I guess you could say “it took a Pandemic” but whatever the reason is, people are re-evaluating their lives and making life-changing decisions about how and where they want to live and where they want to work!

Our luxury market was impacted after the 2008 banking crisis and started to come back in 2018-2019.

Then the pandemic happened and we were on lockdown for about four months. When the lockdown was lifted last summer, it was amazing how many inquiries we received, especially from urban areas within an hour away from our primary market territory in Bergen County.

6.5 Acre Country Estate in Saddle River, NJ

The common requests were: 

* More Land and Larger Homes
—Clients were cooped up for too long in apartment living

* The Need for One or Two Home Offices
—People were enjoying the flexibility and ease of working from home

Timeless French Chateau in Saddle River, New Jersey 

6.5 Acre Country Estate, Saddle River, NJ

Prime Location – 2.76 Acre Setting, Saddle River

Timeless French Chateau, Saddle River

* Recreational Space: Especially Pools and Gym Space
—Clients were hesitant to join clubs and wanted more private space

Whereas years ago we couldn’t compete with accessibility to delivery options the way, Manhattan, for example, could, now pretty much anything needed in the burbs can be delivered right away, just like in the city. And the best part is that when you have to get to the city, whether for work or play, the burbs are built around cities so they are a stone’s throw away!

We just recently hopped in the car for a late lunch at The Odeon with family and were home in time to feed our two little Yorkies their scheduled dinner.

So, I think the burbs are the best of all worlds!

What do you think? 

The post The Burbs Are Back! By Vicki Gaily appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Sensi Casa’s mission is to assist clients with achieving a high-end aesthetic through detail-oriented curation that fills a space with luxurious furniture and accessories. Founder of Sensi Casa, Chiara Sensi-Contugi focuses on creating spaces that are not only aesthetically beautiful but work on a practical level as well. She relates to her clients on a personal level, easily adapting and refining her approach to meet specific client needs and deliver turnkey properties in record time.

Chiara recently sat down with Haute Design to explain Sensi Casa's visionary service.

Haute Design: Would you mind explaining what Sensi Casa's Pronto Stay Service is?

Chiara Sensi-Contugi: We introduced the Pronto Stay Service a couple of years ago, so this is one of the newest services we offer to clients. However, due to the COVID pandemic and the trends we began noticing as a direct consequence of the pandemic, the Pronto Stay Service became an extremely popular option for clients.

What started happening was, like many people across the country, clients started moving down to South Florida during the pandemic. However, once they would buy or rent properties, they realized they needed to get furniture for these properties. So they would reach out to us for our interior design services and come to find that, due to the lack of furniture across the globe, they would have to wait months to have the ideal piece they were looking for.

But because we also have our home staging service, we own an extensive catalogue of furniture, ourselves. So we realized we could offer these pieces to our clients to rent out during their stay in South Florida.

Clients loved the idea of basically leasing their furniture, rather than buying it. During that time, a lot of people did not know how long they would be in Miami. Would this a permanent decision? One year? Two years? With the Pronto Stay Service, clients do not have to invest in a fully furnished house or property, when they run the risk of having to move all over again in a matter of one or two years.

So we began offering this option to clients and we still offer the interior design of the house based on the clients' needs. With Pronto Stay, we still interview the client, just like any other interior design service we offer. We ask them about their way of life and their needs. Whatever they need, we provide them with the corresponding furniture. The only difference being that they rent the furniture rather than owning it.

Of course, this service has the limitation that the pieces we offer are based off our inventory. Clients looking to have one-of-a-kind pieces or eclectic designs throughout their home, might not want to choose the Pronto Stay Service. However, we have adapted the decisions we make when purchasing furniture to add to our inventory and we do offer a wide array of luxury pieces.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: Have you noticed a particular clientele that is attracted to the Pronto Stay Service?

CS: It varies. A lot of the clients are coming from other states, rather than locals. Mostly, it's folks coming from New York or Los Angeles, who were not sure how long they were going to remain in South Florida after moving down, temporarily or otherwise.

Younger clients have also been very attracted to the Pronto Stay Service because they are looking for alternatives that would not demand too much of them, financially. Whether they are moving to a new apartment or just starting to live on their own for the first time, they tend to not have enough money to afford a fully-furnished home. But when you give them the option to rent furniture and create a monthly spending plan, it becomes a much more attainable alternative for that age group.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: Are you aware of any service that comes close to offering what the Pronto Stay Service offers?

CS: I am pretty sure there were other companies renting furniture. But I am also confident that very few, if any companies, were actually designing a home around the client's needs in a furniture rental capacity.

