future."

For more information,  please visit the MV Group USA website here. 

The post Seeking Perfection, World’s Top Designers Flock To MV Group USA appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Luciana Fragali

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Inc.

Considered to be one of the most renowned designers in South Florida, Luciana Fragali continues to dazzle interior design enthusiasts with her attention and care for her clients' needs. She arrived at interior design instinctually. With a notable creative character, and a passion for unique and special objects, Luciana is always looking to implement treasures within her projects.

In 2005 she opened her Miami-based design firm Design Solutions. Since then, her work has been mainly focused on the development of private residential projects and professional spaces. Each of her unique projects and ideas is deeply rooted in a great relationship with the client. She believes this is the key point to create a unique residential design that will translate into someone's dream project. We had the chance to speak to the designer about her inspirations, creative process and aspirations.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Inc.

Haute Residence: Tell us about the beginning of your journey in the design world. How did the love for product and interiors emerge?

Luciana Fragali: I strongly believe that I was born to be an architect/interior designer. While other kids my age were playing with dolls or running around in the playground, my favorite pastime was going to the mall where that was a unique store which sold children's furniture. This was my favorite place to spend my time. As I entered my teenage years, the antique fair near my home became my 'go-to' spot. I loved hunting for unique pieces, never knowing what I would discover. So, for me, there was never any other path. I was born for this field!

HR: How would you describe your signature style?

LF: The style theme is relative, since it's a mixture of your own design beliefs along with the customer's needs, and how to adapt both visions. We always seek to meet the demands of each client while giving guidelines to create a functional context where sobriety and elegance, along with choice of furniture, recreate refined atmospheres.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Inc.

HR: We know every designer has their own inspiration source and vision for a determined project. Where do you search for your inspiration? Tell us a little bit more about your creative process. 

LF: My sources of inspiration are multiple and appear naturally. They are born from the project itself, from the idiosyncrasies of the spaces, from the environment where the house is located and from the ideas fo the client. Our creative process begins by understanding the project. This requires listening, interpreting and molding what the client requires of you all while carrying your knowledge of every nuance of the design development.

HR: Describe a design project with your influence in three words.

LF: Four words: Elegant, sober, personal, functional.

HR: What about your clients? How do you think they would describe your ideas?

LF: First, make the result optimal. Second, make sure the solutions meet their expectations. And finally, let them sit in the house of their dreams.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Inc.

HR: Do you think the relationship between the designer and client is a fundamental part of the creative process? Why?

LF: Yes, because it cannot work any other way. Even if the client has clear ideas, the project has to be modeled based off the evolution of the relationship with the designer. Ideally, this evolution will make the client internalize the concepts and feel more ownership toward the project.

HR: Do you think that the current pandemic situation has changed your relationship with your clients and your vision as an interior designer?

LF: Our vision as interior designers, our beliefs and the way we work does not change because we have lived through the pandemic. That said, our vision does change in terms of the emergence of new paradigms of the daily use of our private spaces. People are spending much more time in their homes and have needs that were previously external. Now we want to adapt the home to these kinds of requirements. Spending more time in our homes makes us think about how we can take advantage of our respective spaces and how we could adapt them to our specific needs.

HR: If you had to name the project of your career, which would it be and why?

LR: The best project is the one to come. That means we still have a passion for what we do.

HR: As a designer, how important is it to follow design trends that are established in the industry?

LR: It is relatively important. Market trends are ephemeral, impersonal, superfluous and almost out of touch with the customer and their stylistic tastes. Our trends have always aimed to seek timelessness, elegance, durability and quality in the finishes and solutions we provide.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Inc.

HR: What about the future? Do you have some ideas for projects? What can we expect from your company?

LR: We plan to continue to seek excellence in the design and execution within our projects as well as in regard to how we collaborate with our clients. We aim to ensure that our service is the best possible.

HR: What is the secret to create the perfect project?

LR: Through experience, you learn to understand that establishing a trust-worthy relationship with those who depend on you with something as valuable and cherished as their home, is a fundamental part of the process. This is undoubtedly the facet of my job that I like the most. I place great value in client relationships and crediting them as an invaluable part of the design process. I strive to create friendships with my clients. Achieving a personal appreciation for each other benefits the design process tremendously. A successful project is one where we drastically exceed expectations. If we give the client exactly what they had in mind, we have failed. We strive to implement design solutions that fulfill the intended objectives in unexpected, innovative ways.

