Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

Hafsa Burt recently gave Haute Design an insider's look at her Terra Glen project in San Jose, CA.

Haute Design: How did the Terra Glen renovation project come about?

Hafsa Burt: This multi-family asset was being repositioned and I knew one of the new owners. He expressed interest in allowing me to take a look to see what can be done to modernize the building. We got together with their marketing team to make sure goals were aligned with their vision and worked closely with them, every step of the way.

HD: What is the biggest challenge when approaching a project of this scale?

HB: Projects such as these are usually occupied, therefore design and construction need to be flexible to work around the occupants. Such assets are also dated for building code requirements and need to be carefully analyzed for upgrades relevant to current codes and regulations. And then of course, aesthetics are addressed.

Photo Credit: hb+a Architects

HD: What are some of the ecologically-friendly practices utilized throughout the project?

HB: We used materials throughout that have a low carbon footprint and don't off-gas, creating a healthier indoor air quality. Fresh air, natural light and ventilation were also key factors in design. We specified bamboo cladding, which is a carbon-capturing material and has shown great resilience compared to tile and looks fantastic on the exterior.

HD: What were the main goals throughout the renovation? What needed the most improvement?

HB: As briefly mentioned before, assets like these, which have been around for decades, require significant building code upgrades to make sure the building is safe for occupants. There are complex layers that start with a detailed analysis of existing conditions while maintaining contingencies for unexpected surprises during construction when walls are demolished, etc.  After the initial analysis, a plan is laid out to address code issues and solutions are discussed with the clients while keeping in line with their vision and making the space aesthetically appealing and contemporary.

The post hb+a Architects’ Terra Glen Project Renovates and Keeps Design Contemporary appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Rita Chraibi

Rita recently previewed an exciting upcoming project with Haute Design. The massive structure is set to result in an exceptional and unprecedented exterior for Miami.

Haute Design: What does a project of this magnitude mean for your firm?

Rita Chraibi: This means a lot. This kind of project is a big challenge because it is an existing house that we have to completely reconfigure. The residence is more than 30 years old. For the exterior of the house, we have redesigned all the facades. This completely affects the interior as well as it alters the distribution and rearrangement of the layout. Therefore, the interior design of the home has been completely redone.

Taking into account all the constraints of the existing house, it's a lot of parameters to take into consideration and a lot of constraints to manage at the same time. From a scale and size point of view, it requires a lot of time and very experienced interior design teams to manage a huge project - which also implies teams to manage and coordinate on-site.

It also implies a lot of creativity because this type of mansion has to be completely rethought and reconfigured, not just on an aesthetic level, but on a technological level as well. There are plenty of constraints to manage since we have an existing house with all the structural and architectural limitations. So yes, it’s a very large project in terms of its size and importance and it's a wonderful opportunity to be able to express my creativity and expertise on such a project.

HD: What is the most exciting part about tackling a project this large?

RC: It's very exciting to compare the before and after aspects of a project like this. You have a house that's over 30 years old and you have to completely changes its style and redesign it. Unlike new house built from scratch, we will benefit from this before and after concept and it's very exciting. Aside from the size (42,000 sq. ft built-up) and importance of the project, what will be most exciting is to see the house at the beginning of the project and then see its gradual transformation toward the final result. We're expecting to get the sense that it's not the same house at all and it will be somewhat of an extreme makeover.

HD: What will be the main inspiration for the design of this home?

RC: It's a house that was built in a Mediterranean style in the 80's on a private beach. The location of the house is exceptional. The owners wanted it to be modern but in a classic style that respects the shape of the house. Knowing that we were redesigning the interior as well as the exterior of the house, I proposed to my clients to do something unique and outstanding, never seen before in Miami, so we designed the exterior of the house in a “French chateau-style” as we often see in France - My clients are very refined and loved the idea of having something completely different and brand-new - it's unprecedented in Miami and the result of the exterior of the house will be truly exceptional!

The interior of the house is definitely very modern and this is often the case with renovations in France for all the old buildings and even in the “Haussmanian” style apartments in Paris. The character and the old architecture are preserved while matching it with a contemporary interior design.

I find the result very interesting as a kind of respect for the past with a foot in the future. It is a kind of confrontation between the old and the modern that gives an unparalleled result.

The post International Designers’ Rita Chraibi Teases Benchmark Residential Design Project in Miami 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.

When Centaur Interiors was approached for this project in the Millenium Park area of Chicago, the client made it clear that the ideal outdoor area was an absolute must-have.

Located in the Loop community area of Chicago, this residence is a stone's throw away to some of the city's best museums, cultural attractions, restaurants and bars. So while access to breath-taking views would not necessarily be a problem, project manager and Principal at Centaur Interiors Michael Miller and Design Director Jennifer Aubry still had a few challenges ahead. Since this is a landmark building, approvals had to go through the building and the city as well. This translated to many of the custom pieces found throughout the stunning home to be fabricated on-site.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

While rooftop terraces are a rarity in Chicago, the opportunity to create one allowed for the Centaur team to utilize core skills related to designing, building and furnishing.

