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Aventura Park Square: An Interview with Steven G.

Steven G. Interior Designs of Miami discusses the innovation and interior design of the residences at the unique “city within a city,” Aventura Park Square.

Read the Full Transcript

Ivan Ramirez:	Aventura Park Square. That’s something that we wanted to talk because it is a very interesting concept, what you’re introducing there. Let’s talk a little bit about how you got involved and what your involvement is in the whole project.
Steven G:	Okay. When the development team approached me, they said, “We’re doing something that nobody has ever done in this location.”
Ivan Ramirez:	Mm-hmm. (affirmative)
Steven G:	I said, “Tell me.” So it became a city within a city. Amazing retail, amazing medical, office building, retirement facility, luxury condominiums, and you don’t have to leave the neighborhood. It’s like a neighborhood within a neighborhood. I was enamored with the concept. Absolutely enamored.
	Based on that success story, which has just not stopped, we’ve now gone into full blown presentation. The people are walking in buying their unit, as you would say turnkey. They will close and sleep there that night. Where in the marketplace, in Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach county, can you do that? Nowhere.
Ivan Ramirez:	Nowhere.
Steven G:	The concept for me was exciting. The team is amazing to work with. More important, for us, it’s a one of a kind. There’s nothing like this. Where do you walk out of your apartment and you could buy an office space and go to work, go downstairs, have breakfast, go workout in a world class gym, go to lunch, have dinner, have food delivered, and you never get in a car? To me, it was amazing.
Ivan Ramirez:	It’s great. Great. Now, with the turnkey, which we’re seeing fully furnished residences, you are delivering them, like you said, the day our buyer closes, they are able to sleep in their home, it’s going to be fully furnished-
Steven G:	It is every aspect of design.
Ivan Ramirez:	Okay.
Steven G:	The unit comes with beautiful porcelain floors that the development team provides. We go in. Furniture, artwork, greenery, accessories, window treatments, television. What else do you need? Unheard of in the industry. Nobody has ever done what we’ve done because we’ve taken it to a different level of not just furniture being delivered. Wallpaper finished by a licensed designer that is sitting with you, the client, and coordinating your fabrics, your leathers. I use the word leather. No vinyl or pleather in our process. The client gets real leather. We’ve taken it to a place that nobody ever has, at a price point that nobody could touch.
Ivan Ramirez:	Amazing. I think that’s going to be, and it is already, an amazing success for our clientele because as you know in Miami, in Aventura, we have people from all over the world. They’re coming from everywhere and they don’t have time. Or if they do have the time, they don’t want to go through the hassle. They don’t want to … They understand how to do the things. With the coordination that you and the developer have put together to make this happen, like you said, is unknown. It’s not offered anywhere.
Steven G:	Our trucks and installation team will go to the site two days prior to closing of the unit. By the time the client signs, transfers their funds, they could go and sleep in the unit because the maids have been there already.

Interview with Transcript: Steven G and Jane Bond Talk About the Turnberry Ocean Club

The Turnberry Ocean Club Residences in Sunny Isles Beach are making a real splash in South Florida. With their breathtaking views and unprecedented catalogue of amenities (including the coveted Sky Club), these oceanfront residences are redefining luxurious living.

Of course, no high-end home is complete without Miami interior design services by Steven G. He designed the TOCR’s Model Residence, bringing his legendary touch to the hottest homes in luxury.

In this special interview, Jane Bond sits down with our fearless leader at the unit’s unveiling. They talk about Steven’s prolific career, what it means to have vision, the parallels between art and design, and much more.

Other highlights include:

Why his favorite design word is “legs”
Steven G’s design influences
The importance of keepings things fresh
The power of karma

Watch the entire video here!