Those who were offering furniture rentals were likely just offering whatever was available within their inventory but they were not actually executing any interior design. For better or for worse, we have seen a lot of competitors recently offer a very similar service to the Pronto Stay Service. Perhaps it's a good sign and it shows that we're doing something right when we see competitors imitating what we do and changing the name of the service.

HD: How do you see the Pronto Stay Service expanding in the future?

CS: Based on what we are seeing, it will be part of our service offering for a long time. I do not think it will be something that will be in high demand exclusively due to the current pandemic situation.

I would not go so far as to say that we discovered a niche market but I will say that we believe most people overlooked the option to rent the interior design service for one's home. By interior design, I do not want to come across as meaning just furniture. By interior design I mean, art, rugs, TVs, accessories, absolutely everything. We don't think it was on anyone's radar and it will be a service that is interesting for plenty of folks out there.

If you like to change your style frequently, this is an option that makes total sense. In the same way that someone would lease their car, we are offering the option to lease the interior of your home. Rather than purchasing furniture and then losing tons of money trying to sell it, because selling used furniture is simply not feasible, we hope to see clients take advantage of this option.

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

HD: Are there any limitations on the duration of time clients can rent out their respective furniture or designs?

CS: Because we provide high-investment pieces and exclusively branded furniture, we do not offer any short-term rentals, so nothing less than six months. We do request a security deposit in case anything may happen to any of our pieces. There is not maximum allotted time for the rentals or leases.

Another interesting feature to this service is that we offer a buy-in option. If you happen to change your mind and realize that this temporary move to Miami becomes a permanent one, we offer a buy-in option, which would end up being discounted because the client would have been renting the pieces initially, so they would simply pay off the rest of what is due from each respective piece.

To learn more about Sensi Casa's Pronto Stay Service or any other service they offer, CLICK HERE.

Be sure to follow them on Instagram, @sensicasadesign.

The post Lease Your Interior Design, Don’t Buy It: Sensi Casa Presents The Pronto Stay Service appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Recently Quadro Miami Design District hosted a business summit to help reinvigorate business relationships in Miami, FL. The Miami real estate market has shown incredible recovery from the pandemic thanks to incentives and the immediate response from the government to accelerate the implementation of vaccines as a way of reopening business. There has also been a major influx of people and businesses moving to Miami due to these incentives as well as the attractive model of taxes and the “fun in the sun” lifestyle of the city. 

Along with B2B Media and Immobiliere Magazine, Quadro used a blended format to host the conference, with the panels being held in-person at the Quadro Design District and streamed on Facebook Live for online viewers. The summit was comprised of three different panels: "America Grows - Real Estate Investments in the United States", "Restructuring the Post-Covid Financial Markets", and "What's Next for the Cities – Building a Better Future for the New Generations". 

"Nobody expected the market to be so resilient," remarked Javier Lluch of Element Development during one of the panels. "The state with the pandemic was a bit critical and it was expected to go down, however, the growth we've seen in the last 12 months has been significant."

Photo Credit: Quadro Miami

"In Miami, we have always been favored by immigration and influence from Latin America, however in the last year, the need for housing multiplied instead of stopping. The reduction in the state tax of 10% or 15% is one of the factors that occurred to make Miami more successful," Edgardo de Fortuna of Fortune International Group said during the second panel.

The Summit was a major success and allowed Miami business people and beyond a chance to network with some of the best of the best in real estate development. Opening remarks were given by Guillermo Almazo, CEO & Publisher of Immobiliere, and other notable panelists included: Edgardo de Fortuna of Fortune International Group, Pedro Azcué of JLL Mexico, Ignacio Montes of Alta Developers, Jeronimo Hirschfeld of ONE Real Estate Investment, Nitza Soledad Pérez of Miami & Latin America CGTN America, Jean-Paul Farah of Ritch Mueller, Federico Cerdas of Skyhaus & COBRA Development Fund, Rhiannon Jacobsen of USGBC and Robert Barcelo of Port Everglades. 

Quadro Miami Design District Summit Location

Photo Credit: Quadro Miami

About Quadro Miami Design District: 

Completed in 2019 and built by Alta Developers, Quadro Miami Design District offers turn-key luxury residences with the option to OWN. LIVE. SHARE. The fully finished residences are optimized for short-term use, whether it’s for weekly, monthly, seasonal, or long-term stays. Additionally, owners have the option to purchase a unit occupied by a long-term tenant. Six interior design packages with hand-selected accessories and furniture packages are also available.

Studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom residences range from 548 to 1,280 sq. ft., all with spacious balconies and/or terraces. Select units have oversized outdoor patios up to 1,302 sq. ft. The 12-story boutique building, architecturally designed by Behar Font & Partners and filled with over 500 works of custom art by Art With DNA, boasts walkability to shopping and dining in the internationally renowned Miami Design District with its designer boutiques and galleries, which are all only minutes from Wynwood, Miami Beach, and the airport. The expansive amenities deck with a pool, summer kitchen, and cabanas provides plenty of space for outdoor recreation with panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, while the spacious poolside clubroom, yoga, and spinning rooms create a private setting fit for relaxation or spending time with friends and family. Residences start in the $400,000’s. 

The post REB+ Summit Miami Was A Success At Quadro Miami Design District appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Metropica’s Developer Inventory Sales Release Savings Event is around the corner, and qualified buyers will earn up to $30,000 in incentives!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

From March 26^th through March 28^th, buyers who purchase one of the remaining residences at ONE Metropica Residences, design by YOO -- the first residential offering within the $1.5 billion, 65-acre master-planned community – will have their choice of a credit towards a new Alfa Romeo from Rick Case Automotive, HOA fees, closing costs, an additional parking space, a storage unit, or a furniture package.

Priced from the $500’s, Metropica’s two- and three-bedroom luxurious condos and penthouses are located in the heart of the coveted Sunrise Shopping & Entertainment District, steps away from shopping, award-dining, and world-class sports and entertainment.

Interested buyers are encouraged to Reserve a Spot, as time slots and incentives are limited.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

“We have limited inventory, a testament to the success of our first condominium,” said Joseph Kavana, CEO of Metropica Development. “By adding our reserved inventory, and coupling it with these amazing incentives, we are anticipating an unprecedented response to our offer.”

The 28-story, 263-residence high-rise, already 75% sold, is a collaboration that involves globally acclaimed architect Chad Oppenheim and London-based interior designer YOO Design Group.

The remaining elegantly appointed residences range in size from 980 to 2,448 square feet. Prices for remaining move-in-ready units start in the $500’s.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

Metropica, one of the largest mixed-use communities under construction in the nation, is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Offering the amenities of a luxury condominium, yet well-sited within a traditionally suburban community, One Metropica provides its residents with the best-of-all-worlds: space and accessibility. This includes walkability, along with easy access to top golf courses and Ft. Lauderdale Beach, and direct access to major thoroughfares, such as the Sawgrass Expressway, I-75 and the Florida Turnpike.

Residences are marked by stunning features, including floor-to-ceiling impact glass windows, imported porcelain tile throughout, smart home technologies, and designer plumbing fixtures by Hansgrohe.

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

As a whole, the amenity-rich tower offers a myriad of top-level features and conveniences, including a landscaped terrace and pool, club room with a lounge, screening room, children’s playroom, state-of-the-art Technogym-equipped fitness center, and 24-hour concierge services. Metropica’s vision is focused on three key pillars – Nature, Wellness & Happiness – which is furthered by a robust Public Places initiative through an agreement with globally acclaimed artist Stefan Szczesny, whose sculptures depict the key pillars.

For additional information and to reserve a spot in this extraordinary event, click here. Metropica is located at 1800 N.W. 136^th Ave. in Sunrise, FL, or you can click on www.one.livemetropica.com.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

The post Metropica Developer Inventory Release: 30 Units… 30 Hours… Up To $30k In Savings! appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Silver Stripe Bedding Set

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

The Silver Stripe Bedding Set is made with 100% USA and Turkish cotton, and 400 thread count. It is soft to the touch and keeps you cool at night, which makes it comfortable to sleep in. As all Globaltex's bedding sets, every time it’s washed, the duvet cover gets softer as the water gets through the cells of the linens expanding the cotton sateen cells. The Silver Stripe is one of the 4 Stripe Collection models they have, and it is among the favorites.

Lux Collection

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

When referring to luxury and high-quality towels, the Lux Collection Room Towels are right at the top of the list. With 720 GSM, the 100% cotton towels are the perfect fit for any bathroom. Made without chemicals and produced with reusable energies, the towels get softer with every wash expanding the cotton sateen cells.

Indigo Blanket

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

Cuddling is important, whether by yourself, your friends, or your significant other. The Sofya Blanket Collection is perfect for this, with cotton and acrylic of the best quality. It is soft to the touch and great to keep you warm during cold days.

Visit https://globaltexusa.com/ to view more products by Globaltex Fine Linens, and use promo code "haute2021" at checkout for a 15% discount, valid until 04/07/2021.

