Editor’s Note: Introducing one of our newest Haute Design members: Michael Miller of Centaur Interiors! Michael founded Centaur Interiors in 2010 as a firm specializing in turnkey solutions for high-end residential renovations. Based in Chicago, IL, Michael created a collaborative environment and network of industry experts including craftsmen, licensed tradesmen, architects, designers, and project managers, working in harmony to produce superior results. Centaur Interiors is redefining the art of building with their services including development, consulting, design-build, construction management, general contracting, interior architecture/design, furnishings, and art procurement.

Photo Credit: Tony Soluri

What is your background and what made you want to pursue interior design? 

I have a background in mechanical design and engineering. I did take some architecture classes as well, but never a degree. From an early age I was always sketching out my dream home, and even remodeling my parent’s house and bedroom when I was 12, so I knew I had a passion for design/aesthetics. Everywhere I go I consume design, architecture, and engineering in stores, restaurants, hotels, etc. It’s almost a part of my DNA to evaluate the design, what I like, or how I feel I can make this better. I use this for inspiration on our projects. It’s a lifestyle and rooted deep inside.

Why did you start Centaur Interiors? 

I started CI as I found a large void in our industry for a single source conception to completion company. There was a standard architect-designer-GC model and it did not serve the client well. Nobody was ever on the same page and the client needed much more education to make informed decisions. At our firm, we are doing pricing within the design phase so the client is informed on the costs to make educated decisions. Within the last 5 years with my growing passion for art, we added an in-house gallery and also developed my digital art system Apollo which is launching in May. We are a true turnkey concept to completion firm specializing in high-end residential consulting + design + build + furnishings + artwork.

Photo Credit: Tony Soluri

What makes Centaur different than other Interior Design firms? 

Our process and relentless attention to detail. From the inception, we take our clients on a journey to understand their lifestyle and how they will interact with their homes. Through this, we understand their passions and style and can incorporate this within their designs. This process flows seamlessly into construction management and execution. Our team understands the focal points and the client’s priorities. We utilize technology to visually represent each aspect of the project for the client to make informed decisions. Within our design studios in Chicago & Dallas clients can see and experience several different finishes and details to learn what works well for them.

What is your mission as an interior designer? 

To be the best at what we do. Our team is extremely vital in providing a high level of passion to each and every project. We are constantly learning new finishes & techniques and also levering new technologies to keep our firm cutting edge. The goal is to listen to the client to understand their needs and developing a program within our process that works well for them.

Photo Credit: Tony Soluri

Why did you choose to base out of Chicago? 

I was born and raised in Chicago and have a large passion for the city. We reside in the Museum Park Campus and our office & showroom are located within the Gallery District in River North. Chicago has a long-standing history with high-end architecture and many of the most prestigious designers & architects have made a mark on this city. We look forward to building on this and leaving a legacy. Our commitment to our clients has taken us to multiple cities in the US including Dallas & South Florida where we have current projects underway.

What kind of projects are on the horizon for the firm? 

We perform a great deal of high-rise work and specialize in combining residences starting with an amazing space plan. Our boutique firm is growing and we look forward to taking on a more significant role in full concept to completion work. I feel clients are finding a great deal of value in this as we are able to assess and advise the clients throughout this process & journey. We are currently working on about 10 projects which are in the Gold Coast, River North, and Streeterville in Chicago, and a couple of projects in Miami, and one in Dallas. Anything that we can make an authentic stamp on for our clients. I could not be more excited about the launch of our digital art system Apollo. This is coupling high design with amazing proprietary technology & world-renowned artists. Stay tuned for this as we gear up for our launch.

Find out more about Michael Miller and Centaur Interiors by visiting his profile here.

The post Haute Designer Michael Miller On What Makes Centaur Interiors A One-Of-A-Kind Design Firm appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Here, members of the Haute Residence Network share their thoughts on the subject.

"Homeowners cannot match the networking influence or results of experienced real estate agents, even though we wish they could." - Ernie Carswell, West Hollywood, CA.

"As experts in our field, a professional Realtor will know all the possible issues that can arise during a transaction and have the industry connections to get them resolved, so that collectively we can work towards a smooth closing. In a luxury market, my knowledge has come from years of experience, and investing in extensive luxury training to ensure that I am current and astute on things that all too often the homeowner may not think about. When you have to deal with wetlands, easements, open permits, property lines, warranties, previous history of the property, there are always variables that make it crucial to have that expert available to you. Also, in a low inventory market like we are currently seeing along the Emerald Coast, we have the ability to find properties through our spheres they would not be able to find on their own." - Hilary Farnum-Fasth, Broker, Owner, Corcoran Reverie, Scenic 30A area, FL

"Listing with a professional real estate agent gives the property endless marketing avenues that an owner would never be able to do. Through Sotheby’s I can network with agents basically all over the world and market a property in so many different markets." - Sandra Fiorenza, Miami Beach, FL.

