Florida Design Miami 19.1

FLORIDA DESIGN

Arcus Sofa | Bast Coffee Table Designed by Elif Genç Layla Armchair Designed by Draga&Aurel

ENHANCING LIVES THROUGH DESIGN

WHERE THE STONES MEET ART

We are excited to share this modern organic Brazilian style OCEAN FRONT PENTHOUSE AT THE RITZ CARLTON RESIDENCES enriched with Luxury Santa Caterina travertine floor tiles in the common areas and jumbo slabs in bathrooms. Space designed by JAEGGER INTERIOR DESIGN.

Enrich Everyday Living

Inspiration can be found in both the trivial and the unexpected. From the moment you step out your door to the time you return for your nightly rest, our sustainable products can make every stroll, smile, and conversation unforgettable.

Discover bedding, clothing, linens, and fragrances that will enrich the ordinary while making you dream of the impossible. We believe that by making life sweeter for many, we cause ripples of change that will inspire others to do the same for those around them.

LET’S BRING YOUR

NTERIOR DESIGN BY JOSH FEIN & JENNY ZALKIN

and signature design touches go hand in hand in a Keystone Island residence.

ON THE COVER

92 KINETIC ENERGY

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR DESIGN BY SANDRA DIAZ-VELASCO

A condo at Villa Regina on Brickell receives the dynamic reinvention its homeowners envisioned.

118 GIVE AND TAKE

I NTERIOR DESIGN BY RAFAELA SIMOES & LAILA COLVIN

ARCHITECTURE BY TOMA DESIGN GROUP

A seasoned design team balances various tastes to come up with a family residence that’s perfectly balanced.

128 CURB APPEAL

ARCHITECTURE & INTERIOR DESIGN BY GUSTAVO MARASCA

The COVID pandemic forces a home renovation to become a long-distance project for a Brazilian designer and his Aventurabased client.

102 VILLA UPGRADE

136 NEUTRAL TERRITORY

INTERIOR DESIGN BY JANINE GELLER

A subdued palette proves to be the best course of action for a Sunny Isles Beach vacation condo.

BUZZ

60 BUZZ

Intel from the world of design in Miami and beyond

FD ASKS

64 DESIGN OUTLOOK

Two seasoned designers give us their takes on 2023’s anticipated home trends.

SHOWROOMS

66 ITALIAN INTERESTS

FENDI Casa makes a splash with a new showroom in the Miami Design District.

ART

72 RELATIONSHIP STATUS

Artist Jared McGriff finds success with his depictions of imagined family history.

VISIONARIES

74 THE FUTURISTS

Meet seven Miamians upping the ante on design.

GARDENS

80 GARDEN RECKONING

Carlos Somoza helps a Coconut Grove residence come into its own with a series of green spaces with jungle appeal.

REAL ESTATE

86 SINGULAR SENSATION

The $59 million Unique penthouse at Aston Martin Residences lives up to its name.

DISPATCH

88 DESERT JEWEL

Frank Lloyd Wright’s design legacy is alive and well at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix.

FD EVENTS

142 THE TROUSSEAU EFFECT

Fabrics and cocktails at Brickell City Centre

COVET

144 IN THE GLOW

Designer Beatrice Pila Gonzalez shares her thoughts on Penta’s Gio pendant.

FLORIDA DESIGN

editorial director

DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

editor-in-chief

LUIS R. RIGUAL

design director

LAURIE SPECTOR

acquisitions editor

ANNETTE SESSA-GALBO

web editor

ABIGAIL DUFFY

social media manager

ROXY ROONEY

contributing writers

RIKI ALTMAN-YEE | CHRISTOPHER DAY

JEANNE DE LATHOUDER | KERRY SHORR

contributing photographers

TROY CAMPBELL | EMILIO COLLAVINO

DENILSON MACHADO | KRIS TAMBURELLO

production director

SELENE M. CEBALLO

production manager

LOURDES LINARES

production coordinator

ILEANA CABAN

digital prepress specialist

GEORGE DAVIS

advertising design coordinators

ANAELY J. PEREZ-VARGAS

JEFFREY REY

publisher

TERRY DUFFY

associate publisher

HARVEY M. DANA

account executives

JAMIE ALTSCHUL | JENNIFER DARDANO

ELIZABETH GOODMAN | SUSAN GIBSON HOWARD

marketing manager

REBECCA DESIR

digital marketing manager

TYLER SANSONE

advertising services coordinator

ELIZABETH HACKNEY

chief operating officer

TODD SCHMIDT

it manager

KEITH GONZALEZ

circulation manager

MARJORIE LEIVA

distribution manager

JUDY HEFLIN

circulation assistant

BRITNEY STINSON

logistics manager

OMAR MORALES

accounting specialist

MARY BETH COOK

accounts receivable specialist

ANA CORONEL founder

JEFF LICHTENSTEIN ADVERTISING

HOUR

ceo STEFAN WANCZYK president JOHN BALARDO

FUTURE APPEAL

Some years back, I recall reading a New York Times article that called Miami “America’s city of the future,” citing its prime location, growing real estate, art world status, and a slew of other positives.

Last year, the Financial Times Magazine took its turn and deemed Miami the “most important city in America” with a feature chockfull of positive quotes about everything from the growing tech sector to our overall optimism.

Of course, those of us who live here don’t need the media to tell us all that. We see this metamorphosis on a daily basis. Growth that garners the aforementioned headlines comes with its own set of problems, but I’m not here to dwell on the negative. Because growth like that is also a harbinger for good things to come in the local design scene.

For this New, Now, Next issue, we decided to highlight the creative minds who are elevating the city’s design status through novel projects that touch on neighborhood zoning, art and culture, product innovation, architecture, and landscape design. When I took on the story, I had no idea what an education it would be. As far as the individuals we chose to feature, you’ve probably heard about bold-face names like Craig Robins and his efforts in the Design District or Ximena Caminos and her plans for an underwater art park that also serves as a snorkel trail and a barrier reef (a sentence I never envisioned writing), but we also bring you perhaps lesser-known names whose endeavors are just as worthy of praise. Among these are Laurinda Spear and Margarita Blanco, who spearhead cutting-edge, eco-conscious practices in landscape design at ArquitectonicaGEO; carpenter and designer James Quinaz, who’s making a name for himself as sustainable design’s most in-demand furniture-maker; product designer Luis Pons, who uses his studio as a lab for things that make our lives easier, safer, and prettier; and architect Rene Gonzalez, whose latest projects are part of the reason Miami ends up in the types of articles I mention above. I hope you like reading their stories as much as I enjoyed writing them.

While that article focuses on the next, the rest of this edition is all about the new and now. Our home features highlight the work of designers who are forward-thinking even when tackling a historic property. Our product roundups in Details zoom in on the latest and greatest in decor. And our FD Asks department shares intel on the trends that are likely to dominate our industry in 2023. How’s all that for futuristic?

Enjoy the issue.

LUIS R. RIGUAL Editor-in-Chief lrigual@floridadesign.com

WOW FACTOR

Sitting down to write my first publisher’s note for Florida Design Miami, I couldn’t help reflecting back on my many years of magazine publishing and how far Miami has come in that time. From its new towering high-rises to the transformation of certain areas into live-workand-play neighborhoods, Miami has quickly become a world-class city with nothing to envy other places.

