Author: quentin viac

How Can Foreigners Invest in Miami – a Guide for Florida Investment

Florida real estate has always been attractive to foreign buyers. Luckily, the state has always held opportunities for investing in properties, especially to invest in Miami luxury real estate.

Come to think of it, real estate in this state was attractive even before the housing crash that depressed prices for both residential and commercial properties. This made foreign investment in Florida a bargain for many buyers.

This is why our luxury real estate agents are awaiting your call!

According to the National Association of Realtors, Florida has the largest number of foreign investors in the field in the country, with 41% purchasing vacation homes, 25% making a dual use purchase and 23% are investing in rentals.

Although, investing in Miami real estate is popular and widely known, there are still a few things investors should keep in mind. For starters, foreign nationals are able to purchase real estate in the country for personal use, on their own or in the name of a corporation or LLC, without any governmental agency’s involvement.

Foreign investors are also entitled to defer capital gains taxes in the country by purchasing another investment property under Section 1031 of the IRS Code. However, the actual tax treatment may depend on tax treaties between the United States and the investors home countries, if such treaties exist. This can be a rather complicated area, which is why it is advisable for investors to consult with Florida professional real estate agents on the subject before making a purchase or opt for an investment.

Investment in Private Property

If you opt to invest in property, foreign nationals who purchase large tracts of real estate in the U.S. must report that purchase to the U. S. Department of Commerce under the International Investment and Trade in Services Survey Act. The reported information must include the names and addresses of buyers, sellers and owners of more than a 50% interest, and financing information like income or expenses and similar info about the property itself. More reporting details are needed for property over 200 acres or property with a purchase price of more than 1 million dollars.

Investment in Rental Property

When it comes to rental property, foreign nationals purchasing Florida real estate for leasing purposes are subject to taxation on rental income. However, foreign landlords have two choices on how to be taxed. The first option is to pay 30 percent of gross rental receipts, or they can pay regular U. S. income tax rates on net income from the property by filing a Form 4224 with the IRS.

Other Requirements Concerning The Subject

The state of Florida has certain filing requirements for foreign nationals and legal entities purchasing real estate. Any property which is owned by a foreign business entity or U. S. corporation whose ownership by foreign nationals exceeds 10% must have a registered office in the state and an agent on file with the Florida Department of State.

If the sales tax on rents is collected, a foreign national must register as a sales tax dealer with the Florida Department of Revenue.

As you can see, investing in Miami might be a bit confusing, but nothing out of the ordinary procedures from similar matters. If you have any more questions, contact us!

June 27, 2017
Miami’s Lowest Property Tax Rates Reviewed for Income Properties

Greetings Real Estate Investors,

The Miami Herald recently published an article detailing the different property tax rates in Miami-Dade county for various municipalities. Since it is tax season and that horrible three letter word is on all of our minds we decided to look a little more closely the list. Specifically we are going to detail the 10 municipalities with the lowest 10 rates and give our opinion in terms of whether or not these areas offer other strengths or weaknesses for purchasing your next real estate investment.

Here is the image from the Miami Herald’s article, they had more but we are looking at the lowest 10.

We will start at the top of the list and work our way down…

Sunny Isles Beach
This is a no brainier and an no-go on investment, this luxury enclave of million dollar condos is where you want to live not where you want to invest, the high cost to purchase and the astronomical Condo fees mean that it doesn’t matter how low the property taxes are your bottom line will get massacred!

Cutler Bay
The little town that was formerly known as Cutler Ridge has come a long way since it was just a few homes on the way to Homestead. There are several condo communities that were built within that last decade that provide a lot of bank for your buck. We would definitely advise taking a look down the road at this community, the low tax rates combine with a low cost of entry to make this a very attractive place to invest. There is one thing you have to be very aware of, there is a part of the community that is close enough to the giant Miami-Dade County trash mountain that there is a noticeable stench on some days. This has kept property values low, so you can get a great deal but you also may have trouble finding good tenants who will stay for long.

