Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

As a result of COVID, we are spending significantly more time in our homes. While stay-at-home orders have relaxed, lingering concerns over our safety keep us from venturing out as often as we would like. Therefore, it should almost go without saying that your home decor should make you feel comfortable, and truly at home. Part of that sense of comfort comes from who you are. Your decor should reflect your personality.

So, how do you decide what style or styles best match you? Do the unornamented sleek lines of mid-century modern tempt you? How about the clean, easy-going minimalism of Scandinavian? Or perhaps you are more of a cool brash industrialist. If your answer to any of these questions is "yes," then the authenticity movement may be just what you need.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

What Does it Mean to be Authentic?

The choices we make in designing our living spaces reflect who we are as individuals and have the potential to inspire those who visit our homes. The furniture we choose, the color palettes we implement, and even the dominant shape themes we use say something about how we view and approach the world.

Authenticity is about making choices that enlighten you and fit the personality you want to portray. The key is to spend time with colors and shapes, to explore furnishings and understand their materials, textures, weights, and colors so that you know what truly speaks to you. Only then, can you build a design scheme that feels authentic and inspiring!

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

But who am I?

A great deal of research has gone into understanding how the choices we make speak to our personality characteristics. One immediate way to plan your design scheme is to understand how "you" matches with design elements.

Colors, for example, can speak to our characteristics. People who love blue tend to be reliable and sensitive. The preference for tidiness and their desire for stability suggest that elements of unornamented minimalism or the weighty furnishings of traditional might match well with their authentic style. On the other hand, those who enjoy purple are often artistic, unique and may be perceived as arrogant. People of this element might enjoy the more unusual lines of a zig-zag chair or the quirkiness of an eclectic style.

Shapes can also tell us something about our psychological make-up. Based on Susan Dellinger's book on psycho-geometrics (and yes, that is apparently a field), people who are drawn to squares typically do not like surprises, are organizers and seek a sense of security - traits that connect well to more traditional styles like classicism. Round lovers are more forthright and outgoing and match well with the eclectic sense of style. Look out lovers of curves and waves!

Squiggly lines suggest the non-traditionalist who is creative, motivated, independent and sexy. These traits of the young professional often match well with urban styles like industrialism and modernism.

Even overall design schemes say something about who we are. Drawn to Scandinavian design? Chances are you're friendly, stylish and interested in culture. Tend toward the modern? You are likely driven, organized and professional. The traditionalist is poised and elegant. The minimalist is introverted and efficient. But remember that authenticity is about finding all the parts of yourself, so that one style does not have to define you. If you feel like your personality traits bridge certain styles, then try blending the styles to find what works for you!

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

Just be Yourself

Authenticity is about knowing and embracing your personality traits and the ways they connect to the design you love. Don't feel locked down by any one trend or by styles that seem chic but make you feel like a visitor in your own home. Take a look "inside"... both with yourself and your home. Do not be afraid to make home decorating choices that truly say, "this is the real me."

The post Design Solutions Miami Makes the Case for Authenticity in Design appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

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.

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

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

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

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

By toeing the line between contemporary and modern style, Luciana Fragali of Design Solutions Miami, gives everyone something to talk about. The client for this particular project was a young bachelor who entrusted the DS Miami design team with the interior of his lavish Miami condo. His request was clear - bold, unique colors and pieces were a must.