HR: If you could send one message to young designers, what would it be?

LR: Our consistent advice is this: do what you do with passion. Invest hours of your time into routine work. Do it with your own personality and try to be the best professional possible.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Inc.

The post Luciana Fragali Reveals The Secret To Executing The Perfect Project appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

In the wake of the global pandemic, one city has been quietly growing. Known for its beaches, sun, and lack of state income tax, Miami is becoming the spot for not only quarantine-weary people but also major businesses and corporations. These finance and tech monoliths are running to South Florida's shores, ready to build their newest corporate offices.  

MV Group USA is an award-winning Design-Build & Construction firm in Miami, FL. Founded in 2007 by President and CEO Manny Varas, MV Group USA has ranked among the top five best builders and top three general contractors for projects over six million dollars in Florida by GC Builders magazine. The firm is also consistently the top choice for fortune 500 CEOs, real estate developers, film celebrities, major athletes, and foreign country leaders, making them the easy decision for these top financial and technology firms relocating to the Sunshine State.

Recently, MV Group USA has built the beautiful Suite 700 in downtown Brickell and worked with internet car platform Carsaver.com, financial planning firm Ladenburg Thalman, and major holding company Vector Group.

MV Group USA, along with Borges Architects and Designer Camilla Chang, built a beautiful seventh-floor office space in the BB&T financial center in the heart of Brickell. MV Group USA transformed the interior space into a stunning corporate office. Visibility throughout the office was keen in the client's overall vision with certain private and more open spaces throughout the floor allowing them to incorporate glass circumferences for certain meeting rooms for visual connections. Its modern boldness transcends time throughout the space.

Suite 700 Office

Global investment bank Ladenburg Thalman also trusted MV Group's expertise when building their corporate headquarters. 

Ladenburg Thalman Office

Photo Credit: MV Group USA

Publicly traded company Vector Group were also quick to choose MV for their corporate headquarter needs. Focusing on dark woods and beautiful glass doors, this office is just another testament to the quality of work MV Group USA does.

Vector Group Corporate Headquarters

Photo Credit: MV Group USA

Carsaver.com is a renowned free online auto-buying platform owned by Sean Wolfington, Chairman and CEO of The Wolfington Companies. When Carsaver decided to build their corporate headquarters as well, MV Group USA was their only choice.

Carsaver Corporate Office

Photo Credit: Zoltan Prepszent / Zoltan Photography

The project took about a year to complete as MV's team took on the design-build and oversaw the construction management. The penthouse unit was a multi-million dollar project that has smart features, lighting, and music that can be controlled for any event or client meeting at any time of the day. It also includes an event space, kitchen, and panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. Now, Carsaver is expanding even more and MV Group USA is building an additional 12,000 square feet that will include a movie theater.

Carsaver Office

“Built around you,” MV Group is not your average builder. They tailor every project to each client’s unique outlook and vision, which is exactly why they were ranked #2 among the best residential contractors by Buildzoom in 2017. For every project, they gather an all-star team of designers and architects to not only fulfill and supersede the client's overall vision but to do so most importantly with their budget in mind.

For more information on MV Group USA and its projects, please visit their website here.

The post As Companies Flock To South Florida, MV Group USA Builds Corporate Headquarters For The Nations Top Firms appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Editor’s Note: Haute Designer Hafsa Burt has been practicing architecture for 22 years. She has an undergraduate degree and a professional Master of Architecture from the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). Burt has been running her own studio, hb+a Architects since 2006. Her portfolio includes work at the San Francisco Airport, institutional buildings, multifamily buildings, hospitality, retail, medical office buildings, and custom single-family homes.

She also founded a development arm for the firm called Box Lab which is focused on active research and development in product and space design and zero energy/zero carbon buildings. A passionate environmentalist, Burt adopted the 2030 challenge a decade ago and is a huge proponent of high-performance buildings. Her focus includes eliminating toxins with indoor air quality as a specialty. She actively speaks on the topic of indoor air quality as it relates to the practice of architecture and is an industry expert on “Healthy Building Practices”.

Here, she talked with Haute Design about her architecture firm, favorite design projects, and her sustainability and environmental goals for the future. 

11 luxury townhomes at Stonebrae golf community

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

How did you get started in design?

