Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

"I have a 15-year relationship with this client, this is actually my third project with them. This is their forever home." CI founder and Principal, Michael Miller, walked Haute Design through this unique and comprehensive project.

Located in Chicago's prestigious Lincoln Park area, this initially unassuming home offers so many unique and custom aspects that very few, if any, Chicagoans can brag about. Thanks to its generous double-long and double-wide lot, there was plenty of space for Michael and his design team to consider. Centaur Interiors executed this entire project from conception to the final decorative details. This includes build, architecture, design and even artwork.

"There are not many indoor/outdoor living situations in Chicago," Michael added. "But because their home has this unique backyard space, we wanted that to be integral to the design. We tore down the original sunroom and built a new one made entirely of glass, where all the sliding door systems open up to this back courtyard."

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The unique millwork and lighting seen in the borders of the courtyard is meant to resemble artwork. Since this part of the exterior is visible from the kitchen and sink, CI's design team thought it would be great for the residents to see something beautiful year-round.

"The clients are big cooks," Michael continued. "So, the kitchen was the centerpiece of the home. We created a centerpiece kitchen that's made for two people to comfortably work together. I believe there is a six or seven-foot galley dual tap sink, which allows you to work side by side. Directly alongside that is what we call the baker's kitchen with its own sink and dual oven. Additionally, there's a bar area for glassware, wines and spirits. We broke the kitchen down into three spaces which allow for simultaneous and undisrupted entertainment."

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

Being one of the focal points of the home, it was fitting that the kitchen be so perfectly symmetrical. In fact, throughout the entire home, the concept of symmetry was of utmost importance to CI's design and architecture teams. This symmetry provides a harmonious sense of balance which can not only be seen, but felt. Another great example of symmetry lies within the master bathroom.

The wall where the master bed sits is the same in which the master bathroom's vanity is located. This allows for a seamless design which considers two separate entries for him and her in their corresponding sides of the bathroom and closets as well. While there is a his and her portal to the bathroom, the hand milled stone, shower and tub remain dead center of the bathroom to ensure that sense of symmetry.

Photo Credit: Centaur interiors

The more details and visuals revealed about the home, the more it becomes apparent that CI's work does not merely have to do with the beauty and luxury of a home, but the practicality of the home as well. This residence is a perfect example of that. The several tailor made, bespoke pieces is just further proof that everything about the design of this home had the residents in mind.

For example, the view from the staircase will reveal a custom made light fixture which hangs from the third story of the home and perfectly dances throughout each level, undisturbed. The dining room is another great example of Michael's extensive knowledge of the family and their lifestyle. Considering that this family loves to entertain, the dining room table was designed to sit as a single unit, or it can become two separate pieces depending on the occasion.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

In other words, this family's fingerprints are reflected throughout the entire build and design of this home. However, do not think this to be the case just because Michael and his team have an existing rapport with the clients. CI makes sure to learn as much as possible about their clients' needs, lifestyle and more in order to design their perfect home.

"We included a smart home system which grants the residence total control over their surroundings and prevents what I like to call, 'wall acne'," Michael added. "The smart home system does not have too many switches and yet it controls, HVAC, lighting, floor heating, as well as the corresponding room's electric devices such as TV, music and more."

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The post Centaur Interiors Delivers One-of-a-kind Crown Jewel in Chicago’s Lincoln Park appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Ivey Design Build

Kirk chose to highlight a beautiful Ivey Design Build project which exemplifies the one-of-a-kind work the firm consistently delivers.

Haute Design: There is a wide range of natural elements throughout the home. How do you go about using outdoor elements and making them fit so naturally inside a modern home?

Kirk Ivy: The protagonists of this project were always the sea and nature. From the very beginning the architect in charge wanted to make sure that nature would be a big part of the project's structure and theme. Being on the seventh floor, the ocean is the primary focus. Limestone was used throughout the floor to mimic the sand so that there would be a continuous dialogue between the sea and all the finishes, materials and tonalities.

HD: What really adds to the natural aesthetic is the quantity of natural light seen throughout several spaces in the home. Was this something the client required?

KI: The privilege of natural light was something we had to take advantage of and accentuate to the fullest. We worked very closely with our client to find the right location for his home, where he would properly be able to rest and find peace. Natural light was always something we strived to find and, in this case, it became a major ally for us.

So much so, that we were able to add an interior window into one of the bathrooms, where the user could appreciate the sea, light and nature, despite being this being inside a bedroom and not adjacent to the perimeter of the building.

Photo Credit: Ivey Design Build

HD: The art pieces and accessories seem to do most of the leg work when it comes to bringing in color to the home. Was that by design?

KI: The art selection was a collaboration between the client, his wife and daughters. Each piece was selected to bring life to the home in its own way depending on its location and the story behind it. For example, "The Mulucans" by Hunt Slonem, which is located in the master bedroom, brings nature into the room. The master bedroom is on the west side of the apartment, where you have a view of the street and plenty of trees. The inspiration was that the parrots from the piece came from the trees outside to rest on branches inside the room - to bring their music and color indoors. Additionally, we chose to not hang this piece, but rather, we designed a shelf to support it and act as a branch for the parrots.

Photo Credit: Ivey Design Build

HD: What was the most unique or challenging aspect of this project?

KI: What makes this project unique is that we were able to maintain the same design language in all areas of the house, with the same architectural details. For example, on the baseboards, ceilings and walls, there is a consistent half reveal detail. This can also be found throughout the millwork, cabinets and doors. This was the most challenging and fun aspect about this project. It pushed us to guarantee the space felt larger and more harmonious.

Photo Credit: Ivey Design Build

The post Ivey Design Build’s Recently-completed Residential Design Resembles a Tropical Oasis appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Gaston Galella, Norma Galella, Chloe Swain

Photo Credit: Jeanne Canto

With Springtime well underway and most of the country looking forward to the sunny summer months, Duoma Atelier spoke to Haute Design about the principles to good outdoor design.

Haute Design: How important is outdoor residential design for your clients?

Norma Galella: Because South Florida's weather is great all year long, a thoughtfully designed outdoor living area is just as important as the interior design of a home. Our clients are always asking us to come up with innovative solutions that provide the best use of their backyards, and in this market, every square foot is prime real estate.

Photo Credit: Jeanne Canto

HD: What are some of the most important aspects of outdoor design?

Gaston Galella: The most important is designing beautiful and functional spaces based on the client's needs. We start by asking some important questions: 'Is there a need for a separate multipurpose house for guests or other uses? What is your entertaining style? Do you want a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen or just a small kitchenette? What kind of landscaping do you prefer? How many shaded areas will you need for outdoor dining and lounging?' And the list goes on.Photo Credit: Jeanne Canto

HD: Does the exterior of a home need to match the interior? If so, how is this done?

NG: We approach the outdoor design in the same way we approach interior design - by getting to know the client and letting their style and experience guide us. The interior of a home needs to express a cohesive story, but each space can have its own personality. This same concept applies for outdoor areas. Nature plays a big role, but you should still bring some of your interior style, colors and textures for a seamless transition.

Photo Credit: Jeanne Canto

HD: What is your favorite aspect of outdoor design?

NG: We love to provide a comprehensive design package. To have the opportunity to marry our interiors with exteriors is exciting. Our clients benefit tremendously, not only by hiring our full concierge turnkey services, but also by allowing us to design their entire home. This way, all they have to do is relax and enjoy their beautiful spaces.

Photo Credit: Jeanne Canto

HD: What are some tips to have in mind when designing outdoor spaces?

GG: The type of materials for outdoor spaces are very different from indoor spaces. That's the first thing to keep in mind while selecting furniture and finishes. Always ask if the material you are considering is suitable for outdoor use. This will depend whether pieces or materials are under shade or completely exposed to the elements.

The post Duoma Atelier is Ready for South Florida Outdoor Living and Entertaining appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

Hafsa Burt recently gave Haute Design an insider's look at her Terra Glen project in San Jose, CA.

Haute Design: How did the Terra Glen renovation project come about?

Hafsa Burt: This multi-family asset was being repositioned and I knew one of the new owners. He expressed interest in allowing me to take a look to see what can be done to modernize the building. We got together with their marketing team to make sure goals were aligned with their vision and worked closely with them, every step of the way.

HD: What is the biggest challenge when approaching a project of this scale?

HB: Projects such as these are usually occupied, therefore design and construction need to be flexible to work around the occupants. Such assets are also dated for building code requirements and need to be carefully analyzed for upgrades relevant to current codes and regulations. And then of course, aesthetics are addressed.

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

HD: What are some of the ecologically-friendly practices utilized throughout the project?

HB: We used materials throughout that have a low carbon footprint and don't off-gas, creating a healthier indoor air quality. Fresh air, natural light and ventilation were also key factors in design. We specified bamboo cladding, which is a carbon-capturing material and has shown great resilience compared to tile and looks fantastic on the exterior.

HD: What were the main goals throughout the renovation? What needed the most improvement?

HB: As briefly mentioned before, assets like these, which have been around for decades, require significant building code upgrades to make sure the building is safe for occupants. There are complex layers that start with a detailed analysis of existing conditions while maintaining contingencies for unexpected surprises during construction when walls are demolished, etc.  After the initial analysis, a plan is laid out to address code issues and solutions are discussed with the clients while keeping in line with their vision and making the space aesthetically appealing and contemporary.

The post hb+a Architects’ Terra Glen Project Renovates and Keeps Design Contemporary appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Michael Alan Kaskel

The design firm has recently received praise for their continued growth and success and are currently shortlisted for the 2022 International Design & Architecture Awards.

Haute Design recently spoke to Jasmin Reese to discuss this special moment and what it all means to her.

Haute Design: How did your participation in the running for this award come about?

Jasmin Reese:

The Manager of the International Hotel and Property Awards and Senior Awards Coordinator reached out to me to see if I had any projects I would like to submit. There were several different categories to choose from and I selected Living Space in the Americas, Residential Project Value at 1-2.5Million and Luxury Space in Americas. We are shortlisted for all three.

Photo Credit: Michael Alan Kaskel

HD: What are the criteria for winning this award?

JR: Good Photography is key, my photographer, Michael Alan Kaskel, is simply amazing. The awards' voting process really sets them apart from other awards. Instead of a small judging panel of 10-20 professionals, they have an average of 70,000 industry professionals voting over the four-week period, taking 53 minutes to complete a vote. The coverage, scope and reach of this process is incredible. Objective, fair, a true competition with winners decided by the industry itself.

Design et al Magazine and The International Design & Architecture Awards have run this ceremony for the past 13 years to promote the global interior design & architecture industry and bring together the design elite of this industry for an international celebration of designers and architects. They are recognized as "one of the leading authorities in the global interior design and architecture industry” and “represent some of the world's leading design names."

HD: What does it mean to be recognized among the potential winners of these awards?

JR: Having your work shortlisted in these awards is believed to be "the pinnacle of recognition within the industry." Only the best of interior design and architecture can be shortlisted.

Photo Credit: Michael Alan Kaskel

HD: To what would you credit this award the most?

JR: My team is amazing. They work really hard, and of course, my clients, who trusted me to do something bold in their home. I'm very happy for the level of trust they have given me!

The post Jasmin Reese Interiors Shortlisted for 2022 International Design & Architecture Awards appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Matt Delphenich

Principal at LS&A, Leslie Saul, recently explained the impact a structure's architecture can have on the interior design.

"It seems that some people are confused by the fact that I am both a licensed architect (MA, FL, IL, OH) and licensed interior designer (FL, IL, CT). Interior designers are not licensed in some states. Generally, the license for interior design is required for commercial projects only, not for residential projects. In most states, even residential projects require an architect’s stamp for a building permit. My firm and I do both commercial and residential projects, so we need licenses in the states in which we do projects. I passed the national interior design test first, then after having more experience, I took and passed my architectural licensing exam. I also am an accredited LEED professional for building design and construction. All of these credentials require continuing education to maintain my licenses. I guess I’m a glutton for punishment!