As Miami’s real estate market continues to set records and sophisticated residents move to town, high-end design emerges as a bona fide arena to pay attention to, and all of us here at Florida Design are quite attuned to that. This new status quo raises the bar for our South Florida designers who continue to delight us by their ability to turn spaces into true works of art. We’ve shown you that time and again in this publication.

This past November I got to see all this dynamic activity firsthand as I made the rounds for Art Week, during which our winter issue made quite the splash at Design Miami/. In addition to that fair, I attended the opening of the new Fendi Casa showroom in the Miami Design District (which is highlighted in this issue), the Arca VIP event (where I got to chat with designer Kelly Wearstler), the opening of the Paola Lenti showroom (where a new collection with the Campana brothers made its debut) and the second annual Maris Raffa Art Basel Experience event. At each of these gatherings, I witnessed how Miami’s cultural scene has become world-class and how much design and art are interconnected. This is an exciting time to be part of Florida Design Miami, which will now come your way four times a year to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Looking forward, this spring issue embraces all the energy that’s out there. We have packed this edition with exceptional coverage of furniture, color, accessories, gardens, art, real estate, forward thinkers, and more. Plus, six home features that showcase the caliber of our designers.

Enjoy the issue.

HARVEY DANA Associate Publisher hdana@floridadesign.com

above: Kelly Wearstler and Harvey Dana at Arca during Art Week

” JUMP OF DREAMS”

Acrylic on canvas 65“ X 65”

SANDRA DIAZ-VELASCO

Eolo A & I Design

“Kinetic Energy,” page 92

For the residence featured in this edition’s cover, designer Sandra Diaz-Velasco worked with a couple who wanted something special for their return-to-Miami home. As the condo is in Brickell’s Villa Regina tower, Diaz-Velasco was charged with creating an interior that was as dynamic as the mural by Yaacov Agam that graces the building’s exterior. “The owners wanted to experience luxury and comfort through an improved floor plan reflecting their desire for open spaces and a better connection to the beautiful Biscayne Bay views,” says the designer. “Their sophisticated tastes, in addition to their cultured design knowledge and extensive art collection, inspired our design.”

MATTHEW MACDONALD

MacDonald Design Associates

“Villa Upgrade,” page 102

Sometimes clients throw the happiest tools your way. In the case of Matthew MacDonald and a recent commission in Coconut Grove, it came in the form of a sophisticated art collection. MacDonald made the artworks an important part of the interior renovation of the Tuscan-style home. “We had two missions,” says MacDonald regarding the process. “We wanted to retain many of the original architectural details of this stately [structure], design around them, and use this as a giant space for the clients’ important art collection while creating a home—not a museum. Practicality was a component, but style and design were never compromised.”

JENNY ZALKIN & JOSH FEIN

Fein Zalkin Interiors

“Bayside Beauty,” page 110

Like the total professionals that they are, Jenny Zalkin and Josh Fein take their clients’ interests, hobbies, and way of living into account when approaching any design job. In the recent case of a family home, it was all about emphasizing the Keystone Island home’s amazing views. “The architecture of the home came with a lot of windows overlooking the gorgeous water views,” notes Zalkin. “So, we draped them with textured sheers to create warmth and selected a brass finish for the lighting fixtures, hardware, and cabinet doors to generate some bling.” The end result was both personal and sophisticated.

RAFAELA SIMOES & LAILA COVIN

2id Interiors

“Give and Take,” page 118

Right after they were granted the commission of a home in Aventura, designers Rafaela Simoes and Laila Covin knew that balancing different tastes would be the most important aspect of the design process. “He is very modern,” Simoes explains of the husband. “And the pictures that were coming from his wife were more [about] light woods and organic touches.” There were also three young children with whims to cater to and design needs of their own. Fortunately, blending divergent tastes is nothing new for Simoes and Colvin. The 2id Interiors team delivered a home that’s tastefully attuned to all its inhabitants’ sensibilities.

GUSTAVO MARASCA

Gustavo Marasca Arquitetura

“Curb Appeal,” page 128

Although he mainly had to work on Zoom from Brazil because of the pandemic, designer Gustavo Marasca proved to be the ideal designer for an Aventura couple who decided to embrace house living after years of habitating in a high-rise. For three years, Marasca and his team oversaw all aspects of the commission remotely via video calls and constant contact with the job’s contractor.

“The whole COVID nightmare made the process difficult, but we were able to deliver,” says Marasca. “The renovation completely changed the layout of the original floor plan to make the spaces wider and brighter.”

JANINE GELLER Design

House

“Neutral Territory,” page 136

While some folks embrace bold color, others prefer a more subdued approach when it comes to interiors. Designer Janine Geller encountered such a couple recently when she was tasked with the interior design of their newconstruction condominium at Turnbery Ocean Club Residences in Sunny Isles Beach. “From the beginning, our taste levels were very aligned,” says the designer. Geller and her team began by culling a neutral-oriented palette around the home that favors beiges and crème fraîchecolored tones that echo the sandy beaches below. The rest came together with bold lighting selections and serenity-focused furnishings.

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-Leslie Excell

MARVELOUS MAGENTA

A happy compromise between purple and pink, Pantone’s 2023 color of the year is Viva Magenta—or what the brains at the color authority call “an unconventional shade for an unconventional time.” Unconventional is right. It’s also unapologetic and uncompromising, yet anything but understated. Viva Magenta demands to be noticed. That’s why it’s such an ideal shade for the Swirl pouf from SHAPE & FORM, an already cheeky furnishing made even more appealing through color. shapeform.pt

LONG LIVE MAGENTA!

WITH ITS HINTS OF RED, PINK AND PURPLE, PANTONE’S 2023 COLOR OF THE YEAR DEMANDS OUR FULL ATTENTION

LEFT: Designed by Lisa Reiser exclusively for HEM, the Moln is a cloudlike sculpture filled with liquid silver, which accounts for its mirror finish. Limited to an edition of 35 and in the year’s It-color, this is a piece that speaks for itself. hem.com; studioreiser.se

LEFT: The Ecoleaf pattern in watermelon from MARCUS WILLIAM should be reserved for the most daring applications. The multipurpose jacquard’s motif is striking on pillows, curtains or anything else your heart desires. marcuswilliam.com

A little magenta goes a long way—as in these two silk pillows from NGALA TRADING down fill to ensure long-lasting coziness. ngalatrading.com

with feather-and-

In other words: a winning combo. vandh.com

ABOVE: Inspired by the 1970s, the versatile Charles Armchair by ROYAL STRANGER balances opposing and contrasting textures perfectly. The bold magenta shade only adds to its standout appeal. royalstranger.com

ABOVE: The silhouette of the Meredith cabinet by VILLA & HOUSE denotes classic elegance. Its magnetic magenta finish speaks to 2023’s daring attitude.

