Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The design of your home is essential for improving and maintaining your mental health and productivity. 

With the Coronavirus pandemic affecting people all over the world, quarantine and stay at homes orders were a major concern. The feeling of being outdoors with nature, and having human interaction in larger social settings was truly missed. Quarantine made people realize what interior designers have known to be true for a long time: The importance of being inside an environment that makes you feel good. 

We have all experienced heading home from work after a stressful day and finally getting to the comfort of our living room. Encountering a cluttered kitchen, an office full of files and laptops, or decoration that you cannot stand to look at anymore does not contribute to relaxation. 

The pandemic lifestyle required people to rethink the spaces in their homes, when more than ever a functional space to work or study at was necessary. Organization is often looked over when it comes to interior design. The truth is that the organization of your space is just as important as the looks, and they often come hand in hand. An organized space plays a great role in your mood, productivity, and well-being. Designing a space that allows you to functionally maintain the space organized is essential. 

Lighting and colors can also have an impact on your mental health and productivity. 

The right palette choice is individual to every person’s taste. However, it is important to choose colors that resemble peace and calm, and that you will not get tired of it over time. The psychology of colors is very effective and should be followed for optimal relaxation results. If you want to have a space that transmits a sense of peace and simplicity, then a blue and white color palette is your go-to. 

Having the right amount of windows in a room is also a must. It is proven that sunlight can reduce depression and increase productivity levels. More natural light in a room can boost your mood and happiness, while a dark room can trigger sadness and anxiety. 

It is important to think strategically about how space is used every day and how you want the space to feel. If you have kids and pets, it is worth investing in furniture that can handle frequent wear and tear. If you have a big family, having a big couch and seating spaces for every family member can avoid stressful situations. 

After taking care of organization, the next step is to choose objects and pieces for the design that makes you feel good, and that really connects to you every time you look at it. 

When so much in our life is out of control, our home is a place we have total authority over. Our homes should be our sanctuaries and happy places. Investing in a design that makes you feel good is crucial for your well-being. 

The post How Interior Design Can Improve Your Mental Health And Productivity appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Haute Living's Seth Semilof introduced Cheryl Casone, who joined FOX Business Network (FBN) as an anchor in September 2007 and currently serves as the co-anchor of FBN:AM, which airs weekdays at 5 AM/EST. Casone is also a financial contributor on FOX News Channel (FNC) where she provides economic reports. Casone served as the host of the dynamic dialogue that included questions submitted by viewers. 

Semilof continued by welcoming the panelists for today's webinar:

• Louis Birdman, co-developer of One Thousand Museum by Zaha Hadid Architects. As Principal at BRD/Birdman Real Estate Development, has overseen the development of more than 18,000 residential units and 1,000 hotel keys valued at more than $5 billion.
• Edgardo Defortuna, Founder and CEO of Fortune International Group, who brings over 30 of experience in the real estate industry; a visionary and driving force in South Florida’s landscape.
• Jules Trump, developer of The Estates at Acqualina, the $1.8 billion ultra-luxury development in Sunny Isles Beach, FL.
• Michael Stern, Founder & CEO of JDS Development, an innovative real estate development, construction, and acquisition firm responsible for the creation of numerous residential, hospitality, and mixed-use projects in New York City and Miami.

Watch the full video below

Casone took over and engaged the panelists in an hour-long conversation that encompassed multiple real estate markets. They gave their thoughts on the best ways for real estate agents, brokers, developers, and the industry overall to deal with the effect that COVID-19 has had on business and the rest of the year.

"There have been many changes in the way we are all doing business," said Birdman. "Real estate is a face-to-face business, but that has changed with this outbreak. People still need to move, have leases coming up and other circumstances, so properties continue to get shown in different ways to ensure the safety of sellers, buyers and people working at properties."

Stern spoke on New York's state of real estate affairs since the Big Apple became the center of the Coronavirus pandemic in the US. "For New York, we closed our office three and a half weeks ago, completely working remotely except for construction," he said. Then, he continued to compare his company's activity in South Florida with New York. "In Miami, we have not seen much of a drop in manpower in construction. For the most part, we are doing construction in Florida and largely stopped in New York."

