Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

"I have a 15-year relationship with this client, this is actually my third project with them. This is their forever home." CI founder and Principal, Michael Miller, walked Haute Design through this unique and comprehensive project.

Located in Chicago's prestigious Lincoln Park area, this initially unassuming home offers so many unique and custom aspects that very few, if any, Chicagoans can brag about. Thanks to its generous double-long and double-wide lot, there was plenty of space for Michael and his design team to consider. Centaur Interiors executed this entire project from conception to the final decorative details. This includes build, architecture, design and even artwork.

"There are not many indoor/outdoor living situations in Chicago," Michael added. "But because their home has this unique backyard space, we wanted that to be integral to the design. We tore down the original sunroom and built a new one made entirely of glass, where all the sliding door systems open up to this back courtyard."

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The unique millwork and lighting seen in the borders of the courtyard is meant to resemble artwork. Since this part of the exterior is visible from the kitchen and sink, CI's design team thought it would be great for the residents to see something beautiful year-round.

"The clients are big cooks," Michael continued. "So, the kitchen was the centerpiece of the home. We created a centerpiece kitchen that's made for two people to comfortably work together. I believe there is a six or seven-foot galley dual tap sink, which allows you to work side by side. Directly alongside that is what we call the baker's kitchen with its own sink and dual oven. Additionally, there's a bar area for glassware, wines and spirits. We broke the kitchen down into three spaces which allow for simultaneous and undisrupted entertainment."

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

Being one of the focal points of the home, it was fitting that the kitchen be so perfectly symmetrical. In fact, throughout the entire home, the concept of symmetry was of utmost importance to CI's design and architecture teams. This symmetry provides a harmonious sense of balance which can not only be seen, but felt. Another great example of symmetry lies within the master bathroom.

The wall where the master bed sits is the same in which the master bathroom's vanity is located. This allows for a seamless design which considers two separate entries for him and her in their corresponding sides of the bathroom and closets as well. While there is a his and her portal to the bathroom, the hand milled stone, shower and tub remain dead center of the bathroom to ensure that sense of symmetry.

Photo Credit: Centaur interiors

The more details and visuals revealed about the home, the more it becomes apparent that CI's work does not merely have to do with the beauty and luxury of a home, but the practicality of the home as well. This residence is a perfect example of that. The several tailor made, bespoke pieces is just further proof that everything about the design of this home had the residents in mind.

For example, the view from the staircase will reveal a custom made light fixture which hangs from the third story of the home and perfectly dances throughout each level, undisturbed. The dining room is another great example of Michael's extensive knowledge of the family and their lifestyle. Considering that this family loves to entertain, the dining room table was designed to sit as a single unit, or it can become two separate pieces depending on the occasion.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

In other words, this family's fingerprints are reflected throughout the entire build and design of this home. However, do not think this to be the case just because Michael and his team have an existing rapport with the clients. CI makes sure to learn as much as possible about their clients' needs, lifestyle and more in order to design their perfect home.

"We included a smart home system which grants the residence total control over their surroundings and prevents what I like to call, 'wall acne'," Michael added. "The smart home system does not have too many switches and yet it controls, HVAC, lighting, floor heating, as well as the corresponding room's electric devices such as TV, music and more."

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

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Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The Centaur Interiors design team recently spoke to Haute Design about the innovative and exciting work they have been incorporating into one of the most important spaces in anyone's home, the kitchen.

Haute Design: How would you describe Centaur Interiors' vision for the modern kitchen in 2022?

Centaur Interiors: We feel the modern kitchen should be compatible with each individual's specific function and lifestyle. We always incorporate smart kitchens that are fully integrated within the home. This gives our clients the power to start or access appliances from their phones through an app, giving them ultimate control of their kitchen. A kitchen in 2022 should always have as much work space as possible. We look to maximize surface areas as much as possible in every kitchen. While function is key, aesthetics are what make a kitchen pop and we love creating beautiful kitchens that have unique features. Anyone can pick out a beautiful granite countertop, but adding a recessed ceiling in the kitchen for architectural interest, dimension and breadth is what makes CI stand out from the pack. Clean designs with hidden appliances make for beautiful kitchens.

HD: What sets a Centaur Interiors kitchen apart from the rest?

CI: We provide custom solutions based on each client's lifestyle and how they entertain. There is never a generic CI kitchen since our designs are as unique and special as our clients. We tend to practice a modern, clean-line approach to gourmet kitchens rather than the generic stainless steel gourmet kitchen. We’re revolutionizing the art of building by offering the full range of design, construction and furnishing services all in one firm. This allows us to consistently offer unique materials and finishes.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

HD: What are some of the more common requests from clients when discussing the concept of kitchens or dining rooms?

CI: Clients enjoy having control of their surroundings at home and they like to know they do not need to put in too much work by way of maintenance. Clients value specific task lighting and ambient lighting as well. Appliance garages seem to be very popular. We have observed that the preferred situation for cooling systems is to have separate freezer and refrigerator components and drawers. Clients appreciate a separate bar area as well as a casual dining space.

HD: With the rising trend of open concept spaces in modern homes, how does CI design a Kitchen, Family Room and dining room to all be one cohesive narrative while still distinguishing themselves apart from each other?

CI: There are a few main practices we abide by to accomplish this. First, these spaces can all be connected through traffic flow and complimentary finishes. This allows for the spaces to have a cohesive through line. Secondly, by utilizing unique furniture arrangements that designate the spaces, we create different zones.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

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The Haute Design Network by Haute Residence brought together four designers from across the country to sit down and discuss the collaborative effort that goes into to each and every design project.