Miami Lakes
You definitely would not want to invest in a single-family home here but there are several condo communities that are very good deals. The community itself is very much tailored to working families so in general it tends to attract very good stable tenants. The prices are definitely higher than Cutler Bay but you are getting what you pay for in terms of a very nice and community that also draws commuters because of its proximity to the Palmetto Expressway.

Palmetto Bay
Same as Cutler Bay but 10 minutes further north.

Pinecrest
Not much to say it’s too expensive to invest.

Unincorporated County
This is probably our number one pick on the list because it comprises so many options that are so much more central the work centers and Downtown than Cutler Bay, Palmetto Bay and Miami Lakes. The only one that comes close is Doral, but as you will see when we discuss it next the cost of entry is much higher. The unincorporated county comprises areas such as Shenandoah, Westchester, and basically everything West of US1 starting at 57th Avenue. You can find some great Single-Family homes in these areas that have sturdy construction and access to some of the best spots in the rest of the city.

Doral
This is our number two pick, but if you prefer that your portfolio be filled with newer construction then this might be the first place that you want to look for your next investment property. Most of the properties are townhomes and most were built within the last two decades. What you need to watch out for the the HOA fees because some communities are much higher than others. But the low tax rate combines with some exceptional properties and excellent location to make Doral a place you should definitely look into.

Aventura
We used to be higher on this city but recently there has been so much development that it feels like the traffic makes it impossible to get around after 9am. Still there is a definite draw for quality tenants who want to live in a semi-luxury community. Cost of entry is high but the low tax rate can somewhat offset that, although Condo fees still remain high, so only look here if you really like the mall!

Bal Harbour
Pretty much the same story as the Key but there are some condo buildings that are a bit older that can provide a more manageable amount of cash out of pocket. The area is growing as well with revitalization happening in the famed Bal Harbour shops and the surrounding areas. Again you should vacation here but probably not invest.

Key Biscayne
It is surprising that such an expensive community would have the lowest tax rate in the county but we might guess a reason…good lawyers? But there isn’t much else to say, while this may be a great place to buy your next vacation property, the high cost of entry means you should probably avoid investing here unless you have very deep pockets!

We hope that gives you some insight into where you make your next purchase…start in Unincorporated Miami-Dade county if you are looking for Single-Family and start in Doral if you are looking for new construction townhomes. If you want to have low cost of entry look down the road in Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay.

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June 8, 2017
Why Move to Miami Beach?

Try to find a person that doesn’t like Miami. It is a dare. The reason it’s so hard to go down Miami’s lane of faults and disadvantages is because it can effortlessly distract you with all its glitz and glamor. The Magic City was, is, and always will be a great place to have a good time. Period. It is just too crazy to take things seriously and too sophisticated to lose its style. Yes, Miami’s traffic is ever-worsening, stress levels can peak, and swarms of tourists clog the streets, however, most of its residents still can’t help feel anchored here because there is no other city that reflects them better.

The weather

If you consider a human being an animal (whether that is true or not is another discussion), the only natural habitat which suits our biological properties are tropical regions. Erase clothes and tools for warmth from the picture just for a second and think only about the environment in which we can naturally sustain ourselves.

Well, it just so happens to be that Miami sits above the Tropic of Cancer, meaning that the weather is perfect for humans to thrive all year round.

Humid and hot summers, warm winters, coastal location, climate influenced by the Gulf Stream… This is what makes everything in Miami so comfortable and relaxing. You don’t need to burden yourself with too much clothing, like you would in northern states, being cold is the thing of the past, and hitting the beach is one of the easiest things both said and done.

The beaches

First off, immense cultural diversity has literarily made this resort city a haven for culinary arts. Rows and rows of quality restaurants overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean are bound to transform your belly into your own personal tour guide.

Second, luxury homes in Miami Beach are what architecture and design are all about. It is simply a delight to walk through the palm streets and promenades filled with inspirational high-end apartments, condos, and houses.

And last, a chance to go for a swim or party is practically around every corner. The vibrant nightlife makes Miami Beach a magnet for tourists. However, peaceful and quiet neighborhoods can also be found scattered about, you just have to know where the gathering hubs of spring breakers, celebrities, clubbers, and party animals are.