Read the Full Transcript

Jane Bond:	Hi everybody, I’m here with Steven G from Interiors by Steven G. I just wanted to ask you a few questions, Steven. What is like to be one of the most prolific interior designers of your time?
Steven G:	Well, tired. The day starts at 4:30 in the morning and it’s 8:00 at night and we’re in an amazing Sales Center at Turnberry and it keeps going. The only thing I could really say is it feels tired. We work really hard and we’re doing this sometimes six and seven days a week. I don’t look at it as a fame thing, I never have. It’s a passion. It’s a drive and it’s a drive to stay, as they would say-
Jane Bond:	Present?
Steven G:	On the top of the ladder.
Jane Bond:	You are that.
Steven G:	It’s tough to get there. It’s tougher to stay there. I’m blessed and fortunate to have an amazing team behind me. I’m blessed and fortunate to continue being successful and continue growth. At the end of the day you take all that and the word is “tired.”
Jane Bond:	Well, people don’t perceive you as being tired because the work you do is amazing. Of course me, as an agent and sitting here being a host with you today, I have been involved with that firsthand and I think the work is so on top, so present, so fresh and at this time everyone’s asking for what you’re delivering, which is wonderful. That must give you some type of relief.
Steven G:	Vision is really the word.
Jane Bond:	Future. Vision.
Steven G:	You need to think about design like an artist thinks about doing a great painting. It has to stand the test of time. We feel that we’re right where the market absolutely is. But it’s also a bit of a timeless thing. The favorite word that I use when designing for anything or any particular project is “legs.” The job must have legs. It must stand the test of time. It needs to be great not only when you do it, but it needs to be great five, six, eight, ten years from now.
Jane Bond:	Well, do you know what I see in your work, personally, I see a lot of French influence. I did a little research on you, I know you like quite a few French designers and you kind of go back to the 1950’s. You have a little bit of deco in there which is lovely. A lot of people do like that at this point. They’re transitioning. Actually, a lot of buyers that are looking for new homes now have transitioned into this fresh new look which is kind of a French, 1950’s, 40’s, deco style and you are delivering it.
Steven G:	It’s really a little bit earlier, it’s more 1930’s.
Jane Bond:	Oh. Okay.
Steven G:	About … I’m going to say 12 or 14 years ago, I was asked to do an apartment in Trump in Manhattan, where our current president is sitting, and I had done three homes for the same client, Florida and then two, one in Mexico City and one in Cancun in Mexico. She had said to me, “How are going to do something different?” So I said, “Susanna, let me have a couple days to digest; think about it.” I said to her, “Why don’t we do something a little antiquish? Why don’t we do something maybe French?” She said, “You know, it sounds interesting.”
	At that time I knew as much about the antique world as the man in the moon, so I really did a 60 day sort of self-education crash course. I flew to New York and I visited every authentic antique dealer in Manhattan from one block to the next. I walked til my feet were falling off. I got a handle on a direction, I presented it and she said, “Great.”
	What transpired after that was I said, “You know, as a designer you always look to offer your client maybe something that nobody else could offer.” I actually went into the authentic antique business very heavily into art deco, art devo-
Jane Bond:	Interesting.
Steven G:	-and mid-century, which is where the 50-60’s. I got into this scenario where I now have about 600 pieces on display in our showroom.
Jane Bond:	Fabulous.
Steven G:	Yeah. You always try to think a little bit ahead but it’s a lot of hard work.
Jane Bond:	Well, for you that don’t know, Steven G has a wonderful showroom. It’s 100,000 square feet, pretty much debt free.
Steven G:	We are debt free.
Jane Bond:	And it’s absolutely fabulous and you should all get a chance to go out there and see it. It’s in Pampano.
Steven G:	Pompano.
Jane Bond:	Pompano. I’m sorry.
Steven G:	Pompano Beach.
Jane Bond:	Pompano Beach. And I’ll let you finish.
Steven G:	We are right off of 95 and Copans Road. For those of you who live in Miami or the Palm Beaches and you don’t want to drive, we will have our courtesy car pick you up and bring you to the showroom. We are very proud of our facility. We are, right now, under a little bit of renovation because we continue to bring new things to the marketplace, new looks. I relate it to a woman’s finer clothing store. The window is always changing because you would like the clientele to keep coming back.
Jane Bond:	Absolutely.
Steven G:	As a design firm we feel that we’re the same scenario, so we keep changing product. We keep bringing in new lines from all over the world. Our inventory, somebody could come in and probably furnish one hundred homes and we could-
Jane Bond:	Oh. It’s beautiful. I’ve been there.
Steven G:	Thank you. Thank you.
Jane Bond:	It’s beautiful. You’ve done well. And I just want to ask you one last question Steven. What is it like being a straight, charming, handsome man in an industry usually full of gay men? I just want to hear your thoughts on that.
Steven G:	For me it’s natural. I mean, I’m in the industry 43 years and I deal with all shapes, all sizes in my industry and I never give it thought. Occasionally, at an interview I’m asked by the lady of the house, they’ll sort of lean over the conference room table and they’ll say, “Can I ask you a personal question?” And I know what’s coming and I say, “Of course.” And they’ll say, “Are you gay?” And my answer is, “Do I have to be to get the job?”
Jane Bond:	If you would like me to be.
Steven G:	Yeah. At the end of the day it is something I don’t give thought to. It’s just part of the design world. I respect everybody-
Jane Bond:	Absolutely.
Steven G:	-that is in the industry regardless of where they’re from and what their sexual preference is.
Jane Bond:	Fantastic.
Steven G:	It makes no difference to me.
Jane Bond:	Absolutely.
Steven G:	I embrace any professional for anything I can help them with. I’ve been blessed and very fortunate to be able to be in that position but I believe in karma. I think karma’s an amazing thing. And I believe that when you’re blessed and fortunate to be successful, you must give back-
Jane Bond:	Absolutely.
Steven G:	-in a million different ways.
Jane Bond:	Absolutely. I agree with you.
Steven G:	Good.
Jane Bond:	Well, it was nice speaking within you today.
Steven G:	No. Thank you.
Jane Bond:	It’s always good to see you.
Steven G:	It was my pleasure.
Jane Bond:	You are as charming as they say you are.
Steven G:	Thank you.
Jane Bond:	I loved sitting here talking to you.
Steven G:	Thank you.
Jane Bond:	And I have to say you have knocked it out of the park again.
Steven G:	Thank you. This is such an important project for us Steven G’s because as I mentioned earlier in my speech in the Sales Center, 1979, I was an infant in the design world and so for family and Turnberry opened their first project here, it was such a huge success. It was … I don’t know, you might call it an introduction to Steven G at the age of 22. I’ve come a long way since that.
Jane Bond:	I would liked to have seen Steven G at the age of 22.
Steven G:	Yes. I can show you pictures. But at the end of the day it’s an honor to be here.