The construction of The Estates at Acqualina has continued while adapting to today's standards of social distancing and higher use of technology for marketing. "We are able to continue with the construction, but taking care of our workers," said Trump. He continued, "We are making great use of technology to share communications to tell the story of The Estates at Acqualina. We are in constant communication with our customers today, even more so than prior."

Casone asked Defortuna about the quick learning curve for the entire industry on how to conduct business from a distance. "Especially on the luxury side of the market, nobody needs to buy a second or third home," he said. "They buy it because they love it. From the marketing point of view, we have specialized in marketing to the entire world, providing tools to brokers to promote our projects in Latin America, Europe, and worldwide. Presentations of this type are happening all over the world. My brokers are saying they are busier now than before when they were doing presentations one-on-one."

Today's webinar followed on yesterday's session that featured Daniel de la Vega, President of ONE Sotheby's International Realty.

Top left: Edgardo Defortuna; top right: Jules Trump; bottom left Louis Birdman; bottom right, Michael Stern; center: Cheryl Casone

The post Watch: Louis Birdman, Edgardo Defortuna, Jules Trump And Michael Stern Join Haute Residence For Live Webinar appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

With that in mind, members of the exclusive Haute Design Network gave us a look at some of their home office design projects, detailing them in their own words.

Angus|McCaffrey

Photo Credit: R. Brad Knipstein

Alice McCaffrey, Angus|McCaffrey Interior Design: In this custom built home for a family of five, the art is the hero and the launchpad for many of the rooms. Enter into this sophisticated man’s study and one can’t help but be struck immediately by the strength of Ellsworth Kelly’s Dark Green Panel. The print takes center stage amidst custom built-in cabinetry punctuated by linear polished nickel hardware and accents. The man’s study balances dark handsome walls with glints of polished nickel and chrome. The green of the Ellsworth Kelly piece is echoed once again by the green Edelman Leather seen on the vintage barrel chairs by Coup D’Etat. The glass and steel desk by Ralph Lauren home seems to float effortlessly over a geometric rug by Stark Carpet. On the desk, the vintage bronze sculpture by Claude Lalanne adds a wonderful contrast to the linear theme with its warm tones and organic figurative form adding another artful punctuation to the room.

B+G Design

Photo Credit: Barry Grossman

Giselle Loor-Sugerman, B+G Design: Throughout times like these we truly begin to realize the importance of a multifunctional space. This particular space was designed for a client with the intention of providing a home office feel along with all of the perks that come with an entertainment area. We incorporated a segmented home office that has open access to billiards, state of the art media system, and beyond. Another piece we find vital is a pop of color, especially with a room that has a neutral color palette. We like to incorporate fresh and unique artwork to bring the space to life. During a pandemic, it is essential to have a comforting space that doubles as an effective workspace.

Cari Giannoulias

Photo Credit: Eric Hausman

Cari Giannoulias, Cari Giannoulias Design: This home office was created for an advertising executive to compose some very memorable campaigns while pursuing his other passion for music. We thoughtfully gave this room a monochromatic canvas to house his collection of pedigreed and unattributed vintage guitars. The custom-designed walnut desk and credenza were finished in the same color as the floors for a tone on tone presentation. Although sleek in appearance, both pieces are highly functional housing a computer, printer, files and cords. Adorning and completing the room is a collection of personal memorabilia and family photos for that final personal touch.

Goddard Design Group

Photo Credit: Rett Peek

Chris Goddard, Goddard Design Group: This home office was designed as a workspace, but also an area where my clients could escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives.  I chose a rich, deep color palette paired with custom lime-washed and cerused oak paneling to create a cozy English vibe. The room is adorned with a trove of antiques, most notably the partner's desk, huntsman-styled inkwell, double-horned candelabra, brass bar cart, and vintage decanters and trophies. An original work by Chloe Early, painted on aluminum, was placed over the sofa to give the room a flair for the modern.

