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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Photo Credit: The Young Companies

Donté J. Young, founder and CEO of The Young Companies, shared how The Young Companies approaches Interior design.

Haute Design: What does your design firm do that no one else can imitate?

Donté J. Young: Two specific things come to mind. We're not just designers, we're design artists. I like to think we're the Picasso of designers. While I may not be known on that level (yet), my team and I are visionaries in a way that does not have us picking out multiple paints or floor samples for our clients. I envision it, then I bring it to life. Our design process is a bit unconventional but always memorable through the turnkey delivery. Matched with an infectious savant energy, it is something that cannot be duplicated or imitated.

HD: Describe The Young Companies' design philosophy in three words.

DJY: I'm not sure if I could do that in three words necessarily, but our mantra is, "Be bold, not basic."

Photo Credit: The Young Companies

HD: What has been the biggest lesson you learned since the launch of your design firm?

DJY: For me, the main thing has always been practical communication. There are so many layers to design - from architects, to general contractors, sub-contractors, vendors, employees, and the clients themselves, things can fall apart quickly if you do not have effective communication.

When my team and I went remote, we moved to a more robust project management system. It provided our clients with a real-time, 24-hour communication platform to ensure all lines of communication were effectively met. It has indeed been the foundation of our design-build firm.

HD: What is your favorite part of working in Chicago?

DJY: Chicago is somewhat of a full-circle moment for me as I lived here over a decade ago. It's an approachable city Mecca known worldwide for its beautiful architecture, world-class cuisine and phenomenal art scene. Combine all these things along with the beauty of the Midwest's people, and it makes for a fantastic place to call home as well as creating experiential home designs for many clients throughout the Chicagoland area. It is the foundation and birthplace of many greats; therefore, I am pleased to be based here amongst that inspiring energy.

Photo Credit: The Young Companies

HD: When did you realize you wanted to fully dive into the design industry? How was that?

DJY: My mother was an interior designer and art broker, so I was always around design from a young age. Initially, I studied structural engineering before shifting my studies to architecture. My career led me down many avenues - from being a real estate broker, resulting in a period within the world of marketing and public relations for various celebrities and entertainers. However, the one thing that remained constant was that I owned and designed luxury rental properties where people would ask who my designer was, not knowing it was me. After designing for friends 'just for fun' and getting burned out by the entertainment and public relations firm, I leaped full-time back into the development and design business, which has proven to be a fruitful and highly notable career path.

The post Donté J. Young Aims to be Bold, not Basic appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Stefano was born and raised in Miami, FL, and is the Vice President of his family’s Design-Build company, Balli Group. He is responsible for Development Opportunities, Construction Management, and Sales. He earned dual Bachelor of Business Administration Degrees from Florida International University, specializing in Finance and Real Estate. He also holds a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate license.

Stefano shares his father’s passion for real estate development and values the importance of the process. His strong appreciation and knowledge of Architecture and Construction allow him to bring unparalleled expertise to his clients. Stefano specializes in luxury single-family residences.

Recently, he shared his expert opinions with Haute Residence regarding his specific market, what has led to his success, and what he sees for the future.

Haute Residence: What were the effects of COVID in the housing market?

Stefano Balli: Over the past two years, we’ve seen a strong migration to Florida. Now, one can say it is primarily from COVID-19, but this migration has always been in place. South Florida, specifically Miami, has always been a vacation or winter trip for thousands of Americans. COVID-19 expedited and amplified it due to certain health and living conditions in other states. Specific areas I’ve seen the most demand in are in the Southern Gables Gated Comminutes such as Gables Estates, Snapper Creek Lakes, and Hammock Lakes. This is primarily due to the average size of the property, privacy, proximity to great schools and local restaurants.

HR: Why should someone buy in your market?

SB: The quality of life is very high, there are a number of great schools, parks, shops, restaurants, marinas, and parks to support a local lifestyle all while only a 20-minute car ride to Downtown Miami, Brickell, and the sorts.

HR: What sets you apart from other realtors?

SB: Working in the Construction/Development industry for the past 10 years and having a background in Architecture/Design has allowed me to advise and guide my clients on the right purchase. There are several variables when purchasing a home or property that can be costly if not vetted correctly.

HR: What do you see for the future of your market this coming year?

SB: I’m optimistic about what the next couple of years have in store, specifically for the luxury markets in South Florida. Miami is a young city comparatively speaking with much more room to grow, both vertically and horizontally. With limited supply for the foreseeable future and demand continuing through the end of 2021, I believe there’s more room to run.

Stefano Balli is the exclusive agent representing the Ponce-Davis, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of his listings here.