Hollywood Glam

LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION! FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES THAT RECALL STYLISH MOVIE SETS TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT

LEFT: Nothing says glamour like a gilded chandelier. The Dream-Maker by CURREY & COMPANY is true to its name thanks to its antique gold-leaf finish and curved arms that drip luminous crystals. curreyandcompany.com

RIGHT: The Lindau by EICHHOLTZ is cinematic to say the least. The S-shaped sofa is ideal for grand salons that remind us of the great dramas from Hollywood’s Golden Age. eichholtzusa.com

ABOVE: FORNASETTI loves a little drama, so who better to use as the face of the brand’s Ortensia console than legendary soprano Lina Cavalieri? Made of silkscreened wood, the cabinet adds a dose of whimsy to any setting. fornasetti.com

LEFT: All screen goddesses deserve a beautiful vanity. The Donna by JET CLASS exudes opulence thanks to its combination of marble and orange leather. jetclass.pt

Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby (2013) features spectacular set design by Catherine Martin.

DOWNSVIEW of DANIA (DCOTA) 1855 Griffin Road - Suite C212,Dania Beach, FL (954) 927-1100www.downsviewofdania.com

DOWNSVIEW of JUNO

12800 U.S. Highway 1 - Suite 100,Juno Beach, FL (561) 799-7700www.downsviewofjuno.com

DOWNSVIEW of BOSTON

One Design Center Place - Suite 241,Boston, MA (857) 317-3320www.downsviewofboston.com

LEFT: Featuring natural deer antlers and distressed crystal beads, the Straton chandelier by Ralph Lauren Home for VISUAL COMFORT works in a way no one could have anticipated. visualcomfort.com

COWBOY

WESTERN-INPIRED DECOR GETS A GLAM UPDATE

ABOVE: The mid-century modern lines of the Tripod chair by KARDIEL are instantly warmed by some cowhide cushioning on the seat and back. kardiel.com

CHIC

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ABOVE: The designs on the rich upholstery of the Anya settee by ARHAUS can’t help but remind us of symbols from Native American lore. The sofa’s antiqued brass accents and wood legs complete the appeal. arhaus.com

RIGHT: The walnut legs of the seat bar stool from Vladimir Kagan for HOLLY HUNT are reminiscent of deer antlers while its curvaceous ergonomic seat was inspired by Western and English riding saddles. hollyhunt.com

The designs on the Grand Tralala blanket by HERMÈS may have been inspired by the harnesses of royal Hungarian bodyguards from the past, but its equestrian motifs feel right at home here in America. hermes.com

big-design energy

1 From the Objets Nomades collection from LOUIS VUITTON, the Campana brothers’ Cocoon features a delicately perforated fiberglass shell lined with calfskin—smooth on the outside and quilted on the inside. us.louisvuitton.com

2 Reminiscent of a chess piece, the all-metal Kayla console by FOROM is a regal winner regardless of its location in the home. foromshop.com

3 The flowing design of the Floral stool by XAVIER LUST comes after the leather it’s made of goes through a vacuum-modified atmosphere process that gives shape to its internal structure. xavierlust.com 4 The Lake Chad table lamp by Albi Serfaty for AQUA CREATIONS aims to call attention to the dire state of freshwater lakes around the world. aquagallery.com 5 Handcrafted Calacatta gold marble and richly stained walnut come together in the Invitation to Temptation console by ATELIER VAN DER SWAN, a striking deconstructionist piece that defies gravity. clairvanderswan.com 6 The Ovo Ellipse mirror by ROTTET is a nod to early space artists who often hid mirrors in their work to manipulate the environment. rottetcollection.com

BOLD AND BEYOND, THESE COLLECTIBLE HOME TREASURES PUT IMAGINATION AND CONSTRUCTION FIRST

FENCES

PERGOLAS

ARBORS

GATES

TRELLISES

RAILINGS

LIVE OUTSIDE EXPECTATIONS

Bring inspired ideas for your outdoor home to life with Walpole Outdoors. Schedule your free design consultation today. walpoleoutdoors.com | 866.850.2863

Speaking of Form

OUT-OF-THE-BOX SHAPES AND SILHOUETTES MAKE FOR INTRIGUING HOME ACCENTS

ABOVE: The ribbon-like Neurotica by KOKET serves as both a sculpture and a sconce. Its gold tone makes it all the more striking. bykoket.com

BELOW: Harmonious forms and lightweight materials combine in an elegant interplay of mirrors and brushed steel arches in the Blossom screen by FENDI CASA The result is a new interpretation of light. fendicasa.com

ABOVE AND RIGHT: An amorphous coffee table made of multilayered plated brass in a two-tone finish, the Hugo by RANDOLPH & HEIN is an homage to organic life. jnelsoninc.com

ABOVE: The electrical circuit pattern on the doors of the Butterfly cabinet by Patrick Naggar for RALPH PUCCI may not make sense at first glance, but who are we to question the design musings of a genius? ralphpucci.com

Piece of Work

ARTIST PETER OLSON UPDATES THE CLASSICAL GREEK URN WITH MODERN MUSINGS ON MORTALITY

FIT TO PRINT

With his series Marked for Life, artist Peter Olson fused together two of his favorite passions, ceramics and photography. The collection features a number of urns that take their cues from Greek antiquities, yet are layered with imagery of tattooed models photographed by Olsen, as well as original photography of museum objects, street scenes, and historic medical texts.

THE INSPIRATION

“The overall pattern motifs were inspired by French porcelains, while the ceramic forms themselves are an amalgam of many styles,” says Olson.

“The temporality of our bodies and the endurance of their images link us through history with survivors of other tumultuous eras and with the work of other craftspeople as well. Whether we’re tattooed or not, life and death mark us all. We are marked by this moment in time.”

FINAL PRODUCT

Each urn takes about two weeks to complete at Olson’s studio, where he glazes them himself. As for whether he prefers them to stand on their own or with some kind of embellishment?

“A gallery in Dallas showed some of them once, removed the lids, and put flowers in them,” he says. “I took all the pieces back.” peterolson.me

DETAILS, DETAILS

The tattooed subjects for this series were photographed on a white seamless background. Olson chose the secondary image from the shoot as the visual for the urn’s lid.

fab collab

FASHION DESIGNER STELLA McCARTNEY DIPS HER TOES IN THE INTERIORS ARENA WITH A NEW CAPSULE COLLECTION FOR B&B ITALIA

Style tastemaker Stella McCartney seems to be testing the waters for a future brand expansion. Together with B&B Italia, the designer recently revealed a capsule collection featuring her reinterpretations of three iconic B&B pieces: the Le Bambole armchair, the Bibambola double seater, and the Granbambola sofa. The items all feature upholstery with the Fungi Forest print (first introduced with McCartney’s summer 2022 collection), and are made from nextgeneration eco-conscious materials. Could a full-on Stella McCartney home collection be next? We’ll have to wait and see.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Laura Kirar and McGuire are not strangers by any means, but Cuerda is the first outdoor collection the renowned designer and artist has created for the furniture manufacturer after many years of collaborations. The 16-piece line takes its name from the Spanish word for rope or cord, and, as such, makes a point to draw attention to the weather-resistant cable rope selected for the pieces, which is intricately wrapped and woven over the frames. Highlights in the collection include a sofa, a lounge chair, a rectangle dining table, a counter table, and an oval end table. “The volumetric language of the Cuerda designs alludes to the natural world,” says Kirar. “The pieces invite one to touch, interact, and especially to lounge.” bakerfurniture.com

left: The Cuerda chaise lounge features a thick seat cushion, a fully wrapped frame, and wheels for easy movement. above: Laura Kirar

above: The Stella McCartney x B&B Italia collection as presented at the brand’s Miami showroom during Art Week 2022 above right: Designer Stella McCartney right: A close-up of the Le Bambole armchair

