Helaine Tregenza

Photo Credit: Michelle Magdalena

Helaine recently spoke to Haute Design about her favorite part of a design project and what she sees for her firm's future.

Haute Design: When did you first decide to pursue a career in design?

Helaine Tregenza: My very first job in design was in New York in the 70s as a milliner. When I moved to California thirty years ago and bought my first house, that was when I truly decided to pursue a career in design.

HD: Was there anything particular about California that led to this decision, or was it simply a transitional point in your career?

HT: I believe it was just this desire to apply what I knew about design in fashion and art, and translate that to a structure or a building and learning how it all comes together. Once design is in your blood, it applies to your whole life - at least it has for me. Interior design is a form of art but it's also science and math.

HD: What would you say is your strongest attribute as a designer?

HT: I would say that it's my ability to listen to clients and problem-solve. We must consider space, scale, color, light and of course, I want to create a beautiful environment, but it also has to function. I always ask, 'how does the client live in this space?' Form definitely follows function.

Photo Credit: David Duncan Livingston

HD: What would you say sets your firm apart from others?

HT: We only take a handful of clients at a time. Because of this, we provide a bespoke and very custom experience. We are very selective about our projects and we're extremely hands-on throughout the design process.

HD: What is your favorite part of the process in a design project?

HT: That's like asking who's your favorite child. But I will say, I am especially fond of textiles and lighting and selecting artwork. That's kind of like the icing on the cake. To be able to work with the client at the end of a design project and select art, as an art collector myself, is just a total treat.

Photo Credit: David Duncan Livingston

HD: How would you describe your own design aesthetic?

HT: I would say I'm a classicist with a twist and my design is very multi-layered. I like combining old and new. I like to create a collected look as opposed to one particular style.

HD: Where do you see your firm five years down the road?

HT: I expect we will be happily bringing more clients' vision to realization. I am open to doing some travel for projects but really just doing more of the same. For now, my main focus is to continue to provide a bespoke, turn-key experience for residential spaces.

The post Helaine Tregenza Interiors Provides A Bespoke Turn-key Experience appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Michael Scigliano, Prinicpal of MS2 Design Studio, is known for going above and beyond expectations when it comes to executing modern, yet timeless interior design that speaks to the clients' individual lifestyles and requests.

Typically, luxury interior design and attention to detail do not go hand in hand with speedy delivery, but when it came to this beautiful Fort Lauderdale home, Michael made an exception. "This was the fastest project I have completed," Michael revealed. "To consult with the client, design, order, deliver and install furniture for a custom five thousand square foot home, would normally take at least seven to nine months. This home was completely installed in three months, per the client's request."

Photo Credit: Brett Hufziger Photography

Despite this unique scenario, Michael revealed that this was a smooth and enjoyable design process.

"The time crunch was the biggest challenge. The clients were a delight to work with. They were decisive, had amazing taste and they gave me the freedom to design the home that I thought would be perfect for them. They fell in love with the home the second we presented it to the them."

Honestly, who could blame them? According to Michael, the clients are avid boaters and their only request was to have a light, ethereal space that complemented their yachting lifestyle.

Photo Credit: Brett Hufziger Photography

As seen in the Poggenpohl kitchen above, there is a delightful mix of eclectic materials throughout this home, which lends to a beautifully layered aspect throughout each space. "I like mixing classic materials into all of the modern spaces we design. This tends to give a timeless feel to the project. The shapes are modern but the materials are timeless."

The speed in which this project was completed is even more impressive when considering that Michael and his design team were able to install custom millwork into the home's office and master closet as well as custom furniture pieces throughout.

Photo Credit: Brett Hufziger Photography

Master Bedroom

Photo Credit: Brett Hufziger Photography

In the bedroom, Michael and the MS2 team used only the finest of materials. The bedding is fully-comprised of Jesurum Italian linen from E. Braun in New York. Michael noted, "The customer introduced me to the Jesurum line. He uses them on his yacht and wanted the same quality in his two Master Suites. The high thread count, soft hand and custom embroidery options are unique to this line and added an extra couture touch to this home."

Breakfast Room with Artichoke lighting Pendants by Jeremy Cole

Photo Credit: Brett Hufziger Photography

MS2 Design Studio specializes in custom built-in cabinetry, project management, unique wall and floor coverings, innovative lighting fixtures and custom furniture design that always looks to the future for the newest materials while still remaining true to the classics.

To learn more about Michael Scigliano and MS2 Design Studio, head over to https://ms2designstudio.com. Be sure to follow them on Instagram, @ms2designstudioofficial.

The post MS2 Design Studio Executes Stunning Design Fashionably Early appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

What will the color palette be for 2013, and will you go with that trend?

Timeless elegance is always subtly inclusive of trend.  A warmer, more embracing color palette will merge with the classic white, fresh and clean, as everyone seems to be looking for long term value and timelessness.

What materials will be making their debut in 2013, and what if anything will be coming back after a long hiatus?

Concrete as flooring tiles are back with many colors being shared by Waterworks.  Lots of printed textiles are coming to the market as well.  It's fun to see pattern really taking the stage again!

What design concepts from last year should be left alone for a while?

Bright Dramatic Colors that look good in magazines and on-line, but offer little "PEACE-fullness" to live with on a daily basis.

Given the opportunity, what risks would you like to take this year to further the concepts of design?

I am very interested in what is happening with e-commerce and the world of home. Pinterest is alive and very exciting with ideas shared endlessly.  I actually look forward to curating products on-line, and ultimately offering my own signature collections as well.

If you could redesign one of your favorite places, other than your home or office, where is it, and what would you do with it?

One of my favorite spaces is a penthouse I saw recently in the Trump Tower Chicago.  I would open all of the spaces with Hopes Doors and create a contemporary, clean, yet warm environment with a large, old piece of Italian terrazzo floor.  One might be reminded of the classic old Italian stone house with the contemporary Bultaup Kitchen insert.  With high ceilings and beautiful fine art on the walls, the space will become warm and inviting with many a "favorite spot" for reading and just absorbing the magnificent views.

The post 2013 A Time of Timeless Elegance: Chicago Designer Suzanne Lovell Shares What to Expect appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.