“Your bottom line!  Stats are proven agents deliver a better net! Better systems, better marketing, better relationships, a better deal!” - Scott Goshorn, Brentwood, CA

“Experienced agents are skilled negotiators and understand what buyers want and what potential pitfalls lie ahead, so we can build a sales process that has a high probability of success.” - Cyd Greer, Napa Valley, CA.

"A trusted advisor delivers far beyond their fee in terms of ROI, time saved and quality of experience.” - David Hatef, Washington DC Metro area.

"Your Realtor can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in your local market, as well as the price and condition of competing properties. These are important factors in marketing your home and selling it for the best price. Statistics show that listing your home with a professional results in both a faster sale and more money for the seller." - Susan Ito, Dallas, TX.

Contact Haute Residence for all your real estate needs. We have a vast network of real estate professionals throughout the US, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe that can help you find your dream home or sell your estate.

Visit https://dev.hauteresidence.com/ for more.

The post Hire A Real Estate Agent To Sell Your Home Faster And At A Fair Price To You appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Developer Marcelo Kingston with Troy Aikman – learning about the project

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The three-time Super Bowl champion was joined by top brokers, real estate agents, and designers for an intimate dinner inside 57 Ocean's Sales Gallery in Miami Beach, which showcases the magnificent building and its units' grand features. The best deserves the best, so a toast of event sponsor Louis XIII Cognac's started the evening's festivities.

Louis XIII Brand Ambassador Francois Surcin, with Troy Aikman at 57 Ocean Sales Gallery

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Aikman took the microphone and addressed all attendees, lauding the development of 57 Ocean. After dinner, event sponsor FYI Yachts' CEO Ralph Navarro gave remarks at the end of the dinner as he acknowledged Aikman's NFL career. 

Kamal Hotchandani, Carmen Casidella, Nirka Burns, Marcelo Kingston

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Upon its completion on the famous Millionaires Row in Miami Beach, 57 Ocean house 71 beachfront residences ranging from 1,200 to 3,600+ square feet with spectacular South Florida views and featuring resort-style amenities. The $35 million penthouse atop 57 Ocean may among the most coveted residences on the U.S.' eastern coast. 

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

57 Ocean is being developed by Multiplan Real Estate Asset Management and its founder Dr.José Isaac Peres, who is at the helm of the project. The building is designed by Arquitectonica, with interiors by architect Patricia Anastassiadis. The absolutely stunning project is slated for delivery in 2021.

Power attorney Robert Zarco with Nirka Burns 57 Ocean

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

For more on 57 Ocean: 305.417.7679; Sales Gallery: 5775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; www.57ocean.com

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Black Jaguar White Tiger, Marcelo Kingston, Seth Semilof, Troy Aikman

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Fox Sports/NFL on Fox Avis Roper with Troy Aikman

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The post 57 Ocean Hosts Troy Aikman’s Haute Living Super Bowl Issue Cover Dinner appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

55 S Longspur Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380 | $2,775,000 | Listed by Mike Seder

Magnificent Home In The Heart of The Woodlands 

This gorgeous gated estate sits atop 1.072 acres in Grogan's Point overlooking the 13th hole of The Oaks Golf Course. The home features stunning antique wood floors and finishes, soaring ceilings, four fireplaces, a cozy team room and designer kitchen. This is a golf enthusiast's dream home with extensive landscaping, waterfall and serene river surrounding the fabulous pool.

362 Thompson Heights Drive, Denison, TX 75020 | $6,750,000 | Listed by Mike Brodie

Jaw-Dropping Legacy Lakefront Estate 

This jaw-dropping Dallas estate features unparalleled lake views from almost every room, a professional-grade indoor and outdoor kitchen, a helipad, pier and a boathouse, this lakeside property is designed to maximize entertaining, indoor-outdoor living and sunset views.

Price and address available upon request | Listed by Jennifer Welch

Exquisite Lake Austin Home 

With privacy, views, cutting edge technology and exquisite design, this remarkable gated estate will set the bar for Lake Austin properties. Ames Design Build used the best of everything to create an architectural masterpiece in a waterfront setting. This to be built modern masterpiece is situated on 2.4 pristine acres with thoughtful, manicured landscaping. Directly across the 105 feet of Lake Austin frontage, is a nature preserve, which enhances the property’s privacy and tranquility.