I come from a family who, despite having advanced degrees in science, were creative and have relatives who are also engineers. Growing up, conversations were about creativity, problem-solving, and theories, and so it was a very creative and intellectual household. There was a lot of importance given to academics. I was particularly interested in physics, and in high school, I also got interested in the arts, specifically sculpture. Architecture just seemed like a natural fit, given those interests and my background growing up.

Tell us a little bit more about hb+a Architects as well as Box Lab.

I worked for larger companies before I started the design studio. It was a natural next chapter once I got my license. Most of my colleagues that were starting their studios were doing smaller jobs, but right from the beginning I started collaborating on institutional projects with other architects. So that led to projects such as working on the San Francisco Airport, and other institutional work, that really helped the business develop.

The idea for Box Lab came because I've always been interested in real estate development. Sometimes your ideas get kind of squished when you're working for clients, because it's their vision, and it's your job to make their vision become a reality. With Box Lab, I can put my own visions out there specifically as they relate to environmental sustainability. Zero carbon or carbon neutrality has been a focus of mine for 20 plus years, and most projects just address what's needed by local mandates. I thought there was a need to develop actual zero carbon prototypes. It took a while, but it came about in 2019, and since then, we've done a few projects.

Mei Apartments in San Leandro, CA

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

What have been some of your favorite design projects that you've worked on so far?

I would say different projects have different favorite moments. For instance, in the single-family residence for Box Lab, we set out pretty ambitious goals for carbon neutrality and zero energy, and also construction efficiency. These goals were met very successfully. 

I also did a retail store for a client way early on when I had just started the studio, and their budget was extremely strapped, but the owner had this unique personality and I wanted to give it a unique flavor without burning her budget. It was a good exercise in terms of finding materials and objects and turning them into fixtures for her retail store to give it its own individual character. 

What would you say are some of the biggest accomplishments that your firm has accomplished so far?

I think it's a work in progress. I do like the fact that for just starting the studio in 2006, we were able to scale to much larger projects. That's a big one. We also are focused on carbon neutrality and zero energy, and we've kind of pioneered that. We also started the discussion of healthy buildings and indoor air roughly a decade before the pandemic. These are some of the things that I would say I'm proud of because we were ahead of the time. Everybody's talking about climate initiatives right now because it's so crucial for the industry, but for 20 plus years that's been our focus, we're not just trend-driven. It's a larger philosophy in terms of how buildings are built. I am proud of having done thoughtful work embedded in environmental and social awareness throughout my career instead of being trend-driven.

21 unit mixed-use project in Oakland, CA

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

What do you see for the future of your company and the industry in general?

Based on what the scientists are telling us, we have to reduce the greenhouse gases all over the world by 65% in the next nine years, and that's a pretty strong deadline. I'm hoping that that's where the industry would move. There is a bigger sense of urgency than, say, 20 years ago when we were talking about it. Some people may be caught by surprise in 2030 when it's too late, but ideally, that's where the industry is moving. 

As for us, we're just going to continue on the innovation path, and keep experimenting and keep looking at how we can innovate products, furniture, fixtures, or equipment and systems for energy efficiency and carbon neutrality so a building has minimal impact on the planet and its people. Social equity is going to be very important. For instance, in a multi-family project, conversations will be about inclusivity. There's a lot at play and I think we will see it more and more in the industry.

The post An Interview With Top San Francisco Designer Hafsa Burt Of hb+a Architects appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Minimalist design does not mean boring or basic. It may appear simple, but that’s just an optical illusion architect, designer, and artist Luciana Fragali has been perfecting for decades. The Brazilian-born designer produces exceptionally luxe spaces as a result of her innovative way of thinking and the unique materials and techniques she utilizes. “A project is not about decorating, but about figuring out the DNA of a space,” she says.

For this 7,718-total-square-foot oceanfront residence at Surfside’s Fendi Chateau, Fragali was tasked with giving this 5 bedroom 7 bath home a relaxed feel while emulating elegance and grandeur. The clients, who she met when they popped into her Miami-based architecture and design firm Design Solutions, had purchased this residence as a second home but while they knew they wanted warm and cozy elements – had no idea how to achieve it. Fragali’s architectural background and experience made her the perfect choice. Plus, she shared the clients’ appreciation for a minimal aesthetic that encompasses a sense of timeless beauty. “Clients know I’m going to give them a home that’s a reflection of their needs, personality, and culture,” she says.

