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Angela Betancourt

LIFESTYLE, Living, MSM Online, Real Estate, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle – Tropical Modern Architecture with Ralph Choeff

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By Angela Betancourt Award-winning architect Ralph Choeff is one of the leaders of the Tropical Modern architectural movements in South Florida. Along with his partners at the Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture & Design firm, the team has mastered the art of Tropical Modern architecture. They’ve designed some of the most celebrated homes and hotels in the city; including the Mondrian South Beach Hotel and The Anglers Hotel, both in South Beach. One of their recent projects, the Rivo Alto Island Residence in Miami Beach, is a stunning example of how well Tropical Modern architecture plays into its surroundings. The home blends the interior with the exterior by using tall and expansive windows and sliding glass doors for maximum views and enjoyment. The interior of the home radiates a Zen-like atmosphere that, as Choeff would describe it, takes the owner to a place outside the experience of the day-to-day. A native New Yorker, Choeff moved to Miami in 1978 after graduating from the Pratt Institute with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. “I believed that Miami was ready to experience real architectural growth after being stagnant for many years. I felt Miami gave me the best opportunity to succeed and offered the weather I desired,” he said. And succeed he did. Choeff has become a highly sought-after architect and has been commissioned by many celebrities and VIP’s including Cher, Matt Damon, Barry Gibb, Alex Rodriguez and many others. His work has been featured on national TV programs such as the Today Show and in various high profile design magazines like Hospitality Design. His name has become synonymous with Tropical Modern architecture in South Florida. “My biggest professional accomplishment today, I believe, is how far I have come in the evolution of my professional career and how I approach design. I am proud to have been one of the leaders in the movement of Tropical Modern architecture in South Florida,” shared Choeff. Choeff’s success in this space evolved from his love of modern architecture. In college, he began to admire the work of Walter Gropius, a German architect known as one of the pioneers of modern architecture who was also the founder of the Bauhaus School. “The modern glass skyscrapers of NYC were inspirational to me. When I moved to South Florida, I yearned for the opportunity to produce modern architecture. Once I got that and started designing modern buildings, tropical architecture evolved when technology allowed us to create vast and tall sliding glass door openings which also allowed us to take advantage of our climate. Tropical Modern architecture was a natural evolution that stemmed from that,” he said. As this New Year begins to unfold, Choeff will undoubtedly continue to make strides. He is very excited about all of the firm’s current and upcoming projects and has high ambitions for the future. His ultimate dream project is to build something so successful it will gain enough notoriety to positively inspire the industry and that is one more thing he can be proud of. For more information on Ralph Choeff & Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture & Design, please visit www.clfarchitects.com

Business, MSM Online, Real Estate

Real Estyle: Le Lac Estate

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By Angela Betancourt Nestled in the heart of Boca Raton is the Le Lac Estate, a nine-acre masterpiece that has been listed by Douglas Elliman realtors Senada Adzem and Chris Leavitt, star of Million Dollar Listing Miami. Priced at $19,950,000, this expansive property features 16,140 sf of living space, eight bedrooms, eight full bathrooms, three half-bathrooms, and its very own private lake. Le Lac is a single family resort-style property that will provide its new homeowners with an abundance of luxury and opportunities to entertain guests. There is a private island with gazebo, a guest house, outdoor shower, basketball court, a summer kitchen, and Har-Tru clay tennis court with HydroGrid irrigation. The estate’s custom designed pool is surrounded by cut stone pillars, a waterfall, and LED lighting. Le Lac’s interior is lavishly designed with the finest materials. The front door is made from mahogany wood and opens into a grand living room with high ceilings and a majestic chandelier. The kitchen showcases top of the line appliances that include, a Sub-Zero professional refrigerator, Corian countertops, and a Wolf gas range stove. Additional interior highlights include a sauna, media room, bar, walk-in closets, roman tub, vault ceilings and a climate-controlled wine cellar that can hold up to 3,000 bottles. The home was designed by Randall Stofft and constructed in 2011 in the posh Le Lac gated community known for its beautiful landscape and 60 acres of interconnecting lakes. The community consists of only 32 custom built homes and provides its residents with plenty of privacy and security. The home is a short distance from Florida’s Turnpike, several schools, coffee shops, supermarkets and restaurants. The beauty of the Le Lac Estate and its proximity to so many points of interests makes this home a true gem that promises the ultimate in luxury living. For more information on Le Lac Estate, please visit www.elliman.com/florida Photography Courtesy of Douglas Elliman