The DS Miami team set out to maintain a playful edge in their bold colors and eclectic approach, creating hand-crafted products and ensuring that non two pieces are ever alike. In the living room, a custom bar unit in terra-cotta dominates the room, adding a unique flare, indulging the senses while offering style and practicality to match.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The living room's contemporary design lies in certain essential pieces such as the Italian Tulles sofa from desirr'e, the Lou Reed armchair from Driade, and the colony accent chair from Miniform, all curated at Anima Domus. The modern aspects are embodied in pieces such as the custom organic sculpted coffee table and gorgeous decorative accessories, which become chic conversation-starters. Each item is an intriguing piece of artwork that boasts exquisite detail and sophisticated design.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

Nearby, the dining room opens the sense with approachable furniture that is as functional as it is fun. The DS Miami team selected a smoked glass dining table to open the area and paired it perfectly with the Flos Aim pendant. Nostalgic concept accessories in the kitchen accentuate the area beautifully as you enjoy the panoramic skyline views.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The high standard goal of using bold color and creating pure sophistication in a diverse array of rooms is not always attainable to accomplish, but this project turned out to be a memorable experience for interior designer, Luciana Fragali. "My goal here was to create a variety of vibrant and sophisticated spaces to match the passions of this cosmopolitan owner in this luxurious downtown residence."

Never one to shy away from experimentations, Fragali admits that this residence became one of her favorite projects because the homeowner allowed her to be adventurous with so much color. "I created a glamorous, yet comfortable home, which is very sexy and fitting with the sophistication of the owner," says Fragali.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The post Design Solutions Miami Presents Sweet Spot Between Contemporary And Extraordinary appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Enter model unit 4403 at the Residences by Armani Casa and you will see interior finishes that are simple yet elegant, clean yet refined, and views from each room which are nothing short of extraordinary. It came as no surprise at all when Luciana Fragali, Principal at Design Solutions Miami, was contacted by Paulo Bacchi of Artefacto. After a decade-long friendship and over 100 design collaborations, it was apparent that this partnership was built for success.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

Luciana was tasked to create a warm, elegant and welcoming environment for potential buyers who might enter the unit, while Artefacto would provide the luxurious furnishings seen throughout the spaces. "When we first received this project, it was as basic as they come - white, are walls and there was scarcely any overhead lighting. But we knew it had tons of potential," says Fragali. The Design Solutions team's work began at the foyer where they skillfully treated each wall with textured wallpaper, representing the sand of the beaches directly in front of the unit. This element comes through most when paired with the fun and colorful accessories and artwork, which also serve to bring that contemporary touch that every unit needs. The Artefacto "Pipo" armchair by Piegatto brings an organic feel courtesy of its curved wooden design.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

Step inside, where you are greeted by wave blue wooden panels meant to mimic the fluidity of the ocean views throughout the unit. This panel was created by Casa Metier. Instinctively, your eye is drawn to a spacious open concept living room where the design team of DS Miami had one mission: integrate ocean views with natural elements. The first step was to create a shell or foundation with a mix of earthy materials including stone, wood, leather, linen and natural raffia.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The corner kitchen can give the illusion of a tight space. With that in mind, Luciana and her team created a bar unit to serve as an extension of the kitchen, consequently opening the room. The dark grey stone by Modern Porcelain Works brings a modern vibe to the unit while the lighter wooden shelves add warmth. LED strip-lighting hidden behind the shelves, along with Artefacto's Annecy ottomans in nubuck leather, add the perfect touch of charm to this bar unit.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

Over the dining room, a Moooi Pendant takes center stage over Artefacto's JUD II dining table and Chiara chairs. The caramel color of the Chiara dining chairs serves as a natural pop of color, perfectly accentuated by the lively artwork by artists Eduardo Rezende. The metallic finish of the natural raffia-textured wallpaper behind the artwork ties the room together, giving it the contemporary feel the design team was aiming for.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The mirror wall along the living room was strategically designed to add continuity to the unit, allowing the Atlantic Ocean coastline to pour into the room. This also works in harmony with Artefacto's elegant furnishings characterized by clean lines and intimate ooziness. A plush sofa with surfaces that reflect the condo's ever-changing light envelops the area and yields a fluid ambience. The media wall is covered in a natural raffia wallpaper with an iridescent finish, reminiscent of mother of pearl. Silk accent pillows continue the playful shimmer.