Photo Credit: Barry Grossman

Although the owners appreciated the high-rise building’s modern architecture by famed Florida-based firm Arquitectonica, they preferred a softer design for their own space. To set the tone from the outset, Fragali covered the walls in the foyer and great room—which contains the living and dining areas—with a mixture of fluted and non-fluted wooden panels. “It adds a softness, but it still has strength,” she says. The warm, tactile result counters the modern edge of the gleaming terrazzo marble flooring.

Inside, Fragali pays homage to the cerulean ocean and verdant landscape with a limited yet sophisticated natural palette of materials and colors. Leather, linen, glass, walnut, light, and shadow all take center stage here without visually competing. To add symmetry and simplicity to the unit, Fragali designed an elaborate system of invisible doors. The flawless systems seamlessly integrate into space so that they disappear when not in use. In the living room, she created a custom recessed wood ceiling in a sharp-edge architectural design that resembles delicate pieces of origami with integrated LED lighting as a way to make them seem higher.

Photo Credit: Barry Grossman

Throughout the home, furniture is sourced from all over the world and from trusted partners such as Baxter, Poltrona Frau, and Artefacto. Unique pieces from these stores were responsible for adding that much-needed charm for example the statement piece selected for the ocean-facing living room displayed Artefacto’s natural wood coffee table, perfectly accompanied by Poltrona Frau’s Archibald lounge chairs – offering the perfect combination of substance and form. For Fragali, the dining room is the heart of the home. Here, she chose an oversized white lacquered table paired with Artefacto’s white leather- Infinity chairs that seat guests in the center of it all. Imagine a stunning display blooming above you, enter two Sky Garden pendants making a powerful impression with their sheer size- standing beneath it, you will see the intricate design that gives this piece its name.

Photo Credit: Barry Grossman

The unit has a flow-thru plan from east to west, which allows the clients to enjoy both Atlantic Ocean views and western sunset views over the bay and Intracoastal Waterway. In the hallway leading to a masterfully designed family room, Fragali strategically placed a full-length mirror resting on wooden panels for depth accompanied by captivating artwork emitting tranquility and charisma. Emerging from this enchanting corridor you will be met with a modern yet earthy fashioned family room where earth tones take center stage. “Earth tones are inviting, relaxing, and lend well to a lot of different decor styles. The best part about earth tones in decor is you can switch up your decor easily without removing the bulk of your furniture.” Says Fragali. Earth tones are usually browns, beige’s, greens, and grays. When done right you can have a contemporary, modern, or bohemian room look well put together and be a relaxing environment. The trick is to keep almost everything neutral but to have just a few things that stand out. Here Fragali used the fierce crimson red offered by Lumen’s Twiggy floor lamp for that pop of color while also relying on textiles, fabrics, and accessories to tie in the room.

Photo Credit: Barry Grossman

When asked to design the ultimate tv wall unit Fragali turned to her trusted millworker Diego Fulia of Fulia Inc, after 15 years of partnership – he was able to anticipate her needs and fabricate exactly what Fragali envisioned. Using a mixture of textured wallpaper, fluted wood panels, and natural wood for shelves this vision came to life – add the accessories and what you ultimately have is a family room your guests won’t want to leave and two exceptionally delighted clients left to enjoy sunset views over the bay.

The post Design Solutions Walks Haute Design Through Luciana Fragali’s Project The Fendi Chateu Residences appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Editor's Note: Hafsa Burt has been practicing architecture for 21 years. Burt has been running her own studio, hb+a Architects since 2009. She also founded a development arm for the firm called Box Lab which is focused on active research and development in product and space design and zero energy/zero carbon buildings. An environmentalist, Burt adopted the 2030 challenge a decade ago and is a huge proponent of high-performance buildings. Her focus includes eliminating toxins with indoor air quality as a specialty. She actively speaks on the topic of indoor air quality as it relates to the practice of architecture and is an industry expert on “Healthy Building Practices”.

Today she is sharing her design process on her project Box Factory.