The post Globaltex Bedding Sets Perfect For Valentine’s Day Season appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Watch the webinar below.

The dialogue featured:

• Erick Collazo, Vice President of Commercial Development, Metropica
• Danielle Cohen Lima, Economic & Community Enrichment Manager, City of Sunrise
• Kate C. Goldman, Director, Government & Community Relations, Broward County, Baptist Health South Florida

They were hosted by Haute Living's April Donelson.

ONE Metropica Residences, design by YOO

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

Highlight quotes:

Erick Collazo

On how Metropica is changing the area’s landscape, bringing an urban feel to a suburban community, and why that is important to Sunrise... 

“Similar to what's happened around the United States, typically suburban markets start as bedroom communities, as Sunrise did in the 70s and 80s. Then it evolved in the 90s to become a destination, between the construction of the Sawgrass Mills project and the BB&T Center across the street. Later, it became a job center in the 2000s by attracting tenants like HBO Latin America, American Express, and Ford.

“It afforded us the opportunity to actually bring in an urban landscape that would allow us to create an urban center for the Western portions of Broward County. So our objective in creating Metropica as a downtown for the Western portion of Broward County gave us the opportunity to go denser, to create height in the project, and to create socialization centers, not unlike what you're seeing along the eastern seaboard of South Florida.”

On Metropica’s multi-use residences, facilities, and location

“Our focus is creating socialization in those areas where people that work or live in the same complex have the ability to go down and have a coffee or have dinner and meet with friends. They can also go see a hockey game or a concert across the street to the BB&T Center, and, of course, we have Sawgrass next to us with plenty of retail. So the retail will still be successful as the pandemic leaves and there will still be more demand for socialization-type activities out of the project.

“Between Dade County, Broward County, and Palm Beach County we are truly the 50-yard line. We're the midfield of the entire urban core of South Florida. So that also has attracted new residents to the marketplace that were unaware of the infrastructure and the facilities that this marketplace offered.”

Danielle Cohen Lima

On how Sunrise business-friendly model and how it has been successful in drawing top-flite organizations

“I focus on economic development and redevelopment and attracting new businesses [to Sunrise] on a daily basis. Having direct access to I-75, I-595, and Florida’s Turnpike, makes Sunrise an attractive place for businesses to come because they know that they can [tap into] that pool of over 2.7 million workers in the region. Also, in terms of our location, we have a 650-acre international corporate park right in the heart of our business and entertainment district. And with having that corporate park, we already have all the infrastructure in place for businesses to come here.

“We need to be able to be competitive when it comes to incentives and we are. We find very creative ways to incentivize companies to come here, and we customize those incentives based on what that company is bringing to the city.”

On the continuing growth of Sunrise

“Our original neighborhoods in Sunrise are the eastern portion of the city, and we completed a master plan for that particular area of the city about two years ago. That's when I was brought in, to implement some of the recommendations of that master plan. The City has already invested about $30 million in making improvements to the original neighborhoods which really have so much character and a small-town feel.”

Sunrise in a nutshell

“Sunrise is a great location with an amazing quality of life. It's a financially stable city with great people and a close-knit community. It’s a great place to live, work, and play.”

Kate C. Goldman

On Baptist Health’s commitment to Sunrise

"We have an existing patient location in Sunrise, having been there for 10 years now. It's an amazing municipality, impeccably run, with beautiful parks. We are a non-profit hospital organization. Years ago, we made the commitment to develop a relationship with the City and its residents. It has been a wonderful partnership for Baptist Health and we are looking to continue growing that.”

We really do take pride in caring for the Sunrise community; it is a really tremendous community. I spent a lot of my time involved with the Chamber of Commerce in Sunrise which is phenomenal as well and really supports its businesses. I’ve spent some time working with the Mayor [Michael Ryan] and his Advisory Council. They are people that really care about their constituents and the residents of the City of Sunrise. They do a tremendous job making sure that the residents and the community have what they need to be happy, healthy, and secure.”

On how Baptist Health has evolved its healthcare services in Sunrise and beyond to meet the needs of communities

“We not only have primary care physicians, but we also have pediatrics, internal medicine, emergency medicine, as well as even mental and behavioral health. We have different modalities that people can access, including nutrition services, through our care on-demand app. Our website is also extraordinarily comprehensive and explains all of the services that we provide to the South Florida community at large.”