SWEET DREAMS

FRETTE’S NEW STORE AT BAL HARBOUR SHOPS

SIGNALS A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE RENOWNED AND STORIED BRAND

Underfoot Appeal

Call it great rugs for an even greater cause. Schumacher recently relaunched its in-house designed collection for the first time since it was introduced in the 1960s. The line includes 13 patterns, many of which are inspired by the brand’s most popular fabric and wallpaper designs. The aforementioned great cause? The rugs are woven by female artisans through a program called Women’s Weavers, an initiative that helps women in rural India learn the art of weaving to give them the opportunity to help support their families. fschumacher.com

Established in 1863, the Frette brand instantly denotes bedroom luxury. But there’s much more to the company than superior sheets, and its new boutique at Bal Harbour Shops is determined to acquaint consumers with its entire universe. Designed to resemble a home, the store is marked by polished Afara wood and natural stone in varying tones of ivory and beige that provide an ideal palette for Frette’s collections. The inventory extends beyond the bed with bath linens, as well as a number of home accessories. Exclusive to this location is a South Beachinspired line of bed and bath jacquards with tropical colors and motifs. Also available on-site is the much-anticipated Frette to Wear collection, a grouping of separates in cashmere, leather, silk, and cotton that can take both men and women from bed to work to dinner and back to bed thanks to its various offerings. frette.com

BELOW: Swatches from Schumacher’s Vento (BOTTOM), Branson (LEFT), and Zimba (RIGHT) rugs

ABOVE: Schumacher’s Malta French Knot rug is made of wool and cotton on a traditional pit loom.

ABOVE: A bed made up with linens and pillows from Frette’s Luxury Chains and Bold collections

Outdoor Interests

It seems that, for the time being anyway, the main focus at Kartell’s new 5,300-square-foot showroom in Coral Gables is on the great outdoors. Or, more specifically, on the new HiRay collection of alfresco furniture by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba. And, if the powers-thatbe at the company get their way, the line will become as ubiquitous and popular as brand favorites like Philippe Starck’s Ghost chair and Ferruccio Laviani’s Bourgie lamp. Made of recyclable metal that’s lightweight in structure and rich in character, HiRay’s chairs, bistro tables, armchairs, sofas, and side tables come in colors as simple as white and as bold as lime green. “When designing an outdoor collection like HiRay, we work to create very light, nearly transparent pieces,” says Palomba. “I like the idea of elements moving through mesh within this thin metal structure, making it so that the water, the wind, and the light are the protagonists just as much as we are.” kartell.com

above: Kartell’s new outdoor HiRay collection is made of recycled metal engineered to withstand the elements and be gentler on the environment.

CLOSET CASE

Marie Kondo devotees, take note. The Container Store’s newest line, Preston, offers a super-smart system of organization that can be applied in different ways in multiple spaces. Made from recycled and reclaimed woods, the customizable options include wall beds, media centers with concealed parts, garage solutions, and the 360 Organizer, a rotating contraption that puts favorite items at your fingertips and can be used in wardrobes, pantries, wine cellars, and more. Details for these custom niches include various finishes and hardware, glass doors, LED lighting, frameless mirror doors, and leather drawer fronts. containerstore.com

abiove and below: The wood used for The Container Store’s Preston closet systems is recycled or reclaimed and can be custom-colored in a variety of shades.

MASTER CLASS

DESIGNER CHRIS EITEL HONORS THE LATE VLADIMIR KAGAN WITH A NEW COLLECTION FOR HOLLY HUNT

There are new treasures to discover at Holly Hunt this spring. The brand is releasing six new designs to its Vladimir Kagan portfolio designed by Chris Eitel, Kagan’s longtime apprentice and protégé. The Forward collection is the first to feature Eitel’s own designs with a range that includes the Big Picture sofa, the Bienenstock coffee table, the Sculpted saddle stool, the Sculpted wood bench, and the Sculpted wood loveseat (which comes in open-back and closed-back versions). “Vladimir was a prolific creator who always embraced new materials and shapes, and anticipated what was coming next, which taught me to be forward-thinking,” says Eitel of the late German designer known for his curvy sofas. “The Forward collection is my way of building upon his legacy of iconic curved silhouettes, growing the portfolio in the way I know he would have hoped to do himself.” hollyhunt.com

THE COVER-UP

Interlude Home turns its attention to the beach house with its new Coastal Upholstery collection. The line offers a selection of 58 frames in nine beach-inspired fabrics to be used on sofas, chairs, bed frames, and benches. To best showcase the new upholstery at home, the brand has edited down a selection of chairs, dressers, bedside chests, and accent tables in case consumers are in the mood for something extra. The textures are best experienced in person at the brand’s Miami Design District location. interludehome.com

right: The Bienenstock coffee table is made of Lucite, which became a defining material for Vladimir Kagan throughout the 1960s and ’70s.

above: Interlude Home’s Trilogy chair in Harbour chenille and Nuage sofa in suede chenille, fabrics from the new Coastal Upholstery collection

above: Designer Chris Eitel is the director of design and production for the Vladimir Kagan Design Studio.

right: Covered in white faux linen and smooth lacquer, and accented with champagne silver hardware, the Theo credenza is an ideal partner for Coastal Upholstery’s fabric offerings.

above: The Sculpted wood bench rests on a wooden frame with modern flying buttress legs.

Design Outlook

AS 2023 MARCHES FORWARD, TWO DESIGNERS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS ON THE TRENDS AHEAD

Raised all around Europe and now happily established in Miami, RENATA PFUNER tackles high-profile projects throughout the world with elements of feng shui, nature, and color theory, which result in residences that are both timeless and individual.

What’s your overall approach to design trends? I avoid following the ones that have a fast expiration date. The design elements that you see everywhere are the ones that you get tired of looking at next year, but you’ll never get tired of looking at beautiful marble or wood with character. When it comes to decorative items, like an area rug, sure, trends are fine. Just change them often to bring new energy into the space.

What was a recent trend you absolutely detested? Too many pastel colors on furniture. That’s a great fashion trend, but not when it comes to furniture. Also, I am already tired of looking at all the slatted wood design paneling you see in shelter magazines. That will expire very soon. What about the other end of the spectrum? What’s a recent design trend you embraced? Wallpaper. It’s my absolute favorite way to bring character, vibration, and style into a room. The variations to play with are amazing. Instagram says some of the big design ideas for 2023 will include floral prints, gothic style, girly accents, and dark furniture. What are your thoughts on that? It sounds interesting, but at the same time very trendy. It sounds more like fashion to me. I would probably incorporate those top design trends into an overall classy and timeless design.

In terms of your design work in Miami, what are clients asking you for?

Natural materials, marble, wood, stone, glass, and the courage to embrace bright colors that reflect the water and sky.

