Images from the CRATE Interiors designed models created for V399.

Guests were treated to the first look at the one and two bedroom models designed by CRATE Interiors. Both show suites were inspired by a unique, vintage chandelier found at a flea market. The design team matched Sherwin Williams paint colors from the jewel-toned crystals to create eye-popping accent walls in each unit. Response was overwhelmingly positive: “I’ve just come out of a long neutral grey and lilac phase,” offered a former Rivera Molino resident. “This is just a breathe of fresh air- so happy!” she proclaimed.

Two Bedroom Model at V99 - The Master Bedroom

Working closely with V399 developers, CRATE Interiors selected furnishings predominantly from their Tropical Luxe Collection for the two-bedroom model. Comfortable, overstuffed wicker seating in the livingroom pairs well with a reclaimed wood trestle table in the eat-in kitchen and custom-designed beds in a brightly painted distressed finish developed specifically for the property.

CRATE's One Bedroom Model - the Eat-in Kitchen

The one-bedroom model features a more contemporary spin with an Italian-style X base dining table, white slip-covered chairs and an elegant pleated box chandelier – all pulled from the design firm’s Modern Urbanite décor theme.

“This collaboration was an absolute pleasure”, reveals Debra Stevenson, president of Marketing and Sales for CRATE Interiors. “The architecture of this property is truly Transitional and delivers the exact pricepoint, quality and style that homebuyers crave today,” she added. “We enjoyed creating a hybrid style of Contemporary Mexican meets Metropolitan for V399.”

PUERTO VALLARTA, MX (JULY 2011)— Puerto Vallarta based interior designer Laura Atilano hosted her first monthly “30 Under 30″ social mixer in the brand new CRATE Interiors model showcase at ICON Vallarta this month. The invite-only event was designed to bring together a rapidly growing group of leading young professionals under age 30 working in the Puerto Vallarta real estate community.

Atilano, a Mexican national and graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles relocated to Puerto Vallarta as an interior designer for CRATE Interiors three years ago. She conceived of this fun informal event as a way to share networking tips and business resources with her friends and industry contacts in their 20’s.

ICON Vallarta Beachfront Terrace

“We believe the next generation of young professionals working in Puerto Vallarta’s growing real estate market is responsible for renewed energy and great innovation around the Bay of Banderas,” explains Debra Stevenson President of Marketing and Sales for the multinational design firm. “We look forward to hosting this monthly recurring event to bring this young talent together.”

Laura Atilano Hosts 30 Under 30

The wine and cheese tasting event was attended by enthusiastic representatives from Puerto Vallarta’s leading real estate and property rental agencies including G3Mex, Ron Morgan Properties and Luxury Beach. These young tastemakers were also given “first look” at the newly opened working showcase model decorated by CRATE Interiors at ICON Vallarta overlooking the pristine beachfront of the Romantic Zone. The success of this first event will be followed by monthly get-togethers to foster a spirit of creativity in interior design, real estate and marketing within this unique resort community.

ICON Vallarta is recognized as the most innovative condominium project in the hotel zone of Puerto Vallarta. Designed by YOO by Philippe Starck in conjunction with Related Group from Miami, the project features three architecturally significant beachfront towers and Starck’s signature eclectic decor.

CRATE Interiors is the ultimate furnishings solution for homebuyers, rental property owners and developers in Mexico. Recognized for professionalism and expertise, CRATE offers the only true turn-key décor service for condominiums, rental properties and luxury villas ~ right down to the dishes, sheets and towels. A far better value than shopping on your own, we design, deliver and White Glove Install in about 8 weeks. Now, that’s a CRATE idea!

For more information about CRATE Interiors, the ultimate turn-key furnishing solution or to join next month’s “30 Under 30″ Mixer, please email Laura Atilano at admin@CRATEinteriors.com.

ICON Vallarta Beachfront Terrace

We believe the next generation of young professionals working in Puerto Vallarta’s growing real estate market is responsible for renewed energy and great innovation around the Bay of Banderas. We look forward to hosting this monthly event in our Tower One showcase model at ICON Vallarta overlooking the Bay of Banderas.

ICON Vallarta is recognized as the most innovative condominium project in the hotel zone of Puerto Vallarta. Designed by YOO by Philippe Starck in conjunction with Related Group from Miami, the project features three beachfront towers and Starck’s signature eclectic decor.

We are excited welcome these young tastemakers to our working showcase model at this property and fostering a spirit of creativity in interior design, real estate and marketing in this unique resort community.