This webinar was hosted and curated by Haute Residence. To watch more, visit https://dev.hauteresidence.com/

The post The Sun Rises On Sunrise, Florida, A Growing City appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

Allowing individuals to designate up to six months of their rental payments towards the purchase of a new residence at One Metropica, the program has proven to be extremely appealing among seasonal visitors and local residents.

“We are experiencing a great deal of momentum at Metropica as new residents continue to move in and interest in our community increases exponentially,” said Joseph Kavana, CEO of Metropica Development. “The opportunity to live in a luxury condominium community -- which includes walkability to Sawgrass Mills Mall and easy access to top golf courses and the beaches, all minutes from major thoroughfares -- has proven to be a compelling value proposition. One Metropica provides its residents with the best-of-all-worlds -- space and accessibility.”

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

The elegantly appointed residences within the 28-story, 263-residence community range in size from 980 to 2,448 square feet. Prices for remaining, move-in-ready units -- which range from lofts to one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes -- start at $450,000.

Now more than 75% sold, One Metropica is a collaboration that involves globally acclaimed architect Chad Oppenheim and London-based interior designer YOO Design Group.

Its litany of wellness-oriented amenities includes tennis courts and a fitness center -- offering the ultimate in state-of-the-art equipment, thanks to a partnership with globally acclaimed Technogym. Metropica’s expansive recreational area -- complete with ample space for social distancing -- affords its residents an extremely unique feature that few other luxury condominiums can offer.

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

“The collaboration of globally acclaimed architect Chad Oppenheim and London-based interior designer YOO Design Group is the ‘dream team’ that has made this building a reality,” adds Kavana. “There is simply no other building with such a broad range of amenities.”

Metropica, one of the largest mixed-use communities under construction in the nation, is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. It offers all of the amenities of a luxury condominium, yet is distinguished by its idyllic, tranquil setting in the heart of a traditionally suburban community.

Metropica’s residences are marked by stunning features, including floor-to-ceiling impact glass windows, imported porcelain tile throughout, smart home technologies, and designer plumbing fixtures by Hansgrohe.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

Metropica’s vision is focused on three key pillars – Nature, Wellness & Happiness – bolstered by a robust Public Places initiative through an agreement with globally acclaimed artist Stefan Szczesny, whose sculptures depict the key pillars.

For additional information on available residences, call 954.280.7873, or visit one.livemetropica.com. The on-site sales gallery is located at 1800 N.W. 136^th Ave. in Sunrise, Fla.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

The post One Metropica Residences, Design by YOO, “Try Before You Buy” Program Extended Due to Demand appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Dove Bedding Set

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

The Dove Bedding set, as all Globaltex duvet covers, is made with 100% USA and Turkish cotton, which makes it soft to the touch and comfortable to sleep at night. Every time it’s washed, the duvet cover gets softer as the water gets through the cells of the linens, expanding the cotton sateen cells each time. Also, all Globaltex products are organically produced, without any harmful chemicals or processes.

Comforter / Duvet Insert

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

Getting a good night’s sleep is the number one priority. The Microfiber Duvet is not only soft and high-quality, it will also make you feel you are sleeping in a cloud. It is safe for people who suffer from allergies and at the same time will have you not want to get up from the bed.

Scotch Blanket

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globalte.x Fine Linens Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globalte.x Fine Linens

During the holiday season, there is nothing better than wrapping yourself in a blanket and enjoying the comfiness of your home. Globaltex blankets are soft and they keep you warm and cozy when it is cold outside.

Visit https://globaltexusa.com/ to view more products by Globaltex Fine Linens, and use promo code "haute2021" at checkout for a 15% discount, valid until 04/07/2021.

The post Holiday Bedding Selections From Globaltex Fine Linens appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Virtuance Real Estate Photography

Effective immediately, individuals can designate up to six months of their rental payments towards the purchase of a new residence at One Metropica.

“As the many new residents moving into Metropica continue to tell us, there is no other luxury condominium that compares with Metropica in Broward’s western corridor. Because of that we are seeing demand from seasonal visitors, particularly those from the northeast,” said Joseph Kavana, CEO of Metropica Development. “Of course the program is available to anyone, but we are confident that once they stay with us and experience what the many residents who are now part of this spectacular setting are telling us, they will not want to leave! It’s extremely compelling to apply 100% of rental payments of up to six months to the purchase price.”

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

The elegantly appointed residences range in size from 980 to 2,448 square feet. Prices for remaining move-in-ready units -- which range from lofts to one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes -- start at $450,000.

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

Now more than 75% sold, the 28-story, 263-residence high-rise is a collaboration that involves globally acclaimed architect Chad Oppenheim and London-based interior designer YOO Design Group.