The Characteristics of Traditional Interior Design Style

Traditional is one of the most popular styles in interior design. But what is it exactly? The word “traditional” can mean something different to every homeowner. Today I’m sharing the characteristics of this favorite aesthetic so you can decide if Traditional Design is the right style for your home.

European Influence

Traditional interior design is inspired by 18th and 19th century European décor. It’s a timeless style that exemplifies elegance and comfort. Traditional decorating is perfect for those who love antiques, classic art pieces, symmetry and other design elements that are rich with history. Traditional design prides itself on its harmony, order and its friendly charm.

Dark, Rich Colors

If you love dark woods, refined colors and rich tones then this is the style for you! Traditional spaces usually have a neutral paint color on the walls so the room’s colorful furniture, artwork and accent pieces can pop. Red, brown, green and warm jewel tones are popular accent colors in traditional style design. Fusing these bold accent colors with neutral walls creates a warm and inviting space that also feels dignified. Florals, paisleys, damasks, stripes and plaids are also standard traditional décor patterns for accent walls, furniture pieces and drapes.

Hardwood floors are a staple of this style, and the richer the hue the better! Maple, mahogany, cherry, merbau and walnut are prominent species in traditional spaces.

Regal Furniture

There is nothing minimalist about traditional interior design, and the furniture is no exception. Traditional homes tend to have heavier, more sumptuous furniture pieces. You’ll find a lot of claw-foot and button-tufted pieces, armchairs, carved wood and metallic details. Traditional furniture (like the flooring) is generally made out of mahogany, maple and cherry. High-end fabrics are usually chosen for upholstery, including leather, velvet, and silk.

Silhouette is also important in traditional style decorating. It is famous for its curved lines, wingback couches and chairs, and furniture in the Queen Anne, Chippendale and Sheraton styles.