And what would you personally like to see more of? Designs that understand the power of space for human beings and integrate the elements that have an impact on our mind, body, and soul. pfunerdesign.com

ABOVE: This living room highlights Renata Pfuner’s overall philosophy on trends: Fine when they come to decorative items like the purple side table, but stick to timeless when it comes to everything else.

ABOVE: This Pfuner-designed kitchen showcases her penchant for superior surfaces that will remain relevant for years to come.

One of the city’s most forward-thinking designers and architects, OSCAR GLOTTMAN is always one step ahead of the game, a trait that comes with his inquisitive nature about what he calls “the possibilities and variations of the new.”

Are you one to embrace new trends and elements in your design work? I am an architect by training, so by default I champion the use of the latest advancements in building systems and technology. But I use a more eclectic approach when it comes to decorative elements like finishes, furniture, and accessories. In my work, you will find antiques, ethnic crafts, and other objects used next to the symbols of our time, but always applied for living as we do today. What’s a recent design trend you absolutely detest? I find the

formation of logos that represent certain fashion and design labels, be it by repetition or in a pattern, as banal and kitsch.

We are the victims of substandard and absurd products that mirror our materialistic culture gone awry.

What about one trend you’ve embraced? The manifestation of virtual reality into real physicality with some fashion trends, such as anime.

Wallcoverings have become almost de rigueur in interior design as of late. What do you make of that? I like it. I like the manipulation of optics of scale and the incorporation of imagery into architecture. High-definition printing on all types of surfaces is now possible, and that opens the door to all sorts of new experiments in the representation and manipulation of visual effects on walls, flooring, and ceilings.

What are your thoughts on design trends forecasted by platforms such as Instagram? They are fair game. I would only agree, however, if those big ideas come from an objective analysis of the resulting images of the algorithms rather than from the opinions of a team of analysts that work within the company.

What would you like to see more of, personally? A continued seamless integration of technology into the rooms that are backdrops for our lives. More use of light as a building material. More flexible living solutions. A bigger separation between surfaces and decoration. More intelligent furniture. And more interactive finishes. glottman.com

“In my work, you will find antiques, ethnic cra s, and other objects used next to the symbols of our time, but always applied for living as we do today.”

Less is more in this Oscar Glottman-designed foyer, where we can see the designer’s use of standout pieces and striking imagery to make a statement.

ABOVE: “Light as a building material” as exemplified in this living room is a feature Glottman wishes more designers would embrace in their work.

ITALIAN INTERESTS

FENDI CASA PLANTS ITS MUCH-AWAITED FLAGSHIP IN THE MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT

One of the first furniture brands to emerge from an established fashion house, FENDI Casa has been in reinvention mode since 2021 when it dissolved its partnership with Luxury Living Group and joined forces with Design Holding to have more control over its home business. This past December, the company made it clear that its future is brighter than ever when it lifted the curtain on its new showroom in the Design District, one of 40 expected to open around the world in the next three years.

The powers-that-be spared no expense at 4120 NE Second Avenue and it shows. The Miami location spans 6,350 square feet spread out over two levels. The look here was largely conceived to let us know where we are, so that famous FF logo has been transformed into a sophisticated pattern that embellishes the boutique’s walls, while the ceilings dazzle with relief details. A special LED lighting system by Flos above luxe surfaces of brushed steel, champagne-colored metal, and Arabescato Vagli marble provide the ideal backdrop for an inventory that includes furnishings by international design’s top names, all under the creative direction of Silvia Venturini Fendi (the only original Fendi family member still

above: A living room vignette showcasing FENDI Casa’s Welcome! sofa, Bottini side table, Metropolis coffee table, and Kathy armchairs

below: The showroom’s storefront at 4120 NE Second Avenue in the Miami Design District

working for the brand). We’re talking everything from Dimorestudio’s Matrice bookcase in steel and crystal to Marcel Wanders’ jewel-like O’Lock mirror. Not to be missed is Piero Lissoni’s Ohe outdoor seating system, a collection that offers a refined fusion of bamboo and rattan.

Experience is very much part of the new showroom, and none beats the one offered by the Marioteca, a room in which serious customers can immerse themselves in FENDI Casa’s entire range of materials and finishes—in the hopes, no doubt, of making them fans for life.

“This new phase for the FENDI Casa line encapsulates all the messages and values that we have built and amplified over the years,” says Venturini Fendi. “It’s a clear image of what we are and where we want to be.” fendicasa.com

far

right: The brand’s Groove & Groovy armchair with matching stool was designed by Toan Nguyen to reference 1970s sensibilities.

right: The Sandia sofa by Toan Nguyen is based on organic and curved lines.

below: A vignette showcasing FENDI Casa’s seating options, including the Five sofa, with the Matrice bookshelf in the background

TOGO BY MICHEL DUCAROY

In 2023, Ligne Roset celebrates the 50th birthday of Togo. Designed by Michel Ducaroy, Togo has always been produced in the factories in Briord, a small village in the Bugey region of France which is nestled in the foothills of the Jura mountains. With inspiration often described as coming from “a tube of toothpaste folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends,” the cult piece of the ’70s with its floor-level seat, emblematic of the revolutionary modernity, has become the brand’s star product and uncontested bestseller. Its upholstery demands a unique traditional skill for which the human hand remains irreplaceable, executing the precise movements which produce the famous folds giving each piece of Togo its character and personality. Never out of fashion, its characteristic style enables it to integrate into all interiors, from mountain chalets to high-rise lofts.

ARTEFACTO

Artefacto is internationally recognized as South Florida’s go-to for captivating multimillion-dollar condos in the most iconic architectural towers, as well as custom estates from Miami to Palm Beach.

Brand loyalists span from South Florida’s top brokers and developers, to interior designers and architects, to celebrities and socialites—all of whom rely on Artefacto for turn-key interiors that elevate and define South Florida living. A signature Artefacto home features layered organic textures and furnishings, surrounded by warm contemporary luxuries. Rooms are styled around a single statement piece, while embracing a full monochrome aesthetic, rich in neutral tones.

CEO Paulo Bacchi, at 18, joined the company founded by his father Albino in São Paulo in 1976. He tripled Artefacto’s business in the ’90s and took over the company a decade later, expanding operations to the U.S. in 2002.

Today, Paulo instills his passion and work ethic in his twin sons, Bruno and Pietro, who started working at the age of 14, learning from their father’s example. His sons now work closely with him on all areas of the business, including operation of the expansive local distribution center and vast inventory, to creating singular turn-key lifestyles in South Florida’s most coveted neighborhoods.

For more information, visit artefacto.com or an Artefacto showroom in Coral Gables, Aventura or Doral.

ARTEFACTO

101 South Dixie Hwy., Coral Gables, FL 33146

17651 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, FL 33160

3290 NW 79th Ave, Doral, FL 33166

305.774.0004

artefacto.com

Relationship Status

JARED MCGRIFF’S PAINTINGS ABOUT FAMILY HISTORY HAVE MADE HIM ONE OF MIAMI’S MOST EXCITING—AND IN-DEMAND—ARTISTS

Artist Jared McGriff in his studio in front of the painting

, oil on canvas, 2020

text LUIS R. RIGUAL

When he finally looks back at 2022, Jared McGriff will most likely do so fondly. In the span of those 12 months, give or take, the Miami Beach-based painter (who holds a BA in architecture from UC Berkeley as well as an MBA from NYU) saw the opening of his first solo museum exhibition at the NSU Art Museum in Fort Lauderdale, made his debut at The Armory Show in New York, won the Florida Prize from the Orlando Museum of Art, and was part of a solo presentation at the Rubell Museum in Allapattah during Art Week, which exposed his work to the well-heeled collectors that make their way to the city every December for Art Basel.