EVENT: 30 Under 30 Mixer
DATE: 21 July 2011
TIME: Sunset
LOCATION: CRATE Interior Showcase Model, ICON Vallarta Tower One
RSVP: Invite Only
CONTACT: 213.291.0701

For more information about CRATE Interiors, the ultimate turnkey furnishing solution or to join next month’s “30 Under 30″ party, please email Laura Atilano at admin@CRATEinteriors.com.

Interior designers from CRATE Interiors previewed home décor trends at Los Angeles Market Week this month. The multicultural team travels regularly to international design fairs, always returning to work with fresh new furnishings ideas for their diverse client base in Southern California and Mexican resort markets.

Homebuyers, relocation clients and real estate investors constantly need to stay competitive in this real estate market. A professional design resource such as CRATE Interiors provides myriad solutions for maximizing a real estate purchase or lease and making that new property feel like a home.

“This season we were impressed by our suppliers’ creativity, sharp pricing and improved availability,” explains Debra Stevenson, president of sales and marketing for CRATE Interiors. “Because we offer a 4 week turn in Southern California and an 8 week delivery to Mexico, we require responsiveness and strong partnerships with all our vendors to make our clients’ dreams come true.”

A dominant trend this season is the use of white washed and acid washed woods. These finishes are serene and elegant, yet very easy to live with in coastal areas. It’s fun to incorporate this trend with a few key pieces like long trestle tables, vintage-inspired chairs or oversized coffee tables made from distressed railway ties or old temple doors. The CRATE design team quickly adopted these muted whites, greyed-out hues and bleached finishes for Mexico projects in Villa La Estancia, the soon-to-open Haixa model and a new penthouse at Punta Esmerelda.

The recycled and reclaimed movement is still a key trend. Many vendors displayed furnishings made from recycled fabrics such as twill and burlap (all washed soft as silk of course!) and hardware taken from factories and pharmacies in the industrial era. When used in moderation these elements add a layer of originality and distinction for marquee properties that need to stand out. Several new projects in works at the renown ICON Vallarta will allow the design team to showcase these materials. This property has attracted a discerning international clientele from all over the world.

Manufacturers from weaving countries like Indonesian and Thailand lead the fashion wave in outdoor living. Vendors from these countries showed many bold new weaves for patio seating that blur the line between indoor and outdoor furnishings. Wider, flatter patterns inspired by the famed Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola are the strongest influence in poolside design.

Lighting companies amplify the creative possibilities when fusing nature with technology. Designers were delighted by sea creature shapes, iridescent capiz shells and dramatic bent-wood spirals conveniently pre-wired for use as chandeliers, wall sconces and even patio lighting.

Of course there’s always room for glitz and glamour. Each season, Italian powerhouse Swarovski selects unexpected partners to fuel excitement for their gorgeous crystal chandeliers. The CRATE team was asked to incorporate these gleaming elements into a penthouse concept at Peninsula Mazatlan, where over-the-top Las Vegas style was the inspiration. A more relaxed version of this idea was executed for penthouse clients who asked the décor gurus for an all-white concept with silver accents as a backdrop to their stellar views at Peninsula Puerto Vallarta. Now, that’s a CRATE idea!

When in Southern California, please visit our showcase and studio in the Design District (by appointment). For inquiries regarding the CRATE design service, please email info@Crateinteriors.com and visit http://www.crateinteriors.com. Become at fan at http://www.facebook.com/pages/CRATE-Interiors/96593478152 or track weekly tweets @ Twitter/Crate_Ideas

_ _ _
About CRATE INTERIORS: CRATE is the ultimate furnishings solution for homebuyers, rental property owners and developers in Mexico. Recognized for professionalism and expertise, CRATE offers the only true turn-key décor service for condominiums, rental properties and luxury villas ~ right down to the dishes, sheets and towels. A far better value than shopping on your own, we design, deliver and White Glove Install in about 8 weeks. Now, that’s a CRATE idea!
Media Contact:
Debra Stevenson
E debra@crateinteriors.com
Schedule your design appointment today!
ICON Vallarta Show Office: 52.322.223.0001 (by appointment)
Puerto Vallarta Model Units: RIVERA CUALE, RIO AMAPAS, Puerto Vallarta
Riviera Nayarit Model Units: IKAL, Nuevo Vallarta, LaJoya and Punta Esmerelda (coming soon!)
Costa Vallarta Model: HAIXA, Litibu (open daily)
Los Angeles Studio: +1.213.624.1070 +1.213.239.4245
PV Design Consultant: Patty McLane 322.168.0418 +1.213.291.2500
Interior Designer: Laura Atilano 52.322.105.0682 +1.213.291.0701 Se habla espanol
Visit us at http://www.CRATEinteriors.com

Take a look below for some samples… View Portfolio Samples in the “Portfolio” section

or view more photos in the showrooms and models section.