Elegant Furnishings

Traditional design is all about the finer details. Here you will find a lot of grand touches like candleholders, china, classic lamps and shades, vases, decorative throw pillows, mirrors, sconces, book collections and chandeliers. It’s also common to add a dash of gold and silver to any of these accessories for some natural sophistication.

Heavy curtains, drapes and valances are also an intricate part of a traditional space, and area rugs in classic styles are a must-have in a traditional home décor.

Ornate and Architectural Elements

Architectural details are what make a traditional home design, well, traditional! Built-in cabinetry, crown molding, columns, wood paneling, and tray or coffered ceilings harken back to the 18th and 19th century home while also adding a touch of opulence. (Not to mention some extra storage!)

Symmetry is paramount in traditional design. Almost everything comes in pairs. This includes sofas, chairs, end tables, lamps, sconces and accessories. The purpose of pairing these pieces is to create a balanced space around an important focal point – usually a fireplace, television or piece of art.

3 Major Trends In Miami Interior Design

In today’s post, I wanted to run down some of the biggest trends in Miami interior design for my fellow South Floridians and give you some tips on how you can incorporate them into your own homes.

Soft Contemporary Design

Contemporary spaces are revered for their sophistication, strong lines and minimalist motifs. This style is the definition of modern elegance and a Miami favorite. Today my clients are asking me to introduce a little more warmth into their contemporary homes, and here’s how I’m making it happen:

1) Softer color palettes instead of the standard white – Designing a space in shades of cream, beige, tan and eggshell will make a contemporary space feel warmer. If you’re inspired by monochromatic home design (another Miami favorite), then look for furniture pieces, fabrics and wall treatments within this softer color scheme.

2) Mix and match shapes – Contemporary interior design is famous for its use of angles, shapes and geometric forms. Square pieces can appear strong and commanding, circular elements may feel gentle and delicate. Incorporating a variety of shapes into your home will create a more harmonious and relaxing space.

3) Softer furniture – My clients want furniture that is luxurious and comfortable. Soft leathers, natural fabrics and thicker cushions will add a touch of ease to any space.

Touches of Natural Wood

A touch of natural wood can transform any room into an elegant sanctuary. Organic elements make a space feel warm, welcoming and serene. My clients are craving touches of natural wood in every room of their homes!

Luckily, there are many ways you can incorporate the trend into your spaces:

1) Hardwood floors – Choice of flooring is one of the most important design decisions a homeowner can make. If you opt for hardwood flooring, make sure you select a species that best suits your lifestyle and tastes. If you have an active family, oak might be the best choice for you. (It’s the most durable, comes in a variety of colors, and takes stain well.) Mahogany and walnut floors are good options if you want a richer, warmer mood.

Don’t be afraid to pick options with personality! Have fun with colors and grains. Go for wider planks of wood if you want a bolder look.

2) Bring it to the walls – Why not wow your guests with a spectacular wall feature? This can be anything from custom book shelving and cabinetry to accent walls and artwork. Take some design risks! Dare to be unconventional!

3) Add a hint of natural wood to your space with accessories and accent pieces.

Bold Artwork

Artwork will add character, charm and pops of color to your space. It’s also one of the best ways to show off your personality.

One of our favorite art shows at Interiors is Art Basel Miami Beach. Art Basel is one of the most anticipated and star-studded art events in the entire world. It’s a nerve center for modern and contemporary artists, filmmakers, photographers, musicians, celebrities, and of course, designers. Art Basel is a goldmine for Miami interior designers. There is inspiration at every turn!

Art Basel may be the Holy Grail of art shows, but beautiful artwork can be found anywhere! Check out your local events and galleries to find unique pieces that elevate your space and showcase your personal style.

What To Look For In An Interior Design Showroom

Every interior designer should have access to a showroom where they can show you a wide variety of options for your home. The best interior designers should have their very own showrooms.

The next question is: What makes a showroom a showstopper?

The best interior design showrooms share a specific set of qualities – traits that take their designs and customer service experiences to new levels of sophistication. Today I’m sharing these secrets with you! You can finally find a showroom that meets your style needs.