Keeping in mind that the vast majority of the world has been reeling from a global pandemic which kept us all indoors for the past year or more, any and every outdoor spaces were welcomed by client and designer alike.

One of the aforementioned key pieces that had to be fabricated onsite was the floating steel trellis which integrates lighting, heating, water misters, as well as a motorized retractable awning. Which means this would be the ideal terrace to entertain and spend time at, year-round.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The terrace also includes a custom outdoor kitchen which incorporates concealed appliances for entertaining. Multiple flooring materials of wood, tile, and turf flawlessly integrate and also incorporate lighting features. Apart from floors, the planters, walls and trellis all have lighting, which creates a lovely atmosphere throughout the evening. All of these aspects including exterior grade TVs and speakers are harmoniously controlled with smart home technology.

Smart Home Technology allows for the option of entertaining for intimate and larger-scale functions alike. The robust one-touch controls give the client the option to entertain not only in a variety of social settings but throughout various climate conditions as well.

While the rooftop may be something of an oasis, the interior of this home is nothing short of spectacular either.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

The image above displays a motorized TV that seamlessly vanishes, dividing a gorgeous millwork wine feature.

A distressed leather wrapped floating credenza and millwork wall panels showcase a beautiful piece of custom art which anchors the living room seating grouping. All interior furnishings and decor were implemented by the Centaur Interiors design team.

Photo Credit: Centaur Interiors

This Millenium Park Residence displays the turnkey service Centaur Interiors provides, regardless of the environment or situation. The lovely outdoor oasis will surely be the party destination no matter what conditions the Windy City has planned.

To learn more about Centaur Interiors and book them for an upcoming project, CLICK HERE and discover the art of building.

The post Centaur Interiors Creates Unique Outdoor Oasis For Millenium Park Residence appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Editor's note: Originally founded in 1998 in New York City, MS2 Design Studio, Inc. is a full-service design firm that specializes in high-end residential design. “We handle every aspect of the design process,” says Principal, Michael Scigliano. We want our clients not to have to lift a finger.  We are a design firm, yet offer so much more to help in our client’s busy lives.  Our clients have come to enjoy and rely on our services.”

Today, Michael Scigliano takes Haute Design through one of his recent projects from Miami Beach. 

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

The home was built in the 1920s and was recently renovated through the teamwork of architect, Kobi Karp, and builder, Probuilt Group. An addition was added for a large Master Bedroom Suite, pool, cabana suite, etc.  The house is a 2 story, approximately 4,450 sq ft, 4 Bedroom with on-suite bathrooms, plus a separate, private Cabana Suite above the Outdoor Kitchen and extra-large Master Suite.

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

The client wanted a darker, more masculine feel for the home. MS2 Design used custom Vahallan handmade wall coverings in the Family Room/Kitchen Area, as well as the Master Bedroom. We selected furnishings from B&B Italia, Flexform, Luminaire, Michael Dawkins Home, and area rugs by Kyle Bunting.

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

As well as many custom-designed pieces from MS2 Design Studio, like the Blacked Steel and Smoked Glass Floating TV Cabinet, Blacked Steel Passages, Master Bedroom Floating Bed and Cabinet, and Cabana Bedroom Millwork.

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

Photo Credit: Troy Campbell Studio

The post Michael Scigliano Of MS2 Design Studio Walks Us Through His Recent Miami Beach Design Project appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

The project at Casa Del Mar was part of a complete gut out renovation of a 1960’s-era condo in beautiful Key Biscayne, Florida with a stunning ocean view.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

The clients, a family of five, wished for a large, welcoming, functional space to entertain guests; add a room with a private bathroom, and seamlessly integrate the kitchen with the living and dining areas.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

Our goal was to transform the outdated, closed-off kitchen into a lively flowing space where the family and their guests could enjoy the view and each other’s company. The challenge to transform the closed floor plan into an open, integrated space was further complicated by the aging building and outdated plumbing, A/C and electrical ductwork, as well as the elevator lobby.

Also, extant in the space were structural columns that could not be removed, resulting in a chaotic, narrow, L-shaped kitchen layout with limited storage. We designed a curved wall dressed with wood mosaic connecting the foyer and living area to the kitchen, softening the harsh, constrained angles of the original layout and laying the groundwork for a motive of curves and circles which carried throughout our design.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

To maximize storage and spaciousness, we camouflaged appliances behind false doors, grouping the tallest appliances together to achieve balance and flow. In lieu of an island for the kitchen, we added a dining table in the center of the design, allowing the client to fulfill their passion for entertaining while integrating the social spaces of the residence with the functional space of the kitchen.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

A large yet delicate sculptural chandelier continued to explore this sense of curvature and transparency. Through a game of proportions, scale, and continuity, we transformed a small, outdated space into a contemporary retreat perfect for a dinner party with a spectacular ocean view.

