Suzanne DeWitt, David Rousso, Angel Nicolas, April Donelson

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Haute Living and Pedini Miami joined forces at Marion Miami to host the Haute Leaders dinner for the month of July. While Haute Living hosts their Leaders dinners every month, this was the first of which was held in collaboration with high-end design company, Pedini Miami. Vice President David Rousso represented the design company. Pedini provides customers with Italian-designed furnishings of the highest standard and style. To learn more about Pedini Miami's services, CLICK HERE.

Industry leaders, spanning across several markets, attended the gorgeous event in the Brickell area of Miami.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Guests from Haute Design, Residence, Lawyer, Beauty and MD networks were welcomed with refreshing summer cocktails and escorted into a private dining room at Marion Miami. The exclusive room provided an excellent ambiance for what was clearly set to be an unforgettable evening.

Alirio Torrealba, Doris Torrealba, Jennifer Nicole Lee and Edward Lee

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Dr. Jay Young, Seth Semilof and Dr. Rian A. Maercks

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Once guests were all in attendance, it was time to be seated for a wonderful meal. To kick things off, guests were presented with sweet and spicy edamame, hamachi jalapeño rolls and popcorn shrimp. For entrees, Haute Leaders were served pineapple teriyaki salmon, spicy ginger filet mignon and a lovely risotto hot pot. Side dishes included truffle fries, truffle mac & cheese and miso roasted cauliflower. To round things off, dessert came in the form of Marion's imperial experience, which is comprised of an assortment of sweets, fruits and ice cream.

The Marion staff ended the meal with a bang by passing out limoncello shots, which were presented with strobe lights.

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Marion Imperial Experience

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

It was another successful Haute Leaders dinner as guests thoroughly enjoyed their time and are already looking forward to the next event in the Haute Leaders series.

Alex Miranda, Dr. Jay Young, Andrea Gutierrez, April Donelson, Dr. Rian A. Maercks, Guest of Dr. Rian A. Maercks

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Suzanne DeWitt and April Donelson

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Claudia Llanes, Pierpaolo Visconti, Gio Ingletto, Andy Garcia

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Erik Haase, Emily Wriston, Alex Miranda

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Suzanne DeWitt, Gabriel Pessoa, Mary Gibson, Weston Finn, Diana Correa

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Guest of Dr. Rian A. Maercks, Andrea Gutierrez and Mariela Rodas

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Mariela Rodas and Andy Garcia

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Angel Nicolas and David Rousso

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

Photo Credit: Romain Maurice

The post Haute Living And Pedini Miami Host Haute Leaders Dinner At Marion Miami appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Kelly Dunn’s obsession with authentic expression is unparalleled and is the driving force behind her award-winning firm, FATHOM Design Company. Kelly is sought out by her colleagues as an expert on out-of-the-box solutions and blending colors and textures in imaginative ways that breathe new life into the world of interior design.

Kelly Dunn recently sat down and spoke to Haute Design to share some of her driving design principles.

Haute Design: What is the earliest memory you can recall where you knew you wanted to become a designer?

Kelly Dunn: I was a young teen when I would constantly rearrange the furniture in my bedroom. Sometimes the layout didn't even make sense, but I desperately needed my space to feel fresh and exciting. I would also rearrange my family's living room when my mom was out for the day, always promising to put everything back if she didn't like it, but I had to play with it and try new things.

HD: If you could name three design principles you live by, what would they be?

KD: 'AUTHENTICITY ALWAYS.' If your space does not reflect who you are to the core, something will feel off and you will always be frustrated.

'HAVE A CONVERSATION PIECE.' It continually breathes new life into your home.

'PLAY.' Introduce new colors and textures. Experience them, be curious. You may discover a whole new side of yourself that is waiting to be expressed.

HD: You have stated that you are bored by trends. How crucial is the client's input to the ideas and design you put forth in any given project?

KD: Client input is critical. It's their space, so it must resonate with them. If they are leaning heavily on trends, I try to dig a little deeper to discover what it is they're attracted to. Then I show them variations of what they're looking for that acknowledges a certain trend but is ultimately expressive of their true identity. This balance always produces spectacular results.

Photo Credit: FATHOM Design Company

HD: Is there a particular color or material you gravitate toward (consciously or subconsciously) throughout your work?

KD: There isn't a specific color but I personally gravitate toward dark and moody aesthetics. It certainly pops up in most of my work but ultimately, I focus on what is the best design representation for my clients' personal style.