Arts, Culture, MSM Online, The Issue

Craig Robins: A Not So Secret Love Affair with Art

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November-December Issue 2015 By Angela Betancourt Before they were turned into charming boutique hotels, before they were restaurants, before they gained worldwide fame and recognition, the Art Deco District was merely a series of run-down buildings facing an uncertain future. If it wasn’t for the vision and determination of a few pioneering individuals, who saw this historic district for its potential, the Miami Beach we know today would not exist. One of these visionaries is Craig Robins, a real estate developer, philanthropist, and art enthusiast that has made a massive impact in Miami’s real estate, culture, and art landscape. Robins is also the Founder and CEO of Dacra, a real estate company that is constantly propelling Miami into the future. Robins’ vision for the Art Deco District was unprecedented. He began investing in South Beach real estate in the 1980s and steadily restored iconic properties to their original grandeur. As the neighborhood began to thrive and flourish, Robins set his eyes across the bridge. He is the man behind the Miami Design District (MDD) which has become a famed neighborhood in its own right. Less than 30 years ago the MDD was the neglected area of the city you wouldn’t want to get caught in walking around at night. Today, the MDD is a destination that’s home to numerous restaurants, galleries, artists, luxury retail brands, and innovative businesses. “When we set out to revitalize and reinvent the District, our goal was to cultivate an atmosphere where creativity could flourish, regardless of its specific label or medium. These artistic endeavors are all vital components of the fabric of the Design District – the value systems informing each are remarkably similar, with an emphasis on craft, quality, and a profound commitment to expressing a creative vision,” he shared. One of the first things Robins and his team did was to bring back the element of furniture design in order to compete with a nearby business. The move paid off and as new buildings were created; heavy hitters in the design world began setting up showrooms. Robins also fostered an environment of creativity and innovation by providing artists with studio space. “As the neighborhood became known as a laboratory for creativity, we hosted events like the annual Art Loves Design party to celebrate those flourishing creative disciplines. We created public art installations by Marc Newson, Jose Bedia and Zaha Hadid among others,” he said. It wasn’t long before leading fashion brands took notice of the neighborhood’s new personality. The MDD soon welcomed Marni, Christian Louboutin, Maison Martin Margiela, and others. There are currently more than 50 luxury fashion brands in the neighborhood with brands like Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Isabel Marant, Loro Piana, Tod’s and Van Cleef & Arpels expected in 2016. “While the revitalization of the neighborhood began with a cultivation of design showrooms and art collections of international significance, fashion was always part of my vision for the Design District,” said Robins. While two of Miami’s most important neighborhoods were being physically transformed, a creative metamorphosis was simultaneously taking shape: the emergence of Miami’s art scene. Robins’ passion for the arts transcends beyond his personal life and into his work. He even positioned Dacra to be a real estate development firm “that uses architecture, art, design and cultural programming to build creative international destinations.” He speaks of art not in the way of colors on a canvas or molded form; it comes from a much deeper place. “I am instinctive in choosing art, but my life is an interaction between intuitive impulses and a conscious mind, one checks the other. When I become interested in an artist, I tend to collect their work in depth. For more than a decade I have been working with Jack Tilton, who has been the single greatest influence on me as an art collector. Jack is one of the most insightful people working in the art world today, he gave me the confidence to work harder on building my collection”. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Robins is also the Principle of the leading international design show Design Miami and is also responsible for introducing Miami Art Basel to the city. Art Basel has now become one of the largest art fairs in the world; featuring more than 200 galleries and attracting thousands of visitors each year. Miami Art Basel takes place over one week in December. During this time, the amount of events being hosted around the city is almost maddening. Each year it gets even larger. The act of attending all of these events, also known as Art Baseling, is not for the weak of spirit. Robins’ take on it is pretty accurate: “Trying to get ready for Art Basel Miami Beach – it’s a kind of endurance event that you have to train for.” Though Miami Art Basel only comes once a year, Robins believes in creating events and programs that will keep the community more engaged in the arts year round. The MDD currently has a diverse arts and culture program that seeks to constantly engage the community across a variety of art platforms. Some of the initiatives include a lecture series, an art day for families, a six week live music series called District Sounds, and a Site-Specific Performance Series that takes the performance out of the traditional theater and into the neighborhood. “As our base of important cultural institutions grows here in the Miami Design District, so has our ability to connect the community with distinguished artists, curators, critics and cultural figures. The lecture series offered at the de la Cruz Collection, the ICA/Miami and Locust Projects (exhibition space) both engages and inspires conversations within the Miami arts community.” Each event is carefully curated to further an understanding of contemporary art and to allow the artist to engage with the audience in unexpected ways. By breaking from the traditional, the community has an opportunity to experience art in more unusual and interactive ways. The programs and events are designed to make art accessible to everyone. With