Business ventures

There is a certain downside to Miami Beach if you wish to find a job at someone else’s company because opportunities are scarce. However, opportunities can be found if you want to build your career with your own two hands. The Magic City is a fertile ground for entrepreneurs who have a clear vision and a realistic assessment of their abilities.

Another thing worthy of note is that Miami Beach luxury real estate industry is one of the most developed in the world and a lot of people are making a nice living out of it. Despite the administrative unpredictability of the current presidential situation in the U.S., this industry has become almost immune to political values and moods for decades.

Conclusion

Moving from one place to another can be a tedious experience, but the world is surely filled with destinations that will make that decision worthwhile. Odds are definitely in favor that Miami Beach can also grant you that level of satisfaction and comfort. However, the resort city calls only those who wish to hear its call, it is ultimately up to you to take the plunge. If you are still uncertain, maybe just take a look at any picture of Miami Beach, and imagine yourself waking up to this natural and urban beauty every day.

March 17, 2017
Foreign Investments in Miami Real Estate

With Donald Trump as the current president of the United States of America, the roles of figures on the political and business chess board have changed. No one can say with certainty that Trump’s policies will revitalize the nation’s economy, but it is evident that many opportunities are starting to arise, mainly because the US is finished with policing the rest of the world. This resolve has already softened relations with Russia, China, and many influential European countries; and money from foreign real estate investors is expected to pour into the Magic City as a result.

According to Knight Frank, a global real estate consultancy based in London, Russian interest in the US luxury real estate market has jumped 35 percent. Unlike Obama, Trump has drastically managed to improve relationships with Putin and he also has a long history of doing business with the Russian elite. With this in mind, it is no wonder why Russians are so pleased with the outcome of elections – it finally gave them the confidence to invest money in building infrastructure on American soil.

For instance, Vladislav Doronin, a prominent international businessman and realtor, has already paid a hefty sum of $54 million for realizing his 2-acre condominium project in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood, and this is just one of many projects he is developing. Still, no matter how strong the Russians started to elbow their way into the scene, they are still overshadowed by Canadi10ans who currently spend the most on South Florida real estate and had enough time to make their empire.

On the other hand, many are wondering how Latin American investors are going to react to Trump’s proposed policies, especially since Miami is the unofficial capital of Latin America. “Building a wall” along the border of Mexico may represent the president’s blatant effort to forcefully repel any foreign economic influence, but the truth is, good business will always take precedence. The U.S. will remain an entrepreneurial haven for people from around the globe, which means Latin American money will surely continue to contribute to the luxury real estate development of Miami.

A very large percentage of buyers also come from Europe and South America. The reason money keeps pouring in from all corners of the world isn’t just because of Miami’s unique appeal and vibrant lifestyle, but the fact that the U.S. is the most secure country in which to invest. Trump’s presidency may have raised a lot of eyebrows, which even brought this title to question, but he is fully aware that uncertainty is the scourge of investment. Trade is a corner stone of his campaign because it leads to growth and employment, so there is no reason for him to deliberately prevent real estate workers from investing in Miami.

It still may take some time to digest Trump’s rhetoric, policies, and ethics, but it is expected that he will have a positive effect on the real estate industry. Realtors all over Florida hope that he will create more incentive to encourage real estate development and protect favorable real estate tax laws which are currently in place. If you look at things short term, the dollar is currently destabilized and the nation’s economy is looking a bit dim, but this is what creates opportunities for foreign investors and prompts them to act.

However, Miami has always been a magnet for investors for more than 30 years. Regardless of different presidents, political parties, values, and moods, the real estate business is pragmatic and clings solely to numbers and returns. If Trump reduces income tax rates, capital gains, and eliminates real estate tax, he will do a lot of people a favor, but South Florida will remain at the helm of luxury real estate development, with or without him.

March 10, 2017
Top 10 Interior Designers In Miami

Hello, how are you? Today, Miami Design District will show you the most recent TOP 10 Interior Designers in Miami.