HD: Has there been one particular factor to your work which you have implemented as a result of the COVID pandemic?

KD: The biggest hurdle the design community is still facing is that shipping is at least three times longer, production is either nonexistent or takes up to eight times as long and it has been difficult finding quality installers and finishers. Our clientele has been stir-crazy for so long and it's hard for them to wait on their finished spaces.

HD: Where do you see FATHOM Design Company in five years?

KD: Taking on more restaurant and hotel projects and expanding beyond NYC.

To learn more about FATHOM Design Company and book Kelly Dunn for an upcoming project, CLICK HERE.

The post FATHOM Design Company’s Kelly Dunn Shares Her Interior Design Principles 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.

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

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

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

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

Cara Woodhouse

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

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

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

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

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

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

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

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

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

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

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

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

Renata Vasconez, Bea Pernia, Jose Fernandez

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

Joseph Fava

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

Alexis Cogul Lleonart

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

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

Photo Credit: IHC Agency

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

Designer Andrea Monath Schumacher creates sumptuous and imaginative interiors for her clients that reflect their aspiration, lifestyle and personalities; no two of her jobs are ever alike. She is known for her fresh, yet timeless interiors that are inviting, intriguing and softly polished, with just the right amount of drama. 

Andrea Schumacher's recent Denver project clearly represents her ability to reflect her clients' lifestyles and aspirations.

Schumacher was called upon by a close friend and neighbor, in order to execute this project which symbolized the turning of a new leaf for the family which would soon make this beautiful house a home.

Photo Credit: Emily Redfield Photography

This lakeside new build is located in a Denver suburb and has absolutely stunning views of the water and the Rocky Mountains. The contemporary home was carefully designed inside and out and completed with the finest finishes.

As a nod to the homeowner's New England roots, the home is designed in a luxurious Cap Cod style, with shingled roof and all. From the exterior gas lanterns, to the floating chimney and chinoiserie wallpaper, this is a one-of-a-kind home, perfectly designed for the family.

The cabinetry for the bar and kitchen was a direct response from Schumacher's cabinetmaker after the designer shared the fireplace wallpaper.

Photo Credit: Emily Redfield Photography

Designer and architect Matt Stais was enlisted by Schumacher to collaborate on the design of the project. The home is filled with modern interior design ideas, color, elegance, feminine touches, as well as the highest quality of workmanship available. For example, Schumacher bumped out the blue drawers in order to resemble bedroom dressers.

Additionally, a jewelry-like brass detail was incorporated on the custom range hood, the barstools, as well as the cabinet hardware.

Photo Credit: Emily Redfield Photography

Throughout the house, you will find antique consoles retrofitted as vanities, custom paint, glass pocket doors that open to create an indoor-outdoor living space and a general chameleon-essence about the home, which will evolve easily throughout the years.

Photo Credit: Emily Redfield Photography

If you wish to learn more about Andrea Schumacher Interiors, CLICK HERE to visit the website.

The post Andrea Schumacher Provides A Taste Of Cape Cod In Denver Suburb appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Pine Tree Drive Residence

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

For this canal-front residence, interior designers Laila Colvin and Rafaela Simoes had to capture a sense of artistry and zeal, while bridging the gap between the original and renovated architecture.

As founders and creative directors, Laila and Rafaela have established Miami’s premier luxury interior design company, 2id Interiors. Regarded for their relevant and skillful approach to design, 2id Interiors is an award-winning, leading interior design firm servicing clients which 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.

"The clients wanted the house to be modern but colorful. They also wanted to keep the Spanish character, but in a more contemporary fashion," said Simoes.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

The original open staircase was the element that won over the clients. So, the duo made it the focus of the living area with a traditional wrought-iron railing and colorful ceramic tiles. The blue-and-white rug, made of Persian rug remnants, brings a graphic backdrop for the Brazilian-style furnishings in neutral fabrics.

A navy grass cloth covers the open shelving in the living area's built-in walnut cabinetry, which has a vertical slatted sliding panel that conceals the television when not in use.

Colvin explained, "The slatted panel is our signature. We always use it somehow."

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

In the dining area you can see a metal chandelier, a glass-topped table with an organic live-edged wood slab base, and a white-linen host chair counter alongside a Brazilian wood side chair with leather seats. It shows that the designers like to play with opposites in materials.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

In the family room, the designers paired wood-sided tables with a blue plush velvet sofa and ottoman. Above, lining the wall, is a grouping of the family's favorite movie posters. The owners fell in love with a wooden sculpture Colvin and Simoes placed near a swivel lounge chair in a corner of the primary bedroom.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

Overall, the house is a beautiful place to relax and have fun.