Accessories, Entertainment, Events, Fashion, Music, The Issue

Orianne & Phil Collins: Everything Starts with a Dream

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November-December Issue 2015 By Angela Betancourt Photographed by Ihor Mokhovyk Hair & Makeup by Frank (IGK Salon) Location: SLS South Beach The Little Dreams Foundation (LDF) is celebrating another year in Miami with its Second Annual Gala-Concert in March. Seven-time Grammy Award-winning entertainer and foundation co-founder Phil Collins will be returning as celebrity emcee and host of the star-studded evening. LDF co-founder and jewelry designer, Orianne Collins Mejjati, is organizing the gala together with executive producer ACT Productions. She excitedly talked about the gala after her photo shoot with MSM at the SLS Hotel in South Beach. Guests will include more than 2,200 local tycoons, activists, philanthropists, socialites and jet-setters with a common goal to raise funds in support of the Little Dreams Foundation kids, which fulfills the dreams of young aspiring talent who don’t have the means to achieve their goals. It will be a memorable evening with a VIP cocktail reception, silent auction and delectable dinner, followed by a performance by Little Dreamer artists. As part of a new collaboration this year, students from the IRIE Foundation will also showcase their musical talent. “DJ Irie is a lovely man and we thought we could work together,” says Orianne who is a big believer in collaborations. “There are other collaborations that we can do. The more we help each other, the better it is for the young talent. It’s a matter of putting our strengths together to make a better world.” Phil is scheduled to close the evening with a special intimate acoustic performance of some of his global hits. However, he had back surgery late this summer and hopes to be in top shape for the event. “I’m crossing my fingers that I’m healthy enough to perform,” he shared. Surely attending guests hope the same. Phil has created some of the most defining music of the last 40 years- “In the Air Tonight,” “Sussudio” and “Take Me Home,” to name a few. In addition to his seven Grammy awards, Phil has multi-platinum albums and singles, an Oscar and two Golden Globes. Now, he can add Humanitarian of the Year to his long list of accomplishments. Orianne and Phil recently received the Humanitarian Award at the 30th Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner for their work with LDF. For Orianne, receiving this award had extra meaning. After suffering an accident last year, she was told she would be paralyzed for the rest of her life. Today however, with continuous physical therapy, she has defied the odds. “Receiving this award was great because last December they told me I would never be able to walk again. I wanted to prove them wrong and never give up. And that is what the foundation is about; never giving up. If you have a dream, follow your dream. And even if you have an accident you can always continue to keep your goals. Keep your strengths and overcome adversity,” she shared. Orianne has since added to her dreams. “I have a wish and I’m going to do it next July. I’m going to climb the Matterhorn in Switzerland. And I told myself that if I’m able to walk again, that is something I will do.” It was this same drive and determination that put her on course to establish her OC Jewellery line in Miami to great success. In October, the designer hosted a cocktail party to celebrate her new collection. It was an intimate, yet lavish affair that also featured new fashion by Julian Chang and elaborate handbags by Hang2Dry. Orianne’s stunning jewelry pieces sparkled all around the guests as they sipped champagne ate delicious hors d’oeuvres and shopped for a good cause. 15% of the proceeds from sales of the Julian Chang Collection benefitted the LDF class of 2015-2016. When Orianne and Phil started the foundation in Switzerland, they didn’t realize how many young lives they would touch. “We didn’t envision it before,” says Phil. The pair, who was married at that time, began receiving letters from children asking for advice and guidance on how they could achieve their dreams. They decided to take action and with the help of sponsors, technical advisors, and “godparents” were able to start the Little Dreams Foundation. “We can’t guarantee a #1 record but we can certainly give the children a taste of what they can truly achieve,” says Phil. “It is about giving them the opportunity to do something with their talent.” Matching Phil’s star power, musicians like Natalie Cole, Tina Turner, and Angelique Kidjo among many others are all mentors and Phil would like to see other musicians get involved. “We are hoping to get One Direction this year,” he revealed. Though the foundation has inspired many lives, Phil explains that it has also had an impact on him. The past 15 years has created many memories and the experience of working with talented young people has been enjoyable and fulfilling. “There is an honesty and trust working with young people,” he says. He finds that they are not yet jaded and have an enthusiasm and hunger to achieve their dreams. Each year the foundation holds auditions to determine which children will benefit from the program. Phil also admires the courage young people have to go through the process. “It takes a lot of balls to come to the stage and audition. It takes a lot of confidence,” says Phil. When The Little Dreamers take to the stage at the gala, guests will have the opportunity to see exactly why their donations and contributions are so important. “During the gala we want to help people understand what we do. It’s a magical evening because you can understand exactly why you are supporting the foundation. If you give $1 dollar you know exactly where that $1 dollar goes; it goes exactly to the kids and nowhere else,” says Orianne. For the New Year, both Orianne and Phil hope to continue to generate awareness about the foundation and continue their expansion. “We have fantastic children

Business, News & Entertainment, The Issue

Michael Capponi & Gideon Kimbrell: Taking Entrepreneurship to the Next Level

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By Angela Betancourt Photographed by Akram Soliman Miami Beach was not always the desirable city it is today. Its transformation is due large in part to visionaries who saw the city not for what it was, but for what it could be. One such visionary is Michael Capponi, an entrepreneur and humanitarian who has played a major role in shaping Miami’s nightlife industry. For the past 20 years, he has been one of Miami’s most prominent business figures and the gatekeeper to the hottest clubs in the city. His influence is legendary and it’s no surprise that his latest venture has become an instant success. Capponi partnered with software engineer and tech expert Gideon Kimbrell to create InList: a new members-only mobile app that is propelling the nightlife industry into the future. InList provides access to the hottest venues, restaurants, and parties around the world right at your fingertips. The app currently features hundreds of venues in more than 45 cities around the world including Miami, New York, Las Vegas, Paris, Ibiza, Saint-Tropez, Dubai, and Hong Kong. Since its launch, it has had more than 100,000 downloads. “It was an underserved market,” said Capponi who saw the tremendous potential to combine nightlife with technology in today’s connected world. “This is the future of nightlife.” InList uses a proprietary concierge model that allows app users to make dinner reservations, book a table at a club, or secure access to a special event right on their phone. The venues are selected by special “InList ambassadors” around the globe. These ambassadors are highly connected people tasked to hand-select the best events in their cities. The team plans on launching InList in new markets, incorporate more major events, and introduce a new ticketing category. “There are a lot of things we want to do but we want to make sure we execute it properly,” said Kimbrell. Bringing the worlds of nightlife and technology together is just one of Capponi’s many projects. In addition to being a nightlife pioneer, he is also an influential figure in the construction industry and a passionate humanitarian. Capponi has built and restored some of the most beautiful homes in Miami. He is the recipient of several awards including the Renovation Firm of the Year Award from the Developers and Builders Alliance. Recently he joined forces with Shear Construction & Management to form Capponi Shear Construction. The company builds and restores homes from Star Island to Indian Creek that range from $4 million to $50 million. For Capponi, restoration also plays a role in his charitable work. He is the founder of the Haiti Empowerment Mission, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization with the goal to empower the people of Haiti by providing quality education, diverse vocational training, and job creation. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Capponi and his team were one of the first people on the ground to help. In the past six years, he has been there more than 70 times. “The first 20 or so of those trips were mission trips to help on a humanitarian level to bring them food and medical attention,” Capponi explained. After that, his trips were about housing, education, and helping in boosting tourism as one of the pathways to sustainability. “We spent a lot of time promoting Haiti as a tourism destination.” Capponi knows there are still challenges to overcome in the country, especially when it comes to non-profit organizations, but he recognizes that progress is being made. Whether he is revolutionizing the nightlife industry, beautifying Miami with his construction projects, or improving lives in Haiti, Capponi’s innovative spirit and vision for the future is making a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come. “We all have the same motives–to create business models that better the world somehow.” For more information on InList, please visit www.InList.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Business, Living, MSM Online, Real Estate, The Issue