Photo Credit: Branded Content Media, Doug Birnbaum

The project is a prefabricated, zero energy/zero carbon single-family residence of 1750 sq. ft. The intent was to explore construction efficiencies and produce a project resilient to climate emergencies. I, as the architect, set ambitious goals upfront to achieve a truly off-grid project that relies only on renewable energy for all its functions. The project is a zero energy, zero carbon home with R-50 insulation to further conserve energy. Ahead of electrification mandates in California, the project proves to be a successful, working example of electrification not dependent on fossil fuels.

Photo Credit: Branded Content Media, Doug Birnbaum

The interior explores minimalist architectural form to inspire through light and color, its relationship to the land, and sweeping views. The design focus is on space and resource preservation that grasps a visitor as soon as they enter the home.

Photo Credit: Branded Content Media, Doug Birnbaum

The site’s ecosystem is also preserved and most of the 9 acres remain pervious and welcome to wildlife. The topography was used to the fullest for drainage, views, and orientation. An existing creek on the site has also been left untouched. The project has a patent pending for its unique custom features and has been customized to the site’s unique characteristics for optimum sustainability. An important goal of the project was to make use of prefabricated efficiencies to significantly reduce construction time and waste. The project beat all its goals. Prefabricated elements have been greatly customized for beauty, efficiency, and sustainability.

Photo Credit: Branded Content Media, Doug Birnbaum

hb+a Architects’ motto is “Zero (energy/carbon) is everything” and for the past 20 years, explorations into environmental sustainability, Indoor Air quality, and the health of the planet and its people have been the firm’s prime focus. With sweeping views, the project serves as a retreat for industry peers and climate activists.

The post Haute Designer Hafsa Burt On Her Zero Energy/Zero Carbon Project – Box Factory appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Golden Dusk Photography

Developed by Ugo Colombo and his team at CMC Group, the exquisite building, with its flatiron shape and curves on the balcony of every floor, was designed by Miami-based Luis Revuelta. Interiors are by renowned Italian design architect Massimo Iosa Ghini, who seamlessly implemented Revuelta's design onto the interiors.

Over 95% of the building’s 527 units are sold, with remaining residences priced from $790,000 to $3 million. One upper duplex penthouse is available for $8 million.

Units in Brickell Flatiron have been purchased by international luxury buyers from Argentina, Colombia, Italy, Mexico and Venezuela. However, U.S. buyers are the biggest bloc, buying over half of all units. The lure of Downtown Miami and Brickell has generated interest from those interested in the cosmopolitan lifestyle at a fraction of the price of other high-profile markets.

Photo Credit: Tony Tur Photography

“When we started developing in Miami in the early 1990s, our firm viewed Brickell and Downtown as a ‘blank canvas’ that would one day come to life as a vibrant residential and commercial district where streets were alive 24 hours a day,” said Colombo. “Brickell Flatiron stands out for its unique luxury lifestyle woven into the urban landscape and is a reflection of Miami’s coming of age as a cosmopolitan city with a thriving downtown at its heart.”

Steps away from Brickell Flatiron are some of Miami's finest restaurants, shopping centers, five-star hotels, and transit hubs that service the area's headquarters for hundreds of companies.

Under Colombo's leadership, CMC Group has been in the luxury development in the Brickell Financial District since 1994, when it developed Bristol Tower, and the Santa Maria in the mid-2000s, both generating record sales revenues.

Photo Credit: Golden Dusk Photography

Amenities on the rooftop include a Sky Spa, Sky Pool and Sky Gym with 360-degree panoramic views of the bay, Downtown Miami, and beyond. The private steam, sauna and locker facilities are close to the 6,300 square foot fitness center with Pilates, spin and aerobics studios, and a juice bar.

A resort-style lap pool and separate children's pool on the 18th floor, private movie theater with stadium seating, billiards room and lounge, clubroom, full-time concierge and 24-hour valet parking, on-site vehicle washing and detailing, and electric car-charging stations are other features within Brickell Flatiron, guaranteeing nothing but the finest in urban luxury living.

Photo Credit: CMC Group

CMC Group paid back $236 million in construction financing to Bank OZK, Broad Street (Goldman Sachs) and RFR Realty in December 2019, only 30 days after receiving the Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for Brickell Flatiron.

For more information on Brickell Flatiron, please visit www.brickellflatiron.com or visit the project’s sales gallery at 1000 Brickell Plaza, Miami, FL 33131.