Photo Credit: 2id Interiors

To lean more about 2id Interiors and the great work they do, CLICK HERE to visit their website.

The post 2id Interiors Bridges The Gap Between Original And Renovation In Pine Tree Drive Project appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Pedini x Carolina Freyre Project

Photo Credit: David Rousso

Pedini Miami is excited to announce its new Modern Farmhouse project in Ponce Davis. The luxury real estate project is being developed as part of a special collaboration with award-winning construction company Mocca Group and renowned interiors designer Carolina Freyre.

The home aims to create a sophisticated yet organic and natural atmosphere with a contemporary take on a traditional, rustic style. Modern Farmhouse will include the latest in design trends for modern living spaces, including open floor plans, large windows to bring plenty of light into every space and outdoor areas, including terraces and garden patios.

Photo Credit: David Rousso

Pedini Miami was tasked with creating a kitchen and dining area that combined the home's unique country-inspired style and modern features for functionality. They delivered with an open kitchen space that features blue matte lacquer with glass features.

In addition to furnishing the kitchen and dining area, the team at Pedini Miami also helped design the home's spacious living room bar, creating a warm and welcoming place to entertain and relax with friends, family and guests.

Photo Credit: David Rousso

Photo Credit: David Rousso

Photo Credit: David Rousso

The luxury home is situated in the Ponce Davis neighborhood, which is considered one of the most exclusive areas in all of South Florida. Known for being home to people like Alex Rodriguez and the Bacardi family, Ponce Davis features beautiful tree-lined streets, majestic architecture and a vast amount of green spaces near beautiful Biscayne Bay.

Once completed, the Modern Farmhouse residence will be a prime example of harmoniously integrating traditional styles and modern architecture while maintaining a sense of uniqueness.

More information about the project can be found by visiting the firms' websites:

PediniMiami.com, CarolinaFreyre.com and moccaconstruction.com.

The post Pedini Miami Announces New Ponce Davis Project appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Now that the summer season is fully upon us and it appears we are collectively turning the page, slowly but surely, to what is seemingly closer to "normal life," the thought of summer getaways came to mind. Haute Design decided to ask what some of our design experts consider to be the ideal summer getaway in terms of design inspiration.

Haute Design:Which summer getaway destination provides you with inspiration the most around this time of year? Why?

Hafsa Burt of hb+a Architects, San Francisco, CA: I am always looking for places to travel and discover. I love to interact with locals and delve into a different culture. I have had two recent trips that were phenomenal. One was an escape to Spain which began in the Basque Country and stretched all the way to Granada and Cordoba.

Soon after, I read Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises and felt like he was on the trip with me in Pamplona.

That journey continued into a very thrilling road trip in Morocco, from Marrakesh to Casablanca. The food, colors, culture and history all lend themselves to a perfect cerebral escape.

Another trip that comes to mind happened a year later. I traveled to Jordan where some of the highlights were camping in the desert with Bedouins and hiking in Petra and Wadi Mujib. Jordan is an adventure-filled country and should be on everyone's bucket list.

We also managed to spend a couple of days in and around Jerusalem, absorbing the sights and sounds. I love walking through historically and culturally different places and intellectually indulge so I leave with a billion sensory images in my memory. If it inadvertently shows up in my work, all the better.

Laila Colvin of 2id Interiors, Miami, FL: I actually have my tickets purchased and will be leaving soon! I am going to Portugal for a family reunion.

I think I have two travel obsessions: Europe and Japan.

However, if it's related to design, I believe Europe is the place to go. There is just so much to see and so much art all around, it doesn't matter what country you visit, you will leave with design inspirations.

The last trip which truly inspired me was a family trip to England and Ireland. It was amazing. The year before that was Japan. But I feel like I will always go back to Europe at least once a year because it's just never enough.

However, Rafaela and I are from Brazil and we always talk about how design in Brazil is so rich and yet, it is not well-known. Because Brazilians are so quick to turn to Italian furniture and Italian design, but in our opinion, Brazilian designers, Brazilan architects, and Brazilian furniture are way beyond anything else we know. So every time we go back home to Brazil, it is unbelievable. We are always sending videos and photos to the team, and to each other. We’ll go to a restaurant, we’ll go to the mall, anywhere we go, it is out of this world.