Monica Venegas – Featured Power Broker of Miami’s Luxury Real Estate

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By Angela Betancourt Photography by Korey Davis It’s hard to deny that Miami is experiencing a boom in the ultra luxury real estate market. This year the Wealth Report, issued by the London-based real estate consultancy firm Knight Frank, placed Miami in sixth place of the most important global cities for the wealthy. The demand for the Miami lifestyle and its growing influence on the world stage is attracting wealthy buyers and investors seeking the best money can buy. At the forefront of this growth is the Venegas International Group, a Miami-based international boutique real estate company that specializes in luxury acquisitions, project development, marketing, and property management services. Venegas International Group also provides guidance on risk assessments and portfolio diversification. The company was founded by real estate power house Monica Venegas who has spent the last 20 years successfully connecting real estate investors with high-end residential properties. Venegas has worked with high-profile developers in South Florida including the Terra Group, the Related Group, Millennium Partners, and the Château Group. Additionally, she’s offered pre-construction access to iconic buildings like Portofino Tower, Murano at Portofino, Icon South Beach, 900 Biscayne Bay, Trump Hollywood, Four Seasons, Château Beach, and Fendi Château Residences, among others. Her expertise in luxury residential, commercial, and international real estate has resulted in more than $3 billion in sales. “International buyers come to Miami looking for a lifestyle, and price is not the main factor,” said Venegas. “Rather, branded developments with service, design, amenities and location are the components that drive these elite buyers most. They want to know who is behind the project.” Most recently, Venegas International Group was entrusted with the launch, marketing, and sales of the new Fendi Château Residences in Surfside, which is slated to be completed for the summer of 2016. Venegas reports that the condominium is already 90% sold as of July. This much-anticipated project is the fashion house’s first luxury branded real estate property in the world. Its extravagant units range from $7 million to $25 million. “Fendi Château is the first Fendi Residences worldwide. It’s a boutique building with 58 flow-through private residences in 300-lineal feet of ocean front.” When complete, residents will enjoy amenities such as an attaché lifestyle with white glove service, amenities such as a private restaurant, kids club, screening room, a spa with an indoor European thermal pool, doorman, and much more. Venegas International Group was also responsible for the sold out Château Beach Residences in Sunny Isles Beach. This stunning 33-story ocean front property has 84 units priced from $1.5 million up to $25 million for the 9,050 sq ft, two-story penthouses. Some of the post amenities include a wine lounge, cigar bar, and indoor and outdoor wellness facility, and a private swimming pool. She has been part of the success of these two properties, consulting developers with her expertise in the marketing and sales of developments. With this, the success of these two properties doesn’t really come as a surprise to Venegas. She has seen Miami’s real estate market evolve over the years. “I’ve been a part of Miami’s history. Miami was once a small town and now it’s a cosmopolitan city on the world’s radar,” said Venegas. “As a result, Miami has become one of the fastest growing real estate markets in the world and there is an increasing number of clientele looking for the high-end lifestyle.” Thus, the Venegas International Group has worked hard to expand its global presence to meet the demands of international investors from new markets. “Europe used to be a strong market. Now the Middle East and Asia, especially China, are the markets that are most looking to invest in both residential and commercial real estate. Over the past seven years, we’ve paid a lot of attention to those markets. I have a very strong commitment with the Chinese particularly in Beijing and Shanghai. I go there 3-4 times a year,” she said. Over the course of the next several years, Venegas International Group plans to continue building a strong presence in China and further expand their services into new markets. Locally, the firm has expanded their services with the recent launch of their Sports, Arts, & Entertainment Division and partnership with tennis marketing company Premier Tennis. The two new ventures further cements Venegas International Group as an industry leader in Miami and the world. Venegas International Group Is located at 888 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 111, Miami, FL 33132 (786) 567-4122 For more information on Venegas International Group, please visit www.venegasinternationalgroup.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

LIFESTYLE, Living, Real Estate, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle: Chad Oppenheim World-Renowned Architect On His Latest Projects & Passion for Architecture

