What could have easily been a gut renovation, became instead a thoughtful plan to update and personalize the interiors while respecting the existing 1950s-era architecture of a 2,000 square-foot home in the prestigious North Bay Road neighborhood. "The bones were quite workable," says Luciana Fragali, the architect and designer who leads the team at Design Solutions Miami. Retaining the integrity of the structure also meant preserving the original wood beam ceiling over the dining room. "It's part of the '50s vernacular of Miami, now a part of history," Fragali says. To maximize the aesthetic but still achieve their design goals, they left walled-in private courtyards on the exterior, but removed the pebbled covered flooring and overgrown vegetation with a wooden desk and Kettal outdoor furnishings. "We wanted to emphasize more tropical modernism, less mid-century," she adds with a laugh.

Fragali, who has clients all over the world, grew up in Brazil, a country known for its rich interior design influence. She is known for creating homes with functional beauty. "We do not only deal with logistics, but also create space for each client's own life. How they work and entertain - we love to get into their worlds. It's what drives our aesthetic."

These clients realized they needed more space for their children and grandchildren. So, in 2016 they bought the sprawling residence with an 8,000 square-foot lot after searching for three years. The wife, who was also born in Brazil, already knew Fragali. The leader of the DS Miami team had previously designed and oversaw the renovation of their daughter's Brickell apartment. "They're from a famous, renowned design firm and we knew them socially," the wife reveals when asked how she initially heard of Luciana Fragali. "Luciana had given us great advice during our daughter's project, so I trusted her implicitly."

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

With a masterful use of rich hues, luxurious furnishings and refined finishes, the interior came alive. The restored wooden beam ceiling adds drama and anchors the dining area, cresting intimacy in the immense space. The massive round, wood Taj dining table - a Luan Del Savio design - balances out the delicate leaves of light that grace the coronal silhouette of the Moooi Heracleum Small Big O LED Chandelier overhead. The client says guests love to linger long after dinner is over. Leather caramel-colored chairs by Marcelo Ligieri balance out the room.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

In the living room, Fragali had her heart set on cheerful vibes. "But I wanted to also have a sophisticated and relaxed feel," she adds. Life and color are brought into the space via the accessories, rug, Missoni pillows and a beautiful Palessandro marble slab used for the TV wall unit. A unique piece is the light blue Denny sofa by Anima Domus in pampas leather. It adds the perfect touch to the overall design.

Paying careful attention to the concept of indoor/outdoor living, Fragali designed rooms to draw the exterior inward and the eye outward. The flowing spaces - from the open-plan kitchen, to the sunroom, to the outdoor pergola - were adapted to suit a family. "Everything in the house, even though it is beautiful, is extremely comfortable and durable for the family. They didn't want to worry about fragile fabric," says Fragali.

When it was time to renovate the outdoor area, the dated kidney bean-shaped pool, former BBQ area and scalloped awning were demolished. Fragali redesigned the pool, patio and landscaping. The pool deck, bright with Kettal outdoor furniture, has multiple areas for the family and the children's friends to hang out, sun bathe or read. The additional space helped the family through COVID-19 lockdowns, remote schooling and zoom calls.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

"When you have a long relationship with your client (we've been friends over 10 years), it makes the job easy and comfortable," Fragali reveals. "This is the result of a great relationship with a client and friend."

The post Luciana Fragali Introduces Tropical Modernism to North Bay Road appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

On November 13, ABIMÓVEL (The Brazilian Furniture Manufacturers Association) and ApexBrazil (The Brazilian Trade and Investments Promotion Agency) hosted an intimate cocktail party in SOHO for their exhibition Espaço Brazil. The companies represent the Brazilian Furniture Image Project to display Brazilian designers in SOHO and trade show ICFF with the goal of introducing them to the global market.

Espaço Brazil hosted 20 Brazilian companies and designers and displayed over 40 pieces. Brazilian raw materials, techniques, and sustainability concepts were on display, representing the best of what the country has to offer in terms of contemporary furniture. In addition to the exhibition, Espaço Brasil will also stage a Trade Mission between Brazilian companies and US buyers as the United States is the main importer of Brazilian furniture in the world, receiving around 35% of national exports in the sector.