“2022 was special in that I had the chance to introduce my work to a broader audience,” says McGriff, who relocated to Miami from the Bay Area six years ago and is currently represented by Spinello Projects. “It’s exciting to expose the work to new people and see it well received locally and beyond. I’ve always wanted to work on a large scale and be in the contemporary conversation.”

Part of the conversation—the right one at that—he is, thanks to the way he’s chosen to address personal family connections through a history lens. Much of the work that’s gotten McGriff noticed has to do with real and imagined experiences that present relatives from his past as they migrated from the rural and racist South to Oklahoma and eventually California.

“They’re about longing and estrangement,” says McGriff about the blurred forms that have resonated so strongly with audiences. “I’ve had difficult relationships throughout my life, so I think imagined portraiture has helped me think about topics like belonging and agency in a way that is less personal and more of a function of the human condition. Creating portraits without a model or photographic reference is an attempt to consider how ambiguity and distortion are important aspects of our experience.”

This March, McGriff will expand those explorations with a new exhibition that will take him back west to LA’s Vielmetter gallery. “My new body of work is influenced by ruminations on nature and systems, like actual flora and fauna, and also the systems underlying our natural and social environments,” he says. “I’m introducing more landscape to the works, and giving more thought to place.” jaredmcgriff.com

above: A Benign Destruction, oil on canvas, 2022

below: A Swim Across and Up, oil on canvas, 2022

right: From a Hum to a Scream, Loud Enough to be the Only Sound oil on canvas, 2022

THE FUTURISTS

SEVEN FORWARD THINKERS PUSHING SOUTH FLORIDA TO THE CREATIVE EDGE WHEN IT COMES TO DESIGN

under the sea

Since arriving in Miami some years back, Ximena Caminos has established herself as a cultural disruptor of the coolest kind. It started with the co-founding of Faena Art, a non-profit that, in its own words, “commissions, produces, and houses cross-disciplinary artistic experiences,” and has continued with numerous initiatives that have brought some of art’s biggest talents to our shores. These days, in addition to various cultural and philanthropic commitments, Caminos serves as co-founder and artistic director of Aorist, a platform for artists and collectors to explore digital art and NFTs in a secure way, and as head of HoneyLab Creative, a think-tank for the non-traditional projects that echo her mantra: “art as a tool for change.” Her latest undertaking, however, brings all the qualities of her work together like never before—and tips its hat to sustainability in the process. The ReefLine will be an underwater public sculpture park that will also serve as a much-needed artificial reef system for sea life. When completed, the project (also a seven-mile snorkel trail) will stretch from Fourth Street in South Beach north to Bal Harbour, but its fruition is ambitious to say the least. “I called Shohei Shigematsu [the renowned OMA architect] to be the master planner,” says Caminos about the group she’s assembled. “Then I put together an amazing cross-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, climate advocates, and artists.” And what artists they are. Top creatives such as Leandro Erlich, Petroc Sesti, Refik Anadol, and Andres Reisinger will contribute work to the various phases of the reef, the first of which is scheduled for this summer with Erlich’s Concrete Coral , a series of car sculptures caught in a sort of apocalyptic traffic jam. By all accounts, Caminos has Miami on her side. So far, she’s received an $80,000

award from the Knight Foundation and a $5 million bond issue from the City of Miami Beach, which praised the project’s potential cultural impact.

“One of the things I enjoy most is creating and if that creation is sparked by collaboration, I just flow in my best zone,” says Caminos. “The ReefLine was born out of that type of energy. It started as a conversation with a friend about reefs and I saw art as a way to connect all the dots.” thereefline.org

The first phase of The ReefLine, which founder Ximena Caminos hopes to debut by summer, is Concrete Coral, an installation by Leandro Erlich that features cars in a traffic jam. The cars will eventually be colonized by sea life as they erode.

BELOW: Ximena Caminos

ABOVE: Heart of Okeanos by Petroc Sesti is meant to resemble the heart of a blue whale. The piece will be crafted in CarbonXinc, an experimental material capable of sequestering significant quantities of greenhouse gasses.

AFTER YEARS OF PROMOTING THE ARTS ON DRY LAND, XIMENA CAMINOS TAKES HER EFFORTS TO THE OCEAN

IF YOU BUILD IT…

WITH THE DESIGN DISTRICT, VISIONARY CRAIG ROBINS IS CURATING MIAMI’S NEIGHBORHOOD OF THE FUTURE

“Part of what’s so great about visiting the Design District is that there is always something new to see or experience,” says Craig Robins, the visionary developer known for his revitalization efforts. He’s not talking about just any type of new additions, mind you, but about the kind that garner worldwide news. In the last few years, the District (a cluster of blocks west of Biscayne Boulevard and east of North Miami Avenue from about NE 38th to 42nd streets) has seen temporary installations by the likes of Es Devlin, Art Week exhibitions with gallery royalty like Saatchi Yates,

above: The Urban Jam side of Museum Garage, a multilevel parking structure that features various façades highlighting works by multiple architects and artists

Larry Gagosian, and Jeffrey Deitch, the opening of flagship boutiques from Louis Vuitton Men and Chanel, structural collaborations with worldclass architects and designers, and the debuts of restaurants with Michelin cachet. “We combine commerce and culture, and the result is something entirely its own,” says Robins. “These are all the ingredients that bring people together, and when you build a community with elements like these that unite, it has resonance and power.” A little over a decade ago, all this was mere renderings and blueprints, but Robins’ vision prevailed and the Dacra founder soon found the right partners and tenants to join him. “I think both artists and brands know by now that we are good partners and that we value creativity,” he says. “There is mutual respect.” As far the District has come, however, Robins is not one to rest on his laurels. Upcoming plans for the area include its first class-A office building, which will include design by Arquitectonica and art by Daniel Arsham, the transformation of the historic Moore Building into a private club with a boutique hotel, and store expansions from the big luxury brands. “My creative energy is on continued development and growth,” says Robins. “I feel like this is just the beginning.” miamidesigndistrict.net

right: Developer Craig Robins below: One of many avant-garde retail spaces in the Design District, the Louis Vuitton Men boutique features a 27-foot-high resin sculpture of regular LV model Kai carefully placed inside the store’s circular staircase.