"It Takes a Village" webinar was hosted by Haute Living Media Group Senior VP, April Donelson and included the following designers: Julia Wong of Julia Wong Designs, Michele Salazar of Cozy Salazar Interiors, Hafsa Burt of hb+a Architects and Michael Miller of Centaur Interiors. Principals and Designers may get all the limelight, but they will also be the first to admit that there is a massive team behind them throughout every step of a design project. Haute Design Experts revealed just how collaborative of a process this truly is.

Here are some of the highlights of the conversation:

April Donelson: Before becoming a designer, did you enjoy working in teams or group projects?

Hafsa Burt: I would say it's just part of the culture, to work in teams. But in college, we would have to work in teams for projects. In most cases, I would lead those design teams. I was able to inspire those design teams. I did not lead by force but certainly by inspiration. So, over time, you just learnt that you have to work in teams. Anybody who is a professional in this environment just knows you cannot exist merely on your single discipline or single focus. And, of course, the more you work in teams, the larger the project becomes and the more production happens and collaboration leads to successful outcomes.

AD: If ____ were not by your side, you would not be able to finish the project. Fill in the blank.

Michael Miller: I have a site superintendent that has been working for me since about 1999. So, we've got about 22 years if history, his name is Pepe. We have pretty much worked on everything together so he's probably done close to 100 projects of ours.  At this point, we're on the same wavelength where we need minimum conversation to understand each other. I can tell just by his face and he knows what to do and he's got it.

He's a working superintendent so he's like a master craftsman but he can do everything: finished carpentry, drywall, painting, taping, electrical work, plumbing work, you name it.

And just to note, I have some clients who we have worked with for a long time, some of which we have done maybe three times for, and we all know that we can even leave Pepe with our kids if we have to go to a meeting or something last minute. So, it's good that the clients have trust in my team where they almost treat us like family.

AD: While collaboration within the execution of a project is critical, do you ever prefer to work in solitude while conceiving a layout design or do you prefer to collaborate then as well?

Julia Wong: I tend to start the design process by myself. I tend to go away to the design center or to my own office and being to put the story together so that when I do meet withy my team, I have a good direction on where we're going. Because there are so many components to the design, that there is not a lot of time to spend on the creative side. We would love if that were the case. People think we just sit in our office and design and go and pick out colors and things like that. The reality is, we have a lot less design time that people imagine.

So, I definitely need to sit by myself first to get my thoughts together, so that when I do present to my team or the client, I have a good sense of where we're going. Once we get the ball rolling, I enjoy the teamwork aspect a lot more.

AD: Who would you say are the unsung heroes in the design industry as a whole, who deserve more recognition?

Michele Salazar: Any one working in production right now, despite who frustrated we may become with that realm of design, they're really getting the thick of it.

When people get fed up or become impatient, they get really upset because this is a very personal business. There are multiple businesses around the world but when it comes to your home, at least for those of us who do residential, it's very personal. So, I think that those who are on the other end of things and dealing with impatient people are the unsung heroes, because for us, the designers, we can relay that unfortunately certain things are out of our control. But at the end of the day somebody is deemed responsible and they do have to answer to these complaints and they are having a tough time right now.

Watch the entire conversation below:

The post Watch: Haute Design Experts Reveal That It Truly Takes A Village appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Centaur Interiors is a boutique firm specializing in turn-key bespoke solutions for residential interior renovation and construction. With meticulous attention to detail, the dynamic team at Centaur Interiors, under the leadership of founder Michael Miller, has rapidly transformed the landscape in the residential design/build market in Chicago.

This particular riverfront residence makes an excellent argument for Centaur Interiors' commitment to delivering innovation, precise execution, extraordinary design and superior customer service to each and every client. The riverfront project developed from an existing relationship from a client who had entrusted Centaur Interiors to create a full vision for his new condominium residence. Situated high along the river, the client's initial desire was to update the powder room and fireplace and TV wall in the living room. However, the initial wish rapidly blossomed into a full renovation as the owner's trust in the team, as well as their excitement for the project, took over. The concept was to create a warm, modern space that did not feel too stark. Comfortable furnishings were a key element which were also durable for entertaining and everyday use.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

You are initially drawn into the home by a feature wall incorporating translucent quartzite stone, floating in bronze channels at the fireplace. Both of which are backlit with a LED flat light to thread the custom mahogany bookshelf into the fireplace as one cohesive feature. The original flooring was replaced with darker, wide planked, hand scraped oak, which ties the space together.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The goal for the kitchen remodel was to lighten and modernize the space, while still meeting the client's desire for a transitional, warm, livable area. The Centaur team used mahogany millwork as an accent and feature throughout the home. The island cabinetry is wrapped by a dual waterfall of Taj Mahal which incorporates a floating custom dining table on a uniquely-shaped bronze base. The light satin lacquered cabinets and quartzite stone brighten the space up for a perfect blend in the kitchen.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The master bedroom boasts a full custom bed with mahogany wood framing and leather-wrapped panels. The fireplace surround was designed with new limestone, custom mahogany millwork panels, along with a place for both art display and the TV. The tones and colors used in the room were intentional to create a mood and lean more toward a masculine feel. The Centaur design team worked closely with the client to curate art for the home. The client's never-ending collection completes the residence and makes for the perfect home to live in day to day.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

For more information on Centaur Interiors and Michael Miller's design work, CLICK HERE.

The post Centaur Interiors Creates A Modern Home While Maintaining Warmth appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

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.

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