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By Angela Betancourt When he was just seven years old, Miami-based architect Chad Oppenheim watched as his parents built a custom home. He became fascinated with the process and spent a lot of time with the architect learning and absorbing as much as he could. His interest grew throughout his elementary school years and by the time he reached the 8th grade, he was hooked and a lifelong love affair with architecture had begun. “While most of my friends were reading Sports Illustrated, I was reading Architectural Digest,” said Oppenheim. Oppenheim went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Cornell University and in 1999 became the founding principle of the award winning firm Oppenheim Architecture. Today, Oppenheim has become one of the most sought after architects of his time. His firm has become globally recognized for socially and environmentally conscious architecture and has set trends in the sustainable and humanitarian sectors. “I have a deep respect for the natural world, place, and life, and design projects that support and enhance those experiences. I like to celebrate the sense of place for each project that I’m designing by using natural resources and elements such as light, air, water, sky, views and vegetation, as well as locally sourced materials that root the project in its place,” said the architect. “Nature in itself inspires me.” His intense passion for green architecture has made Oppenheim a highly demanded speaker and lecturer. He has lectured at some of most prestigious universities in the country and he is the recipient of more than 50 academic and career distinctions. Among all of his awards, Oppenheim is most proud of being elevated to the prestigious College of Fellows of The American Institute of Architects (AIA). Oppenheim Architecture has left its mark around the world. In South Florida, the fi rm is behind the Ten Museum Park, Bal Harbour House, Marriott Marco Island, Sonesta Key Biscayne, and dozens more. To say that the firm’s project list is impressive is an understatement. With Chad Oppenheim at the helm, the company has quickly risen to the ranks of one of the most in-demand architecture firms in the world. Between single-family residences, mixed-use commercial buildings, hotels, and urban projects, Oppenheim Architecture has proven it can tackle just about anything. Behind all of this success is a strong philosophy and culture about the industry that is the driving force behind Oppenheim’s work. His vision and mission also inspires his team who share the same sense of purpose. “We strive to create architecture of elemental means that achieves the maximum effect of building both urbanistically from the scale of the pedestrian, to the experience inside of the building. Modern architecture can sometimes be associated as being cold and absent of charm, but we strive to create the ultimate nurturing and comforting environment for the occupants of our architecture. We want to create buildings and spaces that support and enhance life,” explained Oppenheim. Creating to support and enhance life means a chance for growth. To Oppenheim, each and every project is an opportunity to evolve in ways that further connect to what he describes as “the spirit of place.” It’s the idea of creating and building structures that seemingly integrate to its surroundings. It’s how Oppenheim brings his philosophy to life and helps define his signature style. “I love working on projects that integrate themselves into their environment and that celebrate the natural ecology of the place. I enjoy projects of all different scales, and I incorporate my design philosophy into each project regardless of its size. My main mission is to enhance life and the way people live, which is a lot of fun to do with single family homes, resorts and multi-family residences. I love creating incredible houses and environments for amazing clients,” said Oppenheim. The firm has been keeping busy winning additional accolades and working on both domestic and international projects. They recently won the Asia Pacific 2015 Award for Net Metropolis, a 1,550,000 sq ft mixed-use commercial building. Located in the Philippines, Net Metropolis uses cutting-edge technology and exceptional quality coupled with green design. They also won the 2015 Architizer A+ Awards for Residential Interiors, Jury Winner. In Miami, they completed designs for a new Whole Foods planned for 1901 Alton Road in Miami Beach which will feature 55,000 sq ft of retail space, 281 parking spaces, and a green wall and planters to shield the garage. It’s a very exciting time not just for the Oppenheim and his team but also for South Florida and the world. Oppenheim’s projects will continue to set the bar in this city and beyond. Miami especially has come a long way. “I think Miami has notoriously been a place where great architects designed not-so-great buildings. Now we’re starting to see great architects come in and do great buildings. It’s exciting to see that there’s an added value to projects with good design. It is something that our firm has been a proponent about, especially with residential buildings, which for a long time didn’t get that attention. We are now seeing it globally where residential buildings are getting the highest level of architecture.” House on a Dune Photography by Karen Fuchs House on a Dune is a minimalistic, elegant, and comfortable beach house located in Harbour Island, Bahamas: an island of choice for many high profiled celebrities. The 3,000 sq ft waterfront private residence was designed to reconnect its inhabitants with nature. Its design celebrates the island’s natural beauty and inspires a powerful connection to place and time. The home was built with environmentally sensitive materials that include concrete blocks, recycled cedar, reused pipe, and milk paint. The home has sliding doors that are made of impact-resistant glass as well as a palm frond roof made of cedar shakes similar to the architectural styles of many of the homes on the island over the last several hundred years. The home also holds many technological tricks that cleverly hide any visible light fixtures,

LIFESTYLE, Living, MSM Online, Real Estate, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle – The Miami River District™ – Blueprint for Transformation