The cocktail party also featured traditional Brazilian food and drinks. Guests sipped caipirinhas and enjoyed pão de queijo while given the chance to mix and mingle with the best of Brazilian design. The Consul-General of Brazil in New York, Ambassador Maria Nazareth Farani Azevedo also spoke to guests about the mission and excitement behind Espaço Brazil. The exhibition ran from November 11th to 14th followed by a booth at ICFF from November 14th to 15th.

The International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) is North America’s leading platform for contemporary furnishing design. ABIMÓVEL hosted a booth at the fair that showcased the best of Brazilian design and furniture. Amongst the participating Brazilian Furniture partner companies, Ornare, Tidelli, and Uultis will exhibit this year at ICFF. These three brands also exhibited during the recent Salone del Mobile in Milano, and attracted the attention of the media and international buyers due to the originality of the design and sustainabie qualities.

This is only the beginning of Brazilian design in North America. Thanks to ABIMÓVEL and the Brazilian Furniture Image Project, partnerships across the continent will be sure to blossom.

The post Espaço Brazil: The Best Of Brazilian Furniture Design appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Regarded for their relevant and skillful approach to design, 2id Interiors in Miami is an award-winning leading interior design firm that provides in-depth service to clients who are amongst today's well-known names in professional industries and entertainment spanning across South Florida, the U.S., and around the world with projects in Canada, Europe, and Brazil.

Founders and Creative Directors Laila Colvin and Rafaela Simoes recently completed this stunning private residential project in Miami Beach. While this project initially presented challenges such as integrating eye-catching accessories and furniture into the spaces, Laila and Rafaela were up for the task and the Brazilian duo was confident the work that would go into this 6,000 sq. ft. tropical modern home would be well worth it.

With the mentality that a home reflects who its owner is, 2id Interiors knew this house could not be average, by any means. With that in mind, the 2id team made the home unique, unparalleled, vibrant, and filled it with eclectic art and bold patterns.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

Because they we aware they would be designing a home that was made for entertaining guests and hosting plenty of gatherings, Rafaela and Laila made sure that each space feels inviting to all. The 2id Interiors designers carefully selected materials and furniture that not only would flow well from room to room, but would also highlight the client's art collection.

The entry to a home should always make a statement and the 2id duo made sure that this home would certainly follow this edict. The welcoming foyer vignette leads guests into a close-to-nature dining room, which immediately catches your attention. True to their Brazilian heritage, Rafaela and Laila love bringing the outdoors in, whenever they get the chance.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

The bedroom is proof that Laila and Rafaela were not afraid to go big. "We had the pleasure of designing this very sleek and modern bedroom for our very cool client, " Rafaela said. "We were able to design a contemporary and edgy masculine bedroom." Laila added, "The powder room is also powerful and the kitchen turned out to be a stunning space for cooking, entertaining and eating."

Typically, a dark setting is not the first theme that would come to mind when designing a kitchen. The traditional or stereotypical assumptions are of white and bright-colored kitchens. However, 2id Interiors considered, "What if your kitchen broke the mold?" Here, shades of black and green add what white kitchens cannot - a seductive style that is both memorable and sophisticated.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

It seems the 2id design team checked all the boxes in this project because after wrapping up this Miami Beach home, they have already gotten to work on a second project for this client.

If you wish to look into contacting 2id Interiors or learning more about their interior design work, CLICK HERE.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

The post 2id Interiors Bring Lush Tropical Miami Beach Vibes Indoors appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

With each turn in this ocean front condo in Oceana, Key Biscayne, views of ocean and blue sky change, mix and match as they would with the twist of a kaleidoscope. However, here, the lens comes in the form of oversized windows and sliders that frame the beautiful natural setting.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

Credit for the design throughout the home goes to Luciana Fragali, CEO and Owner of Design Solutions. Her assignment to create a comfortable home for a Brazilian newcomer and her two children was a breeze, so to speak, thanks to a lot of group thinking, which included the homeowners.