The post Stefano Balli Of The Balli Group On The Housing Migration To Florida And What To Expect In 2022 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: The Balli Group

Stefano Balli, Vice President of Balli Group, recently spoke to Haute Design and explained what sets Balli Group apart and how he approaches his work in Coral Gables area.

Haute Design: How did you get your start in the business?

Stefano Balli: The company began over 40 years ago when my grandfather, Giorgio Balli Sr., first migrated to Miami from Lima, Peru. He designed and worked alongside some of South Florida's most prominent developers throughout the '80s, working on about 80% of Cocoplum, a gated community in South Coral Gables. Years later, my father Giorgio Balli joined the firm, adding new pillars to the Group - architecture, interior design and construction/development. He has since designed and developed over 350 private residences. I have joined the Group, alongside my father, to continue designing and developing luxury residences throughout South Florida. Since then, we've broken records on each development we've completed.

HD: Describe a design-build company and what The Balli Group does. 

SB: I like to label The Balli Group as a vertically-integrated development firm. We have the ability to guide a client based on budget and desires, from conception to reality. Our pillars include architecture, interior design and construction. We connect with our clients to make sure we deliver a product of the highest quality, while maintaining certain budgets and metrics.

Photo Credit: The Balli Group

HD: What is unique about your market?

SB: We approach each project as if it were a work of art. It takes time, but once completed, it exudes luxury, quality and warmth. We approach each product differently and can adapt to any style, design, and/or program. Our primary market focus remains in the gated communities of South Coral Gables, but we currently have over 25 projects throughout the municipalities in Miami as well as Ft. Lauderdale.

HD: Which design trends have caught your eye recently?

SB: We continue to see trends catered to wellness, privacy, space and technology. We foresee these trends continuing into the coming years. The trend for more space has actually reversed its course since 2019, where we saw the consumer requesting less space for both living and total. Whereas now, each home we design and/or develop has a dedicated office space, a gym or spa, large exterior areas for sporting activities, lush landscaping, fully-integrated smart home technology and advanced security. We're interested in the advancement of solar technology and what that may bring in the coming years as well.

The post Balli Group Distinguishes Itself in the Coral Gables Area appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

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

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

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Sensi Casa

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

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

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

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

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

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

The post Sensi Casa Sets New Standard In Interior Design appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Some of the most coveted and most expensive properties in Southern California lay along The Strand in the South Bay. This famous four-mile pedestrian pathway is draped between gorgeous beachside estates and pristine sandy beaches from North Manhattan Beach to the border of Torrance Beach. Ocean views are locked-in along The Strand, as well as iconic vistas of the famous Manhattan Beach Pier, and the Hermosa Beach Pier that was featured in the Hollywood blockbuster film LaLa Land.

Manhattan Beach Realtor Cindy Shearin of the Shearin Group intimately knows what life on The Strand is all about. Previously living on The Strand herself, as well as both building and selling multiple homes here over a 30-year career, Shearin has a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to share with her clients. Closing just this week on a single-family estate on The Strand, Shearin has up-to-the-minute knowledge for this distinguished location and all it has to offer.

A completely unique option for ownership on The Strand in which Shearin is the exclusive agent is the only Condo-tel in the South Bay called Beach House. “The Beach House is an excellent opportunity for clients who want to own on The Strand to enjoy all that the strand-lifestyle has to offer along with the comforts of an upscale hotel, yet not have to carry the responsibility of seaside home maintenance,” explains Shearin. Coupled with that is the perk of being able to own on The Strand for under a million dollars.  

The Beach House location is adjacent to Hermosa Beach’s pedestrian-only promenade. This charming spot is trimmed with sky-high palm trees amid a variety of restaurants, cafes, sports bars, and boutique shopping.

Beach House Ownership Perks: 

• Offered for $935,000
• Turnkey for the owners
• Cleaning, Maintenance & Management is run by the management company  
• Rare Southern California beachfront opportunity at this price point
• Exercise on The Strand, enjoy the beach or a game of volleyball right outside your front door 
• Easy to enjoy South Bay’s most enjoyable family-friendly beach festivals year-round
• Steps from the sand, yet in the heart of a charming coastal town
• Located in Hermosa Beach town center which offers a great atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment along the pedestrian-only promenade
• Oceanfront living and desirable conveniences while enjoying a front-row seat to watch the sunset over Hermosa
• The units are well-appointed in a desirable and timeless coastal-beach style and include a dedicated sleeping space with a king-sized bed, desk area, a generously sized living room with a queen pull out sofa, efficiency kitchen, fireplace, full bath with a separate oversized soaking tub and shower. 
• Most units offer ocean views and many are oceanfront
• All units offer a large walk-out balcony with seating for daily enjoyment
• Complimentary continental breakfast, high-speed internet access, spa area, Frette linens, high-end down comforters, cozy robes, Aveda amenities, and much more 
• The perfect lock-n-leave seaside home away from home, located on The Strand  

An Excellent Return:

• The Beach House is an income-producing property when not in use by the owners.  
• The demand is high which equates to high occupancy and rental income return. 
• Additional information available upon request.