Quality Pieces, Not Trendy Ones

High end interior design should stand the test of time. Sadly, most showrooms today focus more on passing fads than they do timeless principles. A superior showroom will showcase its quality and style of products, not just the hottest trends of the day. (Trends are temporary – quality is forever!)

It’s natural to want to stay current when decorating your home, and you can incorporate design trends in myriad ways – artwork, accent walls, vintage pieces, colorful accessories…but these pieces should never be the focal point of any design. A superior showroom will carry well-made pieces that won’t look dated five years from now.

Incredible Lighting

Lighting can be a make-or-break moment for showrooms. It is one of the most important elements of interior design, and a poorly lit room can spoil the ambience. Lighting also plays a huge role in the functionality of a room. (A high-end interior designer would never light a bedroom the way they would kitchen.)

Lighting techniques and technologies are constantly evolving. Incandescent bulbs were the standard for more than one hundred years until fluorescents came long. Now LEDs are the most efficient lights on the market. As crazy as it sounds, we spent an enormous amount of money on state of the art LEDs years ago. We recently discovered an even better type of LED, and spent $100k relighting the entire showroom.

This new lighting is absolutely breathtaking. Our showroom looks brighter, cleaner and more streamlined that ever before…and the lighting is just as impactful from a distance as it is up close. Even the tiniest of details can be admired from afar. It makes the world of difference for our clients and design team.

Clear Options

When you walk into the average showroom, what you see is what you get. Maybe you can pick a different fabric or finish, but your choices are very limited. A superior showroom will present you with a variety of design options that best fit your needs and lifestyle. This includes choices of fabric, color, texture, wall finishes, flooring, lighting, and accent pieces.

Comfortable Luxury

Contrary to popular belief, high end furniture can – and should – be comfortable. Did you know that we can raise the height of a table, change the back of a chair, or add more density to a sofa cushion? No? You’re not alone. A superior showroom has customizable pieces that are luxurious, functional and comfortable.

Our Approach to the Interior Design Showroom

I don’t want to sell my design clients a trend that is hot today and gone tomorrow. I want them to enjoy their homes, their condominiums, and their offices for years to come. I believe in leading my clients in the right direction by designing timeless spaces – not selling passing fads. We also pride ourselves on quality, and we stand by our products. They have longevity and versatility. Five years from now, our pieces will still look great in their homes.

At Interiors by Steven G., our chairs and sofas have hundreds of fabric choices and finishes. We can adjust the fill, foam and density to make our cushions firmer or softer – anything to make our clients happy. With us it’s not just about designing beautiful homes. We want to create warm, welcoming spaces that family and friends can enjoy for years to come.

DECORATING TIPS OF THE WEEK

Check out these helpful starting points when decorating your home.

Make sure your base neutrals match…
When it comes to colors you should start with choosing a base palette that allows for some flexibility. Warm or cool neutrals are the perfect bases to build on. Just make sure you pick the temperature and base the rest of your color scheme off of the base. Painting is the simplest, yet more transformative way to update your home. You accent walls will really stand out against your neutral base.

Try and avoid fully themed rooms…
You might be in love with a Scandinavian look right now, but trends fade as time goes by so it is important to incorporate a theme without overdoing it. Entire rooms built around one theme will become dated quickly. What you should do instead is mix it up, and combine features of different looks and make them work together and develop your own style.

Bring out the pops of color…
The perfect room to add a pop of color would be the dining room. The spaces where many people gather, usually at night, are a perfect time where bold color can really stand out. Bathrooms are another great place to add pops of color!

ART EXHIBITS TO CHECK OUT THIS FALL

Here are some great art shows to check out this season in Miami!

“The Pursuit of Abstraction,” Oct. 7-April 16, 2017, at The Wolfsonian-FIU, Miami Beach. wolfsonian.org.
This show, drawn from the permanent collection, surveys the origins of fine and decorative art that transformed the modern aesthetic age.

“Narcisco Rodriguez: An Exercise in Minimalism,” Oct. 9 – Jan. 8, 2017, Patricia & Philip Frost Art Museum FIU, thefrost.fiu.edu
Fifty red-carpet fashions by Cuban-American designer Narcisco Rodriguez will be displayed in an exhibit marked by firsts: Rodriguez’s first solo museum show, and the Frost FIU’s first couture exhibit.