The post Leslie Saul Explains Architecture’s Impact on Interior Design appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Rita Chraibi

Photo Credit: Juan Pablo Castro

Rita recently discussed her design background with Haute Design and explained how it affects her approach with high-end clients.

Haute Design: How has your rich design background influenced your career?

Rita Chraibi: When I was young, my dream was to become a fashion designer. Life has steered me toward the world of interior design. I had the chance to study in a world-renowned prestigious architecture and design schools in Paris, École Camondo, but I kept this love and passion for the world of creation and fashion design. This is why in my creations I always incorporate major fabric brands such as Christian Lacroix, Jean-Paul Gauthier, Hermès, Missoni, etc. The thought process is that they 'dress' my interiors the same way a fashion designer would dress a unique top model on fashion runways. I think, in the luxury spectrum, this touch humanizes the spaces and adds a chic and simultaneously 'haute couture' signature.

Haute Design: As we know, the process of interior design depends not only on the designer but the client as well. How do you share enough about the client but also control the design narrative all at once?

Rita Chraibi: I believe the role of an interior designer is to tell the story of an interior. This interior has to be as unique as its story. I always listen very closely to my clients' expectations in order to create and design up to the standard of expectations of their dreams. It is from those dreams that I tell a story - a unique story: the story of the interior. To me, this is the most important role an interior designer must play at the beginning of each adventure in order to determine what a project can represent.

The post Rita Chraibi’s Rich Design Upbringing Allows for Masterful Approach appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Located in the Biltmore Square neighborhood in Coral Gables, Florida, Beatrice Row is an enclave of luxury townhomes. This contemporary building’s design was inspired by the most elegant and fashionable Georgian architecture of London, New York, and Boston. Residential property development company MG developer brought Beatrice Row to life along with architectural firm de la Guardia Victoria Architects & Urbanists, Inc. Due to their exceptional work and achievement in traditional design, Beatrice Row was awarded the Palladio Award for most outstanding architecture in a residential multi-unit project.

The 19^th annual Palladio Awards competition honored fourteen architectural firms across the country for their outstanding work in traditional design for commercial, institutional, public, and residential projects. With a façade full of elegant coral stone details, cast stone cornice, and hand-crafted bronze-finished balconies, Beatrice Row was recognized for its beauty and creative interpretation of Georgian design principles. The Palladio Award is not the first award Beatrice Row has won; however, Beatrice Row was previously awarded the Addison Mizner Award and The Congress of New Urbanism Award as well.

The interior of Beatrice Row is just as impressive as its exterior. Standing three stories tall, each townhome offers four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a powder room. The first level includes a 4-car garage with a service area, a walk-in laundry room, a library, and a full bath. On the second level is the home’s main floor with an entryway and gourmet kitchen. The third level features the master suite with a spa and a full bathroom. Private elevators, smart home automation, and covered terraces can also be found in each townhome.

Maria de la Guardia Chief Architect of de la Guardia Victoria Architects & Urbanists said, “We are very proud to have received the Palladio Award, especially for Beatrice Row. This project was unique in scope and serves a distinct affluent market. When the developer told us they wanted to build a special European-inspired enclave following the footsteps of George Merrick’s vision for the City, we knew right away all of the design elements required to create a luxurious multi-family development worthy of worldly recognition.”

CEO of MG Developer, Alirio Torrealba, and the mayor of the City of Coral Gables, Vince Lago, also commented on Beatrice Row’s Palladio Award.

Torrealba said, “We take great pride in all of the developments we build. They are a true labor of love, and Beatrice Row is one of those luxury developments that not only complements the beautiful aesthetics of the City Beautiful but also inspires creativity in the community.”

Lago added, “MG Developer has built truly exemplary residences in Coral Gables, and Beatrice Row elevated the standard for luxury living in Coral Gables. We are not surprised that this award-winning row of residences has garnered another impressive recognition, with the latest Palladio Award. We are truly proud of this award and international recognition Beatrice Row has brought to our City Beautiful, blending in perfectly with Coral Gables’ rich culture, history, environment, and aesthetic beauty. I congratulate them.”

For more information about MG’s projects, visit http://www.mgdevelopermiami.com/. For sales of MG’s developments, contact Berkshire Hathaway Home Services - EWM Realty at (305) 460- 6719.

The post MG Developer’s Beatrice Row Wins The Palladio Award For Most Outstanding Residential Multi-Family Project appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: kliniko Miami

Dr. Humza Arif offers an update on the office's construction and design.

Haute Design: What is the build update of the most-awaited dental practice in Miami?

Dr. Humza Arif: The inspirations from following leaders in the space has been ongoing and we continue to build kliniko Miami - Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry for completion date of April 2022.

HD: How has the process from design to build gone?

Dr. HA: It has been a very humbling experience. Taking an internal idea and capturing it so beautifully on paper as Yodezeen Architects has been able to do confirms the partnership kliniko and Yodezeen has formed. My team and I feel so grateful for what our patients will be able to experience. As we are now in the physical construction phase, it is becoming more and more tangible. The element of design simply cannot be overstated.

HD: Has your background helped in this process?

Dr. HA: As you know, I have always had an underlying passion for architectural form and function. I have applied the craft of dentistry as it relates to oral health and have kept the highest standards for both. Much like in the creation for a beautiful smile, we have been relentless in our pursuit for the ultimate space. Seeing the progression of kliniko as made tangible by our contractors under the guidance of Yodezeen has captured that idea with such precision.

Photo Credit: kliniko Miami

HD: Do you have any design concepts our readers can see as we await fro the grand opening of kliniko Miami?

Dr. HA: Absolutely. I am thrilled to share some our photos with you. We have a phenomenal creative director and you'll be able to see photos throughout our social media platforms, including the kliniko Miami Instagram , the kliniko Miami Flickr page, as well as Haute Living.

HD: As we continue to move through 2022, what insights or advice would you give others who are on similar journeys of design?

Dr. HA: The concept of self as made tangible through spaces we experience should be exactly that. Let your own internal experiences flow outward in the design you want to capture. Don't settle for anything less than that. Our place in the world is to partake in the experiences of others and give of ourselves for the betterment of those experiences. Moving into this new year of 2022, we should always remember that we are one - architecture and design brings us together to share, experience and to be a vessel for pushing the boundaries of what we know.

The post kliniko Miami Reveals Construction and Design Update appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Alex Zapirain Designs

Alex Zapirain, founder and Principal at his eponymous design firm, shared his initial experience in the design world and what he hopes to accomplish this year.

Haute Design: What is your first memory within the design industry?

Alex Zapirain: My very first memory within the design industry was life changing for me. It was actually a very challenging project in Miami. It was an ultra-modern and minimalist space and I believe it awoke my great passion for design. The experience definitely got me more into the design and architectural field and led me to explore and grow within the industry.

HD: What do you love most about your job?

AZ: I love the fact that I don't have to work a day in my life. My work is my life and I love to challenge myself with every project. Every day is a new learning experience which definitely requires teamwork.

Photo Credit: Alex Zapirain Designs

HD: To what do you attribute the success of your firm?

AZ: Definitely all the hard work and dedication contributed on behalf of every client. We do our best to deliver the quality of work each project deserves. Our team puts their souls and passion for architecture and design into every project.

HD: What do you believe is your strongest quality as a designer?

AZ: I would say I listen closely to every client's needs. Aside from my passion for design, I would say that practicality and functionality are key to me.

Photo Credit: Alex Zapirain Designs

HD: What is your goal for 2022?

AZ: Our goal will be to complete new and exciting projects which are already underway. I look forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone for some of these projects. It should be a pretty busy year ahead but full of excitement.

The post Alex Zapirain is the Successful Designer who Doesn’t Work a Day in his Life appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

Hafsa Burt shared what happens when her ecologically-conscious design firm works on a food and beverages space.

Haute Design: How did the occasion arise for you to work on a space for wine and cheese? Have you done other projects for companies within the food industry?

Hafsa Burt: The client for this retail space is a sommelier and he wanted to open a store to pursue his lifelong passion and introduce imported wine and cheese to the local community. We have done at least a dozen bars/restaurants or coffee shops all over the bay area, including several pavilions for America’s Cup in San Francisco.

HD: As a designer, what are the main differences involved with working on an eating establishment versus a private residence, for example?

HB: In an establishment that caters to the public, we have to make sure the space is accessible to everybody and is safe for patrons to come in and circulate through. There’s a whole gamut of regulations that we need to look at and abide by so an establishment can open their doors to the public and members of the general public can safely and freely roam in a space. We also have to cater to branding and make sure that design addresses the brand’s individuality and the space becomes their signature.

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

HD: What were some of the challenges involved in this project?

HB: We had a very tight deadline for this project. It was delivered and approved in under 3 weeks. We had to get several agencies to approve the work, including the Healthy Department of course.

HD: What was your favorite aspect of this project?

HB: I love it when a client's goals and visions come true and we become a facilitator of that. I would say that is my favorite part of this project, among others.

The post hb+a Architects Helps Introduce Imported Wine and Cheese to Local Bay Area appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Stefano was born and raised in Miami, FL, and is the Vice President of his family’s Design-Build company, Balli Group. He is responsible for Development Opportunities, Construction Management, and Sales. He earned dual Bachelor of Business Administration Degrees from Florida International University, specializing in Finance and Real Estate. He also holds a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license.

Stefano shares his father’s passion for real estate development and values the importance of the process. His strong appreciation and knowledge of Architecture and Construction allow him to bring unparalleled expertise to his clients. Stefano specializes in luxury single-family residences.

Recently, he shared his expert opinions with Haute Residence regarding his specific market, what has led to his success, and what he sees for the future.

Haute Residence: What were the effects of COVID in the housing market?

Stefano Balli: Over the past two years, we’ve seen a strong migration to Florida. Now, one can say it is primarily from COVID-19, but this migration has always been in place. South Florida, specifically Miami, has always been a vacation or winter trip for thousands of Americans. COVID-19 expedited and amplified it due to certain health and living conditions in other states. Specific areas I’ve seen the most demand in are in the Southern Gables Gated Comminutes such as Gables Estates, Snapper Creek Lakes, and Hammock Lakes. This is primarily due to the average size of the property, privacy, proximity to great schools and local restaurants.

HR: Why should someone buy in your market?

SB: The quality of life is very high, there are a number of great schools, parks, shops, restaurants, marinas, and parks to support a local lifestyle all while only a 20-minute car ride to Downtown Miami, Brickell, and the sorts.

HR: What sets you apart from other realtors?

SB: Working in the Construction/Development industry for the past 10 years and having a background in Architecture/Design has allowed me to advise and guide my clients on the right purchase. There are several variables when purchasing a home or property that can be costly if not vetted correctly.

HR: What do you see for the future of your market this coming year?

SB: I’m optimistic about what the next couple of years have in store, specifically for the luxury markets in South Florida. Miami is a young city comparatively speaking with much more room to grow, both vertically and horizontally. With limited supply for the foreseeable future and demand continuing through the end of 2021, I believe there’s more room to run.

Stefano Balli is the exclusive agent representing the Ponce-Davis, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of his listings here.

The post Stefano Balli Of The Balli Group On The Housing Migration To Florida And What To Expect In 2022 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: The Balli Group

Stefano Balli, Vice President of Balli Group, recently spoke to Haute Design and explained what sets Balli Group apart and how he approaches his work in Coral Gables area.

Haute Design: How did you get your start in the business?

Stefano Balli: The company began over 40 years ago when my grandfather, Giorgio Balli Sr., first migrated to Miami from Lima, Peru. He designed and worked alongside some of South Florida's most prominent developers throughout the '80s, working on about 80% of Cocoplum, a gated community in South Coral Gables. Years later, my father Giorgio Balli joined the firm, adding new pillars to the Group - architecture, interior design and construction/development. He has since designed and developed over 350 private residences. I have joined the Group, alongside my father, to continue designing and developing luxury residences throughout South Florida. Since then, we've broken records on each development we've completed.

HD: Describe a design-build company and what The Balli Group does. 