Designs By Human

Photo Credit: Colby Edwards

Joe Human, Designs By Human: We created this home office for our client to be a space to get work done, but also double as a space he would feel comfortable relaxing in and playing a game or two when taking a break. I wanted to frame the view of the city and incorporate several masculine materials, one of which is a leather wall with hand-stitched details. The desk itself is a granite that I specifically sourced out to be "soft" to the touch but also durable when it comes to ink and pencil writing. I had the desk "floating" off of the wall to allow for maximum flexibility below, whether that is adding multiple file drawers, printers or just leaving it open for future needs. We custom-designed the desk along with shelving above to house the various collectibles our client has. It was important to have a mixture of decorative displays to keep the space stylish but also fun and not so corporate office. After all, it is a home office and you want to be comfortable at all times in the space.

McKinlay Rose Interiors

Photo Credit: Greg Dean, Real Pro Media

McKinlay Rose Interiors: This elegant home office is carefully designed as both a calming retreat and serene workspace. Custom built-in shelves and cabinets include a maple wall unit designed by McKinlay Rose Interiors and built by a local woodworker. The unique hand-painted glass tile backsplash adds depth and character to the back wall. Upholstered furnishings are draped with high-end textile tone on tone fabrics. The neutral shades and the purity of white opulent walls have created a striking contrast with the hand-scraped walnut wood floor. Aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, this elegant home office serves this family well.

Ovadia Design Group

Photo Credit: Ovadia Design Group

Jack Ovadia, Ovadia Design Group: This room was designed for the intellectual man. The lush sophisticated wood walls play as a backdrop to the room with built-in bookcases. The silk and wool carpet provides the space with a warm and cozy feel. The desk was custom designed with a mix of Macassar ebony wood and fantasy grey marble. The furniture was selected and orchestrated to be a sitting area, for intimate meetings, or just to hang out and relax.

Oh Beauty Interiors

Photo Credit: Evan Schneider, Schneider Visuals

Gabrielle Aker, Oh Beauty Interiors: When designing home offices, we put our clients' intent at the forefront of the design process. Are they looking for an inspiring space, a calm oasis, a productive den, or a creativity-sparking haven? In this home office, located in Downtown LA, we wanted to create a space that sparked creativity, brought nature in, and honored the industrial architecture of the warehouse in which it resides. We created a wall sculpture using sand-blasted driftwood branches and pampas grass to transform an otherwise modern chandelier, making sure the space felt raw and organic.

Lindsay Chambers

Photo Credit: Roger Davies

Lindsay Chambers: This home office was created for a young tech couple who wanted a fun, industrial, retro feel. The campaign desk is from NY, and the light fixture is made out of reclaimed rulers. The artwork is by Kelly Reemsten.

Sire Design

Photo Credit: Kris Tamburillo

Eilyn Cueto, Sire Design: Sometimes our workspace doesn't have to look like an office - and that was the goal of our clients. They wanted an area where they could work but would look like an addition to the living room without having a formal desk and chairs. We included their love for color, art, and unique style while providing a work-space that kept the aesthetics of the room intact.

Sandra Oster Interiors

Photo Credit: Phillip Ennis

Sandra Oster, Sandra Oster Interiors: There are limitless décor options when integrating a workspace in your home. Choose furniture, workspace accessories, artwork, and lighting suitable for feeling comfortable, but still focused and energized. Select paint colors that call to mind vibrancy, such as buttercream or mimosa. The first time you encounter your home office each day, you should have a positive feeling. After all, who says work isn’t fun!

Ocean 4, Sunny Isles beach, Luxury Interiors

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Natalia Neverko Design

Natalia Neverko, Natalia Neverko Design: By using light pastel greens to complement the ample natural light, incorporating splashes of natural flowers and plants, and carefully selecting complementary artworks we tied the vision together with natural elegance. All of our design choices for this space were thematically in line with our “ Green Field “ vision. From the Italian crafted chandelier by Flo which maintains our floral theme, whilst still providing ample illumination required for a professional home workspace. Natural light birch wood paneling was used to create a natural symbiotic relationship with our overall aesthetic and tonality. Our choice to use trendy built-in cabinetry with drawers can accommodate lots of office supplies. The Home Office desk was designed with enough space provided for several computer stations and a printer comfortably. The swivel office chair allows for fluidity of motion throughout the space. 

To contact a member of the exclusive Haute Design Network for your next home, office or space design, email chancey@hauteliving.com

The post Design Your Home Office Like The Experts Do It appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.