“The collaboration that made One Metropica a reality is nothing short of a ‘dream team,’” adds Kavana. “Oppenheim and YOO Design Group are nothing short of revered in our industry.”

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

Metropica, one of the largest mixed-use communities under construction in the nation, is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Offering the amenities of a luxury condominium, yet well-sited within a traditionally suburban community, One Metropica provides its residents with the best-of-all-worlds: space and accessibility.

This includes walkability to Sawgrass Mills Mall’s 2.3 million square feet of shopping and dining, the myriad of sports and entertainment options at the BB&T Center Arena, easy access to top golf courses and Ft. Lauderdale Beach, and direct access to major thoroughfares, such as the Sawgrass Expressway, I-75 and the Florida Turnpike.

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

Its ample public areas include tennis courts and a work-out facility offering the ultimate in state-of-the-art fitness equipment thanks to a partnership with the globally acclaimed Technogym. Metropica’s expansive wellness area -- complete with ample space for social distancing -- affords its residents an extremely unique feature that few other luxury condominiums can offer.

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

Metropica’s residences are marked by stunning features, including floor-to-ceiling impact glass windows, imported porcelain tile throughout, smart home technologies, and designer plumbing fixtures by Hansgrohe.

Metropica’s vision is focused on three key pillars – Nature, Wellness & Happiness – which is furthered by a robust Public Places initiative through an agreement with globally acclaimed artist Stefan Szczesny, whose sculptures depict the key pillars.

For additional information on available residences, call 954.280.7873, or visit one.livemetropica.com. The on-site sales gallery is located at 1800 N.W. 136^th Ave. in Sunrise, Fla.

Photo Credit: Shawn Hood Media

The post One Metropica Residences, Design by YOO, Launches “Try Before You Buy” Program appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

Here, Patak joins Haute Residence for a look on how Globaltex has developed, grown, adapted to this year's pandemic, and into the future.

Haute Residence: How did you come about founding Globaltex?

Ramazan Patak: I founded Globaltex Fine Linens in 2015. I have closely worked with the hospitality industry before and I realized the products hotels were using were bad, they would not last long and the quality was not the best. They were in need of good, luxury linens that would not get destroyed after a few washes.

So I decided to develop those products and went to Denizli, Turkey which is known to be the textile mainland of the world and began working with the best manufacturers in the area to create what I envisioned. And that is what brought me here, our clients believe in our products, they know they’re high quality, so the business keeps growing and we are always looking for ways to improve and expand.

Since its inception, what have clients and the target audience of Globaltex identified as the company's main service? Why?

Our main target audience has always been five-star hotels, resorts, and luxury properties, the reason behind that is easy, we love and care about luxury and we want our clients to understand and care about it too.

Each one of our products is carefully thought from its conception to the production to the moment a client receives it. We focus on details and the experience one of our products will make the person feel. That is why we want our clients to be able to appreciate and enjoy what we do.

In which ways has this year's pandemic had an effect on your business and how you market it?

Of course, at first, it was hard, because as I mentioned before we make business with the hospitality industry and it’s no secret that hotels, resorts, and even restaurants were of the most affected industries during this pandemic.

But as I’m sure many of the business out there did it, we took a moment to think about what we wanted to do and how could we do it. And we decided it was time to adapt right now, so we could expand in the future.

With our knowledge of textiles, we decided to produce masks and that helped us a lot during tougher times. And we also decided it was time to explore an idea that had to do with textiles too but with a different focus, our Hand Sanitizing Wipes. Those two helped us keep our business going and our minds focusing on the fact that better days are coming.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Globaltex Fine Linens

What do you envision for the present and future of the company?

We like to think big; that helps us achieve our goals. And right now, our biggest goal is to be the best linen supplier for hotels and homes in the world, we are working hard and producing high-quality products that will help us get there.

At the moment, we are focusing on opening offices in some of the main cities in the world. Starting from here in the United States, we already have two showrooms and offices. And we also have our office/showroom in Turkey, so we are looking forward to expanding into Europe too.

There are a lot of great things coming for Globaltex, we are working hard and keeping our minds positive. We will be here for a long time and this is just the beginning.

For more on Globaltex Fine Lines, visit https://globaltexusa.com/.

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Metropica’s initial residential offering, ONE Metropica Residences, design by YOO, offers something no other luxury high-rise in the area can: all the amenities and benefits of a high-end condominium, coupled with access to nature and space. In short, the best-of-all-worlds.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

When developer Joseph Kavana initially conceived Metropica, his goal was to build a multi-use community -- one that would serve as a departure from the traditional mixed-use enclave.