In just one year, Fragali and the team at Design Solutions were able to complete the design, renovation and staging of two individual units into one contemporary dream home, which adds up to a total of 6,000 sq ft. After all, this residence is comprised of two combined penthouse units.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The client was introduced to Fragali through mutual friends. The design took off from there.

"There are amazing beach homes in Brazil and she wanted to have a home here that would feel the same way - a house that would be contemporary, cozy and not pretentious," said Fragali. "It needed to be a place her kids could play with friends without worry, and still be an appropriate setting for entertaining."

This certainly implies a fine line design-wise, but by all accounts, Fragali and the Design Solutions team nailed it.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

At first, the client just wanted to combine both penthouse units, keep the same structure and incorporate some millwork.

"The she got more and more excited about the home and wanted to do more and more," said Fragali.

Although the remodel was dramatic, it was well well-planned. Various floor plans were produced by Fragali, who has a background in architecture. After plenty of communication and several meetings with the clients, a singular vision was agreed upon and all worked out to lay out the final plan. From the very beginning, the client realized she was part of the team.

According to Fragali, “She went to the site every day and purchased the specified materials. This was the smoothest project I’ve worked on. Whenever there was an issue, we sat down together and solved it.”

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

New rooms include a grandiose foyer, the maid’s quarters, a playroom and family room, a spa-inspired master bath, a spacious and functional master closet, as well as a brand new chef’s kitchen by MiaCucina. For furnishings, Fragali focused on durable materials in a neutral color palette. She chose mystery white marble flooring with oversize tiles for living areas, white oak for the bedroom and closet floors and porcelain tiles for the bathrooms.

The idea was to create cozy spaces by furnishing layouts and introducing color and patterns in pillows, art and decorative accessories. Fragali also designed a custom-made, stunningly elaborate wooden pivot entry door, as well as built-ins, including the dining room buffet, family room television wall and a dramatic bronze mirrored with LED lighting wall niche behind the living room.

“There are hidden LEDs on top of the niche. So at night, when the lights are on, it washes over the bronze mirror and illuminates it.”

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

In the kitchen, sleek new cabinetry gives off an ultra-contemporary vibe and adds visual interest. Today, luxury homes are only as valuable as the kitchens found within. Fragali opted for a calcatta gold marble countertops with a matching slabbed ranged hood, Subzero and Wolf appliances, matte lacquer Bianco Ghiaccio finishes, and Castagno wood for the breakfast top and cover system.

With minimal orientation and flat surfaces, the style is intentionally non-traditional. "This is the future of design," said Fragali.

By the end of the project, these two separate units became one single bright and easy-to-live-in space that lives up to those dreamy kaleidoscopic views.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

To learn more about Luciana Fragali's work and book the Design Solutions team for an upcoming project, CLICK HERE.

The post Design Solutions Presents Contemporary Living In Miami appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Rafaela Simoes & Laila Colvin

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

Founders and Creative Directors Rafaela Simoes and Laila Colvin have established Miami’s premiere luxury interior design company, 2id Interiors. Regarded for their relevant and skillful approach to design, 2id Interiors in Miami is an award-winning leading interior design firm servicing clients which are among today's well-known names in professional industries and entertainment, spanning across South Florida, the U.S., and around the world with projects in Canada, Europe, and Brazil.

The dynamic duo behind 2id Interiors sat down with Haute Design and spoke about an eclectic array of topics which covered subjects from collaboration in design to what inspires their work.

Haute Design: Both of you are from Brazil. Do you think part of the Brazilian culture or design criteria carries over into your work?

Rafaela Simoes: Yes. I think the use of wood and organic, essential materials are always present in our design and I think that really comes from the Brazilian style of design. The desire to use natural and organic textures, I think, is very Brazilian and we always apply that into our work.

But because we also cater to so many cultures here in Miami, not just the Brazilians, I think we have learned how to be very diverse. For example, we have Russian clients who like a bit more 'bling-bling,' Brazilian clients who are more 'Earth-y,' and love the use of wood, but then we also have German clients, who have a totally different taste.

We have so many different clients and you can see that in our portfolio because it's so eclectic. We don't only follow one trend or one style. We cater to different cultures, different clients, with different backgrounds, and I think that is definitely reflected throughout our portfolio.