Miami is the hottest place on earth to spend not just a few days but to spend your life. It’s the city of beauty, luxury, artists, sun, and, of course, parties.

Because of all the money and international environment, in Miami you can find the most glamorous homes, luxury condominiums, and five-star hotels with an incredible jaw-dropping decoration. That’s why this is the perfect luxury design city where you can find the best interior designers with the highest standards of excellence for your next vacations’ home.

We are going to help you to decide by giving you a list of the amazing and top interior designers located in Miami.

Pepe Calderin Design – http://pepecalderindesign.com
Winner of Florida Design Awards, for Best of Bedroom, this interior design and architecture firm has more than 20 years of experience in high-end residential and commercial design. With a fresh and energetic approach to all projects, they believe that there are no boundaries when you’re talking about space.

Brown Davis Interiors – http://browndavis.com
Todd Davis and Rob Brown started their own firm in 1994, they were both passionate for classic architecture, elegant rooms and extraordinary craftsmanship. This amazing partnership has designed two residences for the Clintons, President and Secretary of State, The British Embassy residence and an array of exceptional projects involving contemporary and historic renovation. As you can see, they’re really well known around the country and overseas.

DKOR Interiors – http://www.dkorinteriors.com
This high-end interior design depicts the work of an all-woman group whom rely on their professional. Knowledge and savvy taste. Their projects are known by the simple and fresh lines with a cool accent of modernism and innovation. It’s possible to see the high end design in each project.

Michael Wolk Design – http://www.wolkdesign.com
Michael Wolk is one of the leading designers of corporate, residential and hospitality interiors. It has a very successful Collections of furniture and furnishings and his award-winning work has been featured in several national and international publications. Take a look at his elegant projects.

Avanzato Design – http://avanzatodesign.com/
With a full range of interior details and services for residential and commercial properties, Avanzato Design is a leading luxury with over 20 years’ experience. Vincenzo Avanzato is the founder and his projects are known for bringing together the world’s finest tastes, styles and trends for discerning clients.

Alene Workman Interior Design – http://www.aleneworkman.com
With more than 25 years of experience, Alene Workman interior design is define by its timeless luxury. and its outstanding team. With an outstanding national portfolio, they focus on the art of design, expanding creative possibilities and offering strategic project leadership with extraordinary service. Their award winning firm displays projects in South Florida and throughout the United States.

Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design – http://kobikarp.com/
Founded in 1996 by Kobi Karp is a full-service architecture, interior, and planning firm whose portfolio has projects from design of large-scale, high-rise condominium and hospitality projects, to intimate to small-scale low-rise residential and commercial structures.

B Pila Design Studio – http://bpiladesign.com/
This studio has worked with clients spanning the U.S.,South, Central Americas and the Caribbean. Known by the Throughout these creative journeys, I’ve uncovered and accumulated best practices, favorite designers, new products, and other tricks of the trade

Beasley & Henley Interior Design – http://www.beasleyandhenley.com/
This award winning company have amazing bold and contemporary interior design projects. Designing at places like The Greenbrier, Albany Bahamas, Isleworth, Naples, Grand Rapids, Chicago, Oceanside, resorts, exotic car clubs, homes for athletes and rock stars, thy’ve been published in many international magazines and, trust us, it worth a million.

J Design Group – http://www.jdesigngroup.com/
They have successfully completed a diverse range of projects throughout Southern Florida for five-star hotels, upscale restaurants, hospitality installations, and luxury homes. They’ve won a few awards and you can see some of these projects in the best magazines. Sunny Isle, Miami Beach, Boca Raton, Aventura, Pincrest, South Beach, Palm Beach, and Miami are the main places where J design Group has been working.

We hope that now you are more inspired to star setting up your dream house.

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January 5, 2017
Gastronomy at Its Best – the Top Luxury Restaurants Miami has to Offer

Miami is known for so much more than just its beaches. If you’re visiting the city, your stop will likely include fine dining. Don’t settle for any ordinary eatery when Miami has some of the best luxury restaurants in the country. These establishments provide a memorable experience just as noteworthy as its gourmet food that will have your mouth watering with every bite.