Photo Credit: CMC Group

The post Inside Look At Downtown Miami’s Brickell Flatiron Tower appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Orange County Register, April 10, 2017

McClean has come a long way from his Dublin, Ireland home as a boy where he used to draw houses and ask his parents, "what type of person does that?" Fortunately, for luxury home buyers, his parents steered him toward architecture.

As a student, he came to appreciate the modern home designs of L.A. "Growing up in Ireland, I was so intrigued by a home that you could open up to the elements and make the walls go away," he told The Real Deal last year.

His big break came in 2014 when a stunning home he had designed years earlier was purchased by the late Swedish DJ Avicii. From then on, McClean became the in-demand nest designer for the celebrities and financiers who fly high above Hollywood on the Bird Streets.

photo by Brian Thomas Jones

With a client list boasting Beyonce and Jay-z, Calvin Klein, and the Winklevoss twins–McClean took his star-architect status to a whole new level when he teamed up with spec-home developer Nile Niami.

Among the pair's giga-mansion collaborations, is "Opus" a 100-million, 20,000 square foot compound comprised of 12-foot ceilings, Roberto Cavalli floors, disappearing glass walls, a Cristal Champagne room, infinity edge pool, and a sky bridge.

Opus may be the only mansion on the market that includes original Damien Hirst artworks as some of the more "affordable" things in the room.

What makes McClean a great architect is that at the heart of all of his home's opulence and grander there is still a welcoming place inside for people to enjoy life.

Paul McClean characterizes his creations with smooth staircases, towering wine cellars, glass walls, and waterways that build emotions as owners walk past them. "Our houses are all about light. Light and water,” McClean told the Orange County Register in 2017.

Beyonce and Jay-Z's 120-million Bel Air Paradise built into the hillside with wrap-around floor-to-ceiling bulletproof glass walls and pools on every level. It's a white maze of angles that can be seen from space.

photo by Jim Bartsch

Anyone with enough money can build something big and gaudy–what makes Paul McClean stand apart is that he can design a 100,000 square foot mansion that still feels like a comfortable home.

The post How Architect Paul McClean Became The Giga-Mansion Maestro appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

For all the budding starchitects out there looking to learn from the masters of the craft, the 92^nd Street YMCA is bringing back one of their most successful talks in their series with the “City of Tomorrow”, co-produced by the 92nd St. Y and Hundred Stories. The two day summit will bring together some of the biggest names in architecture, design, real estate, developing, and innovators working to evolve the NYC landscape with each project.

This year’s lineup boasts more than fifty speakers including architects like Daniel Libeskind, Billie Tsien, and Robert AM Stern. Interior Designers like Anthony Baratta, Ken Fulk, and Ghislaine Viñas will also be speaking. Developers set to attend include Ziel Feldman of HFZ Capital Group.

Nothing is off the table in these discussions from the future of Hudson Yards growth, the way in which man-made neighborhoods differ from organically changed areas, the future of Penn Stations expanses and construction, and the inner workings of how the subway will affect building codes and changes.

This summit is a can’t miss experience for anyone working in the industry or for those who aspire to do so. To register and purchase tickets, check out 92y.org. The summit will take place January 26^th and 27^th with tickets starting at $50.00.

The post DON’T MISS: 92nd Y’s “City Of Tomorrow” Real Estate Summit appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

1. This ultra-modern maven, bound to be the next Frank Gehry.

2. The classic renaissance model, complete with towers.

3. This castle, with watchtowers to see people leaving via slide.

4. We don't know who dribbled this, but they have a great eye for Gothic Revival architecture.

5. This mega-castle, which just nabbed the Guinness World Record for World's Tallest Sandcastle, built in the land-locked city of Duisberg, Germany.

6. Maybe not the fanciest, but having a great facade can make all the difference.

The post Summer’s Best Sandcastles We Want To Live In appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Built on the edge of Miami Beach and Surfside, Piano plans to create a design that blends the natural beauty of the beach with the greenery of the park wrapping around the building to create a panoramic view of nature. It is also the only Miami Beach building sitting atop the park and directly on the waterfront. RDAI will also be working on the interior design of the space, best known for their work with the Hermes brand.

In addition to a prize-winning team of architects and designers, the building is also tasking power-duo Isabel and Ruben Toledo with creating the illustrations and art campaigns for the building. The two will also be designing the uniforms for the building’s staff from butler and maids to the on-call botanist treating the buildings greenery. The duo together won the Cooper Hewitt National Design Award and one of Ms. Toledo’s biggest clients to wear one of her designs was former first lady Michelle Obama.