SB: I like to label The Balli Group as a vertically-integrated development firm. We have the ability to guide a client based on budget and desires, from conception to reality. Our pillars include architecture, interior design and construction. We connect with our clients to make sure we deliver a product of the highest quality, while maintaining certain budgets and metrics.

Photo Credit: The Balli Group

HD: What is unique about your market?

SB: We approach each project as if it were a work of art. It takes time, but once completed, it exudes luxury, quality and warmth. We approach each product differently and can adapt to any style, design, and/or program. Our primary market focus remains in the gated communities of South Coral Gables, but we currently have over 25 projects throughout the municipalities in Miami as well as Ft. Lauderdale.

HD: Which design trends have caught your eye recently?

SB: We continue to see trends catered to wellness, privacy, space and technology. We foresee these trends continuing into the coming years. The trend for more space has actually reversed its course since 2019, where we saw the consumer requesting less space for both living and total. Whereas now, each home we design and/or develop has a dedicated office space, a gym or spa, large exterior areas for sporting activities, lush landscaping, fully-integrated smart home technology and advanced security. We're interested in the advancement of solar technology and what that may bring in the coming years as well.

The post Balli Group Distinguishes Itself in the Coral Gables Area appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Dr. Humza Arif

Photo Credit: kliniko Miami

Dr. Arif recently shared some insight into his exciting new offices and how his practice will be elevating the standard of healthcare in the South Florida region.

Haute Design: You have been generating quite the interest with kliniko Miami. Can you tell us more about what is to be expected from the new-aged dental practice?

Dr. Humza Arif: kliniko Miami Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry in Coral Gables is an expression of what the standard of dental health should be. Our mission is to elevate our standard of healthcare, specifically within the arts of dentistry. To complement oral care, the space of our craft has been beautifully expressed with the hands of renowned architects. I partnered with Yodezeen architects to help capture the internal vision I had for a space of wellness, health and beauty. I'm happy to know it has been so well-received by our community in Miami.

HD: The photography we have seen so far has been impeccable. It's hard to believe it's even a dental practice at all. 

Dr. HA: Correct! Every experience we have in this world shapes how we live, how we function, and how we interact with one another. At kliniko, patients will feel a rebirth and rejuvenation. It is the care of the soul through dentistry in an environment unlike any other. We are making the metaverse real.

HD: kliniko's space and design does resemble something that one would see in the metaverse. Do you think it would translate to a digital space?

Dr. HA: The beauty of architecture and design is based on the evoked feelings it brings to surface. It is such an exciting world we live in today and the thoughts of the future know no bounds. The moment you step onto our floor in Coral Gables you will be taken into an environment that we are not used to. The tapestry of hospitality, design, and dental arts will formulate into new senses, new experiences, and most importantly new standards of health for our community. We want to be your beacon of what to expect from now on. Our space does just that.

HD: What else can we expect from you in world of design?

Dr. HA: kliniko Miami will forever be in a state of ongoing growth and pushing new architectural boundaries. Miami and the gables are such unique areas to live and practice and we are so fortunate to express ourselves through multiple mediums. I would suggest to follow me on Instagram as well as the kliniko Miami page for the latest. We love sharing with Haute Living and its readers.

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Photo Credit: Tony Soluri

For more than 12 years, clients have trusted Centaur Interiors’ team of in-house licensed architects and designers, project managers and builders to understand their vision of home and deliver the cohesive solutions to make it a reality. Centaur Interiors is revolutionizing the art of building by offering the full scope of design, construction and furnishing services, all in one firm. They have the versatility to capture a wide range of aesthetics, from classic and elegant, to sleek and modern, so that their transformed spaces will look and feel like home from the moment they hand over the keys. And now, Centaur Interiors' website mirrors that level of refined execution and function.

At Centaur Interiors, everything is done with intention—and a heightened attention to detail. Their recent website revamp was no exception. With sights set on the future of design and a desire to spotlight their range and innovations, the CI team dove in head first on a refined rebranding to embody their full scope of services because Centaur Interiors' capabilities have grown and expanded in all ways over the last decade. CI has evolved into a boutique firm that specializes in custom renovations and luxury residential interior design ranging from single-family homes to high-rise condos.

Photo Credit: Tony Soluri

As for focal points, the CI site designers have spotlighted some of their most recent projects for ideation and inspiration. Get to know their ever-expanding team with more than 100 years of collective experience. CI’s people are its power. Together, they are a diverse group of specialists dedicated to providing creative problem-solving, expert project execution, clear and honest communication, and superior service at every level. The boutique design firm always brings the final polish, including professionally curated art to fit their client’s home and lifestyle.

Turnkey solutions and bespoke interiors—that is Centaur Interiors' commitment to all of their clients. With a dedication to innovation and pushing the boundaries of design and construction, they approach even the most challenging projects with positivity and enthusiasm. As CI grows their brand nationally, the firm looks forward to collaborating with vendors, clients, realtors and developers.

Take a scroll. It flows like a smartly informed floor plan, commonly incorporated throughout CI's various design projects.

The post Centaur Interiors Continues to Evolve, Thrive and Innovate appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Doug Birnbaum

Hafsa Burt recently took the time to discuss matters of well-being and health with Haute Design.

Haute Design: Being successful in any line of business takes plenty of sacrifice and even more time. In the field of design and architecture, "work hours" are not necessarily uniform or standard. How do you find ways to make time for yourself?

Hafsa Burt: It isn't easy. I certainly can't work out every day, but I try to schedule it on my calendar. I realized early on that if you're not taking care of yourself, the demands of your business and life will take a toll on your health and well-being and you may become a nuisance to be around. I worked for larger firms before starting my own business and noticed many unhealthy lifestyle patterns in my senior colleagues, which resulted in a tense work environment. I try to use holistic therapies such as sauna, cryotherapy and acupuncture as needed. I also take care of what I eat to stay in optimum health in order to meet daily demands. A three-minute cryo session or a 30-minute sauna are easy to squeeze into my schedule.

HD: The topic of self-care has become ubiquitous in the past two years, in large part due to the pandemic and its consequences. What was the biggest lesson in self-care you came away with after lockdown?

HB: One of the biggest lessons from the pandemic is that life is fragile and given the consequences of globalization and climate change, our lives can transform drastically overnight, and with that, certain industries and businesses can become obsolete, leaving a lot of families economically vulnerable. Therefore, measures for resilience and flexibility in both the personal and business world need to be at the forefront of everybody's mind. The age-old notion of filling your cup so that you can be there for others has never been more relevant. Also, in the age of information, carefully editing what enters your mind can do wonders for your well-being.

Photo Credit: Doug Birnbaum

HD: In fields like design and architecture, which require so much creativity and perspective from the designer/architect, is the work partially an extension of yourself? If so, how much do you value your rest or solitude? Do you have any practices you recommend in order to rest and recover at the end of the day?

HB: I would love to be that parson who can fall asleep on a tour bus or in an opera performance! At the end of the day, I read fiction or historical biographies. It's a great way to give my mind a break from business activities and to enter someone else's imagination. I am just as careful about what I let into my mind as I am with what I eat. I also paint and sculpt to give the left side of my brain a break, which I wish I could do more often. In the middle of the day, a 30-minute spinning session can also be a good break to allow oxygen into the bloodstream and come back more focused and refreshed. I tend to use these techniques more than caffeine.

HD: Does health and wellness go hand in hand with design consciousness and ecological practices? If so, how?

HB: Yes, of course! Everything starts with the individual. I strongly believe that our spaces can contribute to our physical and mental health. Besides products specified in a project, access to daylight and positive air flow can all contribute to our well-being. Deliberate design choices that include green belts/corridors in our developments to allow access to nature, filter the air, are conducive to walking and biking, all create healthier micro-climates. Since the outdoor/indoor environment can be very polluted, we need to be careful about what we put into our bodies to cope with external stressors in order to remain in optimum health and focus on all the great socio-environmental work.

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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."

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Zero Energy Commercial Office Building for Green World Hub - Rancho Cordova, CA

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

Hafsa Burt, founder of hb+a Architects, is actively involved with the American Institute of Architects and is a member of the AIA California Council’s Committee on the Environment that also looks at legislative decisions as they relate to the building environment. Hafsa recently spoke to Haute Design about the future of architecture and design and how connected it is to our environment.

Haute Design: If there has been any at all, what has the environmentally-conscious progress in design and architecture looked like over the past decade? Is it enough?

Hafsa Burt: After the oil embargo of the 1970s, California Energy Code was developed, which is updated for more stringent requirements for high performance buildings in each code cycle.

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Living Building Institute made environmentally sustainable architecture a household term, and then CalGreen, which is a State Code, further laid out requirements with similar parameters so it was easy for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)- Accredited professionals to implement them in their projects. And to answer your question, no, it is not enough. In my experience, unless something is mandated, it is not followed. Reach codes are being widely adopted since 2020, and these have more stringent requirements than Title 24 in California.

HD: As an environmentally conscious designer the issues at the heart of your work are inherently political. Has this ever affected any relationships with clients?

HB: I don't think the issues are political, as much as they are being made political, because of a few spokespeople, which is terribly sad. Clients in general are concerned about the economics of a measure(s), unless their vision is aligned with reduction of emissions or decarbonization. Most people, unless they are focused on these issues, simply do not feel they are priorities. I have also seen a rise in maximalist tendencies in design, which scares me in the long term. Design heroes need to be folks who are coming up with carbon neutral solutions, and have been actively implementing them for decades.

HD: How much can new technologies available to us today, as opposed to 10 or 20 years ago, help progress design while minimizing damage caused to its surrounding ecological system?

HB: I have met some young startups who have fascinating explorations for off-shore wind farms, theoretically, we can meet all of our energy demands if this technology was funded and usefully deployed, but the bureaucratic climate isn't set up for these technologies to be launched fast enough. We have an impending goal to reduce emissions by 65% by 2030, and our current clean energy sources aren't enough to meet present or projected future demands. Solar energy for homes and businesses has been around since the 1970s and their efficiency has improved, and their cost has reduced over the years, but there are limits for its widespread use, intermittent supply and on-site storage.

HD: Considering that you are based in the West Coast, what are the most common environmental concerns or questions you get from clients?

HB: Most everything still comes down to economics. We start with educating our client. I have been working at the State level with like-minded industry peers for over 15 years to make sure legislation is taking into account measures which address emissions' reduction and decarbonization. General consumers however, need to be educated through the process. That is one of the reasons why I created Box Lab, to build carbon neutral prototypes and showcase solutions. California has always been at the forefront and can only set an example for best practices elsewhere.

HD: Are there other collaborators or designers whom you feel are doing impactful work such as yourself?

HB: I am currently working on a zero-energy commercial project in Rancho Cordova with Green World Hub, a general construction team. The project will produce all of its own energy with battery backup so the business remains resilient when power fails.

The post Hafsa Burt Is Ready To Design The Future appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Dr. Humza Arif

Photo Credit: kliniko

A devotee of art and architecture seen through the lens of dentistry, Dr. Humza Arif of kliniko, provides full mouth rehabilitation encompassed in an unsurpassed clinical experience. Through his elevation in the dental space, so too has the profile of clientele that travel to sunny South Florida. “The people are as eclectic as the city’s architecture and art. We create an experience made tangible in every smile and every experience my patients go on to create on their own thereafter. It’s an ongoing gift that maintains humility in service to my patients.”

Dr. Arif gave Haute Design a peek into his traveling philosophy after returning to Miami from some time abroad.

Haute Design: You were recently out of the country. Where did you go? How long were you away?

Dr. Humza Arif: The mission of the kliniko brand inspires perspectives, and with it, new experiences naturally come to fruition. Ukraine was my most recent international visit and it was an immersion of several weeks. Because of the multiple collaborations that exist, I want to ensure the culmination of perspectives for my patients at kliniko.

HD: Did the trip pertain to anything kliniko-related?

DHA: Because kliniko is an extension of the creative space in oral health/dentistry, I find all trips have something to do with kliniko. This trip in particular revolved around embracing team dynamics and infrastructure in regard to the experience that will culminate in March 2022. I am thrilled to share it.