HD: We would agree! You mentioned the use of natural elements within your design. Have you noticed a shift with clients in regard to requesting more environmentally-conscious materials and design principles?

RS: Yes, I think so. Not specifically ecologically conscious material, but definitely more design aspects geared toward nature, more blues and greens. We are doing a lot of green walls on the exteriors of homes, so I do feel that people want the outdoors reflected inside their homes a little bit more. That said, I wouldn't go as far as saying it would be ecologically-friendly thinking.

We do have clients who really want to go in an environmentally-conscious direction and make sure the materials are responsible, but that's rare. That does not happen much.

Rafaela Simoes

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

HD: That's interesting. Switching gears a bit, considering all the time most of us have spent indoors over the past year or more, do you think clients have reconsidered how much they value their interior living spaces and home design?

RS: We definitely felt that at the beginning of COVID. We were a little bit worried about what was going to happen, as everyone was. So, everyone was remaining indoors and trying to contact us for potential projects and we couldn't do construction. But clients were ready to improve their homes right away.

From the beginning of lockdown, clients wanted to change furniture or change the layout of their homes that we had recently worked on and make things more comfortable. The first thing we did, before lockdown was over - we were already sending proposals to existing clients and new clients . It seemed everyone was desperate to improve their homes because it was a new way of life. No one had ever stayed home for this long so it was an interesting shift in the way people lived.

Everyone wants a comfortable home and they always have. But now, this idea of a comfortable home is really at the top of the list for requests. The requests have definitely shifted toward a more cozy and inviting home because people are working from home, the kids are studying from home, so comfort is key.

HD: To that point, something that has been rightfully addressed often throughout the year has been mental health. Have you noticed this awareness of mental health affect the clients' requests?

RS: I totally think so. But with us, we always thought about that when we started in this business; using materials we love, natural materials, bringing nature inside, including wood and raw materials inside the home, which does not happen in Miami often.

I think the Miami style is very shiny and cold and not very home-y. It's glossed whites and a pearly kind of style. Which, in my opinion, is not the most mentally healthy because it's so cold rather than warm and cozy like one should want their home to be. We are always designing with that in mind. We totally think that the house can be chic and elegant but still include some nature in the home.

We want the home to be beautiful but still feel cozy and warm and I totally connect that to mental health. I think that having a home that is not so cold and stark is very important for mental health.

Laila Colvin

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

HD: If we had to ask you to name three main principles throughout your design, what would those be?

Laila Colvin: I think our main principle is definitely to design for the client. As Rafaela mentioned, we have clients from all over the world and our portfolio is so eclectic because of that. I don't think we have a specific style. We do have some things that are always present, but we really try to embrace the client's dream home.

We really try to follow their vision and try to put that together for the client. If the style is more traditional, we will keep things more traditional for that project. If the taste is very modern and contemporary, we embrace that. So, whatever dream the client brings to us, we try to really embrace that.

We are not designers that say, 'you know what, that's not my style, go find someone else.' We really love having been able to work on such a variety of projects because that is an asset when trying to satisfy the clients to create their home, not our home.

HL: So, would you say in this case the client can be regarded as a secret weapon within your design team?

LC: Yes, that would be a fun way to say it, yeah. We definitely listen to them. There are a lot of exchanges between us and the client so that we have a better understanding of their desires. I do not understand how other designers can have a style that is so specific. You know, some designers have a style that once you see the work, you know it's them right away.

I don't know how they do it! Because they either need the client to totally buy into their personal vision so the client agrees to everything they recommend, or they say no to a lot of clients. We cannot do that. We actually love the difference between our projects and clients.

If you would like to learn more about 2id Interiors, CLICK HERE to visit their website.

The post 2id Interiors’ Rafaela Simoes and Laila Colvin Talk To Haute Design About Their Design Philosophy 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.

The event will be covered extensively by Fox Business Network and Anchor of FBN:AM, Cheryl Casone, who is taking her New York film crew to Miami's sandy beaches to interview some of the real estate industry's biggest names at the Summit.