“Working with world-renowned architect Chad Oppenheim on the masterplan for Metropica, our focus was on the residential component,” said Kavana, Chief Executive Officer of Metropica Development, LLC. “We knew we were in an evolving area, one with significant space -- as well as the beauty of the Everglades nearby. We wanted our residents to experience city-center living, but still enjoy the suburban experience. We’re so proud to have achieved that.”

The key to the genius of Metropica was the work by its visionaries to hand-pick the very best elements of many projects around the world and meld them together to create a one-of-a-kind community.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Metropica found itself in a most unusual situation -- in that the rush by prospective homebuyers to secure a living experience close to nature is now also included in the project’s first residential high-rise.

“Prospective buyers instantly realized that when they stepped out onto a unit’s balcony, there were expansive view corridors…or when they walked out of the building, there was ample space, not tightly-constructed buildings,” added Kavana. “We are able to offer what would not be remotely possible in a typical urban location.”

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

The response to this distinct niche among homebuyers has been overwhelming, with the building now more than 75% sold. Extremely compelling promotional incentives are additionally being offered through the end of September.

Buyers have a choice of three options:

• A closing credit equal to 2.5% (developer fees and closing incidentals are waived) and six months of HOA paid by the developer
• A second parking space, valued at $35,000
• A closing credit equal to 2.5% (developer fees and closing incidentals are waived) and a large storage unit in the building, valued at $15,000

From the onset of configuring Metropica’s masterplan, Kavana focused on three key pillars – happiness, nature and wellness – the most important of which was happiness. The world is stressful, and he wanted to not only create a sense of place, but a sense of joy.

In an age of unprecedented tension due to the pandemic, ONE Metropica Residences, design by YOO is a retreat from today’s stressors.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

An expansive amenities deck -- inclusive of a pool, large gym, two tennis courts, and more -- affords residents a truly unique wellness component.

Said Kavana, “Chad Oppenheim of Oppenheim Architecture + Design is globally recognized for socially and environmentally conscious architecture, and he’s a very selective individual. If he doesn’t believe in a project, he will politely pass. From the onset, we have looked to Chad to set the tone, especially with our initial residential offering.”

With Oppenheim collaborating with London-based YOO Design Studio, the globally acclaimed firm founded by John Hitchcox and one of the world’s most celebrated designer Philippe Starck, the results have surpassed all expectations.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Metropica Development LLC

“We knew that ONE Metropica Residences would be truly special,” concluded Kavana. “The coronavirus pandemic has simply brought to light the crucial need for a home to be a true respite…a place where we can feel both safe and fulfilled. The fact that we have surpassed this expectation brings tremendous satisfaction to our entire team.”

For additional information on available residences, call 954.280.7873, or visit one.livemetropica.com.

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Photo Credit: Justin Namon

How was the experience of selling at this high level with the pandemic still going?

It was challenging because of not having the freedom we had before, of coming and seeing the property as many times as you wanted. Everybody is more restricted. You have to be very knowledgeable of what buyers want because there's a limited amount of time with them, as they don't want to expose themselves to 20 houses. You have to know what they want from the beginning and guide them correctly, knowing what would be the home to suit them.

Photo Credit: Justin Namon

What were the prices for each?

For Birdman, the closing price was almost $11 million. For Ozuna, close to $5.5 million.

Photo Credit: Justin Namon

How has the real estate market in Miami and Coconut Grove been lately?

Right now, there is a great deal of activity. I believe that many more people will be calling Miami, Home. It's going to be where you want to be. People want space, air, and location. Miami is a young city with great qualities. It is becoming more sophisticated than it used to be in the past, and space is the new luxury. The market in Coconut Grove for single-family homes is beginning to take off. I have sold the last three non-waterfront properties in Coconut Grove priced over $5 million.

Photo Credit: Justin Namon

Why is an apartment better in Miami than somewhere else?

An apartment in Miami still provides space. Everywhere you go, like Old Cutler, Coconut Grove, and Miami Beach, there are places to walk. Miami is not as high-density compared to many other cities.

How has real estate changed?

The rule was "location, location, location." Now it's "location, space." We have seen a much higher demand for houses. People want areas that in a building might not be accessible, as we have seen during this pandemic. Fortunately for us in Miami, you can live in an apartment and (even with social distancing) still go outside, walk, and enjoy the outdoors year-round.

For more on Lourdes Alatriste, visit her Haute Residence profile.

The post Lourdes Alatriste Has Brokered Ozuna And Birdman Properties appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

What has been the average take away from your clients on how they want to proceed during the virus? Are they putting searches or sales on hold?