Chasity Centeno of Riese Design, Long Island ,NY: Riese Design is inspired by the summer tropical feel with different prints, colors and textures. We love the mixture of soft textures with organic wood elements for summer when conceptualizing a design for our clients!

Who doesn't love a fun, colorful wallpaper, beautiful outdoor sets and textured walls for either interiors or exteriors?

We especially like to take inspiration from Cabo when doing design concepts for bathrooms. It's the best room to implement bold colors and accents. Cabo's inspiration comes from the beautiful beaches, history and foliage, along with an array of plants, which brings such an elegant blend of traditional and modern design.

To learn more about our adventurous design experts, visit their websites below.

CLICK HERE to visit the hb+a Architects website.

CLICK HERE to visit 2id Interiors' website.

CLICK HERE to visit Riese Design's website.

The post Haute Design Experts Weigh In On The Best Summer Getaways For Design Inspiration appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Aston Martin Residences Miami

Photo Credit: Elliott Stares Public Relations

The Aston Martin Residences Miami is located on the exclusive Miami waterfront and has revealed its Signature Collection penthouses and residences.

The Signature Collection line is a personal invitation to the ultimate members-only community with unparalleled access and exclusivity at its core.

Contemporary architecture blends with art, which blends seamlessly with design throughout the magnificent sail-shaped luxury development. The elegant homes are harmonious inside, while floor-to-ceiling windows afford uninterrupted views of the ocean and Biscayne Bay.

Photo Credit: Elliott Stares Public Relations

Signature Collection owners will enjoy a range of privileges including a dedicated butler service and priority access to the Aston Martin Residences' private superyacht marina. Additionally, the Art Gallery located on the 52nd floor will create a secluded area for residents to appreciate an ever-changing canvas of contemporary art.

"I am delighted to announce the Signature Collection and share the very first images of the penthouses," said Germán Coto, CEO of G&G Business Developments.

Photo Credit: Elliott Stares Public Relations

"They're the pinnacle of luxury and elegance, style and beauty, and an inspirational collaboration between our architects and the Aston Martin design team. The Signature Collection is complemented by a specially-commissioned bespoke Aston Martin DB11 coupe or DBX Riverwalk Editions, which will enhance the Aston Martin lifestyle for our owners."

Photo Credit: Elliott Stares Public Relations

"From the start, this project has been a labor of love and I'm extremely proud of the pride and passion of everyone involved. We adapted to working safely throughout the pandemic and have reached floor 56 of 66 on schedule. The whole team is focused on completing the construction of our waterside jewel by the end of next year," continued Coto.

Photo Credit: Elliott Stares Public Relations

"The Signature Collection is the next level of luxury; the best of elegant living," says Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer.

"When we designed the interiors, ]we focused on the beauty of perfect proportions, affording the same attention to detail that goes into every Aston Martin. Fine craftsmanship, with an emphasis on comfort for the living spaces and bold, pioneering design for the amenity areas, has created an astonishingly beautiful development."

Photo Credit: Elliott Stales Public Realtions

"Aston Martin Residences Miami is our first global real estate venture," Reichman expanded. "I think we have shown that good design is good design, whatever the medium. This is something that really excites us as a brand."

Located at 300 Biscayne Boulevard Way and now over 70% sold, the Aston Martin Residences Miami is well on its way to completion at the end of next year.

Photo Credit: Elliott Stales Public Relations

The post Introducing Aston Martin Residences Miami Signature Collection appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Awarded Best of Houzz 2020 & 2021, Sensi Casa isn’t like other design firms. Their elevated approach offers what only very few firms can: turnkey homes in record time. Sensi Casa’s mission is to assist clients in achieving a high-end aesthetic through detail-oriented curation that fills a space with luxurious furniture and accessories.

Principal Owner Diego Guarderas joined Haute Design for a conversation about Sensi Casa's company philosophies and what sets them apart.

Haute Design: What do you believe to be the most valuable service that Sensi Casa provides to its clients?

Diego Guarderas: In terms of interior design services, I would say that our Presto Design service is our most interesting offer because it is what makes us unique and sets us apart from other interior designers. With Presto Design, we are able to offer turnkey solutions and turnkey homes in record time. So, this is something quite interesting for many clients who are actually looking to move to other houses in a timely fashion. This way, the client does not have to go through the headache of visiting 10 to 15 stores and exploring numerous options just to pick out one sofa.