Experience this beloved beachside escape that locals have coveted for years!

Address: Beach House, 1300 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Price: $935,000

For more information, please contact Cindy Shearin at 310-200-8318 or cindy@theshearingroup.com

Cindy Shearin is the exclusive agent representing the Manhattan Beach/Redondo Beach, California real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Linda Cotter

Photo Credit: Linda Cotter

Photo Credit: Linda Cotter

Photo Credit: Linda Cotter

Photo Credit: Lidna Cotter

Photo Credit: Linda CotterPhoto Credit: Linda Cotter

Photo Credit: Linda Cotter

The post A Coveted Beach House In Hermosa Beach By Cindy Shearin appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Ron Bird Photography

How has the luxury real estate market in your area been performing so far in 2020?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is performing really well in the $2-$3.5M segment with limited inventory and a lot of homes selling off-market before getting to MLS. The $5M+ market has been a little slow to start. As a second home market, home purchases are discretionary so buyers need to really see the property they love. Pebble Beach has been really strong for the past three years and the start to the year was a little quieter. But we’re seeing it pick back up.

Photo Credit: Ron Bird Photography

What are buyers looking for in their homes in Pebble Beach/Carmel in 2020?

People want finished homes that are move-in ready. Contemporary looks and current finishes. Coastal and airy hues and tones. Especially as a predominantly second-home market; buyers want homes that they can start enjoying right away. They don’t have the time or desire to take on a remodeling project that could take a couple of years. We are counseling sellers and working with them to get their homes as turn-key as possible. Nine out of 10 buyers don’t have the vision for seeing past sellers' personal items or envisioning how a home could be refreshed. We need to get homes ready that speak to buyers upon their first launch and debut.

Which has been a highlight sale for you so far in 2020?

We’re really just getting started with the year, and had a number of closings and a large number of homes in contract. Some fabulous properties. But our highlight thus far hasn’t been the largest sale, but more about how we’ve been able to help both sellers and buyers. One seller, we refreshed her home with Compass Concierge and had a quick sale that “changed her life." She was able to sell her property and move on to the next chapter of her life. We also have had a couple of young families move here from the Bay Area that made a conscious decision to improve their quality of life. Those are the really rewarding highlights thus far.

Photo Credit: Dana Bambace and Mark Peterson

Are there any new restaurants or other spots in your market you’ve been loving lately?

Enjoying a sunset by the firepits at Spanish Bay with the bagpiper is always a great way to wrap up a day and kick off the evening. There are so many great restaurants depending on your cravings. We’re pretty excited about a couple of market/ restaurants still being built out that showcase our region’s farm-fresh leadership for the country. Roughly 70 percent of the country’s leafy greens are grown here. We’re fortunate to have farmers’ markets seven days a week and a bounty of fresh seafood for chefs to always create seasonal menus.

Photo Credit: Dana Bambace and Mark Peterson

It’s time for spring break. What is a fun activity in your market?

We’re all about getting outside and all of the recreational opportunities. Getting out for a hike or stroll on the beach is always available. But with a little more time, we love heading down the coast towards Big Sur. The mountains are lush and green and the sand on the beaches is crystal white. After a hike, it's always fun to wrap up with a snack or drink at Nepenthe Restaurant.

Photo Credit: Dana Bambace and Mark Peterson

The post Dana Bambace And Mark Peterson Talk Real Estate And Fun Things To Do In Pebble Beach And Carmel During March appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Priced turnkey! Stunning and open 5 bed/5.1 bath single-family home, completely renovated and with gorgeous taste and style! Just bring your toothbrush for immediate move-in within the exclusive Equestrian Club Estates, just a golf cart ride away from WEF. Perfect for the whole family, each bedroom/bathroom is an ensuite plus additional powder room. A barn door and separate entrance allows 2 guest bedroom/bathrooms to be private for extended family or friends, while the master suite is split on a different end of the home. Enjoy the same number of family or guests as with the estate side homes in the neighborhood in a completely re-done and manageable home at a much lesser price! Bright, full of quality, and exquisite.

Address: 14264 Stroller Way, Wellington, FL 33414

Price: $3.1 million

For more information, please contact Maria Mendelsohn at 561-758-1605 or maria@mariamendelsohn.com

Maria Mendelsohn is the exclusive agent representing the Equestrian and Luxury properties within Douglas Elliman’s Sports and Entertainment division as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Photo Credit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Photo Credit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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