The "Titans of Miami" panelists will start this year's Summit at one of the grandest residential locations in all of South Florida, where they will speak of the luxury real estate market and where they see it heading. Listen and learn from them by purchasing your ticket to the Summit HERE.

They are:

Gil Dezer, President, Dezer Development

Photo Credit: Dezer Development

An accomplished businessman and humanitarian, Gil Dezer is a visionary developer, and one of the largest oceanfront property owners in Sunny Isles Beach. Dezer and his father, Michael Dezer, own just over 27 acres of prime oceanfront property, arguably one of the largest holdings of beachfront property owned and developable in the state of Florida.

Dezer has been instrumental in changing the face and value of the South Florida residential real estate industry through the introduction of brand partnerships, connecting his developments with some of the world’s most recognized brand names.

In collaboration with real estate mogul and now-President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, Dezer led the Trump Organization’s first foray into the South Florida real estate market through the successful development of Trump Grande Ocean Resort and Residences and Trump Towers in Sunny Isles Beach.

Dezer Development received a $214 million construction loan from Wells Fargo in September 2013, at the time marking the largest loan for a single construction project in the Southeast in the post-recession era. The highly-anticipated Porsche Design Tower officially became a reality in the first quarter of 2017, marking the completion of the iconic tower.

Dezer leveraged this track record of success with marquee lifestyle brands to enter into an exclusive partnership with The Related Group and Armani/Casa Interior Design Studio to launch the world-renowned fashion and furnishings designer, Giorgio Armani’s, first residential tower in the U.S. real estate market, Residences by Armani/Casa. Designed by globally-acclaimed Argentine-born architect, César Pelli, the 56-story oceanfront tower features 308 luxurious residences and incomparable amenities spanning two floors, all exquisitely designed by Armani/Casa with rich textiles and custom furnishings.

Louis Birdman, Co-Developer, One Thousand Museum by Zaha Hadid Architects

Photo Credit: Louis Birdman Architect

For nearly three decades, real estate industry veteran Louis Birdman has taken a leadership role in the development of over 70 residential projects, comprising more than 18,000 residential units nationwide.

Mr. Birdman has a significant background in property acquisitions, dispositions, entitlements, financing, planning, design, construction, sales, and marketing. Mr. Birdman has been a principal investor and developer in numerous real estate development projects throughout Florida and nationwide, including Las Vegas, Arizona, Colorado, and Texas.

He is also the founder and principal of Louis Birdman Architect, an architectural consulting practice that provides consulting services to developers of real estate in both related and unrelated entities. He has been a registered architect licensed in Florida since 1989 and has held architectural licenses in multiple jurisdictions in the United States, including Chicago, New York, and Nevada.

Mr. Birdman is the co-Developer of One Thousand Museum Residences by Zaha Hadid Architects, a 62-story condominium tower in Miami with 84 half-floor and full-floor residences. One Thousand Museum just completed, ushering in a new era of luxury living in Miami.

Edgardo Defortuna, President, CEO and Founder, Fortune International Group

Photo Credit: Fortune International Group

Edgardo Defortuna is President, CEO and Founder of Fortune International Group, a Miami-based full-service real estate firm recognized throughout South Florida, Latin America and Europe as a leader in high-end luxury real estate. He oversees all of the company's activities across all of its business units.

Mr. Defortuna brings 30+ years of experience in the real estate industry and is considered a visionary and a driving force in South Florida real estate. Since its launch in 1983, Fortune International Group has been a preeminent leader in real estate sales, management, and development, successfully operating and building in South Florida’s best neighborhoods including Brickell, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, Aventura, and Sunny Isles Beach. Today, Fortune International Group maintains 18 offices worldwide with over 1000 agents. In addition, its portfolio of developments includes Jade Residences at Brickell Bay, Jade Beach, Jade Ocean, Auberge Beach Residences & Spa Fort Lauderdale, The Ritz-Carlton Sunny Isles Beach, and Jade Signature.

Fortune International Group is well-known around the world, with a strong presence in Latin America. The company has also penetrated the European and Asian markets at full speed, with a special focus on Spain, Britain, France, Turkey, and Russia. Through his company’s success, Mr. Defortuna is widely recognized for having made a significant contribution to the internationalization of Miami and its reputation as a global business, trade and vacation hub.