10127 Ferndale Road, Dallas, TX 75238 | $899,000 | Listed by Sharon Hodnett

Serene Dallas French Country Estate 

This French country estate offers quality throughout with state-of-the-art finishes and design. The property sits atop a half-acre lot and features a loft music room, game room, bouns craft room, a fireplace and wet bar.

The post Investing in Texas Real Estate? Here Are The Luxury Listings To Check Out appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Stunning lakeside Mediterranean estate in the exclusive gated community, The Lakes on Legacy Drive. The grand, two-story entrance features marble floors leading to formals which overlook the infinity pool, spa, and lake. A marble spiral staircase leads upstairs to two bedrooms with en-suite baths, media room and game room each with a wet bar, and balconies which overlook the pool and lake. Featuring floor-to-ceiling two-story windows to take in the views, owners can enjoy a master suite with fireplace, oversized master bath with jetted tub, and loft. This desirable floorplan has a second bedroom down with full bath and private entrance to pool area. Almost all rooms in the home have beautiful lake views.

Address: 4966 Normandy Drive, Frisco, Texas 75034-7591

Price: $1,400,000

For more information, please contact Mike Brodie at 214-808-4900 or mike@mikebrodie.com

Mike Brodie is the exclusive agent representing the Dallas, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of his listings here.

Photos courtesy of Mike Brodie

The post Lakeside Mediterranean Texas Estate appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Just under two private, creekside acres in exclusive gated Harbord Oaks Estates in N. Dallas. Bob Thompson estate. 5 bedroom, 5.2 bath, 7 fireplaces, downstairs media room, diving pool, lighted tennis courts, 4 garage spaces, well-manicured grounds with mature trees. Master has 2 fireplaces - 1 in bedroom, 1 in bath. Downstairs media room. Balcony off upstairs game room overlooking creek and grounds. Grand marble staircase from pool area to the grassy lawn, perfect for entertaining. Several rooms feature coffered ceilings and custom moldings. Grand entry connects with formals, features sweeping staircase, vaulted two-story ceilings, windows overlooking grounds, and marble columns.

Address: 17603 Cedar Creek Canyon Drive, Dallas, TX 75252

Price: $2,500,000

For more information, please contact Mike Brodie at 214-808-4900 or mike@mikebrodie.com

Mike Brodie is the exclusive agent representing the Dallas, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of his listings here.

Photos courtesy of Mike Brodie 

The post Gated Harbord Oaks Estates appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Stunning lakeside Mediterranean estate in the exclusive gated community, The Lakes on Legacy Drive. The grand, two-story entrance features marble floors leading to formals which overlook the infinity pool, spa, and lake. A marble spiral staircase leads upstairs to two bedrooms with en-suite baths, media room and game room each with a wet bar, and balconies which overlook the pool and lake. Featuring floor-to-ceiling two-story windows to take in the views, owners can enjoy a master suite with fireplace, oversized master bath with jetted tub, and loft. This desirable floorplan has a second bedroom down with full bath and private entrance to pool area. Almost all rooms in the home have beautiful lake views

Address: 4966 Normandy Drive., Frisco, Texas 75034-7591

Price: $1,400,000

For more information, please contact Mike Brodie at 214-808-4900 or mike@mikebrodie.com

Mike Brodie is the exclusive agent representing the Dallas, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of his listings here.

Photos courtesy of Mike Brodie

The post Stunning Texas Mediterranean Estate appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Taking the weather into account may be a solid deciding factor when trying to determine where to buy that next property. Here are some great fair weather areas that also appear to be wise buy and hold real estate investments.

All of these metros enjoy a temperate climate almost year-round in addition to rising home values and other strong indicators of good investment material.

Dallas, TX Real Estate

Photo courtesy of Sharon Hodnett

Homes like this stone-constructed, French-country-inspired estate in Dallas are prime examples of the real estate investment potential available in the lone star state right now. This well-built and charming home sits on a half-acre tree-lined lot for $899,000.

Dallas home prices are expected to rise faster than the national average in 2019 - despite already rising close to 13% last year. One of the reasons being the Dallas metro areas strong economy.

Plus, with temperatures staying between 77 degrees Fahrenheit and 55 for most of the year, this area also passes the fair weather test.