I would definitely say that the ability to offer a turnkey, fully furnished property in record time, within the client's budget, would be the most appealing service that we currently offer.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: Would you be able to explain how this Presto Design Service, which you do so well, came about?

DG: Well, as you know, we do home-staging as well. So, because of our staging experience, we have learned to move pretty fast while doing interior design projects. We are taking all of the know-how of staging properties but offering much more leeway to the customer.

Because when staging a house, the realtor or the broker or the developer does not have much of an opinion on what we do other than telling us what type of style they want. So it's not like we can ask them whether they like this chair or whether they prefer this table over another. They will simply tell us, "I want a modern look," or "I want an Italian look," etc. And, of course, we just follow their orders. However, when it comes to Presto Design we combine the speed of our work along with a detail-oriented and customer-collaborative approach. For example, would they prefer an easy-to-clean sofa because they have children in their home? Would they prefer a King or Queen-sized bed in the master bedroom? Would they like sectionals in the family room or are they okay with three-seaters?

We certainly ask a lot of questions throughout the process with our customers. We begin with presenting options for what we feel would look best in each room and go from there. We completely avoid what other companies do sometimes which is to present a showroom-look.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

For example, there is a well-known furniture store in Miami that is probably the biggest home stager in the city right now. This store has been able to create a great brand and following, and people love their furniture. So of course, since they have their own inventory in each of their stores, it's pretty easy for them to furnish an entire home within a week because they own the inventory. So for them, it would be super simple to just pick a bed, a sofa, and armchair or what ever they have in stock. The downside to this, is that each home will look exactly like the one next door and exactly like their showroom in Aventura.

They have a great business model and it's a great solution for clients who may not care about their home's design as much. They have great-looking furniture but some clients prefer something unique and different even though that may normally take longer. That's where our ability to offer a unique look in record-time becomes very interesting.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: You mentioned your home staging experience. What would you say are three key factors that go into your thought process when staging a home?

DG: The first thing we do when we home stage a property is to ask the owner, developer, or realtor if they are facing problems while showing the house. If you're showing a property and every time, someone says, "I don't know about this bedroom, it looks pretty small." So then of course, we try to make that problem disappear. In this case, we could showcase the room with a king bed, two night stands, a credenza and a rug or another furniture that could make the room look bigger.

In other words, the problem is that empty rooms look smaller than rooms which are fully furnished. People can have a hard time imagining how they could all their possessions into that room.

The first thing we do is to ask the client if there is any area in which they would like us to devote more attention toward. This helps us ensure that the client's house is sold as quickly as possible, which is our main goal. Not only will we help you sell the property as quickly as possible, but we will be able to do so while applying beautiful design. This is what sets us apart from other home stagers.

We also try to mainly use branded furniture so that we match the properties we stage with the same quality of furniture. Often times, in these three, four, five-million-dollar- homes, are staged with furniture that does not match the property. So what happens is, they have only tried to fill the home's space, rather than enhancing the house to make the property look better. Of course, by doing so, you would make the property sell faster.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: Correct us if we're wrong, but do you find there is a misconception regarding your design approach? Because Sensi Casa turns projects around so quickly, one might imagine for you guys to overlook some of the details but that could not be further from the truth, correct?

DG: Exactly! We see Sensi Casa as a boutique firm. We have been growing and accepting more and more projects at the same time. That said, we would never overbook ourselves.

We prefer to schedule less projects because we are so detail-oriented. In fact, one of our other key offerings is how well we accessorize properties. We have even been hired by interior designers in the past just because they love how we accessorize homes. There have been instances where designers have done all the furnishing of a home but they will contract us to work exclusively on accessorizing.

What people may not notice is that it's often-times the accessories that place the cherry on top of the cake for a home. It's what makes the final touches so special, you know? The final rug or that final art piece is what gives that extra touch.

By the way, we do our own art in-house and of course we also partner with art galleries so we will hang pieces from well-known artists within our homes. However, most of the time, we use our own products and people have loved our art pieces so now we are growing our inventory in art pieces as well and clients are buying our art now, even though that was not the idea initially.

Because of all these varied services we offer, we are only adding more solutions in order to help our clients with better options for specific items. We have also begun our own Sensi Casa rug line. We are now providing bespoke rugs, hand-made in India. Customers can ask for any size they need and we offer custom sizes and, of course, all in record time (less than a month).

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: Is this a service that is available right now, as we speak?