A pioneer in many areas, Mr. Defortuna can be credited for being of the first Miami developers to align with international “starchitects” to bring his vision to fruition. Fortune International Group has worked with the very best in the world including Herzog & De Meuron, Pierre Yves Rochon, Michele Bonan, Arquitectonica, Carlos Ott and others.

According to Mr. Defortuna, “the keys to successful residential real estate development include market knowledge, construction experience and access to plenty of capital. Equally important are ambition and reputation.”

Shahab S. Karmely, Founder, KAR Properties LLC

Photo Credit: KAR Properties LLC

With 35 years of international real estate experience, Shahab S. Karmely has honed an impressive pedigree in transactional, managerial, and developmental disciplines. These, combined with an extensive background in fine arts and design, are the foundational elements of his development expertise and overall vision. As the founder of KAR Properties LLC, and through KAR and/or its affiliates, Mr. Karmely has acquired, repositioned, and monetized over 3 million square feet of office, luxury mixed-use, and industrial space in the US, Southeast Asia, and Europe. With offices in New York and Miami, KAR currently oversees the management of a core portfolio of assets and a development pipeline in excess of 5 million square feet.

KAR has made a significant entry into the Miami market with acquisitions and investments in excess of $300 million in established and emerging neighborhoods. Mr.Karmely’s background as a developer/owner/manager gives him a unique perspective and invaluable insights in analyzing and implementing the appropriate strategies for a variety of asset classes. He champions innovative and inventive approaches in response to changing market conditions, trends, and new opportunities as is required in today’s dynamic and challenging real estate markets.

Marcelo Kingston, Managing Partner, Multiplan Real Estate Asset Management (REAM)

Photo Credit: Multiplan Real Estate Asset Management

Marcelo Kingston, Managing Partner of Multiplan Real Estate Asset Management (REAM), has more than 20 years of experience in the real estate development and financial sectors throughout the United States and Brazil.

Under Mr. Kingston’s oversight, Multiplan REAM--founded by José Isaac Peres, the internationally-recognized Brazilian developer, and owner of major residential and commercial real estate holdings--is currently developing 57 Ocean, a new, ultra-luxury wellness-inspired oceanfront condominium in Miami Beach. Designed by globally-acclaimed Miami-based firm Arquitectonica, the enclave will feature a limited collection of 81 residences in a one-of-a-kind, elegant and high-profile boutique residential building with luxury amenities.

Mr. Kingston is also the founder and former CEO of PatioMix Shopping Centers, a fully-integrated Brazilian mall company with development, construction, leasing and management capabilities. Active in the industry, as well as his surrounding community, he is a member of the ULI Florida Multifamily Product Council, the Key Biscayne Village Educational Advisory Board, and the Key Biscayne K-8 Educational Excellence School Advisory Council.

Mr. Kingston holds a BA in Finance from Louisiana State University, a Master of Design from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Daniel Kodsi, CEO, Royal Palm Companies

Photo Credit: Royal Palm Companies

Photo Credit: Optimum Development USA

Ricardo Tabet is the co-founder and CEO of Optimum Development USA LLC, a fully integrated real estate and development investment firm with offices in the U.S. and Europe. An accomplished professional with more than 22 years of experience in the real estate industry, Mr. Tabet is widely regarded as a highly respected business executive and successful residential and commercial developer.

Curating, creating and delivering unique, exclusive lifestyle and architecturally distinctive properties, Mr. Tabet specializes in developing ultra-luxury condominiums, high-end retail, strategically located lifestyle boutique hotels and “Class A” office buildings in prime locations throughout the world. Among the company’s most notable recent projects are The Celino Hotel in Miami Beach, a Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand; 160 Imlay in Brooklyn, a luxury residential condominium conversion that was formerly the New York Dock Co.; Labels Berlin 1 and 2 in Germany; and the Exchange Palace in Budapest, a mixed-use project being developed in one of the most renowned buildings in Europe that formerly housed the country’s stock exchange.