HD: What particular things do you pay attention to while overseas?

DHA: I could not name one certain set of things. As an individual who shares the passion found in form and function, it is important to remain open and receptive. There is so much to see, understand and appreciate. Pay attention to everything, for in every detail is a world to experience.

HD: What are five essentials you carry with you when traveling?

DHA: The essentials I carry are consistent with the senses I have implemented at kliniko. Products that I have come to appreciate are Grown Alchemist Chapstick, Aesop Reverence Aeromatique hand balm, Mancera Rose Vanille Eau du Parfum, Dr. Paul's Patchuli Musk Toothpaste, and one of my Nikon cameras.

Dr. Humza Arif

Photo Credit: kliniko

HD: Ultimately, what benefits does travel provide to your overall design outlook?

DHA: Travel is such an integral part to the perspectives and outlooks we all share. The tapestry of design and architecture is an inspiration of what we all share. It all comes together at kliniko, and our patients will not only feel inspired themselves, but they will leave with smiles that will inspire others as well.

HD: Do you have any plans for your next trip?

DHA: There is something to be said about spontaneity when it comes to travel. It helps you keep an open mind and keeps you prepared to receive all the beauty around us. As of right now, we at kliniko plan to embrace that concept and we will be happy to share what comes next in the months to come!

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Dr. Humza Arif is one of South Florida’s native cosmetic and restorative dentists. Graduating from Nova Southeastern University, this aficionado of experience elevated his education and trade by focusing on rehabilitative dentistry. It is in this way minimal invasive dentistry is able to restore natural aesthetics, both mechanical and cosmetic, to their true form. For this reason, the vision of his space kliniko merged flawlessly with Yodezeen Architects. This partnership culminated the senses into an impressionable patient experience and is the “fusion of what we experience as felt through our eyes, the function of oral health and the confidence encompassed in the totality of form. It is why I am ecstatic to bring it to the people of Miami," shares Dr. Arif.

Dr. Humza Arif recently sat down with Haute Design to speak about the construction developments of kliniko's Miami offices.

Haute Design: Your office, kliniko, is currently undergoing construction. Is there an estimated date for the office to be ready?

Dr. Humza Arif: kliniko has been an ongoing development in design, form and operational excellence. The culmination of the three will come together in March 2022.

HD: How much of the design is prepared or completed before this step, if any?

DHA: The design of kliniko was integrated with the form and function of the practice. The architectural development has been in tandem with everything our patients need for the most bespoke experience.

HD: Would you say this is the part of the design process wherein you needed to exercise the most patience?

DHA: Anything beautiful in this world is built with others. Nature coexists and the inspiration from that essence coalesced with the development of leading experts. The architectural design and material of the physical practice inspired the infrastructure and development team, and vice versa. This allows the craft of dentistry to to emerge in an unseen, unexperienced way, more than ever before - something the people of Miami truly deserve.

HD: If you could describe the design style we can expect to see in three words, once the offices are ready, what would they be?

DHA: Three words alone could never capture what the senses will experience. Rather, I am looking forward to hear what my patients think and feel in March 2022.

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The partnership between Sensi Casa and EJ Architects was born from the active customer demand to have a complete service that provides design, furniture and decoration of luxury residences. Additionally, this partnership was driven by the need from both companies to offer services in which the client is accompanied throughout the process of creating their ideal residence.

EJ Architects is a studio whose common denominator in every project is a timeless, creative, personalized, and above all, functional style; always exceeding the customers' expectations with their results. The architecture and interior studio specializes in residential projects located mainly in exclusive residential areas and complexes in the main cities of Latin America. All their designs have a fundamental basis in the deep analysis of the users' needs and the space where the project is going to be built, in order to make the best and most accurate decisions. Keeping in mind as a guideline that the result must always reflect both the essence of the architecture studio as well as the client.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

The professional behind EJ Architects is Esteban Jácome, a young visionary with disruptive and modern ideas, who describes himself as an artful and architecturally passionate person. The studio has a team made up of designers and renderers who work with the best-rated architecture programs worldwide. Jácome and his team implement high-tech structures in their designs in order to bring all of their ambitious designs to reality. British designer, Norman Foster, is a constant reference for the studio as he is one of their greatest inspirations for being a developer of high-tech design and for his philosophy which consists of integrating exteriors with interior spaces. 

Sensi Casa is a boutique interior design and home staging firm operating from Miami, Florida. Awarded Bets of Houzz 2021 and 2021, Sensi Casa is not like other design firms. Their elevated approach offers what only a few firms can: turnkey homes in record time. Their mission is to assist their clients in achieving a high-end aesthetic through detail-oriented curation that fills a space with luxurious furniture and accessories. The design concepts they implement prioritize the establishment of a central theme for the property that will fulfill the homeowners' vision.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

"It's a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together," says Chiara Sensi-Contugi, founder of Sensi Casa. Chiara's distinct individuality and enthusiasm for her craft resonate in her design and have led to the success of her boutique design firm. Sensi Casa takes clients through the process, step by step, and ensures that they are just as excited about the project as the designers themselves.

EJ Architects and Sensi Casa create a perfect synergy, since each company assists the client in different stages of its home creation, which at the end of the day, are all equally important and must be connected so the final result is functional and optimal. In Latin America, EJ Architects will offer their clients the possibility to furnish their luxury homes with furniture not currently available to their corresponding local markets, but is innovative and exclusive. On the other hand, Sensi Casa will implement a complete service in Florida that begins with the architectural design and ends with the delivery of the finished, furnished and decorated residence. Both companies stand out in the market since they both comply with the highest quality and safety standards in each of their projects. This will undoubtedly make their merger remarkable.

If you wish to see what else Sensi Casa offers, CLICK HERE.

The post Sensi Casa Now Offers Clients Top Of The Line Architectural Design appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Centaur Interiors is a boutique firm specializing in turn-key bespoke solutions for residential interior renovation and construction. With meticulous attention to detail, the dynamic team at Centaur Interiors, under the leadership of founder Michael Miller, has rapidly transformed the landscape in the residential design/build market in Chicago.

This particular riverfront residence makes an excellent argument for Centaur Interiors' commitment to delivering innovation, precise execution, extraordinary design and superior customer service to each and every client. The riverfront project developed from an existing relationship from a client who had entrusted Centaur Interiors to create a full vision for his new condominium residence. Situated high along the river, the client's initial desire was to update the powder room and fireplace and TV wall in the living room. However, the initial wish rapidly blossomed into a full renovation as the owner's trust in the team, as well as their excitement for the project, took over. The concept was to create a warm, modern space that did not feel too stark. Comfortable furnishings were a key element which were also durable for entertaining and everyday use.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

You are initially drawn into the home by a feature wall incorporating translucent quartzite stone, floating in bronze channels at the fireplace. Both of which are backlit with a LED flat light to thread the custom mahogany bookshelf into the fireplace as one cohesive feature. The original flooring was replaced with darker, wide planked, hand scraped oak, which ties the space together.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The goal for the kitchen remodel was to lighten and modernize the space, while still meeting the client's desire for a transitional, warm, livable area. The Centaur team used mahogany millwork as an accent and feature throughout the home. The island cabinetry is wrapped by a dual waterfall of Taj Mahal which incorporates a floating custom dining table on a uniquely-shaped bronze base. The light satin lacquered cabinets and quartzite stone brighten the space up for a perfect blend in the kitchen.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The master bedroom boasts a full custom bed with mahogany wood framing and leather-wrapped panels. The fireplace surround was designed with new limestone, custom mahogany millwork panels, along with a place for both art display and the TV. The tones and colors used in the room were intentional to create a mood and lean more toward a masculine feel. The Centaur design team worked closely with the client to curate art for the home. The client's never-ending collection completes the residence and makes for the perfect home to live in day to day.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

For more information on Centaur Interiors and Michael Miller's design work, CLICK HERE.

The post Centaur Interiors Creates A Modern Home While Maintaining Warmth appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Dorothy Alon, founder of prominent Los Angeles-based design firm, Sophea Interior Designs, has established herself in the last decade among Los Angeles developers, contractors, and other thought leaders in real estate. Dorothy has built her reputation as someone whose intuition and insight comes through in every project that she undertakes.

"We do things a little bit differently," says Dorothy. "About 90% of my clients are developers. After becoming familiar with the scale of work that I have done, along with my extensive experience in the field, they have developed the trust and understanding that we are a team and we are in this together. I think they appreciate that I'm not only focused on 'making things look pretty.' Instead, my approach is more like, 'yes, make this look pretty, but make it functional as well'."

Sophea Designs does not only handle the design aspect of a home, but it also participates in the planning and building process.

"Ideally, the architect gives me the floor plan before even going to the engineer," Dorothy explains. "Because we try to insure that all the interior built-ins and functional spaces are accounted for in order for us to not be limited by the structure itself."

Photo Credit: Sophea Interior Designs

"While interior design is a broad spectrum and entails a multitude of specialties, I decided early on to focus on spec homes and new construction projects. This kind of business requires the interior designer to be involved early on in the process. Typically, we are getting the floor plans after the architect's first draft and we are looking at the house placement on the site map. Then we check that all the main spaces are sufficient and proportional to the scale of the house, both in space and return on investment. We proceed by verifying every window and door size and location. Lastly, we are making sure all standard furniture works in the space and we have enough wall space for cabinets, storage and art. Once this is complete, we continue with designing and selecting finishes. If we have any comments throughout this part of the process, we send it back to the architect to hear their thoughts. We respect the work they have done so far and would like to make sure we are giving our client the best product possible in terms of architecture and interior. In essence, the architect is the conductor and we are the orchestra. We work with all architectural softwares to make it easy for them to quickly respond and keep the work streamlined."

Photo Credit: Sophea Interior Designs

Dorothy's passion in describing the ins and outs of her work and her company's functions is palpable. "I think about everything," she says. "I think of every house we work on as my own investment and as if I were going to live in each and every one of them. That is how I think. This is my mentality toward every home I have designed. I have worked on hundreds of houses and I start every project with the same amount of excitement. The passion toward what I do is what keeps me going. In that sense, we are different. We care. We really care about what we do."

Photo Credit: Sophea Interior Designs

If you wish to contact Sophea Interior Designs for a prospective project or want to learn more about Dorothy Alon's work, CLICK HERE for more information.

The post Sophea Designs Cares About Each And Every Design Project As If It Were Their Own Home appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Pedini Miami's latest project is a 2-acre, 6-bedroom, 9.5-bathroom masterpiece located in the exclusive community of Seminole Landing in North Palm Beach. Bordered by the Seminole Golf Club on the north and the Atlantic Ocean on the east, the luxury residence and neighboring community offer endless leisure and entertainment options for all types of lifestyles—whether you are in the market for style, sophistication, comfort, or all of the above. 

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The interior of the home is designed to satisfy any modern-day luxury seeker. With a high level of detail, Pedini Miami has created a living environment that offers simplicity with an artistic, elegant flair. The home boasts a clubroom bar in high gloss black lacquer, custom libraries, a 500-bottle wine cellar, and a gorgeous kitchen space designed with Pedini's signature Dune collection in high gloss white lacquer.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The home’s exterior offers scenic views of palm trees, bright flowers, and turquoise ocean water. The house makes for the perfect summer residence with an outdoor kitchen, rooftop terraces, an infinity-edge pool, and sunken patio areas. Other significant features include a separate guest house, a climate-controlled garage, a glass elevator, and a spacious movie room.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The residence is an open and sophisticated—yet highly private—dwelling that provides the utmost in modern luxury. Currently, it's listed for $37M. 

To learn more about Pedini Miami, CLICK HERE.

The post Pedini Miami Presents Luxury Living In Seminole Landing appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Grupo Arca is the leading global platform in natural stones and raw materials of the highest quality. With showrooms in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Wynwood in Miami, it is a favorite of Mexico-based architects and interior designers, offering them premium building materials: wood flooring from France, an array of masonry bricks, Italian-fabricated engineered stone, and exotic natural stone from around the globe.