For more on Sandra Diaz and EOLO Design, visit her Haute Residence profile.

The post Condo In Key Biscayne Renovated To Perfection appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Moore purchased the house with her fiancé, Taylor Goldsmith in January 2017. Interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel and architect Emily Farnham were enlisted to transform the 1950’s  3,551-square-foot home into the couple’s dream pad. Golden fittings and fixtures appear to be a theme with faucets and cabinet pulls along with pendent lighting, mirrors (well, okay brass from CB2) in a distinctive midas hue. The influence is undoubtedly ’70’s retro, including terrazzo floors with gilded divider strips.

Construction meetings at our #lessismooremm project have become the highlight of my week. Later today we get to check in on the terrazzo progress (a 5-6 week process). Here’s a rendering of our #palladiana terrazzo fireplace ledge being fabricated right now. Swipe for the before. #emilyfarnhamarchitecture

A post shared by Emily Farnham (@emilyfarnhamarchitecture) on Oct 12, 2017 at 7:34am PDT

The kitchen, which underwent a full scale demo, introduced a single waterfall design island made out of Calcutta Venato marble with juniper cabinets. Contemporary flair is added with more slabs of marble, a theme which is continued into the shower. No cleaning grout lines with a toothbrush for Moore and Goldsmith.

The calm before the storm at #lessismooremm one week ago right before move-in day. The furniture installation is almost complete and our clients are in the process of making it home. We’re all excited to show you more soon. #emilyfarnhamarchitecture A post shared by Emily Farnham (@emilyfarnhamarchitecture) on Jan 23, 2018 at 9:33am PST

The upholstered green headboard hasn’t been seen in boudoirs since Barry White was used for seduction. And those pendant lights will have you digging out your parents’ flares. As for the felt fabrics on the sofas, cue an old episode of Charlie’s Angles and you might have seen them. That said, the retro elements don’t overpower this renovation. Instead, the clean lines, and modern touches add a sophisticated cool with a touch of fun.

A rendering of our #lessismooremm project, currently under construction. The master bath was another place we had to get a little surgical to remove the traces of an ill-fitting previous addition. Swipe for the before, and swipe again for the only time wall-to-wall carpet was acceptable in a bathroom. #emilyfarnhamarchitecture

A post shared by Emily Farnham (@emilyfarnhamarchitecture) on Sep 28, 2017 at 11:46am PDT

Moore and Goldsmith clearly nabbed Sherman because she didn’t want a home that looked like everyone else’s. No white cabinets, grey walls and hardwood floors for them. Sherman’s ’70’s flirtations are clearly bold statements but not garishly so. The softer greens and  natural elements —stone and wood — take down the disco ball and turn the show house into a home, which can actually be lived in as opposed to photographed.

The post Mandy Moore Goes Retro Chic With Her Pasadena Home Renovation appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Architecture in New York’s Upper West Side has a certain feel to it. The buildings lining the streets today feel like classic relics of New York’s yesteryear—ornately chiseled facades, stone towers with opulent fixtures in the windows of New York’s wealth and glamour. For One Central Park West, a remodel to this home meant finding the personal feel of those northern builds, with the modern luxuries of southern midtown.

Parisian architect Nathan Litera designed the new space on the buildings 42^nd floor, recently listed by Brown Harris Stevens. Held under 10’4” a ceiling, the newly designed apartment features a chef’s kitchen, Black Nero Marquina fireplace, wet bar, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Central Park South skyline. The home features high-end Gaggenau appliances and Calacatta Oro marble countertops that compliment the lacquered cabinets and furnishings of the rest of the space. The private “wing” of the apartment—which tells you a lot about the level of style here that its broken down into wings—features a huge master bedroom with walk in closets and en-suite marble covered bathroom. That overlooks Columbus Circle. The space also enjoys the amenities of pool and spa from the hotel next door, as well as hotel level amenities like 24-hour room service available from the Jean Georges restaurant nearby. The three bed, four and a half bath post-war apartment steps away from everything the Upper West Side knows best to the north, yet feels more personal and home-like than Midtown’s colder nature. The home also features a library, roof garden, health club, and some of the best neighbors in the city.

If all this wasn’t enough to entice potential residents, the space is also directly across from the park—perfect for any morning jogger or a spot to walk the dog at night to the clip-clop of horse drawn carriages. For those looking for a balance in the New York of yesterday and tomorrow, this is the perfect spot.

The post One Central Park West Mastered This Renovation appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.