This unfortunate pandemic has taken a toll on everyone and certainly everyone handles it differently. Our market in Naples was at a standstill from March 15^th through May 1^st. Basically nothing came on the market and nothing went off the market on the high-end side of things. However, since the beginning of May there has been a huge upswing in the market with properties and lots flying off the shelves. There is a low inventory and high demand for Naples, Florida.

How are you advertising to potential clients who are looking for properties during this period? Is there a change in negotiating techniques?

I have been doing a lot of online and direct mail advertising, in order to reach customers in their homes during the stay-at-home orders. However, I was not too concerned about advertising and more concerned about the health and well-being of my past, present, and future customers. There is not really a new change in negotiation techniques and I will not use the pandemic as an excuse. There is just more uncertainty of what the future holds.

Have you noticed any trends or movements from buyers since self-isolation began? Are people looking for new specifics in luxury properties? 

Most of the trends are moving towards larger condos or single-family homes. Most buyers want their own space now, presumably thinking that if they ever have to go back into self-isolation they’ll have all the space they need.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Because the Naples market tends to be seasonal, are buyers and sellers handling the lockdown differently than they might in non-seasonal communities?

Yes, most people are still here and most people are coming down during the Summer to look to buy for the Fall. I feel a strong push is coming this Summer and Fall sales-wise. Of course, it all depends on if the country is opened back up for people to travel here. Otherwise, who wouldn’t want to be in sunny Florida?

As a developer as well as a Realtor, has the potential economic impacts of the virus changed your immediate or mid-range business plans?

There are a lot of unknowns right now. We have planned, prepared, and learned from the past to be able to modify or strengthen our business plans in these times. And there are many challenges ahead. However, due to the current market conditions and the lack of inventory, we do not see this as a short-term issue. I always say, 'don’t let a short term challenge get in the way of your long-term goals.'

To contact Dante DiSabato, click on "Learn More" above.

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Photo Credit: Blue Zone Realty International

Nestled between the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, and the warm blue waters of the Pacific Oceans, Costa Rica has long been recognized for its environmental protectionism, the benefits and healthcare for the Costa Rica workers, its lush, rich surroundings, and the abundant wildlife.

While most of the world’s population has experienced the need to ‘shelter in place’ as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, several property owners in Costa Rica have adopted a new philosophy of Responsible Luxury. This phrase was coined to reflect the growing trend for luxury homeowners who have decided to protect their vast estates while living in responsible yet luxurious homes. Rather than subdividing the land into smaller parcels and building additional homes, many homeowners have decided instead to protect the old-growth trees and to provide a perfect habitat for the many monkeys, birds, and other animals who thrive in this tropical paradise.

A perfect example of this new trend is Villa Mareas. Villa Mareas is a stunning 10-bedroom luxury retreat that sits on 36 acres of pristine mountainous rainforest. The ocean views are dreamy, and the quality of construction is matched only by the luxurious finishes. This property, available for US$3,490,000, is the ideal personal or corporate retreat. Villa Mareas is the most iconic location for weddings, yoga retreats, and private family functions. The award-winning glass-tile pool is a remarkable feature. The property boasts 3 waterfalls and is teaming with wildlife.

Photo Credit: Blue Zone Realty International Photo Credit: Blue Zone Realty International

It should come as no surprise that many travelers from North America and Europe have had Costa Rica on their bucket list to visit for several years, but interest from 2^nd and 3^rd home buyers has reached new heights over the past few months. With celebrity worthy luxury estates, like Castillo Del Sol (as featured on Forbes World’s Coolest Helipad Homes), which features 7 gorgeous bedrooms, a private helipad, 3 pools, and music and entertainment room, a manager’s home, and 10 wonderful acres of ocean view property. Available for only US$2,900,000, Costa Rica is both affordable and remarkable.

Photo Credit: Blue Zone Realty International Photo Credit: Blue Zone Realty International Photo Credit: Blue Zone Realty International

Our Luxury Inspiration Series of homes features world-class estates from US$845,000 - $8,400,000. Luxury homes in Costa Rica celebrate the unparalleled tropical splendor by creating inviting spaces inside and out. This seamless transition offers a retreat-like living environment that promotes a healthy, relaxing, and enjoyable experience for everyone. For those of us who are luckiest to live in Costa Rica, or to own a vacation home here, we like to say that “our life is better than most vacations.” Join us, and we are sure that you will certainly agree. Live virtual property tours are now available.

To contact Blue Zone Realty International, click on "Learn More" above.

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