1. Joe’s Stone Crab

Photo credit: SF Gate

Joe’s Stone Crab has been a local favorite since its opening in 1913. At that time, it was nothing more than a small lunch counter serving fish sandwiches.

Today, its main menu item – as you can probably guess – is stone crab, and it’s acquired from local waters off the Miami coast. Even if you’re not particularly fond of crab, the menu offers a numerous selection of other regional seafood.

The seafood restaurant has also been visited by notable guests, including Madonna, Muhammad Ali, Billy Joel, and former U.S. Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

2. Azul

Photo credit: Miami

This restaurant is located in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and is a renowned dining establishment. The place is headed by master Chef Joel Huff, and his menu includes a delightful selection of Asian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisines.

Aside from the food, patrons are also treated to magnificent views of the bay while they dine. This is made all the more spectacular with the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows. This makes Azul a great dining destination for romantic travels. Also, if you choose to add a martini to your meal, its bar has over 200 selections. You also have your pick of over 700 wines!

3. Casa Tua

Photo credit: Hotel In Style

This main restaurant serves a fine selection of authentic Italian cuisines. Guests have several seating options and can elect to dine at the chef’s 18-seat table, in a separate room for a more private affair, or right outside in the establishment’s beautiful garden.

Its dishes are prepared with remarkable attention to detail. Most of its menu items, for example, contain olive oil, but the type of oil used is chosen specifically to match with a particular dish. In addition, one of its signature dishes, prosciutto, is only prepared from free-range pigs.

4. Nobu

Photo credit: Past Present Future

Nobu is a Japanese restaurant located inside the famous Shore Club boutique hotel. The eating establishment is named after its founder, Nobu Matsuhisa. The menu consists of various sushi dishes reminiscent of the type you can find at a classic sushi bar in Tokyo. Some of his cuisines also contain influences of Argentine and Peruvian flavors. One dish in particular, the yellowtail served with jalapenos, is a longtime customer favorite.

Patrons can request for patio seating or inside the restaurant’s private Teppan Room. Nobu is located right next to the hotel’s lounge, which happens to be one of the city’s top social scenes.

5. Prime 112

Photo credit: Myles Restaurant Group

Prime 112 is located in what was previously a townhouse. In fact, it still has that residential vibe, making it a nice setting for private and family dinners. The establishment is known for its extensive selection of grilled items, including steaks and a plethora of homemade sauces to go with it. Seafood lovers will also delight at the number of items, including caviar and raw oysters from both the West and East Coast.

Prime 112 is a fairly new establishment, having opened its doors in 2004. It is, however, located within the Browns Hotel, built in 1915 and the oldest inn in Miami Beach.

6. Hakkasan

Photo credit: Restaurant Near Me

Hakkasan is the place to dine for authentic Cantonese cuisine. The dishes are customized to include ingredients acquired locally. It’s also known for its signature cocktails and dim sum lunch served on the weekends.

There is just as much to boast about in the restaurant’s interior. Its design includes teak walls with various shades of blue to evoke images of the sea and sand. In 2010, Hakkasan was rated in Zagat’s survey as “Best Newcomer” among a list of new eating establishments in South Florida. It was also a recipient of the Four Diamond Award.

As you can see, Miami is home to some of the best restaurants. Of course, behind every great restaurant is a great team of chefs. The city is also home to many renowned private chefs. Whether you’re dining out or hiring a personal cook, the city is full of opportunities for an unforgettable culinary experience.

January 4, 2017
Midtown Five opens after receiving TCO

Midtown’s newest luxury development

Chicago-based Magellan Development Group announced the opening of Midtown Five, a 400-unit luxury rental development opening in the heart of Midtown, directly south of 4 Midtown.

Magellan’s first Miami property, located at 3201 Northeast 1st Avenue, received its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy from the county recently, allowing residents to begin move-in on January 1st.

“We are thrilled that Midtown Five renters can now enjoy their units and the various superior amenities we’ve curated specifically for this community,” said Brian Gordon of Magellan Development Group. “The interest in Midtown Five has been overwhelmingly positive, as this property truly moves the needle in sophisticated, multifamily offerings.”