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By Angela Betancourt The Miami River District is experiencing a renaissance. Within the past several years the area has become the “it” location for businesses and developers eager to set up shop on the banks of the historic Miami River. Luxury residential towers, ambitious commercial developments, retail stores, and pedestrian focused projects are all on the horizon. “The revitalization of the Miami River District closes a complete lifestyle loop by creating a city within a city,” said Horacio Stuart Aguirre, the volunteer Miami River Commission Chairman. Art will also play a role in the renaissance. Aguirre and Brett Bibeau, Managing Director at the Miami River Commission, have shared that the commission is collaborating with the Nina Torres Fine Art Gallery to place monumental sculptures along the river walk before the year ends. All of these projects and developments are just the beginning of the Miami River District’s transformation. There are numerous other businesses and organizations, especially within the boating industry, that have already claimed their spot in one of South Florida’s most flourishing new neighborhoods. There will be no shortage of things to do at the Miami River Commission. For Aguirre, who has lived and worked in the district for years, these are indeed exciting times. “The Renaissance of the Miami River District is a cornerstone of our lives,” he said. TERRAZAS MIAMI Take Terrazas Miami as the perfect example. Located at 1861 NW South River Dr, just west of Sewell Park, Terrazas is on prime real estate. It’s located within minutes from one of the largest health districts in the country, West Downtown, which is an evolving hub for science and bio-tech research. It’s also very close to the Civic Center, the Miami Intermodal Center, and the up-and-coming River Landing Shops and Residences. Taking all of that into consideration, available units at Terrazas Miami currently start at $260,100. “Terrazas’ price per square foot is unbeatable at $320 on average as well as our maintenance fee that’s only $0.55 per sq. ft.; that’s why Terrazas leads South Florida in value with below replacement cost pricing,” said Terrazas Realtor Andrea Trujillo. Perhaps more important than the price, is Terrazas’ ongoing desire to provide its residents with a combination of value, luxury, and convenience. The residences are sleek and modern with porcelain tile flooring throughout, stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops, spacious kitchens, finished closets, expansive terraces, and floor-to-ceiling windows in select units with flowing open living areas. Units also offer city skyline, park, and river views. The lobby and the 20,000 sq.ft elevated pool deck, equipped with two complete BBQ grills and lounge areas, were designed by the award winning Interiors by Steven G. Another one of Terrazas’ highlights is the 200 year old Kapok Tree at the entrance to the building which has been adopted as the company logo. Additional amenities include multiple outdoor lounge areas for socializing, a fully equipped business center, dog park, state of the art fitness center, 24-hour reception desk and onsite security. “Terrazas delivers an instant feeling of wonderful peace and tranquility,” said Trujillo. “All of this, of course, comes with an unmatched additional advantage over pre-construction properties because Terrazas is already 100% built and move-in ready with rapid closings for motivated buyers. Terrazas is a once of-a-lifetime chance to own in Miami’s next hot neighborhood at a smart buy,” she added. Terrazas Miami is located at 1861 NW South River Drive, Miami, FL 33125 For more information on Terrazas Miami, please visit www.TerrazasMiami.com RIVER LANDING SHOPS & RESIDENCES Among one of the latest new projects drawn to the Miami River District is the immense River Landing Shops and Residences. When complete, River Landing will boast 2.2 million square feet of regional open air shopping. The project’s 430,000 sq ft retail complex will be home to 315,000 sq ft of national retailers, 86,000 sq ft of regional and local retailers, and 29,000 sq ft of restaurants on its five levels. “We don’t have any retail here,” explained Aguirre. “This marks the first introduction of retail on the river and in the River District.” The $300 million dollar mix-use project is located at 1400 NW North River Drive, which is situated next to Miami’s Civic Center and Miami-Dade County’s court system. The River Landing Shops & Residences is located at 1400 NW North River Drive, Miami, FL 33125 For more information, please visit www.RiverLandingMiami.com MIAMI RIVER GREENWAY Situated directly on the river, River Landing gives shoppers access to the Riverwalk and the developing Miami River Greenway Project; a 10-mile scenic pedestrian friendly pathway linking neighborhoods and businesses along the banks of the Miami River. As of today, more than half of the pathway has already been constructed. Potential residents vying to live in the revamped district and take advantage of the Greenway and all the other exciting developments will have plenty of housing to choose from. And unlike other areas in Miami where a piece of the action often means spending a small fortune, the Miami River District has surprisingly affordable yet still luxurious condominium options. For more information on the Miami River Greenway, please visit www.MiamiRiverCommission.org FLAGLER ON THE RIVER Indeed, hot neighborhoods almost always attract hot restaurants and the revitalization of the Miami River District is no exception. Duck and Waffle and SUSHISAMBA have both announced their plans to open in “Phase II” of the new Flagler on the River commercial building development project. The building will be located at 40 SW North River Drive; the site of the former East Coast Fisheries. Phase II has received a lot of attention for its unique look. Itec Design, the architectural firm behind the project, designed the building to look like lobster traps used by commercial fisherman. The design’s creativity extends beyond its construction and into the way they made use of the property. “By today’s standards, they are on a tiny piece of land making it quite the challenge to build there. They have come up with a design that is exciting and interesting,” said Aguirre. “We applaud their initiative and we look

LIFESTYLE, The Issue

Beachwalk Resort by Pininfarina

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By Angela Betancourt Photography Courtesy of Beachwalk Resort This spring, Hallandale Beach was cast into the spotlight with the arrival of the stylish new Beachwalk Resort. The new hospitality gem is the first major development in several years and is being credited for spearheading resurgence in the city. Located at 2602 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd, the 33-story $150 million dollar condo-hotel property is the brainchild of Miami mega developers Jorge Pérez and The Related Group. The European-style resort is located right on the Intracoastal Waterway and boasts 300 family friendly suites, of which 216 of them are two bedroom suites that can be divided into separate rooms. Italian design company Pininfarina and architecture firm Cohen Freedman Encinosa, were tapped to bring this project to life. The results were interiors with Italian furnishings, floor to ceiling windows, fully equipped kitchens, and oversized balconies. Original works of art from the Collection of Jorge Pérez, patron of the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), can also be found in the hotel. Upscale amenities and sophisticated technology such as smart LED televisions, Wi-Fi, and high speed internet are some of the additional offerings. When it comes to activities and recreation, Beachwalk takes things very seriously. The hotel boasts a fitness center, an infinity edge pool overlooking the Intracoastal and complimentary bicycles for city touring. Beyond the hotel’s beauty, service, and amenities another part of the Beachwalk experience is exploring Hallandale Beach and all of the attractions surrounding the city. The hotel provides a convenient and complimentary, electric cart shuttle that transports guests to the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, Gulfstream Park Racetrack and Casino, and Aventura Mall. For more relaxed fun in the sun, guests also have access to the resort’s Beach Club where they will receive complimentary towels, chairs, and umbrellas. With so much to do it’s not hard to work up an appetite and the Beachwalk has made sure to give guests savory dining choices. The Beachwalk Bistro & Market, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, is one of several feasting options. At this particular eatery, menu items include Cumin Dusted Chicken Burger with Anaheim chili, jack cheese and cilantro mayo on toasted whole wheat bun; and Green Chili Seafood Enchiladas served with Roasted Corn and Black Beans Salsa. The resort’s Beachwalk Bar features crafted cocktails and locally brewed beers among other libations. The Pool Grill offers guests perfect poolside treats including grilled skewers such as their Chorizo and Picked Jalapeno Skewers with an avocado ginger cream and many other savory options. When time is of the essence, the resort’s Marketplace within the Beachwalk Bistro, prepares delicious quick grab and go options throughout the day. If cooking is your preference, Beachwalk provides a grocery delivery service. Per the guest’srequest, the hotel will go grocery shopping for you (at guest expense) and deliver the items to your kitchen before you arrive. To ensure guest satisfaction and smooth hotel operations, The Related Group partnered with Gemstones Hotels & Resorts, a full-service hotel management company based in Park City, Utah to oversee the property. Gemstone is calling it “your suburban utopia” but for the city, Beachwalk is so much more; it’s the start of a new Hallandale Beach. Beachwalk Resort is located at 2602 E Hallandale Beach Blvd, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 For more information or to make reservations, please visit www.BeachwalkResortFL.com Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view the online issue.