This project was a difficult one due to its time restrictions. The Design Solutions team had only 40 days to create an execute the project. Luciana adds that there was not even time to apply for permits. "We usually like to drop the ceiling to add more recessed lighting," she says. "With only 40 days, we had to think outside the box." For additional lighting to the large living room, the design team turned to Fadecci Architectural Lighting, whose team able to source a unique floating track for the 10-foot ceiling, eliminating the need for a dropped ceiling.

Photo Credit: Design Solutions Miami

The master bedroom offers breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views through four-to-ceiling windows. This room was designed exclusive with Artefacto furnishing, the crown jewel being the Piet king-sized bed and headboard. The well curated, clutter-free decor sets an ambience that is relaxing, warm and luxurious. Get ready to be swept off your feet by the panoramic views afforded to you by expansive 10-foot-deep private balconies with glass ailing and exquisite Artefacto outdoor furnishings.

To see all of Artefacto's stunning offerings, CLICK HERE.

For more information about Luciana Fragali's work and Design Solutions Miami's availability, head to their website HERE.

The post Design Solutions Miami And Artefacto Collaborate For A History Of Success appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

While many may think of the design life as a glamorous career path, we know that a lot of sacrifice, time, dedication and talent has to go into it if you want to be successful. Several Haute Design experts took the time to reveal what it is about their job that has them waking up with a smile on their faces every day.

Haute Design: What is the best part about being an Interior Designer?

Kelly Dunn, designer & founder of FATHOM Design Company: The best part about being an interior designer (besides shopping for a living!) is specifically the hunt for unique finds. I love searching for that perfect statement piece and collaborating with other craftsmen/women to create something special. Working with other creatives that love their skill is a privilege and an honor. We push each other to think more outside the box and the result is always stunning. For this bedroom design, I worked with talented glass blowers, lighting technicians and woodworkers to create one of a kind pieces that when blended together, tell an eclectic story.

FATHOM Design Company

To learn more about FATHOM Design and Kelly Dunn's work, CLICK HERE.

Luciana Fragali, CEO & Owner of Design Solutions Miami: I love that I get to solve my clients' problems in such a beautiful way. Each day brings a set of new and exciting challenges. I love that, in this industry, you get to interact with so many different people and teams. From clients, to artisans, to brand representatives, to electricians (who are magicians, by the way), to architects and builders. It is so collaborative and inspiring! Together we make the impossible, possible. We take the well-executed dreams and the crazy structural ideas and poof! We successfully design and deliver projects that are treasured forever.

This career has taught me tough lessons, shown me my full potential and allowed me to have a flexible schedule with my family. I have dozens and dozens of homes that are living proof of ideas I created and nurtured in my head for so long, and many happy clients who get to live their best lives in those spaces.

Design Solutions Miami

CLICK HERE to learn more about Luciana Fragali and Design Solutions Miami.

Hafsa Burt, Studio Head at hb+a Architects: The best part about being an architect is that we’re given tool sets of a problem solver/an inventor that we utilize on a daily basis to imagine new functional solutions and create objects and spaces. I am also able to see a space in my head and get a sense of what works and what doesn’t and I attribute that to my training  and experience as an architect.  Spaces can tell a story and evoke emotions and I love having such an abstract medium of expression at my disposal.

hb+a Architects

Photo Credit: Doug Birnbaum

If you wish to learn more about hb+a Architects and Hafsa Burt's work, CLICK HERE.

Chasity Centeno, Founder and Designer at Riese Design: The best part about being an interior designer is creating spaces for clients to enjoy for years to come as well as building great relationships throughout the process. Not only do we address the client's pain points, we also deliver a product that is both functional and beautiful. As a result, at the end of the project you have someone you can call a friend. Personal relationships are key and each client should be treated in a way that makes them feel as though you, yourself are investing in them. At Riese Design, our clients are part of a family!

Riese Design

To learn more about Riese Design, CLICK HERE.

The post Haute Design Experts Reveal Their Favorite Part About Being Interior Designers 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.

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