The Miami Gallery is Arca's current headquarters for its showroom. It marks the Mexican company's first commitment toward internationalization.

The Mexican company's Miami homebase is an absolute stunner and adds a lovely touch to the Wynwood community's aesthetic and appearance. The Danish artistic group, SUPERFLEX, was commissioned to imagine the Arca Wynwood's facade. The group is comprised of three artists known for blending art, science and activism. Titled “Like A Force of Nature,” the artists use ARCA’s ceramic tiles designed by Hector Esrawe to create an installation that explores the contradiction of the two phenomena of currency and color merging with the naturally recurring Fibonacci mathematic sequence of numbers. Following a color palette inspired by the tones of Mexican banknotes, the work of art underlines the overwhelming experience of our current economic systems as natural as volcanoes or tsunamis, almost like a force of nature.

Arca recently welcomed luxury interior designer Cara Woodhouse at their Wynwood Design Center.

Cara Woodhouse

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

Cara encapsulates the fundamental values of design such as form, function and symmetry. She combines luxurious comfort with unsurpassed customer service. A lover of any and all things marble, Cara frequently collaborates with Arca throughout multiple interior design projects.

Cara Woodhouse Interiors is a full-service design firm based in New York. The design service includes architecture consulting, contract management, spatial planning, material and finish selections, custom furniture, millwork and antiquing. While design is Cara's passion, it also happens to be her job. Cara strives to find the perfect balance in each space.

The Dinner held at Arca's Wynwood Arts District gallery was a fun and intimate evening to honor this successful and ongoing collaboration.

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

The intimate evening in Miami began with a beautiful selection of wines as well as tequila and mezcal cocktails.

Guests enjoyed a gorgeous menu exclusively curated by the renowned Chef Masayuki Komatsu of the lauded Hiyakawa Miami Japanese restaurant. Follow Hiyakawa HERE.

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

The dinner's menu included a lovely Miso Soup to kick things off. Shortly after, a stunning Omakase Chirashi was placed on the table. Next, guests enjoyed a refreshing Torched Salmon Temaki as well as a Negihama Temaki, followed by Amaimono and an optional offering of espresso (or carajillo cocktails, for the bold) to end the delicious meal.

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

The evening brought together friends and acquaintances, new and old. Guests got to learn even more about the wonders of the excellent marble sourcing Grupo Arca is involved with. It was a wonderful night that will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Notable guests of Grupo Arca included Principal Designer at Bea Interiors Design; Partner at IG Workshop Interiors, Renata Vasconez; Owner of Fava design Group, Joseph Fava; Founder and Principal of Doo Architecture, Alexis Cogul Lleonart; CEO of Grupo Arca, Jose Fernandez.

Renata Vasconez, Bea Pernia, Jose Fernandez

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

Joseph Fava

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

Alexis Cogul Lleonart

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

If you wish to discover more about Grupo Arca and their work with marble, stone and natural elements, CLICK HERE. To learn more about Cara Woodhouse and see ways to book her for an upcoming project, CLICK HERE.

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

The post Grupo Arca Honors Cara Woodhouse At Design Center In Miami’s Wynwood Arts District appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Terra Glen Apartment Complex

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

Hafsa Burt has been practicing architecture for 21 years. Her portfolio includes work at the San Francisco Airport, institutional buildings, multi-family 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. 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”.

Hafsa Burt

Photo Credit: h+ba Architects

Burt recently spoke to Haute Design about concepts regarding healthy buildings and indoor air quality.

Haute Design: We are paraphrasing here, but you recently mentioned that most people place objects within an interior environment and call it 'design.' Why is it so important for clients to adopt a more holistic approach toward design?

Hafsa Burt: I do believe that oftentimes focus is more on the relationship of objects in a space and not so much on the long-term effects of the built environment on the planet or of a particular building on its occupants’ health. We’ve been preaching about healthy buildings and occupants’ health since 2009 and have done hundreds of peer advocacy talks on the topic.

Numerous studies have been done that show a direct correlation between our built environment and our health, therefore, to me, design is a well-thought-out solution that focuses on how occupants feel physically and mentally in a space and what affects the indoor environment might have on their wellbeing, including cognitive function.

HD: What are a few common efforts you are applying throughout your projects that will benefit the clients' well-being by way of air quality or other approaches you would like to highlight? 

HB: We look at the material data of all finishes and make sound choices based on their health impacts. Our focus is also on the big picture and how the space feels besides a two-dimensional aesthetic view. We also work closely with mechanical consultants to see how we can devise innovative ways to improve the air circulation  in a space and several other measures.

Box Factory House

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

HD: Would you say designing with mental health in mind and designing with internal air quality in mind go hand in hand?

HB: I do believe that spatial design can contribute to mental health and indoor air quality affects cognitive function. Design of spaces can certainly affect mental health. A few years ago I visited a newly constructed micro-housing building and wondered if the residents could experience social isolation, depression in such a space. Access to daylight, possibly a view, well thought-out design solutions that focus on space, finishes and furnishings that are ‘safe’ all contribute to a healthy living space.

HD: Do you foresee a rise in health-conscious design as a result of the pandemic?

HB: Yes very much, we did a lot of consulting last year on how to prevent spread of disease in commercial and institutional buildings. We explored strategies that would allow touch less function and social distancing accompanied with a constant supply of fresh filtered air.

Before the pandemic, more than a decade ago we used case studies of legionnaire’s disease to advocate for healthy building strategies and with the pandemic it all became too real. More and more people are conscious of their surroundings and how it affects their health and productivity and are asking for strategies that can have a positive impact. 

Coffee and Water Lab, San Jose

Photo Credit: h+ba Architects

If you would like to learn more about Hafsa Burt's work regarding Healthy Buildings, as well as her architecture and interior design, CLICK HERE to visit the h+ba Architects website.

The post Hafsa Burt Educates Haute Design On Healthy Buildings And Indoor Air Quality appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Humza Arif

Photo Credit: kliniko Miami

Dr. Humza Arif is one of South Florida’s native cosmetic and restorative dentists. A devotee of art and architecture seen through the lens of dentistry, Dr. Arif provides full mouth rehabilitation encompassed in an unsurpassed clinical experience. Through his elevation in the dental space, so too has the profile of clientele that travel to sunny South Florida. “The people are as eclectic as the city’s architecture and art. We create an experience made tangible in every smile and every experience my patients go on to create on their own thereafter. It’s an ongoing gift that maintains humility in service to my patients.”

Haute Design: When did you first recognize your own passion for design?

Humza Arif: For as long as I can remember, I have always had this natural attraction towards design. An expression through architecture, materials, and structure set the foundation for a career in dental medicine. It is a tapestry of both design and the human connection in its purest of forms.

HD: How would you describe your office's design aesthetic?

HA: Inspiration for our office space came with the intention of returning to a pure and elegant artisan experience. Our aesthetic was a wonderful collaboration with Yodezeen Architecture. The particularity in choice of material and color coalesced seamlessly just as the evolution of our oral architecture has: raw, simple, and perfect. This experience sets the foundation for an elevation of natural aesthetics through the work we do at kliniko. It is truly something to behold.

HD: What does the elegance and style of the kliniko office add to the clients' experience?

Nature has given us the best gifts - to feel, to smell, to touch, to see... each one of our senses was considered at kliniko Miami dental office. This fusion creates a new medium to experience the art of dentistry. The patient-practitioner relationship returns to its purest form and through it, appreciation for a beloved craft.

HL: What is your vision for the future of kliniko?

The vision for the future of kliniko is to remain committed to our mission and values as a highly reliable organization in healthcare - which is to serve our community for its oral healthcare needs. We want to do this while contributing to the beauty of our South Florida community by way of beauty of form and function with each of our patients.

If you wish to learn more about kliniko Miami dental Office, CLICK HERE.

The post Humza Arif Of kliniko Allows For Dentistry and Design To Join Forces appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: ARX solutions

The iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Residences is making its way to the Sunshine State. The latest addition to the Waldorf Astoria family is set to alter and redefine Miami’s skyline as we know it. 

The recently-launched Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami will be the tallest residential and hotel tower south of New York City. The tower is set to measure 1,049 feet. Led by concept designers Sieger Suarez Architects in collaboration with Carlos Ott, and architecture by Sieger Suarez, along with California-based interior design firm BAMO, this project was created not only to be a luxury residential and hospitality tower but a unique, freestanding sculpture in the sky, unlike anything built before. 

“We differentiated this cube-style architecture by tilting the first cube upward. From there, we offset the other cubes and pushed the top cube out even further, providing an illusion that the tower is even taller than it is,” says Charles Sieger. 

This project also marks another collaboration between developer PMG, Sieger Suarez Architects, and design architect Carlos Ott. The “supertall” skyscraper will rise over Biscayne Bay with a monumental height structure of nine spiraling offset cubes designed to be evenly stacked, tilted, and rotated upwards, wrapped in what can be referred to as “glass skin.” Despite its complex design, the modern sculptural exterior offers residents and guests 360-degree views of the surrounding Downtown and Atlantic landscapes. 

“The exterior glass skin design of Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami impacts the experience of those residing inside the tower. It offers a different, breath-taking view from each residence, kitchen, balcony, or bedroom. The shifted nature of the stacked cubes creates a perspective that is completely unique, depending on where you are within,” says Carlos Ott. 

Internationally-renowned interior design firm BAMO drew inspiration from the rich history of the Waldorf brand and the inherent vibe that comes with living in the awe-inspiring tower. 

“Our design work is guided by the awareness that the human experience and one’s frame of mind can be influenced by their surroundings. In designing for the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami, our goal was to create an experience that felt transcendent, inspiring a sense of awe as you arrive, and in exploring further, a sense of discovery and reflection,” said Anne Wilkinson, Principal of BAMO. 

Recently, the Waldorf Astoria Miami Residences opened its one-of-a-kind sales office in downtown Miami. Built like an experiential museum experience, the gallery features a 24-foot scale model of the building as well as a full 3 bedroom model residence. Inside the space, guests can experience video simulations of the views they will experience from residences in the towers and a beautiful model of the Miami skyline with the new building within it.

Photo Credit: World Red Eye

The company hosted a VIP event on Thursday, June 17th where notable attendees included: PMG Managing Partners Kevin Maloney, Ryan Shear and Dan Kaplan, Greybrook Realty Partners, Mohari Hospitality, S2 Development, Mayor Levine Cava, Mayor Suarez, PMG’s in-house sales team, PMG Residential, and concept designers Charles M. Sieger and Carlos Ott.

Guests were treated to champagne and drinks, live music, delicious hors d'oeuvres, and tours of the model residences.

Photo Credit: ARX solutions

“Every single day people come to our city because they want to live in the most prosperous, free, and innovative city on the planet," said Mayor Francis X. Suarez. "We are so proud of this iconic project that will redefine who we are as a city.”

The post Up In The Clouds At Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

"Casa 6695"

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

Pinecrest, Florida has long been a desirable destination for people looking to call South Florida home. The city is one of the areas in Miami where family values and community activities like farmers' markets, picnics and park playdates still happen every week. This area is one of Florida's most popular choices for luxury real estate projects due to its cozy neighborhoods, lush green spaces and quiet roads.

This past spring, the city welcomed its newest real estate masterpiece. The "Casa 6695" project is a seven-bedroom, seven and a half bathroom residence in the heart of one of Pinecrest's most attractive neighborhoods.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

It all started with a blank canvas and groundbreaking concept by Luis Junco and Giampaolo Guarino, the brains behind ECO Modern Custom Homes, a luxury real estate developer that has been creating some of the most beautiful homes in Miami for years.

ECO Modern Custom Homes and Compass listing agents, David Rousso, Angel Nicolas and Ale Alfonzo envisioned a luxury home in the South Florida suburbs modeled after the best features of modern architecture in order to create their masterpiece. They set out to create a breathtaking and contemporary project with all the luxuries one could hope for in an upscale Miami estate project. Casa 6695 was made to stand out among other residences not just in Pinecrest but across South Florida.