Culture, Digital Edition, Entertainment, Film, Music, The Issue

Miami Beach Celebrates 100th Birthday

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By Angela Betancourt Photography by Mitchell Zachs On March 26th, thousands of people gathered on the sands of South Beach to celebrate Miami Beach’s 100th birthday. The city, in partnership with the Hard Rock, joined forces to host the Hard Rock Rising – Miami Beach 2015 Global Music Festival. The star studded concert featured Andrea Bocelli, Gloria Estefan, Wyclef Jean, Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, Flo Rida, and more. Though it was unusual to see such an unlikely collection of artists, the music line-up perfectly represented the melting pot that is Miami Beach. There was no denying it was a concert for the ages and a fantastic conclusion to several weeks of nonstop celebrations across the city. However, this anniversary was about more than just nonstop partying. The city, in partnership with local businesses and organizations, came together to celebrate the occasion in a variety of unique ways that reflects Miami Beach’s diverse cultural community. Several days leading up to the finale concert, Miami Beach Mayor Phillip Levine presided over a mass wedding of 100 people (50 couples) as a part of the 100 years celebration. Among the happily wed were same-sex couples who were finally able to get married legally in the state of Florida. Same-sex marriage became legal in the state at the start of the year, and this marked a historic milestone for Miami Beach’s LGBT community. The Art Deco Museum, founded by the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) in Miami Beach, opened its doors to host the Miami Centennial Photograph Exhibition. Renowned professional photographer Johnny Arraiz, whose been recognized by the Congress of the United States of America for giving his invaluable service to the community, showcased his latest exhibition “Miami Beach, 100 Years, 100 Photos,” which immortalized special moments in the city’s history. This exhibit was one of many hosted by the museum to educate and engage locals and tourists alike on Miami Beach’s rich history. The Miami Beach Centennial celebrations became an extra special event for 100 men and women who passed their citizenship requirements and officially became citizens of the United States. Leon Rodriguez, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officially welcomed these 100 new citizens after they swore allegiance to America. Representing more than 25 different countries, it was fitting to have this ceremony in a city that was built by immigrants from all over the world. Orchestra Miami and The Leroy Schecter Foundation celebrated the centennial with a free picnic concert that took attendees on a musical tour through the highlights of Miami Beach’s history. Orchestra Miami believes in the power of music to strengthen a community. Now in its 8th season, they provide high-quality classical symphonic music and programming that celebrates Miami’s diverse cultural heritage. In order to reach as many people as possible, Orchestra Miami events are almost always free. The Miami Beach Centennial was as much about celebrating its past and present, as it was about looking towards the future. As Miami continues to evolve as a global city and as its population continues to grow denser, its future becomes even more important. In a show of its dedication to protecting Miami Beach from the effects of climate change, the city announced during the celebrations, that it has begun developing a variety of initiatives to generate more awareness about global climate change. The city is also planning on creating an environmental summit hosted by the Mayor that will feature scientists, educators, and other influential leaders from different disciplines, coming together to discuss environmental advocacy. Miami Beach’s history helped define its foundation, but its present and all of the people, organizations, and businesses, who love the city today, will drive Miami Beach into the future and forward for another 100 years. Happy Birthday, Miami Beach.

Digital Edition, LIFESTYLE, Living, Real Estate, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle: Trending Homes in Miami