Units range from studios to three bedrooms, with amenities including a fitness center, yoga lawn, meditation garden, play area, a “dog run,” spa, pool, business center and cabanas.

Midtown is on fire with residential development, including Hyde Midtown, which is currently under construction a couple blocks to the north.

Photo: Courtesy of Magellan Development Group

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January 4, 2017
$65M penthouse hits market in Miami Beach

The Apogee penthouse in South Beach

In addition to attracting swarms of interesting people and elaborate art installations on a yearly basis, Art Basel 2016 has enticed a $65 million listing: a two-story penthouse at the Apogee in South Beach.

A glass staircase is one of its most distinguishing features, outside of the spectacular ocean, bay, and city views of course. Spanning 8,271 square feet, it has five bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and a whopping 13,149-square-foot terrace.

The residence is Miami’s most expensive listing along with 46 Star Island, a 18,356-square-foot Mediterranean with 250 feet of bay frontage. Pulling in anything over $60 million, the price Ken Griffin paid for his Faena Penthouse, would make it a record sale for the county.

“This Apogee penthouse is the most superb property ever listed on Miami Beach in the city’s premier residential tower in the coveted South of Fifth neighborhood,” said Douglas Elliman Florida’s Executive Vice President Carlo Gambino. “With uninterrupted ocean views and commanding vistas of the Downtown Miami skyline, it is the perfect place to entertain, relax and take-in dazzling sunrises and sunsets with the convenience of being just a short stroll to the best of Miami Beach’s iconic restaurants and boutiques.”

If you don’t factor in the extensive outdoor space, it breaks down to $7,859 per square foot.

The residence is owned by former lawyer William Duker, who has a rather interesting criminal history, according to the Wall Street Journal

Mr. Duker owns the software company Rational Enterprise. He was one of the founders of Amici LLC, a provider of document-discovery services, which was acquired by Xerox in 2006 for $174 million. A former lawyer, he pleaded guilty to four felony counts in 1997 and served part of a 33-month sentence for falsely inflating legal bills to the federal government.

Even more fascinating is the fact Duker spends “about two months” a year in the unit.

His reason for selling:

He said he is selling because he’s planning to travel around the world in his new 230-foot yacht, Sybaris.

SOURCE

January 3, 2017
Celebrities Living in Miami and South Florida

Being at the center of a cultural, fashion and music mecca, Miami attracts many of the rich, famous and beautiful to live on its sunny shores. I’ve heard it said that living in Miami keeps you young; these celebs have discovered this fountain of youth.

Gloria Estefan – Latin music sensation who achieved high recognition by the pop world, Estefan’s life story is tied tightly to Miami. After leaving Cuba at the age of two and moving to Miami, she started her singing career with Miami Sound Machine. In 1990, an accident almost took her life and came very close to ending her career for good. During this time, Miami residents took her to heart as one of their own and inundated her with cards, flowers, and well-wishes. When Hurricane Andrew struck in 1992, Estefan was there for the city that loved her; she arranged and performed in a benefit concert raising millions of dollars for the victims. She now lives on Star Island.

Enrique Iglesias – Enrique is the son of legend Julio Iglesias, but he has tried to create his own name in music. Having grown up in Miami, he adds an American flair to his songs making them loved by all. His super-stardom hit in 1999 when Bailamos was released to the top of the Billboard charts. He lives on Miami Beach near girlfriend Kournikova and singer Shakira.

Anna Kournikova – Kournikova is a women’s tennis player. Having played in the US Open eight times, she has yet to see victory. Not being able to play this year due to injuries, she is doing a stint on cable’s USA network as a roving entertainment reporter. Anna lives in Miami Beach in a neighborhood known as Sunset Island, which is also the home of boyfriend Enrique Iglesias.

Lenny Kravitz – Kravitz has been putting out music since 1989. While he certainly can remind you of Hendrix, he has made quite a name for himself among modern artists, as witnessed by his four consecutive grammies for best male artist. He lives- where else?- on Miami Beach, on the Bay.
Janet Reno The former Attorney General of the United States under Bill Clinton lives in the Kendall area. After an unsuccessful campaign against Jeb Bush for governor, it is unclear if she will run again.