As a former senior executive of several large national and international investments firms, Mr. Tabet has been involved in more than $4 billion in real estate transaction deals and has led the acquisitions, repositions and development of major real estate assets in the Middle East, Europe, the United States, and South America. He has also acted as an exclusive representative and real estate investment advisor to many institutions, foreign investment banks, and family wealth management offices.

Mr. Tabet earned his bachelor’s degree in finance and hotel administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and his Master in Business Administration from Harvard Business School.

Eric Fordin, Vice President, The Related Group

Photo Credit: The Related Group

Eric Fordin is a Vice President at The Related Group. His commercial real estate experience spans more than 21 years, with specialization in the acquisition, entitlement, development, financing, sales, and marketing of multifamily and mixed use development projects. 

Since joining Related in 2004, Mr. Fordin has been involved in the development, from concept through construction completion, of over 2,000 units with a value in excess of $3 billion. These projects include the Residences by Armani Casa, Hyde Resort & Residences, Apogee Beach, Beachwalk Resort & Residences, Hyde Beach House, Loft and Loft 2.  

His oversight includes the negotiation of land acquisition and partnership agreements, development budget creation and project fiscal responsibility along with the overall management of the development process including overseeing the team of consultants including general contractors, architects, engineers and designers in the realization of The Related Group projects. 

After earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of South Florida, Mr. Fordin attended New York University where he completed real estate-related courses in project management, cash flow analysis, and construction essentials for owners and developers. 

Full Schedule of Events at Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit:

11:00am – 11:30am: Welcome and Registration

11:45am – 1:15pm: Titans of Miami – “East Coast Kings”

Masters of the Miami skyline sound off on where they see the luxury market heading and its evolution.

Developer Panelists: Gil Dezer, Louis Birdman, Dan Kodsi, Shahab Karmely, Marcelo Kingston, Edgardo Defortuna, Ricardo Tabet, Eric Fordin

1:15pm – 1:30pm: Jumbo Loan King

Eric Fessler, expert entrepreneur, has over 30 years of mortgage banking experience closing over $10 billion. Fessler discusses the procurement of jumbo loans in single-family homes along with warranty and non-warranty new condominium developments on a nationwide scale.

1:30pm – 2:30pm: Lunch – Residences by Armani/Casa

Network with the greatest minds of development and brokerage in the luxury real estate market.

2:45pm – 3:45pm: International Power Brokers Panel

Top broker/agents from key international real estate meccas such as Miami Beach, Los Angeles, New York City and Cayman Islands sound off on the latest in market conditions and development.

Panelists: Dolly Lenz and Jenny Lenz (NYC), Mary Ann Osborn (LA), Richard Steinberg (NYC), Cody Vichinsky (NYC) Olivia Hsu Decker (San Francisco) Jay Parker (Miami), Ben Bacal (Hollywood Hills), Michael Goldstein (Miami), Sue Nickason (Cayman Islands)

4:00pm – 5:00pm: Miami Power Brokers

Top South Florida brokers share their knowledge on the evolution and direction of the luxury market today.

Panelists: Jill Eber, Maria Eugenia Alvarez Vitale, Jeff Miller, Lourdes Alatriste, Steve Solomon, Crista Ryan, Sebastian Tettamanti, Christian Martinez

5:00pm: Summit Closing Remarks

The post Real Estate Developer Panelists At Haute Residence 2020 Luxury Miami Real Estate Summit appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: DBOX

These are but a handful of the jaw-dropping highlights that define Penthouse II at 57 Ocean, which has just sold for $10.9 million to New York resident Chuck Roberts.

Roberts, who is the Managing Director/Investment with Stifel, The CR Wealth Management Group, was represented by Dina Panchernikov and Ilya Panchernikov with Douglas Elliman.

For Roberts, the draw of 57 Ocean -- an internationally lauded haven on Miami Beach’s Millionaire’s Row, Greater Miami’s most elegant stretch of beachfront on Collins Avenue -- was undeniable, having already been singled-out by buyers worldwide for its Blue Health-oriented lifestyle and ocean-inspired amenities.