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By Angela Betancourt As Miami’s economic landscape continues to improve, developers are not wasting any time building elaborate projects that have put the city in the global spotlight. World renowned architects, designers, and famous brands, have been sought to create some of the most luxurious homes and condos Miami has ever seen. Among the list of lavish and opulent residences are Paraiso Bayviews, The Surf Club Four Seasons, and Casa Playa; all of which are setting a new standard for luxury living in Miami. CASA PLAYA Located just 15 minutes north of The Four Seasons Surf Club is Casa Playa, the single-family mansion and private oceanfront retreat, in the prestigious Golden Beach neighborhood. Miami Golden, the developer behind Casa Playa recently held a private event for prospective buyers to get a glimpse of the home being built at 699 Ocean Boulevard. When complete, Casa Playa will have an impressive 8 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, access to a private beach, 6,000 square feet of terraces, 5,000-square foot home spa and fitness level, a home theater, a lap pool with a waterfall, a safe room, and numerous spa pools. A drawing room with a hidden staircase and staff quarters with a separate entrance are just a few additional highlights. The home is currently on the market for a staggering $36 million. One of the most important things to note about this property is its green factor. Casa Playa was designed by Chad Oppenheim who is known within the industry for his socially and environmentally conscious architecture. The temperature-controlled retreat has an energy-efficient green rooftop and a three story exterior ecowall that will feature 25 different plant species growing around a spiral staircase. Casa Playa is located at 699 Ocean Blvd, Golden Beach, FL For more information, please visit http://miamigolden.com/properties/699/ THE SURF CLUB FOUR SEASONS HOTEL & RESIDENCES Across the bay in Surfside, the Miami-based private real estate investment company Fort Capital, has joined forces with the Four Seasons to develop The Surf Club Four Seasons Hotel & Residences. Located at 9011 Collins Avenue, The Surf Club Four Seasons is a luxury residential and hotel development project currently under construction on nine acres of ocean front property. The development is preserving the landmark Surf Club, which was designed by Russell Pancoast in the 1930s. For the past 80 years, the club’s old world charm and glamorous interior made it one of the most exclusive clubs in Miami Beach. Architect Richard Meier, a Pritzker Prize winner, is embracing that history as he creates modern new additions. When the building is complete, there will be two transparent 12 story residential towers, a private membership club, two restaurants, four swimming pools, a state-of-the-art spa and fi tness center, more than 40 beach cabanas, and an expansive park and ocean-side gardens. The residences comprise 157 homes, including 12 penthouses with incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Downtown. The units will range in size from 1,800 to 7,800 square feet with floor to ceiling glass walls and up to twenty-foot-high ceilings. The smooth “lift and glide” terrace doors lead residents to large terraces and uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean. Select rooftop residences have private swimming pools, atriums with private indoor courtyards, and outdoor showers and kitchens. Though all the units are being constructed with exceptional quality, the 12 penthouses are distinguished by their extraordinary design. They range in size from, 5,400 to 7,500 square feet with a vast amount of private outdoor entertaining and recreational areas. Rooftop gardens, private swimming pools, outdoor living and dining rooms, and private beachfront cabanas are just some of the extra perks. The Surf Club Four Seasons Hotel & Residences is located at 9011 Collins Ave, Surfside, FL 33154 For more information, please visit www.thesurfclub.com PARAISO BAYVIEWS 50 years ago, the Edgewater community, which begins just north of the Omni, was a vibrant neighborhood until it came into hard times in the 1990’s. Today, the neighborhood has found a new identity and has become a hot commodity for real estate. Paraiso Bayviews is the latest addition to Edgewater’s new luxury Paraiso Bay compound, a high-end development project being built by The Related Group. This building and its sister towers are credited for helping infuse new life in the Edgewater area and has become an attractive option for buyers looking for a resort-style environment. In a city dominated by million dollar condos, Paraiso Bayviews is garnering a lot of attention for its affordable prices which start at $340K. However, there are no sacrifices in amenities. Boasting 44 stories and 396 units, the building has a very contemporary architectural design that’s showcased throughout the property. There are lush gardens, outdoor lounge areas, and marina and boat slips. In addition to an onsite restaurant managed by chef Michael Schwartz, residents will also enjoy a private theater, fi tness center, rooftop pool, a tennis court, and much more; all with 1,000 feet of Biscayne Bay waterfront as the backdrop. Each unit is move-in ready and showcases nine foot ceilings, spacious terraces, floor to ceiling resistant glass panels, and modern appliance packages. The project’s international interior and industrial designer Karim Rashid is recognized as one of the most important industrial designers of our time and evolved his trademark colors and bold shapes for a softer more natural approach to the project. Paraiso Bayviews is located at 600 NE 31st Street, Miami, FL 33137 For more information, please visit www.paraisobayviews.com If these three trending residential projects are any indication, it has never been a better time to explore Miami’s flourishing real estate market scene. From more affordable options to the double digit millions, Paraiso Bayviews, The Surf Club Four Seasons Hotel & Residences, and Casa Playa, all showcase just how great Miami luxury living can be.

Culinary, Digital Edition, The Issue

Bagatelle: French Cuisine with a Twist

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By Angela Betancourt Photography Courtesy of Bagatelle As Miami further cements itself as a major player in the global culinary stage, it continues to attract the attention of celebrated restaurant brands from around the world. Bagatelle, the upscale modern French cuisine restaurant with locations in New York, St. Barth, Los Angeles, Sao Paulo, St. Tropez, and Dubai, is the latest restaurant brand to establish a location in Miami Beach. Bagatelle owners Remi Laba and Auymeric Clemente recently opened the 144-seat location on South Beach at 2000 Collins Ave after much anticipation. Zagat even included it in its Miami’s Most Anticipated Restaurant Openings of 2015 list. Executive Chef Matthieu Godard formerly of Boulud is at the helm serving modern French dishes such as Lamb Horiatiki; Poulet Entier Roti a la Truffe – whole truffled roasted chicken, country style potatoes, caramelized cipollini, button mushrooms, thyme chicken, and Jus; Gambas au Pastis – Jumbo prawn, fl ambé with Ricard anise; and Gnocchi Truffes a la Parisienne – homemade gnocchi, black truffle sauce, with aged parmesan cheese among many others. Bagatelle also offers diners a worldly collection of wines and champagne. The dining experience extends beyond the plate and into the restaurant’s décor. Guests will enjoy their meal or drinks in an environment that makes art an integral part of the dining process. Design company Celano Design kept the familiar looks of its sister locations of beige and white furnishings but accented them with decorative moldings, elegant banquets, and crystal chandeliers. Vibrant pop art provided by the Opera Gallery can also be found hanging on the walls; giving an extra dimension of color. These exclusive pieces of art will constantly rotate and works by artist SEEN, known as the “Godfather of Graffiti,” will be a premier artist on display. In addition to its unique design, Bagatelle is also known for its party atmosphere. The owners have every intention of living up to their reputation of being one of the liveliest culinary destinations in the world. A DJ spinning the latest music hits and live performances throughout the night are to be expected. The music gets louder with each passing hour and there is a “St. Tropez meets South Beach” energy that permeates throughout the entire restaurant. Just like its other locations, Bagatelle has already begun attracting some of the city’s tastemakers and is quickly becoming one of the hottest spots in town. Bagatelle is located at 2000 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 For more information, please visit www.bistrotbagatelle.com

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