OBJECT LESSON

FURNITURE DESIGNER

QUINAZ

ETHEREAL EXPERIENCES INTO COLLECTIBLE ARTIFACTS

James Quinaz has intimate knowledge about the theme of his latest series, The Sidewalk, a collection of low-profile tables made of solid wood that reimagines the Miami walkways he knows well. “I did a lot of walking in my teenage years, so I think I had a different experience than a lot of Miamians do,” says the designer, who moved back to the city at the height of the pandemic in 2020. “In high school, I had a studio on Biscayne Boulevard and 81st Street. That meant that I’d sometimes walk the 40-plus blocks from [school] to the studio and then all the way home to El Portal. Even today, living in downtown, I walk all the time. It’s my way of staying connected and experiencing the city.” Recasting personal experiences as tangible objects has been part of Quinaz’s work for some time now, and it’s a trait that’s served him well. “I just love when people look at something familiar like a chair or a table and sort of do a double-take. Like, ‘what I am looking at?’” says Quinaz. “The BAY STORE was a prime example of this.” That would be his collection of furniture using discarded objects found in Biscayne Bay and the Miami River as building materials. “Sometimes you make your point with materials that no one would expect, like junk from the bottom of a river,” says Quinaz. “Other times, you can get the same effect by using a high-end material in an unexpected way, like Guanacaste wood made to look like a sidewalk.” Experimentation like this has been par for the course for Quinaz, who learned building and carpentry from his father, since early on his career. He certainly got to do plenty of it as a window display artist for Saks Fifth Avenue. “I ran a 10,000-squarefoot wood shop in Queens, managed a team of carpenters, and worked with some of the largest fashion brands in the world,” says Quinaz. “Those lessons come in handy almost every day.” Even if these days, his schedule is much looser. “I work in sprints where I get a lot of work done in a short period of time and then take a break,” he says. “But after a week or two, I’m ready to get back to the shop and test out new ideas.” quinazstudio.com

ABOVE: James Quinaz sitting on the Bay chair, a piece made from discarded objects found in the Miami River and Biscayne Bay

JAMES

TRANSFORMS

RIGHT: The Best pedestal from Mira de Aire, the first collection Quinaz launched after moving back to Miami in 2020

The Sidewalk series is a collection of low-profile tables made from Guanacaste wood that were inspired by its designer’s observations while walking.

When Laurinda Spear and Margarita Blanco opened ArquitectonicaGEO in 2005, the two principals often found themselves educating skeptical clients about the importance of landscape architecture and sustainable design practices.

“It was difficult in the beginning,” says Blanco. “In general, consumers are now more aware of how critical landscape architecture is to the success of their projects, and they are open to implementing sustainable strategies, adding green infrastructure, and using native plants. When we started out, it was a struggle even proposing some of these to the design team.” What a difference 18 years make.

Today, ArquitectonicaGEO is one of the country’s go-to studios for outdoor spaces with wow-factor and eco-conscious integrity. Their multi-prong philosophy is as forwardthinking as mantras get: Design with connectivity, sustainability, and adaptive landscapes. Explore new ideas and methods through active and inclusive dialogue. Cultivate artistic expression through the seamless fusion of architecture, art, and landscape. Educate by improving the human experience in public spaces. “We like projects that are challenging and allow us to experiment with new ideas and methods,” says Spear. “Being able to incorporate our core values in design has allowed us to build a reputation that is specific to our design philosophy.” The firm’s portfolio speaks for itself with commissions such as PortMiami, Lakeside Village at the University of Miami, Canopy Park in Miami Beach, and the big ones: Brickell City Centre, where their Climate Ribbon (an architectural feature that keeps the mall cool by directing breezes) has become an example to landscape designers around the world, and the Pérez Art Museum Miami, where they addressed the global threat of sea level rise through a number of practices. As for the future?

“We started our international expansion in 2022 and opened offices in Malaga, Spain and Bogota, Colombia,” says Blanco. “We are confident that in the coming years we will be able to establish the firm in new markets that are still behind when it comes to landscape architecture.” arquitectonicageo.com

Green Unity

AT ARQUITECTONICAGEO, MARGARITA BLANCO AND LAURINDA SPEAR PROVE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN CAN GO HAND IN HAND

left: Margarita Blanco and Laurinda Spear opened ArquitectonicaGEO in 2005, when developers and business owners were rather apprehensive about investing in landscape architecture, let alone sustainable design.

One of ArquitectonicaGEO’s largest projects, the Pérez Art Museum Miami features outdoor spaces that are adaptive and resilient as they address the threat of sea level rise.

The PortMiami Tunnel, which has won various AIA and ASLA awards, was “particularly exciting because of the visibility it has and the landmark it’s become since its completion,” says ArquitectonicaGEO’s Margarita Blanco. “We were able to provide all our services: graphics, landscape, green infrastructure, the gate portals, and more.”

right: The Wynwood Streetscape Master Plan is a work-in-progress that calls for a 50-block arts district with a focus on “sustainability, resiliency, mobility, safety, and social connectivity.”

MARGARITA BLANCO AND LAURINDA SPEAR PHOTO BY NICK GARCIA; ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARQUITECTONICAGEO

Ideas Into Action

AT HIS PRODUCT DESIGN STUDIO, LUIS PONS TURNS THE INEFFABLE INTO REALITY

Product and interior designer Luis Pons established his Miami Beach studio in 2003 to, as he describes it (albeit through a play on words), explore the extra in ordinary design. “It all comes from my personal need to translate reality, changing its perception and creating new meaning,” says Pons. “I feel the desire to extract from our context with its own resources, the teachings and values of our culture, and integrate them into our designs.” He called his firm Design Lab, and, true to its name, the place is an experimental hub for ideas and concepts that run the gamut from furniture, lighting, textiles, and ceramics to full-on commercial and private design commissions. When it comes to product design, Pons is interested in “popular and simple solutions that carry strong impressions in our subconscious and are fully integrated in our daily human routine.” Case in point: the Torii, a pandemic-inspired three-dimensional toroidal structure that acts as a temporary wall in outdoor environments, although Pons’ own description is much more poetic: “a customizable social distancing device that embraces, protects and enhances the experience of togetherness while making people feel safe.” While Pons has made a career bringing out-of-the-box ideas (from inflatable furniture to lamps made out of Slinkies) to fruition, the Torii aligns with the designer’s mantra post-COVID. “The pandemic gave me a new perspective that allows us to align our actions with our purpose,” he says. “We removed distractions and unnecessary expenses and now produce more with less.” As for what’s ahead in 2023? “Our desire is to engage in projects that raise the standards of living for people,” says Pons. “We want to plant more and build less.” luispons.com

above: Pons’ ceramics feature removable parts that assemble like a puzzle. below: A dresser from the Tangara St. Barth collection, a collaboration with Vermeil

above: The Torii is a three-dimensional, social-distancing device created in response to the pandemic. above inset: Luis Pons holding a vase from his ceramics collection in front of a photograph of his inflatable furniture