We recommend our Eclectic Mixx Theme for this design-driven property. Note we are the exclusive distributor of high quality Philippe Starck inspired reproductions in this region.

ICON Vallarta will consist of three 26-story high-rise luxury towers comprised of 343 condominiums with seven spectacular pool villas fronting the Pacific Ocean. Design by the internationally acclaimed architectual firm, Arquitectonica, and with interiors designed by the world-renown firm of YOO by Philippe Starck, ICON Vallartawill be the ultimate in luxury condominium living in Puerto Vallarta.

Visit the CRATE Interiors designed model and show office in Tower One to experience cutting edge beachfront living and interior design.

LINKS:

• ICON Vallarta website
• Important information for owners at ICON Vallarta or en espanol

Getting the most from your real estate investment.

For three years, CRATE Interiors has offered a fully turnkey solution that meets all these requirements. Our furnishings program offers a better value than shopping on your own and guarantees higher nightly rental rates than do-it-yourself decorating. Our cohesive décor themes make it easy to shop and match a design style to the architecture of your investment property. Everything from furniture to carpets, lighting and accessories is priced the same as shopping local retail on your own. Our design service, delivery and signature White Glove Installation are complimentary services. You can’t find a better value anywhere!

And best of all you’ll be working with a professional interior design team that understands real estate, owns and operates rental units and knows the climate and lifestyle. We are experts in our market and deliver the only true North American service in the region. This means we hold ourselves to the highest standards for ethics, timeliness and accountability. Now, that’s a CRATE idea!

Arrange a free design consultation today! Email consultant@CRATEinteriors.com or call +1.213.239.4245 from anywhere. Browse www.CRATEinteriors.com and subscribe to our facebook/twitter updates for weekly style tips.

Enlightened Real Estate Investing

So how has this changed the game? Well, expect the rental market to become very competitive by high season 2010. There’s a glut of properties on the market suddenly and that means owners must work harder and smarter to gain their edge.

To stand out, you’ll need a professionally designed furnishings program with all the comfort amenities. This means a cohesive décor plan, correctly scaled furniture and perks like hotel grade mattresses, high thread count sheets and stylish tabletop essentials traditionally offered by top ranking boutique hotels. This is the first step to guaranteeing your highest rate of return and boosting nightly rental rates.

Ask us how! Email consultant@CRATEinteriors.com or call +1.213.239.4245 from anywhere. Browse www.CRATEinteriors.com and subscribe to our facebook/twitter updates for weekly style tips.

Puerto Vallarta, MX (December, 2009) – Real estate guru Ron Morgan has always conducted business in Puerto Vallarta with his own flair.  From those glossy print ads to his eye-catching red car and the legendary open house parties, there’s a reason why this sales agent is consistently on top of his game.

To celebrate the holiday spirit this season, the Timothy Fuller ASID Estate Agent is offering FREE CLOSINGS on Molino De Agua contracts dated January 2009 thru December 2009.  Lucky buyers at Molino De Agua and the new Rivera Molino will receive an additional $1000 DESIGN CREDIT towards the purchase of a CRATE INTERIORS furnishings package.  Décor programs for these properties start at just $30,500 for Rivera Molino and $62,000 suggested for Molino De Agua.  Each CRATE INTERIORS program is highly customizable and created with each client’s budget and preferences in mind.  Now, that’s a CRATE idea!

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish our existing and new clients and their families a great and joyful holiday season. Rivera Molino will start closings soon and will no doubt be the crown jewel of the Berry Design project,” explains Ron Morgan.

“We are excited to participate in this generous promotion. This is our way of stimulating a spirit of giving in the Puerto Vallarta market,” agrees Debra Stevenson of CRATE.

The Timothy Fuller staff is available to help clients with any special paperwork required as part of these transactions including FM-3, RFC and real state attorney documents.  For more information on Ron Morgan listings, please browse http://www.ronmorgan.net and emailron@timothyfuller.com or Gustavo@timothyfuller.com. For inquiries regarding the CRATE design credit, please email debra@Crateinteriors.com and visit http://www.crateinteriors.com

About TIMOTHY FULLER & ASSOCIATES: As a leading real estate agency in Puerto Vallarta, Timothy Fuller & Associates represents buyers and sellers of fine real property with “professionalism in service.” The agency has offered unsurpassed expertise to homebuyers and foreign investors in Luxury Real Estate, Resort Development, Property Administration and Vacation Rentals since 1992.

About CRATE INTERIORS: CRATE is the ultimate turnkey furnishing solution, providing interior design resources and décor programs for vacation homes, rental properties and luxury villas in resort cities throughout Mexico and metropolitan communities in Southern California.  For about the same pricing as shopping retail, homebuyers, developers and investors gain access to cohesive furnishings packages that ship in just a few weeks and include the company’s signature White Glove Installation.