To make their vision a reality, the team tapped renowned architect Zecky da Costa, known throughout the industry for his long trajectory managing and designing projects in Miami, as well as Venezuela and Spain. After months of arduous brainstorming and endless hours of collaboration, the team developed the blueprint that would transform their blank canvas into an exquisite South Florida residence.

Giampaolo Guarino, Angel Nicolas, Zecky da Costa, David Rousso, Luis Junco

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The result?
An impressive, contemporary masterpiece that stands at the forefront of modern architecture and design.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

"Casa 6695" is one of the most ambitious real estate projects to emerge from the South Florida market in recent times. This long-term collaboration between realtors, designers and builders has everything clients are looking for in a Miami property: a modern and fresh concept, an open layout, large entertaining areas, and outdoor spaces inspired by nature to soak up the warm South Florida sun.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The two-story luxury residence features two separate car garages, a high-tech media room, and a spacious wine cellar. It also has an open living area with 20-foot ceilings and porcelain Castellon flooring from Spain. Additionally, the 31,798-square foot lot also includes an in-ground swimming pool to entertain guests as well as smart home appliances that can be controlled via smart phone.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The interior is outfitted with Miele brand appliances and the millwork is provided by Pedini Miami, which specializes in high-end Italian designer cabinets. The kitchen has a white matte lacquer finish. It includes an island with grey cement doors and a natural oak wooden overhang, as well as stunningly decorative hood wall pieces.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

If all of that was not enough, the team in charge of the project decided to include a brand-new Lamborghini Urus as part of the listing. The Urus is the Italian auto-maker's signature SUV, which is widely considered to be the fastest SUV on the planet today.

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

The "Casa 6695" house was purchased for $3.5 million by a renowned professional athlete whose identity can not be disclosed at this time.

The post Casa 6695: A Modern Masterpiece In One Of Miami’s Most Exclusive Areas appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Brussels

Photo Credit: Shutter Stock

Dirk Somers, founder of Belgian studio Bovenbouw Architectuur, created an entirely fictional city as his contribution to the Belgian Pavilion at this year's Venice Architecture Biennale.

The display is called Composite Presence and it is comprised of 50 models of projects recently completed throughout Brussels and Flanders, in northern Belgium. The models were completed by 45 separate architecture studios and are displayed at a 7:100 scale.

Visitors of this year's Venice Architecture Biennale will be able to walk among the models, which have been placed in miniature neighborhoods.

The display lends itself to an eclectic fictional city, as the models were selected among new buildings and refurbishments that represent visual themes common to the Flanders region.

The Belgian pavilion provides visitors with a surreal Architectural experience and also aims to underline the role that competitions  play in urban design.

The Venice Architecture Biennale opened its doors on May 22nd and will be open until November 21st.

The post Dirk Somers Combines 50 Flemish Buildings To Create Fictional City appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Today, Stefano Balli answers a few questions from Haute Design.

Giorgio Balli & Stefano Balli

Photo Credit: Balli Group

How did you get into real estate development?

Originally, my intentions were to go into private wealth management, but I realized within a short period of time that it was not a true passion of mine. I found myself leaving the Business School at Florida International University to join the Architecture School. One afternoon after a large final studio presentation, it hit me. Real Estate Development is that balance between my passions - Architecture and Finance. I graduated from the School of Business with focuses in Finance and Real Estate. That year in Architecture school carved out my true passion.

What is the legacy of Balli Group?

Balli Group is a legacy company. My Grandfather, Giorgio Balli Sr., arrived from Lima to California in the early seventies and never looked back. A few years later, he arrived in Miami and designed most of Cocoplum and Gables Estates in the early eighties. Soonthereafter, my Father, Giorgio Balli Jr., joined the company and exponentially grew it to have designed and built over 300 Luxury Custom Homes all of South Florida. Over the years, we've been able to expand our services to our clients to now become a fully-integrated development firm. Balli Group will continue to produce its high-quality level products for decades to come.

What trends have you been seeing and incorporating into your projects?

Given the current conditions, at-home gyms, spas and offices are at the top of the list. One item I’ve been focusing on incorporating into our upcoming projects is technology integration within our projects.

Where do you see the company going in five years?

I see the company continuing to lead the South Florida’s Residential Luxury Market while branching out into Commercial Markets.

Hammock House

Photo Credit: Balli Group

What has been one of your favorite projects to date?

This is a very difficult question because each and every project is so unique and special in its own way. One of my favorite projects to date must be Hammock House, a beautifully appointed Tropical Modern compound located in the gated community Hammock Lakes. What made us purchase the property was the abundance of mature oak trees (70+). This created a challenge during the design phase, but Giorgio managed to design everything around and between the oaks - creating an incredibly surreal experience once inside the home. The success of this project lead to a recording breaking sale prior to the project’s completion. One of our next projects will be located in the gated community Snapper Creek Lakes and we anticipate a completion date of 1Q 2023.

The post Stefano Balli Sits Down For Q&A On What Sets Balli Group Apart appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

FIESP Building, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Photo Credit: Shutter Stock

Architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha passed away Sunday, May 23rd at the age of 92. Mendes da Rocha died in a Sao Paulo hospital of lung cancer.

The highly-awarded architect is seen by many as one of the greatest Brazilian architects, coming second only to Oscar Niemeyer.

Born in 1928, Mendes da Rocha was part of an iconic generation of modernists and was globally regarded as a major architect despite having rarely built anything outside of his native Brazil.

Pinacoteca Sao Paulo

Photo Credit: Shutter Stock

The Paulista School of Brazilian architecture, which he was part of, was generally characterized by exposed reinforced concrete, large open spaces, and rational structures. Mendes da Rocha's propensity to work with large expanses of raw concrete led to many associations with Brazilian brutalism, which the late architect did not care for.

Among Mendes da Rocha's greatest works are the Museum of Contemporary Art at the University of Sao Paulo and the Athletic Club of Sao Paulo.

Pinacoteca Interior

Photo Credit: Shutter Stock

Mendes da Rocha's work was duly noted and lauded throughout the world. Notably, he won the Mies van Der Rohe Award for Latin America for his renovation of the State Museum of Sao Paulo in 2001 and the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2006.

The post Legendary Brazilian Architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha Passes Away appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Redecorating your home can seem like a fun task at first, but people often find themselves lost, without knowing where to start. Decorating a space without a helping hand and some guidance can end up being an exhausting endeavor, leading you to expensive renovations and an unpleasant environment. We listed the top 5 tips from expert celebrity interior designers to guide you when decorating your space. 

1- Less is More

Windsor Smith, who has had celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow as a client, reminds us that “less is more.”  Most people believe that the way to create a stylish and sophisticated interior is to add as many items and details as you can. She recommends letting go of anything that feels excessive, that can be seen as clutter instead of a piece of the design. “Purge your home of anything that feels heavy - even clothing,” she adds. 

2- Nature as an Inspiration

Kari Whitman, the television star who has worked on the homes of Hollywood icons such as Antonio Banderas and Jessica Alba, explains how she incorporates nature in her designs. She mentions how every encounter with nature can serve as inspiration for a design. "The other day I was eating oysters and I found the inner shell beautiful," she said. 

3- Lighting not just from windows

Adam Rolston, of Incorporated Architecture & Design, points out that thinking that the only way to get a bright room is to paint a room white is a very common mistake, and it should be avoided. A better way to accomplish a bright and illuminated room is to keep the overall palette of the room light, as well as using mirrors to reflect natural light into your interiors. 

4- Comfort Comes First 

Brian Paquette, a Seattle-based celebrity designer, recommends putting comfort before aesthetics. When designing your home, there is always going to be that dream dining table or that beautiful couch you can't take your mind off it. However, if it is not functional in relation to your everyday needs, then it is not going to work in your design. He mentions how you should always focus on comfort and usage, like a real dining table you can spread out on and a comfy sofa rather than just a seat.

5- How to make a room seem larger 

Jeff Andrews, who has worked on the homes of Kendall Jenner and Ryan Seacrest, gives a tip on how to make any room seem more spacious. The key is to use statement furniture, in other words, invest in larger pieces, and choose something that you like looking at. He also recommends keeping the color scheme simple and uniform. Varying textures and incorporating small amounts of prints make the space coordinated and larger. 

The post Top 5 Design Tips From Celebrity Interior Designers 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.

Actress, singer, and dancer Ashley Tisdale announced her own interior design company Frenshe Interiors, which is named after her lifestyle blog Frenshe. Tisdale, 35, launched her company posting a picture via Instagram on February 24 of a kitchen she renovated with her father and contractor, Michael Tisdale.

“Welcome to my passion project! Over the years I’ve gotten to work with some amazing interior designers and learned a lot about myself in the process,” she captioned the post. “My dad and I have started to work together on projects for other clients and I can’t wait to share with you. This page will have my own work and also designs that inspire me.”

On March 4, Tisdale officially announced her company on her Frenshe blog titled “Introducing My New Passion Project: Frenche Interiors.” In the blog post, Tisdale goes into detail about her home renovation process, which unlocked her love for design.

“We were looking to move to our dream area over the last couple of years and when we got the chance we jumped at it even though the house was falling apart,” she wrote when describing bringing her house back to life.

The project began as a personal home renovation project, which turned into her new interior design business. The renovated home is located in Los Angeles’s Los Feliz neighborhood and was sold for $5.78 million.

Tisdale included before and after pictures of the property, so people can see how her vision came to life. Alongside her dad, Tisdale maintained the integrity of the home, while renovating much of the home including the roof, windows, and floors.

In February, Tisdale announced via Instagram that she took the Kelly Wearstler Masterclass. The masterclass is a 17-part course that takes aspiring designers through the world of interior design while perfecting their style through patterns, light, materials, architecture, and furniture.

For more information about Tisdale’s interior design jobs and accumulated knowledge visit Frenshe Interior’s Instagram.

The post Ashley Tisdale Launches Interior Design Company: Frenshe Interiors appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Interior design company Eames Office announced today, via their Instagram, their newest collaboration with sneaker monolith, Reebok. Eames is a company that specializes in architectural and interior design, but they also do graphic design, art pieces, multimedia and film, textiles, toys, and furniture. 

Eames Office is a company founded by Charles and Ray Eames. The husband and wife duo were both artists in their own right, him in architecture and her in painting and design. After their marriage in 1941, they put their creative ideas together and created a molded plywood chair that became known as “the chair of the century.” The company is run by the Eames’ descendants to this day and works with only two manufacturers: Herman Miller, Inc. and Vitra International. 

So, their announcement of a collaboration with a brand such as Reebok is very exciting! The partnership is set to release something in Fall of ‘21, and though the item in question is still being kept under wraps, with two well-established companies such as Eames Office and Reebok, it is sure to be amazing. 

For more information regarding the collaboration, you can visit the website here. 

The post Interior Design House Eames Office Announces Reebok Collaboration appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

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200 Amsterdam

Photo Credit: Binyan Studios

This luxury residential building on the Upper West Side is a striking piece of architecture at the nexus of Lincoln Centre and Central Park. Also known as the tallest building in the neighborhood, 200 Amsterdam sports a mix of glass and masonry, inspired by the ever-popular, Art Deco style. Welcoming residents and guests inside the building is an alluring back-lit deco pattern and an inviting canopy. The incorporation of metal paneling further adds to the art deco style and provides an eye-catching element, that is not only timeless but perfectly composed.

Parlour

Photo Credit: Binyan Studios

A modernist reinterpretation of the historic Park Slope, Parlour is a twelve-story boutique condominium featuring a handcrafted brick facade and inlaid with arched windows. The standout feature is definitely the arched windows, which also introduces expansive private terraces and balconies that are featured in each residence. To echo the arches above, a decorative metal screen in a chevron pattern carries across the entire base of the building, welcoming residents with a memorable entrance.