”Julio Le Parc: Form-Action,” Nov. 18-March 19, 2017; Pérez Art Museum Miami, downtown, pamm.org
Along with the current blockbuster revealing unknown notebooks of the late Jean-Michel Basquiat (through Oct. 16), PAMM will showcase more than 100 works by kinetic artist Julio Le Parc in the Argentine artist’s first U.S. museum survey. Included are installations created between 1958 and 2013. Many of the works are participatory, breaking down the traditional barriers between artwork and viewer. One of the segments from the show will be three light-drenched rooms, intended to disorient gallery-goers.

“Alexis Gideon & the Glacier,” Nov. 19-Jan. 21, 2017, at Locust Projects, Miami Design District, locustprojects.org
A video opera by the Pittsburgh artist, with animation and paintings on glass; and installation from the Huffer Collective, including works by locals Ahol Sniffs Glue, Swamp Dog and Jason Handelsman.

Check out more exhibits here.

DECORATING WITH FALL COLORS

Summer days have come and gone now it’s the time of year to ditch the pastels for moody deep hues. Rich fall colors bring warmth to your interiors as the weather changes. Whether you choose to paint your rooms to reflect the season or you are just adding colorful accents, fall colors are perfect!

There are some changes when it comes to decorating for the fall. For one, it is the time of year to embrace softer earth tones. Darker charcoals and oxbloods are great colors to accessorize your home with to really set the fall scene.

There are many ways to display fall colors without repainting a room. You can start by painting the risers on a staircase with an autumn hue. This will help truly define the stairs while also disguising any scuff marks. This paint job is decorative yet not too overwhelming.

There are many rooms that are great for displaying fall colors. Entranceways are perfect for transforming for the season. Your hallway color scheme serves two purposes. One is to create a first impression for guests, and second, its sets the town for the entire home. The hallway can unite different parts of the house and create a smooth transition between various rooms.

HOME DECORATING MISTAKE TO AVOID ON YOUR NEXT PROJECT

Mistake #1: Do not go overboard on matching
It can be easy to fall into the trap of buying the same furnishings and start matching everything. This can make a room feel overwhelming, what you should is mix up accessories to add character to each room. This will bring uniqueness.

Mistake #2: Do not use poor lighting
Lighting is a very important element to the functionality and feeling of a room. You have to think about the color of light, the quantity of light and where to place it. When you have lighting in layers you can build more light based on the time of day and add dimmers. Now you can have the ability to adjust your lighting for any mood you want.

Mistake #3: Not testing paint colors
It is very important to test out you paint color choices before taking the dive. Avoid too much intense color. Make sure you also mix up colors and test them out. Swatching is key to finding the perfect color.

Mistake #4: Don’t place all furniture against the walls
Instead of having your living room furniture stand pressed against the wall, try moving it f inward to create a warm seating arrangement for conversation. The furniture should be arranged to allow for guests and family to circulate through the space. Just add the perfect area rug and you can unite all furnishings.

Mistake #5: Do not ignore scale and proportion
It is very important to determine scale and proportion when designing a room. Scale is the size of things, and proportion is the relationship of those sizes to each other and the room as a whole. Making sure you add the right furniture and create feng shui will bring peace to a room.

ADVICE FOR STYLING YOUR CREDENZA

Start off your décor with functionality
Adding a lamp to you credenza is very sensible and will add both height and light. A lamp will add both height and light to your credenza. Get a fabric lampshade to show off your personality and add a fun pattern.

Create Levels
Get out your favorite book that have been stowed away and showcase them on your credenza. This can help create levels on the surface while expressing your favorite literature choices.

Mix it up
Add in accessories such as candles, vases, and artwork. When the accessories vary is texture and size it will create a lot of dimension on your credenza. This will also help you bring out the whole rooms color palette. Having a consistent color palette will make everything look pulled together.

Bring out your personality
By adding personal item on your credenza you can really show of your personality. A framed photo is a perfect way to do this! Top it off with your favorite succulent or flower and you are on your way to a perfectly personal piece of furniture.

Here you have it! Your perfectly styled credenza is ready for the world to see!

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