The post Miami’s Eighty Seven Park Residences Brings In The Ringers appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Highly intrigued by the physical world, Rashid boldly set out to master nearly every fathomable sector in his trade, including graphic, jewelry, interior, architectural and technological design, in order to explore and influence the way physical material shapes everyday experiences.

Garden Chair (Photo courtesy of archiexpo.com)

The renowned artist has since outlined the creation of a wild assortment of things–from small-scale objects like office desks, laptops and (award-winning) vodka bottles, to grander creations such as furniture, residences and hotels–and has collaborated with a long list of luxury product companies in his storied career, including Prada, Kosta Boda, Orrefors, Davidoff, Veuve Cliquot, YSL, Giorgio Armani, Issey Miyake, Estee Lauder and Cappellini.

The eclectic designer is currently working on variety of ventures across the globe, including a condominium in Latvia; three hotels (one in Germany, one in Malaysia, one in Israel); and four residential buildings in Manhattan (in partnership with Israeli developer, HAP). The Canadian native also has a high-end, advanced mobile phone in the works (which, he confessed, is unfortunately still too nascent for him to divulge much about), and is in the process of planning a bevy of interiors worldwide (among them, a dental clinic in his homeland).

Miami Tower (Photo courtesy of Curbed National)

Though some may call him "kooky" for his outrageous, techno-morphic flair, we'd like to consider Rashid–whose work has been featured in art institutions all over the world, including the MoMA and Centre Pompidou–a passionate innovator who simply dares to push the envelope and think outside the norm (albeit to an unparalleled extreme).

Eager to peek into the mind of the seasoned jack-of-all-design-trades, we probed the eccentric craftsman on his personal aesthetic, unique source of inspiration, and thoughts on the potency of design in the modern world.

Semiramis Hotel (Photo courtesy of idesignarch.com)

Your work has often been described as “funky” and “futuristic.” Do you agree with these labelings? In your own words, how would you define your personal aesthetic?

It’s not futuristic because it exists now–it’s present! What I try to do is bring some heightened, emotional experience into one’s life, to elevate a moment and make one feel more alive through inanimate things. I always wondered if design could touch you emotionally, like a film or music can, because it’s a different type of art form. Can I design something that makes a positive emotional feeling? That’s really my underlying goal: to make things more human. Technology and products themselves can be very dehumanizing and just utility-driven. Can I make you break out into a smile or make you feel more comfortable, or provide you with a more engaging experience? Can I make your life simpler and more relaxed? Can I make an object to destress you and rather than stress you? Those are the questions I try to ask myself.

Is that why you use many colors in your work?

I would say yes–color is very emotional. It has a huge impact on us. I’ve been using a lot of color for a very long time, and the world was pretty gray up until the last few years. If I had one percent to do with it [becoming more colorful], I’m thrilled! Now you can buy yourself a digital camera in ten colors. I love that consumers are now embracing color. In architecture, we’re finally starting to see examples of facades that are beautifully colored, and colored glass around the world. It’s a new energy–one that makes us feel better.

Luminous Sun Lounge (Photo courtesy of archiexpo.com)

You have expressed in the past that the digital/information age has been a key source of inspiration for your designs. How so?

I’m inspired by three different aspects of the digital age–first, I’m inspired by the software and the tools that I have. They allow me to do things that could’ve never done before in history. Second, I’m inspired by the digital age’s language, [as I ask myself], if the digital age has a language today that never existed before, what is it? When we look back at periods of language–at say, the Baroque period, or the Belle Epoque period, or Modernism–they were all very much based on the technologies of that era. Today’s digital age is interesting, because the technologies of today are actually immaterial. The digital age is about “nothing”; it’s about immateriality. So I asked, “What would the material world look like if it’s in unison–if it’s working with and mirroring–this immaterial world?” That forced me to try to find and create new, “visual languages.”

Third, just technology in itself–the production machinery–inspires me. Is there a new machine that can make a chair a certain way? A new material that works a certain way? A new production method that could make something better? The digital age for me is all encompassing and inspiring.

Nhow Hotel in Berlin (Photo courtesy of de.ehotel.com)

Have you incorporated any intriguing materials or elements into your products?

Many, many, many things–I don’t even know where to begin!