Vandewater

Photo Credit: Binyan Studios

In Morningside Heights, New Yorkers are discovering an elevated approach to city living at the newly constructed, Vandewater—a modern homage to old-world elegance. With breathtaking views of the Upper West Side and Hudson River, this unique building adopts a classical neo-gothic architectural style. At the entrance, a double-height metal screen inscribed with the Vandewater mark greets residents at the end of the landscaped, cobblestone motor court.

610 Warren

Photo Credit: Heroes Visuals

Another Brooklyn residence, 610 Warren introduces a touch of luxury at the southern edge of Boerum Hill, where Park Slope meets Gowanus. Joining two other luxury condominium developments, 610 Warren features 31- select residence, packaged in a striking Kolumba brick facade building with dramatic windows surrounded by black granite. However, the hero of the building is the delicately cut decorative brass entry panels, which also discreetly disguises the garage entry.

The post These New York Developments Are Adding Decorative Metal Paneling To Stand Out appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Greenwich West 

Courtesy Greenwich West

Greenwich West is the first tower in NYC designed by a female French architect and one of the tallest buildings in the Hudson Square neighborhood of Manhattan.  At 30 stories, the condominium serves as an urban lookout, providing panoramas of the Hudson River, New York Harbor, and Statue of Liberty. Designed by Loci Anima, acclaimed Paris-based architecture firm founded by Françoise Raynaud, who spent nearly two decades working alongside legendary French architect Jean Nouvel, Greenwich West is located at 110 Charlton Street in West SoHo. Raynaud brings her Parisian influences to life in a modern setting and seamlessly blends 20th-century French design with a classic New York loft feel. Greenwich West features a handmade brick facade with custom glazed brick accents made specifically for the project by the venerable Belgium brickworks Wienerberger. The building’s Art Deco-inspired curved corners lend a softness to the tower, while industrial-style casement windows – framed by elegant hand-laid brick patterns and custom pewter-glazed brick borders – salute the neighborhood’s heritage. Receding gracefully, Greenwich West’s intricate setbacks and 290-foot height allow for sprawling terraces in many homes and hallmark river views.

The Symon

Courtesy The Symon

Located between Court Street and Boerum Place, The Symon is Brooklyn's newest full-service boutique luxury condominium, offering 59 one-to-four bedroom contemporary residences with an elevated design sensibility and acute attention to detail, as well as a thoughtfully curated amenities selection. Steeped in history, the name, The Symon, is a nod to the patriarch of the Schermerhorn family, whose aristocratic mercantile legacy dates back to the 1600s. Known for their sense of civic duty and philanthropy efforts as a patron of the arts and educational institutions of New York – particularly Columbia University – The Symon celebrates the confluence of history and culture, commerce and education. With interiors and the captivating facade designed by Studio DB, The Symon reveals modern residences inspired by historic Brooklyn, showcasing a facade with distinctive arched windows, prominent canopied entry and hand-laid brick. Taking inspiration from the celebrated heritage of Brooklyn Heights, The Symon marries rich, natural materials with classic detailing to evoke the character and distinction of the neighborhood’s treasured townhouses and grand apartments.

40 Bleecker

Courtesy Williams New York

NoHo, Manhattan's historically-landmarked neighborhood, is home to 40 Bleecker, the new 12-story ground-up luxury residential development that has interiors by AD100 Ryan Korban. With architecture by Rawlings Architects, 40 Bleecker seamlessly blends modern design with the quality and distinction of buildings constructed a century ago. The striking brick and metal façade features punched glass window openings that are an important nod to the past and a reference to the historic, landmarked buildings within the surrounding NoHo neighborhood. Undulating in a step-like fashion at the top three penthouse levels and gently curving at its corners to maximize light and views, 40 Bleecker offers a boldly contemporary exterior design well situated among the historically industrial pre-war buildings of its surroundings.

Rose Hill

Courtesy of Rockefeller Group

Developed by the original builders of Rockefeller Center and designed with a vintage Gotham-esque flair, Rose Hill is a new 45-story luxury condominium tower currently under construction at 30 East 29th Street in NoMad. With architecture and interior design by CetraRuddy, the acclaimed global architecture firm is known for successfully blending modern design with crafted detail, Rose Hill draws a direct connection back to Rockefeller Center with its heavy Art Deco influence of the 20th century. Rising over 600 feet in height, the building is eloquently clad in a bronze-tone façade, accented by intricate detailing that frames expansive glass windows. Taking its place among New York’s architectural icons and inspired by the Rockefeller Group’s landmark developments, decorative lighting will illuminate the tower’s base and crown to highlight the building’s unique articulation. The contemporary design, although rooted in the past, speaks to today's modern New Yorker.

30 Park Place Four Seasons Private Residences

Courtesy Joe Woolhead

Designed inside and out by world-renowned architect Robert A.M. Stern, 30 Park Place —downtown's tallest condominium tower —features 157 ultra-luxury condominium residences that have been meticulously designed to offer the most gracious layouts, a full suite of private amenities as well as access to the hotel amenities, and the impeccable service of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. A return to the classic materials, 30 Park Place’s design recalls the towers of the 1920s and 30s with an intricacy of shape and a strong skyline silhouette. The exterior of the building evokes a classic New York façade with precast concrete panels that mirror limestone. Designed to maximize views, large bay windows are located throughout the tower, allowing for ample daylight and stunning panoramas of the city no matter where you are in the building.

180 East 88th Street

Courtesy March Made for DDG

Situated in the Upper East Side's coveted Carnegie Hill neighborhood, 180 East 88th Street is a striking condominium offering 48 graciously-appointed residences ranging from lofts to five-bedrooms, full floor and duplex units and a gracious triplex penthouse. Developed by DDG and partner Global Holdings, 180 East 88th Street is inspired by the pre-war boom in high-rise masonry construction in New York during the 1920s – 1940s, paying homage to the lost art of traditional craftsmanship while maintaining a modern aesthetic. The striking custom façade is comprised of nearly 600,000 handmade, handset bricks from world-renowned brickworks Petersen Tegl.

100 Franklin

Courtesy Will Femia

A new development located in Tribeca, DDG's 100 Franklin is an architecturally-distinctive building illustrating how a modern building can be created within a historic district. Two triangular buildings are uniquely joined together, offering 10 full-floor condominium homes with direct elevator access, including two duplex penthouses with expansive rooftop terraces. The buildings feature a striking hand-laid brick façade comprised of handmade bricks by world-renowned brickworks Petersen Tegl. The stunning custom façade situates the development in its historical area while simultaneously bringing a modern design twist to the building.

The post 7 Buildings Bringing Back Old New York Design 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.

200 East 59^th Street

Courtesy 200 East 59th Street

This stunning tower embodies the quintessential Miami condo tower with its 35 floors of wraparound terraces and white exterior columns that are uplit at night; but the only catch is, the building is located in the middle of Manhattan, a world away from the beaches of South Florida. All 67 homes in 200 East 59^th Street are corner units, and take advantage of the unique continuous terraces. These outdoor rooms are seamless extensions of the main living spaces, separated by floor-to-ceiling walls of glass with a slender framework and no horizontal interruptions to virtually eliminate the visual distinction between indoor and outdoor space. The residences’ column-free layouts are an engineering feat that creates flexible and unburdened interiors.

One United Nations Park 

Courtesy One United Nations Park

This architectural feat rises 460 feet above First Avenue in Murray Hill. One United Nations is the child of Richard Meier and Partners and sits among a block of old world brick buildings from a bygone era. It looks like it was plucked out of a futuristic development and set to rest on Manhattan’s east side. Its layered black glass makes for a bold exterior while luminous interiors provide comfortability. The impressive structure is ahead of its time and certainly ahead of its current setting.

The Independent Austin

Courtesy The Independent Austin

New York’s famed ‘Jenga Tower’ also known as 56 Leonard has not only influenced the city’s skyline, now it seems Austin has taken inspiration and built their own Jenga Tower. The Independent Austin resembles that of the similar building in New York. Developed by Apsen Heights and the CIM Group and designed by Rhode: Partners, the tower has a distinctive stacked design resembling a Jenga tower.

Vancouver House

Courtesy Vancouver House

At first glance, you might mistake this development in Vancouver for one of Dubai’s famous twisted feats of architecture. At second glance, it’s the Vancouver House, a rarefied building featuring a combination of world-class architecture, high quality of execution and unforgettable views. The Vancouver House sets the stage for future developments in the city, making it a site-unspecific wonder.

The post Site-Unspecific Buildings That Are The Future Of City Living appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

 Bronze Accents

Courtesy Binyan Studios

Bronze is hot this year and is appearing in many luxury residential projects in the form of furniture, plumbing and more. This luxury condominium rising above Long Island City is a great example of interiors making bronze a feature piece. Crafted by Hill West Architect's design arm, Whitehall Interiors, Skyline Tower has a grand staircase in the residential lounge, which features bronze accents. The building also has bronze kitchen plumbing, bronze-lined hardware, and fixtures in its bathrooms, bronze-mirrored walls in the fitness center and bronze furniture plopped in the lobby and lounge areas.

Biophilia

Courtesy Steelblue

Incorporating a biophilic design in the home is a popular trend in both residential and commercial spaces. It's also a great way to provide a greater connection to the natural environment, especially in city living. San Francisco homes Residence 950 and Residence 2646, feature biophilic design to provide residents with elevated, wellness-focused living experience. Designed by Troon Pacific, the home's design provides a connection to nature through ample natural lighting via oversized skylights and glass elevator. In addition, floor-to-ceiling glass pocket doors seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor worlds. Natural materials and finishes such as European white oak and Mandarin white limestone bring nature indoors.

Eco-friendly Materials

Courtesy Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences

Eco-friendly materials are a major factor in the design realm and continue to be at the forefront of architects' projects. For instance, wellness epicenter, Amrit Ocean Resort and Residences' interior aesthetic have been largely shaped by the environmentally-conscious materials chosen. The design team meticulously chose natural fibers, recycled fabrics, and wood, as well as the exclusion of harmful chemicals used. The interiors also provide a harmonious link to the project's oceanside environment and Florida landscape with monotone colors, a warm contemporary approach, and varying textures to calm the mind and relax the body.

Spacious Terraces Maximize Views

Courtesy Three Marks

Designers continue to focus on designing to maximize views for residents and to amplify access to fresh air and unobstructed views. Terraces are a great way to achieve this, and creating spacious terraces allow for entertaining, and more. 277 Fifth Avenue has four Loggia Residences—sheltered double-height open-air living and entertaining areas. Designed by renowned interior architect Jeffrey Beers International, the loggias are seemingly carved out of the building's corners and provide stunning views of New Yorks most iconic buildings, like the Chrysler and Empire State Building. Talk about maximizing views.

Porcelain Tile

Courtesy of Meshberg Group

Immerging technology and improvement in printing and material quality have allowed for the creation of faux stone, marble and other imitations of natural materials. At Wynwood 25, an apartment complex in Miami, Mershberg Group uses porcelain tile for the accent walls in the lobby space, which creates a durable concrete large format look. This replacement of natural materials like concrete and Italian marble could be the future of interior architecture—at least for this year.

Thin Countertops

Courtesy of Meshberg Group

The idea of seamless is desired by anyone who wants the appeal of the smooth and uninterrupted design. A trend we're noticing is the three-quarter inch countertops, which creates a different and unique way to approach a kitchen staple. At about half the thickness of traditional countertops, this movement is something we love. At the Grand McCarren, a luxury Greenpoint development designed by Meshberg Group, thin countertops can be found in several kitchen spaces throughout.

Flow-Through Design

Courtesy CRAFT

Who doesn't love an open concept? The flow-through layout design is becoming increasingly popular, to offer unobstructed views with a sense of openness. Corte, a new luxury condominium in Long Island City, is a great example of flow-through design. Designed by Argentinian architects Dieguez Fridman and New York-based Beyer Blinder Belle, the residences of Corte include an open layout and large, floor-to-ceiling windows to create a flow within each residence, amplifying a sense of airiness.