We ship your entire furnishings package complete in 8 weeks, starting from the date your signed order and deposit are received.  If you’ve lived or worked in Mexico, you know what a luxury this is!

What’s included in my furnishings package?

The CRATE package offers all the benefits of working with an interior designer at a very competitive price.  Your package includes (i) our custom-designer floor plans created specifically for your unit, (ii) coordinated themes with many variable choices (iii) door-to-door brokerage services from our LA warehouse to your unit, and (iv) our complimentary White Glove Installation.

How do I choose my furnishings?

There are 6 distinctive themes to choose from, all designed specifically for Resort Living in Paradise by CRATE.  Please browse the website and preview our Portfolio to determine which look fits your lifestyle.  These themes have many customizable options, so the final result is a unique combination chosen by you.  No matter what you select the look is fool proof – cohesive, color coordinated and professionally designed.

Where can I see the CRATE furnishings?

We have two showrooms: Open House Gallery by Tropicasa in Puerto Vallarta, and Open House Gallery, Riviera Nayarit Mexico.  We have a fully furnished showcase apartment in Alta Vista that’s open by appointment.  Our design headquarters and EVO South model home are in Los Angeles.  If you have purchased a luxury condominium along the Mexican Riviera, please call us to arrange your design consultation today!

How long does the design appointment take?

Within 2 hours you will choose all the components of your new home, from furnishings to carpets, outdoor furniture and accessories.  We even offer hotel grade mattresses by Sealy, high quality linens, towels, essential kitchenware, tabletop and artful accessories.  We guarantee you’ll save time, money and maximize your efficiency by coordinating everything all at one time with our design professionals!

How complete will my unit be?

Our custom-designed floor plans give you a completely furnished and beautifully coordinated setting for every room in your resort home.  For example, in the Living Room you may choose a large sectional, coffee table, club chair, a floor lamp, accent cushions, a carpet plus carpet pad and numerous choices for artful accessories.  Of course, you can add items from our A La Carte Menu or find your own local treasures.

Should I be worried about mold and the effects of tropical rains?

Each piece in the CRATE offering is chosen with tropical conditions in mind.  Our beautiful indoor-outdoor rugs are 100% poly and don’t mold.  Our upholstery is also 100% poly fill (not down) to avoid allergens.  Our linens, sheets and towels are woven with high quality bamboo and naturally anti-microbial.  Before you ship any art or furniture from your own home, consult an expert on the long term effects of life in the tropics.

How does the CRATE quality compare with furnishings I’d find in the local market?

All CRATE furnishings are selected from high quality vendors and renown brand names.  We personally inspect each piece before including it in the CRATE offering.  We handcraft much of the key upholstery ourselves and work directly with over 25 respected manufacturers who produce for Crate and Barrel, West Elm, Design Within Reach, Ethan Allen, Williams Sonoma Home, Pottery Barn etc.  We also represent B&B Italian, Maxalta, Cassini, Palecek and Sealy exclusively along the Riviera Nayarit.  You won’t find this quality or selection anywhere else.

How do I plan my budget?

A great rule of thumb is allocating approximately 10-15% of your condo’s property value to furnishings.  If you have purchased a freestanding home or villa, allow up to 25%.  This keeps your investment in line with the market value and, if you’ve purchased an income property, maximizes your rental rates.  Our CRATE packages are competitively designed to provide a completely furnished home for 7-10%.

Could I spend less by buying in the local market?

Our budget guideline (listed above) is an accurate indicator of what you’ll spend in furnishings anywhere.  Buying thru the CRATE program saves you weeks of shopping time, thousands of dollars in travel expenses and hours of frustration when playing the role of your own designer.  By selecting your furnishings all at once within the CRATE program, you’ll be able to manage your budget and spend far less than shopping piece by piece.

What is the payment schedule?

A 50% deposit is required along with your signed order.  The balance of 50% is due once all your furnishings have arrived in our warehouse and are ready to ship and install in your resort location.

What if there are damages in transit?

Our brokers and shippers are highly skilled and insured.  We contract these companies for all our projects in resort markets and our damage rate is less than 1%.  If there are breakages, a claim will be processed for the value of your goods.  We will do our best to ensure your home is installed beautifully and every detail is handled seamlessly.  For further information, please see our testimonials page.

What about selecting artwork?

There are many fine galleries throughout the Bahia de Banderas and nearby cities like San Miguel Allende.  In fact, the weekly Art Walk tours are an excellent way to meet new people and get to know the artists personally.  As avid art collectors, the CRATE design team is always happy to advise clients on art buying and help select from these dynamic offerings.