DG: Yes, it is available as we speak. We have an instagram account besides our original page (@sensicasadesign) that is called @sensicasa.

That is the account we are using to showcase are rugs of all different kinds of materials. We are not doing colorful rugs. We are more favorable to the organic look because that is what we have been doing the most. That said, we will still honor any request.

If a client chooses a very colorful rug, filled with lines or patterns, we will do it because it's a custom order. What you will most likely be seeing on that instagram page is more organic, natural or neutral colors. The same applies to our linens we are currently working on as well. We are no working on bed spreads, pillow covers, bed sets and throws. Currently, linen is very fun en vogue and clients are in love with a specific hotel-look, especially here in Miami.

So we get a lot of clients asking more and more for this linen look which we are now offering.

If you wish to get in contact with the Sensi Casa team or learn more about them, CLICK HERE.

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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.

Seth Rogen is nationally-renowned as a multi-faceted individual. While he is an award-winning comedian, actor, writer, and filmmaker, his affinity and knack for ceramics often fly under the radar. This was not the case this past week at the Vancouver Art Gallery. 

Vancouver native, Rogen, recently received the recognition he deserves while also funding area gallery arts programs with the charitable bidding for his coveted ceramic vase. This past Tuesday, Rogen launched himself into the booming art market through the $12,000 sale of his original ceramic vase.

Rogen’s dependable charisma and humor in the entertainment sphere are made tangible through his spunky and vibrant $12,000 vase. The striking orange vase includes a knob-textured surface and aims to emphasize Rogen’s presence and character. According to the auction website, Rogen plays with color, texture, and glazing, and intends to bring humor and vitality to his art, both on the screen and off.

This sale thrust skilled ceramicist, Rogen, into the art market headfirst but we are sure that this will not be the last we hear of his ceramics. Rogen’s vase was originally prophesied to sell for $3,000, yet expectations were exceeded. The piece was displayed at the downtown Vancouver gallery and will continue to make strides for Vancouver’s art gallery scene.

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Lin-Manuel Miranda's latest creation, In the Heights, focuses on his beloved Brooklyn Heights' surroundings from his upbringing and the movie premiered last week.

In order to bring his childhood neighborhood to the screen, Miranda teamed with an all-star squad. The writer/producer/composer called upon director Jon M. Chu, Emmy-nominated production designer Nelson Coates and set decorator Andrew Baseman, who were all part of 2018's smash hit Crazy Rich Asians. This all-star team re-joined forces to display a tight-knit, multi-ethnic community for In the Heights.

The set displays an eclectic mix of sceneries and businesses one would expect to see in Brooklyn Heights: bodegas, apartments, hair salons and public parks. The movie was filmed at a soundstage in Brooklyn.

One of the challenges for Baseman was to differentiate the interiors of the characters' living spaces based off their respective country of origin. However, the set decorator masterfully succeeds at this. Flags and typical nods to cultural heritages are seen throughout set decorations.

Perhaps two of the most prominent sets are the corner bodega store and the local hair salon. The design team kept things very authentic on both fronts. From the old cardboard pieces below freezers to soak up water to a hand painted mural outside the bodega's walls, not a single detail was overlooked.

In the Heights is in theaters across the country and with its bustling street scenes, it should do just the trick from an audience craving human interaction after reeling from a global pandemic.

The post ‘In The Heights’ Design Team Pulls Off Impressive Feat To Bring New York To Big Screen appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Throughout different eras and across regions, art may change in medium, style, and motif but some aspects will always remain fixed: art’s recollection of history, storytelling ability, and its impact on the current and upcoming culture. Acclaimed artist, Yusuke Shigeta, pays homage to Japanese historical events and heritage by intersecting the modern digital with traditional Japanese aesthetics and designs. 

Shigeta’s installation piece, a six paneled animation of the 17th century Japanese folding screen titled The Battle of Sekigahara, serves to depict one of the most important wars in Japanese history. The innovative piece represents the blending of culture and time periods, and both honors and signifies the impact and importance of Japanese aesthetics in the art world.

Shigeta’s multi-dimensional folding screen ties the post-modern mediums of pixel animation and 3D modelling with long-established imagery of Japanese Samurais and the region’s natural flora and fauna.

The piece’s customary motifs, coupled with Shigeta’s original simulation component, add a layer of juxtaposition and intersectionality, as well as interesting movement to the overall folding screen.

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"Casa 6695"

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

Photo Credit: Pedini Miami

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

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