To find out more about Dallas and Southlake Texas homes like this that are available now, contact Sharon Hodnett.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida Real Estate

Photo courtesy of Barry Levinson

This sprawling water-front home in Fort Lauderdale features 100 feet of water frontage and three guest bedrooms with on-suite baths. Everything about this place suggests an oasis of luxury, making it an ideal vacation rental for the savvy investor. Offered by Barry Levinson.

Fort Lauderdale is a desirable area to find that picturesque place to turn into a busy Airbnb in the short term and possibly retire to long term.

With sunny days almost year-round and clear blue water everywhere, Fort Lauderdale has the desired climate for people from colder parts of the county looking to soak up the sun. In fact, according to PWC's housing report, the Miami/Fort Lauderdale metro area is the 3rd highest target destination from migrating people from other cities in the US.

Orlando, Florida Real Estate

Located in the central part of the state, a day's drive or puddle-jumping flight from the Miami/Fort Lauderdale metro market lies Orlando.

All indicators point to the Orlando area market being one of the best in 2019. Prices rose by over 10% last year, so those who already own investment property here are enjoying the equity boost.

Orlando has plenty of new buyers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, population rise of Orlando is ahead of the national average by more than 12%.

Add lower than average mortgage rates, a booming economy and "cold" temperatures that bottom out in the high 50's and Orlando, Florida looks like a welcome addition to your real estate portfolio.

Charlotte, North Carolina Real Estate

Photo courtesy of Matthew Paul Brown, Reside Realty

This stunning estate in the private gated community of Morrocroft was renovated in 2015 by renowned architect, Ruard Veltman. This tasteful stunner has seven luxurious bedrooms and sits on over an acre while still being close to the heart of the city. Offered by Reside Realty.

Charlotte has evolved from a NASCAR niche area to a financially-focused metro that is both the largest city in North Carolina and a smart real estate investment. With cool winters and warm summers, residents can enjoy Charlotte's sports and nightlife year-round.

Whether an investor is looking to flip, buy and hold, or invest in one of the many multi-family properties being built uptown, this Southeastern hub has the great weather and wealth-building potential to be a real estate star.

Ready to Own a Home in a Fair Weather Area?

These real estate markets may be hot, but their average temperatures tend to be more moderate.

Weather shouldn't be the only reason to invest in an area, but it's certainly worth considering. with all of the extreme weather events disrupting people's lives these days. Before investing, find a local real estate expert to help save time knowing where to look and to get the most for the money spent.

This article includes housing market predictions for several metro areas in 2019. Real estate forecasts are the equivalent of an educated guess and are far from certain.

The post Best Real Estate Investment Areas 2019: Fair Weather Edition appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

French country estate. Canopy of trees protect home with Austin Stone construction. Quality throughout, low maintenance. Second-car drive through garage, half acre lot. Three fireplaces, hearth room with fireplace, wood beam accents and hand scraped hardwoods, vaulted ceiling at kitchen. Wood casement crank windows, kitchen-viking double ovens, decor far cook top, subzero fridge, granite counters, and back splash. Guest spot with bath and master down, loft music room, game room, bonus craft room, two beds, family room with fireplace, and wet bar, sun room with Pennsylvania blue stone study.

Address: 10127 Ferndale Road, Dallas, TX 75238

Price: $899,000

For more information, please contact Sharon Hodnett at 817-994-7152 or sharon@teamhodnett.com

Sharon Hodnett is the exclusive agent representing the Southlake, Texas real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photos courtesy of Sharon Hodnett 

The post Dallas French Country Estate appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Set on 3.3 acres, the property lingered on the market for a year before its final asking price settled at $10.9 million. Dallas Business Journal reported that the buyer flew to see the four-bedroom home in February and shortly after, it went under contract.

Courtesy of realtor.com

Sprawling on over 16,000 square feet, almost four times less than the actual White House, the home boasts a two-story grand foyer with French limestone floors, which leads to elegant rooms with high ceilings and fireplace mantels of 18^th-century marble and limestone. A home theatre, a bar room, a wine cellar with an adjacent tasting room complete the interior.

Courtesy of realtor.com

Outside, the grounds might as well be more impressive than those of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Amid more than 200 trees, a koi pond, a bath house, a pavilion, connected swimming pools and a tennis court await. The residence also features a 6-car garage.

Former owners Ralph and Cathy Oats, founders of Wellness International Network, first purchased the estate back in 2014 for almost $20 million.

Top image courtesy of Houston Chronicle

The post White House Look-Alike Sells for $10.9 Million appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.