Less Is More

Photo credit: Barry Grossman

There's a saying that less is more and this year that couldn't be more relevant. Minimalist design continues to be a popular trend in 2019. At Oceana Bal Harbour, Piero Lissoni, world-renowned Italian interior designer, created gallery-like spaces in the two twin lobbies. The minimalist design focuses on a museum-worthy art collection, including two Jeff Koons piece, Seated Ballerina and Pluto and Proserpina.

Statement Staircases

Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Residences

Statement staircases are relevant every year however this year we're seeing an extra demand for the beautiful feature. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach, features a unique multi-million-dollar lobby designed to cater exclusively to art enthusiasts and travelers. The $500,000 Piero Lissoni-designed staircase acts as the focal point, leading up the second-floor library. It is designed for both beauty and function.

The post 9 Stunning Interior Architecture Trends Of 2019 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Below are eleven examples of the newest trend which harkens back to the past and adds visual dimension to the modern skyline.

30 Warren
Photo Credit: Courtesy of 30 Warren

30 Warren is a modern, boutique condominium designed by the innovative and impressive Parisian firm Post-Office Architectes. 30 Warren's design team pioneers a new form of custom-crafted architectural concrete for the building's facade that both connects with the surrounding architecture while employing a more avant-garde aesthetic. Incredibly thin yet strong, the large panels of architectural concrete function together as a veil that encapsulates the building. The ribbed pattern adds an additional texture and visual element, while the deep gray offers a warmth and domesticity to the condominium.

130 William

Photo credit:Binyan Studios

Starchitect Sir David Adjaye was inspired to create a building that pushed away from the typical commercial feel of glass and, instead, embraced New York’s history of masonry architecture. 130 William’s custom, hand-cast façade is a contemporary interpretation of the stonework that characterized classic Manhattan architecture. The textured façade gives way to smooth and delicately-crafted details, which all come together with refined bronze detailing. Another signature feature is the unique silhouette of rhythmic large-scale arched windows that draw inspiration from the lofts that once populated the area.

207 West 79th Street

Photo credit: Courtesy of 207 W. 79th

An Anbau development, designed by renowned Morris Adjmi Architects, is located in the Landmarked District of the Upper West Side and combines the classic appeal of pre-war residences with the expansive spaces of modern loft-like living. The boutique condominium's exterior features more than 200 panels of handcrafted terra-cotta by California-based ceramics firm Gladding McBean, one of the oldest in the country circa 1875, and an Art Deco-inspired cornice crown with detailing that pays homage to the design of old world neighborhoods. The terra-cotta motifs were created using traditional techniques which pressed into molds, baked, dried, and trimmed by sculptors, and flown in from California. The end result is that no two pieces are exactly the same, complete with the sculptors' thumbprints.

180 East 88th Street

Photo Credit: March Made for DDG

Situated in the Upper East Side's Carnegie Hill neighborhood, DDG's luxury condominium 180 East 88th Street features a striking facade comprised of nearly 600,000 handmade bricks from acclaimed Danish brickworks Petersen Tegl. Inspired by the pre-war boom in high-rise masonry construction in New York during the 1920s – 1940s, DDG’s design team sought to pay homage to the lost art of traditional craftsmanship as well as connect the building to the surrounding architecture. The distinctive bricks, which include the elongated Kolumba style, possess a thoroughly unique texture and color palette that reflect their handmade quality and offer a welcome contrast to the numerous glass towers dotting the Manhattan landscape.

Woolworth Tower Residences

Photo credit:Courtesy of Alchemy Properties

Under the architectural and aesthetic direction of Thierry W Despont, the top thirty floors of the Woolworth Building are being re-imagined into the celebrated Woolworth Tower Residences of thirty-three prized condominium residences. Alchemy Properties, who developed the property, have spent more than $20 million restoring the striking terra-cotta facade of this iconic tower. The restoration included the polychromatic terra-cotta surrounds which were sent to Boston Valley Terra-cotta, to be restored, repaired or recast.

Two Fifty West 81st Street

Photo credit: Williams New York

Developed by Alchemy Properties (the same team behind the Woolworth Tower Residences), is a curated collection of 31 ultra-luxury condominium residences designed by critically acclaimed firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects, the kings of limestone. The elegant and classic silhouette of the building is punctuated by setbacks and decorative window openings. Then finished in elevated limestone and handmade grey brick articulated frieze details is inspired by the grand pre-war apartment buildings in the neighborhood.

88&90 Lexington

Photo credit: Courtesy of Workshop/APD

88&90 Lexington is an architectural anomaly that celebrates the marriage of old and new by merging a classic pre-war building with a modern post-war building in the heart of NoMad. The two buildings had separate identities in their previous lives, 88 Lex, the pre-war half, was a rental building while 90 Lex, the modern half, was a former commercial office space. Built in 1927, 88 Lex features a sand-colored limestone façade with art deco detailing that was preserved during the building’s conversion.

1010 Park Avenue

Photo credit: Williams New York

Located along Park Avenue’s historic district, 1010 Park Avenue is a rare ground-up development showcasing 11 full-floor and duplex residences. Although the development is a new addition along the Park Avenue corridor, the exterior was designed with respect to its surroundings. Architecture firm Beyer Blinder Belle created a facade composed of textural Manhattan schist on the lower floors while outfitting the rest of the exterior in hand-cut Indiana limestone, to create a dynamic but respectful facade.

The Amberly

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Amberly

Situated at the nexus of Brooklyn Heights, DUMBO and Downtown Brooklyn, The Amberly is a highly anticipated and soaring new 33-story luxury rental tower with an incredibly unique facade. Internationally renowned architecture firm Woods Bagot designed The Amberly – its first tower in North America – to be a modern interpretation of the historic brownstones of Brooklyn. The warm, terracotta facade, was intelligently patterned to maximize light and views in the living and dining areas by giving way to floor-to-ceiling windows, while maintaining privacy within the bedrooms.

242 Broome

Photo Credit: QuallsBenson

Powerful and sculptural in form, 242 Broome, the first condominium within the Essex Crossing development on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of its neighborhood. Designed by SHoP Architects, the firm behind Barclays Center in Brooklyn, the building features a champagne-colored façade of anodized aluminum, with bends and angles in the metal that resemble the iconic fire escapes of the neighboring buildings. Starting at the fifth floor, the building begins to twist in shape slightly westward, allowing for dramatic views, natural light and maximum privacy.

The Lindley

Photo credit: Courtesy of The Lindley

The Lindley, a new 20-story, full-service condominium building designed inside and out by Rawlings Architects, best known for the boutique SIXTY LES Hotel, Greenwich Village’s 215 Sullivan and NoHo's upcoming 40 Bleecker, The Lindley's exterior is a timeless design with a facade comprised of varying shapes and shades of brick, giving the building both depth and texture.

The post NYC Buildings That Want To Be Judged By Their Covers appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

1. This Beautiful Victorian Abode

2. A Contemporary Home For The Modern Baker

3. This Modern Build With A Holiday Glow

4. A Falling Water Homage That Looks Good Enough To Eat

5. A warm home for when you're feeling blue.

6. This Eames Interior Styled Home With Big Picture Windows

7. A New York Brownstone Worth Getting A Cab To

8. A Colorful Pop To Mid Century Modern Design

The post The Best Gingerbread Houses For Design Fans appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

1. A Spanish Style With Cliffside Views

2. A White House That's Full Of Happy Things Only

3. Big Modern Vibes For Small Little Guys

4. A Country Home To Relax In

5. Classic Looks For A Classic Breed

6. A Castle For The Real King Of The House

7. Bold Colors For A Ornate Old Home

8. Clean, Simple Lines For The Modernist Pooch

9. A Simple Home With A Beautiful Rooftop Deck

10. Modern Angles For An Artistic Hound On The Go

11. Spanish Stylings With A Fenced In Finish

The post 11 Dog Houses To Give Man’s Best Friend The Best appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

At its origin, the home has appreciated in value immensely. The piece was originally designed for Mr. and Mrs. Marquette, who commissioned May early in his career to design it for only $125,000. After recent renovations, the Y-shaped home boasts 7 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms over 9454 square feet. The space also offers expansive views to both the mountains and ocean in either direction as well as a citrus orchard, massive pool, sports court, and six-car garage. The house is being listed by Coldwell Banker’s Jill Reeder and is located at 881 San Ysidro Lane in Montecito, a small trip from Los Angeles, where May would commute from via plane to oversee the construction of the space at its beginning.

The post This Cliff May Home Is On The Market (But Not For Long) appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Today, we’re lucky enough to have travel options specified for us, that what we want is available at the click of a mouse. PlansMatter, the new vacation home rental tailored for those interested in modern architecture homes, does just that. For the design junkie, modern aficionado, or cool-home enthusiast, PlansMatter is tailoring the search for your perfect vacation home with your interests in mind. The site works on a simlar model as Airbnb, with each rental being a normal home that is rented for a standard period of time, and paid for through the site. Each listing comes with a description of the home and a series of images taken by the renters.

Founded by two architecture school classmates, Connie Lindor and Scott Muellner, PlansMatter is a service to reserve and rent vacation homes that are specifically architectural marvels, built by some of the most famous and noted architects in history. While certain listings on the site are exclusive to PlansMatter, the site also works as an aggregate of similar sites like Airbnb to find beautifully designed homes for any location. Here are some of our favorites:

1. This Frank Lloyd Wright designed home in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

2. This ocean-elevated beauty in Australia

3. This traditional Japanese House

4. This schoolhouse-gone-sheep-sanctuary in Canada

5. This cold-weather favorite, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright himself

6. This modern villa built into the hillside in Switzerland

The post PlansMatter Is Airbnb For Modern Architecture appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Clocking in just shy of $30,000,000, this contemporary home boasts 5 bedrooms, six bathrooms over 11,000 square feet. The property is making waves though in traditional LA home in the area for its unique, indoor/outdoor design, created by Joseph Ferrugio. A series of pocket doors are hidden away and can be revealed for any shifts in the weather. Panoramic views cover all the way across Los Angeles, past Downtown, and even to the ocean. The home also features a pool, floating walnut stairs, beautiful counter surfaces, a putting green, and theater. Secret agent level security systems also protect the house, with fingerprint access to the front gates and quartz walkway to the front door. Getting around the house is also easy, thanks to an elevator with a resin chamber.

For those entertaining, the space also features a bar directly under the swimming pool, that has a viewing glass window to show the people swimming above, as well as a walk in wine cellar, and living green walls to add a flare of color to the space. Listings agents for the property are Mauricio Umansky, Jon Grauman and Brendan Fitzpatrick of The Agency, along with Sally Forster Jones and Lisa Sockolov of John Aaroe Group.

The post This LA Home Has More Amenities Than You Can Think Of! appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Supported by Shiva Ltd. and the Architecture Foundation, the competition is based in the tiny houses trend, and applying it to practical uses to find a way to add beauty to them by rethinking how we live in cities. They were also encouraged to base their designs in sustainability and using recycled materials. Each design is meant to be built in a 430 square foot area, and be easy to assemble and disassemble.

PUP Architects and engineers from AKTii, along with several builders and volunteers, created this year’s winning design. The structure is built to replicate an HVAC air duct. In London, it is legal to install mechanical rooftop equipment like these air ducts without getting approval from building permits. The design is meant to call into question this principle, suggesting that these types of structures are plausible to build across the city. The design was selected from over 128 proposals, and will remain on display in London for two years as an installation.

“While permitted development exists for large scale infrastructural roof installations, little challenge has been made for other viable and productive uses for rooftops,’ PUP architects told DesignBoom. “By subverting the form of the permitted and giving it a non-standard use, we hope to bring into question this order of priorities. We envisage this pavilion as a prototype for the guerilla habitation of London’s roofspace producing a landscape of rooftop structures akin to New York’s famous water towers.”

In an era not only where things are becoming more cramped, but that “tiny living” has evolved to not excluding luxe living, the architects, builders, and designers working on these models today could become the next big trend to sweep though densely populated American cities, giving residents an artistic boost and possible rent relief.

Via: DesignBoom

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