In a lot of the buildings I’m working on now, I [try to use] interior materials–claddings–that are more efficient and smarter. For example, the flooring that I put down in my office, in the 400-room Nhow Hotel in Berlin, and now in some of the condominiums [I’m designing] in New York is a 100% biodegradable wood, a sawdust that has been created into a panel. The panels–which are made in Germany–are quite large and interlock, making them so simple to install.

The nice thing about the technology is that I can make a print that is totally biodegradable in any color or pattern that I want, so in turn I can make floors look really alive . . . using a completely self-sustainable product. I make different patterns to speak about the digital age, to look like data and information, energy, and 3D. Every time I have a 2D surface, I try to make it look optically 3D, because I think the digital age has [produced] a really dimensional world, [one] that’s far beyond 2D. When I started design in the analogue age, we were designing everything in 2D, but now that I work with 3D softwares, I don’t look at anything in 2D anymore. In turn a lot of the decoration and embellishment that I do [taps into] the 3D world.

Sustainable Home with DuPont Corian (Photo courtesy of archithings.com)

[I also work with new types of] glass, polymers and plastics. I made a chair that I just showed in Milan; it’s made of biodegradable plastic, made from a Chai fruit in Brazil, instead of a material like polypropylene or polyethylene [that is derived] from oil. We can now make plastics that are very high-performing [without oil-based materials], so I’m trying to use a lot of those plastics now.

Is sustainability one of your key aims?

It’s not right on the top of my list, only because a lot of the time when you work for companies, they’re the ones who [determine] what material is going to be used. If a company asks me to make chairs with polycarbonate material that is are derived from oil, it’s very hard to convince the firm to change the material [in order to] produce goods in a way that is more responsible–believe me, I’ve tried! I try to steer them towards what I think are the right plastics to use, [ones] that are more environmental.

I was brought up with the notion of being [environmentally] responsible–I didn’t know what it was like to be wasteful. [Back when I attended] university in Canada 40 or so years ago, I was taught to design products that were either recyclable or regenerative; I would design something so that it could snap apart, and one part of it could go down one cycling stream, while the other would go down another. If I designed a chair, I would make the legs metal and the feet in plastic, and I had to make sure it could pop apart very easily, so that the metal and plastic could both be recycled. [Sustainability] was part of my education. Recently, I designed a water bottle that’s being produced in [an eco-friendly] plastic.

Luminous Garden Sofa (Photo courtesy of archiexpo.com)

How would you define “luxury?”

I don’t see “luxury” in the cliche sense that something has to be made of impressive material, or handmade. Luxury no longer involves just physical material. For example if I had a camera and I wanted to make a high-end luxury version, I could gold-plate it, but I think now we as human beings realize that that’s not enough anymore. What would really be luxurious is if that camera had features [that made it] more seamless in its user’s life [such as intangible technological capabilities]. So “luxury” can be redefined a bit, based on the 21st Century digital view of it. I see it now as a more immaterial concept rather than a material one.

HAP Six (Photo courtesy of HAP)

Describe the power of design, and how it impacts our everyday lives.

The popular take on design is that [designers] make cool forms, or do funky things, but the reality is every manufactured good in the world was designed, for good or bad. The generic stuff around us that doesn’t work well was poorly designed. Design touches so many daily experiences. When I was a professor teaching, I got my students to count how many objects they touch in a day, and the average number was 640. That’s what we interactive with. So of course design has a massive impact on daily life. Because the world is commodity- and capitalist-driven, design is a commercial act–we design things to sell, [which means] design has a huge impact on the economy. At the end of the day, design is good business. Design is also a way of [recording the] progress and evolution of humanity. If you pick up any object from history, like a vase from the Ming Dynasty, [it tells you] so much about the time, the social life, the milieu of that time. These things are designed to document human existence and history. Design really shapes human culture.

What is your ultimate aim as a designer?

Sometimes I realize that philosophically, my intention is similar in all these projects: to really shape the future. What I mean by that is be really cognizant of the present. The technologies, production and construction methods of today shape [my work], which in turn I hope will affect [mankind positively] in the future. I’ve always believed that design is really about moving us forward. It’s not about looking at or copying the past. It’s not about style. It’s about making a better world and a better life.

The post A One-on-One with Jack-of-all-Trades Designer Karim Rashid appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.