Shakira – This sexy newcomer to the Latin music world is lighting up the charts with her hits, which have won her one Grammy and two Latin Grammys so far. Born and raised in Colombia, raised with American music like The Police and Nirvana, and having a Lebanese father to give her an appreciation for Arabic sounds, her music is a true fusion. Her first album in English, Laundry Service, is new in stores now. Shakira lives near Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova in Sunset Island.

OJ Simpson – Former NFL great, Heisman Trophy winner, All-Pro and MVP. After his career ended, he turned to acting and sportscasting. Accused and acquitted of the 1994 double murder of his wife and her friend. He has a house in Kendall.

Oprah Winfrey – Best known for her television talk show, Oprah also has her hands in journalism and philanthropy. Oprah is more than just your average talk show; she prides herself in trying to influence social change by advocating charity, fitness, reading and self-improvement. She has a vacation house on Miami Beach and can often be seen in the city.

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December 29, 2016
How to decorate a condo apartment: 10 expert tips

When interior designer Kimberley Seldon downsized from a five-bedroom house to a two-bedroom condo, she gladly compromised on space — but not on style

Planning is everything

Planning is everything. That’s never more true than in the case of downsizing, says Chatelaine interior design expert Kimberley Seldon, who learned that first-hand when she and her husband traded in their five-bedroom home for a compact two-bedroom condo. Buying from floor plans, they could see their new small place had everything they wanted — except storage. So Kimberley got down to business, organizing every nook and cranny to maximize space.

First design challenge: the kitchen. “When it comes to entertaining, we usually have hors d’oeuvres or do takeout,” she says. “There’s so much great food in the neighbourhood. I knew this wouldn’t be a kitchen. I’d spend a lot of time cooking in.” So she adjusted the floor plan accordingly: Instead of large, space-hogging appliances, she tucked bare necessities like the cooktop, oven, fridge and coffee maker behind louvred doors and opted for a small sink. The trick opened up enough space to fit a multi-purpose island turned dining table (complete with ample storage) into the main living area.

She then installed built-ins in almost every other room. “I use them as my guidelines for when it’s time to purge. Once they’re full, they’re full,” she says. The condo is now a model of brilliantly thought-out efficiency. With sleek dark walls to play up the expansive view, it’s dramatic yet friendly and cozy. Perfect for a charismatic personality like Kimberley’s!

Put a graphic image on a door

Hall-closet doors are the ideal spot to make an artistic statement. Try impressive custom-printed glass or use wallpaper for a similar effect.

Place a table in front of a full-length window

Wall-to-wall windows can be intimidating — anchor them by putting a table and sofa in front of them. Hang striking full-length drapes to frame the window and add intimacy.

Throw a couple of bright accessories in the mix

Punch up a solid interior with small pops of color. Try candles, pillows and flowers to play with the season’s hottest hues.

Choose dark furniture

The home office is quite snug, but a dark wooden desk and a credenza that conceals files recede in the small room, making it seem bigger than it is.

Go floor to ceiling with your fireplace

Turn the fireplace wall into the focal point of a room — go for a show-stopping glass mosaic that stretches right to the ceiling.

Go monochromatic

Paint built-ins (like this bar) and surrounding walls in the same colour for a soothing yet dramatic effect.

Tuck away non-essentials

When space is tight, keep out the things you use often, and hide away the rest. In Kimberley’s case, most of the kitchen appliances are hidden behind louvred doors, so they disappear when not needed.

Paint the ceiling black

Dark ceilings create the impression of height and are perfect in a small space like a condo-sized bedroom. Mirrors behind the bed double the available light, so the room never feels dim.

Create a dressing area

If your bathroom is small, carve out an area in the bedroom for makeup, jewellery and hair drying. (Here a dresser and mirror are positioned behind the bed, which also creates a dividing wall.) A small desk or dresser works wonders. Your partner will thank you!

SOURCE

December 29, 2016