“I love this location and being able to live in a brand-new condominium on the Atlantic with so many amenities that are geared toward building a healthier lifestyle, including the calming effect of the ocean and daily strolls along the beach,” said Roberts. “This penthouse offers the best of both worlds as it’s going to have unobstructed views of the water on one side, and the city on the other. The neighborhood is also excellent. It’s more tranquil and family-friendly as it’s primarily comprised of residents versus tourists, yet I’m just a five-minute drive from South Beach.”

Photo Credit: DBOX

“I am honored to represent such a significant sale in one of Miami’s most high-profile addresses,” said Dina Goldentayer Panchernikov. “We know our client will be very happy to call 57 Ocean home.”

Overlooking 220 feet of rare unspoiled waterfront, Penthouse II boasts 5,205 square feet of indoor space and 2,141 square feet of outdoor terraces. The gorgeously appointed residence will feature a grand master bedroom with a unique outdoor spa area overlooking the Atlantic, three en suite bedrooms, five-and-a-half-baths baths, a den, home theater, outdoor summer kitchen, spacious living areas, and a gourmet chef-style kitchen.

Located at 5775 Collins Avenue, between Atlantic Heights and Mid-Beach -- and fashioned by the international award-winning firm Arquitectonica -- 57 Ocean enjoys close proximity to Miami’s chic Bal Harbour Shops, the prestigious La Gorce Country Club and Golf Course, and privileged views across Miami’s most exclusive expanse of beachfront. Slated for completion in 2021, the 18-story, holistic wellness-focused property will equally embrace luxury and nature with its tropically-inspired interiors by Brazilian designer Patricia Anastassiadis. Seventy-one spacious homes will evoke a sense of timelessness and tranquility that only the turquoise waters of the Atlantic can provide.

Photo Credit: DBOX

“Health, wellness, beauty, vitality -- these are the hallmarks of a life well-lived for the world's most sophisticated and discerning real estate buyers -- and nothing embraces these qualities better than well-designed homes nestled along the water,” said Marcelo Kingston, Managing Partner of Multiplan Real Asset Management, developer of 57 Ocean. “We are pleased that this buyer will soon enjoy an enclave of sophisticated families who appreciate the many benefits of living by the sea.” 

Contact: 305.417.7679; Sales gallery: 5775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; www.57ocean.com

The post Stunning Seaside Retreat: Penthouse II At 57 Ocean Sells to New York Buyer appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

TUJU Chef Set by Jahara Studio Photo Credit: Jahara Studio

A focus on natural and sustainable materials can be found at the forefront of contemporary luxury Brazilian design. Product designer Bruno Jahara has spent nearly a decade creating accessories and furniture that is not only aesthetically pleasing but represents his native, Brazilian roots. “Using natural materials like wood, wicker, straw, and clay is a large part of the Brazilian identity. We will always be recognized for our cultural traditions and Mid-Century design history but we are now wanting to diversify by adding twists on the classics to create luxurious pieces that last for generations.” Scroll through for some of the best of Brazilian design.

Stacks Collection by Jahara Studio

The collection of copper trays and bowls were inspired by geometric simplicity and overall functionality. Most pieces are equipped with handles to elicit a sense of ease when serving.

Photo Credit: Jahara Studio

Gargalos Collection by Jahara Studio

This verdant collection of glass tabletop accessories was made from recycled bottles and can be used and vases, decanters, or candle holders.

Photo Credit: Jahara Studio

Paleae Brasilis Collection by Jahara Studio

Inspired by the tropics, the collection of straw accessories where created using traditional weaving techniques and designed with the contemporary consumer in mind.

Photo Credit: Jahara Studio

Porcelain Box with Wooden Lid by Elizabeth Fonseca

A mix of natural wood and marine blue porcelain represent natural elements found in Brazil.

Photo Credit: Gilberto Ramos Paim

Under construction Sofa by Ovoo

Inspired by contemporary Brazilian architecture, the plush velvet Underconstruction sofa is as functional as it is a statement-making art piece.
Photo Credit: “A Lot Of “ marketing department.

Banco Nau Table by Guilherme Sass

This take on a traditional dining table has architectural lines and was created with 693-year-old Brazilian wood.

Photo Credit: courtesy of Guilherme Sass

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