STRUCTURE POETRY

ARCHITECT RENE GONZALEZ BRINGS A LYRICAL APPROACH TO HIS CRAFT

When asked if he’s a forward thinker, architect Rene Gonzalez doesn’t take long to come up with an answer. “One thing I know about myself and my work is that I am never nostalgic, nor do I rely on any notions of what a project should be,” he says. “Instead, I search out a fresh expression that is generated from exploring ideas unique to each project. I then distill those ideas to find the essence, the seed, of each concept, which then generates the architecture.” Those who follow Gonzalez’s work know it’s tactile, holistic, and sensual, with an interest in blurring the lines between architecture, nature, and art. It’s also actively committed to the latest sustainable practices. Those qualities, coupled with Gonzalez’s keen understanding of his role, have served him well since he opened his practice in 1997, which has led to multiple projects

all over the world. Two of his most recent commissions are right here in our backyard, however. For the Galt Estate in Fort Lauderdale, Gonzalez has been tasked with reinventing what was once known as La Maison Blanche, a 1936 structure that’s long been considered one of the most iconic trophy properties in the state. “We’ve been charged with completely reinterpreting the three lots into one unified compound with multiple structures, waterfalls, pools, and lush landscaping,” says Gonzalez of the kind of renovation that awards and shelter magazines love. Also on his to-do list: Surf Row at 8000 Collins Avenue in Surfside, a residential complex with eight beach houses that will rise directly opposite the site where Champlain Towers South once stood. “These homes utilize light and nature to inspire,” says Gonzalez. “They connect us with the environment.” In addition to these two endeavors, Gonzalez is also collaborating with the publishing house Arquine on a book on his Prairie Residence and hopes to be involved in a center for Cuban culture in the near future. “Since COVID I’ve made a conscious decision to work on fewer projects, which allows me to have a more intimate relationship with my clients,” says Gonzalez. “And I’m only going to work on projects that I am extremely passionate about.” renegonzalezarchitects.com

above: Rene Gonzalez’s reinvention of the Galt Estate into a modern private residence will include various areas for leisure, including a rooftop garden.

left: The Galt Estate’s new design calls for angular planes and glass walls, two hallmarks of Gonzalez’s architecture.

below: Surf Row in Surfside will be comprised of eight beach homes at 8000 Collins Avenue. PHOTOS COURTESY OF RENE GONZALEZ ARCHITECTS

left: Rene Gonzalez

By the time Carlos Somoza got the call to transform the gardens of a particular Coconut Grove residence, he was rather well acquainted with the property.

“I’d driven by the home for years,” says the landscape architect. “When the owners contacted me to interview for the design commission, I already had ideas on what to do.”

Said house is a 1950s Trip Russell structure that was the recent recipient of a twostory steel-and-glass ribbon addition by Brillhart Architecture with a backyard focused on a 60-foot-high Florida Strangler Fig tree. The homeowners tasked Somoza with extending

The home’s steel-and-glass addition overlooks the verdant gardens created by landscape architect Carlos Somoza and his team. The project included the renovation of the pool, which is now finished in geometric glass tile.

Garden Reckoning

A COCONUT GROVE RESIDENCE’S ARCHITECTURAL ADDITION PROMPTS AN OVERHAUL OF ITS GREEN SPACES

ABOVE: The home’s entrance reveals the use of Brazilian ipe wood, which was used extensively throughout the gardens.

BELOW: The garden’s architectural precast pavers are embedded with Florida seashells and aggregate. Neanthe Bella palm was chosen because it adapts well to dappled light.

the living areas of the residence outdoors. “The floor-to-ceiling glazing inside the home admits abundant natural light into the interior and creates the feeling that you are living in a treehouse,” says Somoza. “We wanted to continue that.”

Somoza and his team began by installing an ipe wood deck just outside the living room and kitchen for an easy transition to the alfresco spaces. Just steps away is a swimming pool that was renovated with new finishes, geometric glass tile, and the addition of a sixfoot waterfall. “We selected materials that evoke nature, including ipe , and architectural

TEXT LUIS R. RIGUAL PHOTOGRAPHY CARLOS SOMOZA

precast pavers that complement the building’s vernacular,” adds Somoza. “The pavers are embedded with seashells and aggregate that complement the beige, bronze, and gray colors of the home’s steel, the beach pebble pathways, and the glass tile that surrounds the pool.”

In terms of plant life, Somoza opted for specimens that would not go unnoticed. Among these are green and black bromeliads (“both varieties provide seasonal interest by emitting tangerine- and orangecolored blossoms in winter”), Giant Leopard plants (“with round leaves the size of dinner plates and spikes of yellow daisy-like flowers), Simpson’s Stoppers (“because they attract cardinals and honeybees to the garden, and provide edible berries in the summer”), and two types of palms: Red Feathers (“which produce red-colored leaves that turn green as they mature”) and Licualas (“for their attractive ruffled leaves, which are like sculptures in the landscape”). As intended, the gardens wrap the perimeter of the home and create the illusion that they were carved from a jungle.

“When you sit on the deck, it’s like you’re on a perch,” says Somoza. “You’re surrounded by nature, and you can hear the sounds of water coming from the pool. It’s very soothing.” designsomoza.com

ABOVE: The dark green foliage provided by Lady Palm provides a textured backdrop to other plant species, including Black Magic and Mojito Elephant Ear. An outdoor kitchen under an ipe pergola is just a few steps from the pool and lower gardens.

ABOVE: Part of the pool renovations included the addition of a waterfall feature.

below: “Mystery and surprise are important components of our gardens,” says landscape architect Carlos Somoza. “In this one, gray shellstone paver pathways weave through the front entrance grounds. We incorporated multiple layers of perennials and groundcovers to create a rich tapestry of subtropical plantings.”

above: All the outdoor spaces were designed around the home’s ancient Strangler Fig tree, which measures approximately 60 feet in height. The wood deck just outside the home’s living room and kitchen is made from Brazilian ipe

Upping the ante is par for the course among Miami’s luxury high-rises, where it seems no whim is too ambitious. The latest address to throw its hat in the ring is downtown’s Aston Martin Residences, the first branded real estate project from the renowned British auto manufacturer. The tower’s $59 million sky penthouse is the stuff of 1980s-greed-is-good dreams. As expected, the digs’ design-centric touches by Aston Martin’s UK-based team are on par with the price tag. We’re talking Thassos marble on most of the penthouse’s 19,868 interior square feet of space (that’s three levels on floors 63, 64, and 65), custom built-ins and wall fixtures with red oak grown in the northeast United States, a winding staircase made of glass, crystal, and iron that mirrors the curved shape of the building, kitchens with Gaggenau appliances and Bulthaup cabinetry, baths with Italkraft storage, Hansgrohe showers, and Duravit basins, and tan door tabs and artisan door handles enhanced with Balmoral leather from the Scottish Highlands. Oh, and did we mention the penthouse’s name is Unique? astonmartinresidences.com

Singular Sensation

ASTON MARTIN RESIDENCES RAISES THE BAR ON VERTICAL LIVING WITH ITS TRIPLEX PENTHOUSE

ABOVE: A special-edition coffee table book was recently put out to highlight the penthouse’s various rooms with concepts by different artists.

TEXT CHRISTOPHER DAY

Aston Martin Residences’ Unique penthouse features a glass, crystal, and iron staircase that connects the residence’s three levels.

LEFT: The penthouse’s kitchen will feature Gaggenau appliances and Bulthaup cabinets. RIGHT: The residence offers city and water views from all its three levels.

above: The adults-only Saguaro Pool is one of seven uniquely designed pool areas at the Arizona Biltmore. Along the bottom, colorful arrangements of mosaic tiles mimic the shape of the saguaro cactus, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s natural muses. Above the ground, a 140-year-old saguaro cactus towers over the far end of the pool while the lounge area is embellished with oval Bisazza coffee tables by Marcel Wanders.

DESERT JEWEL

A RECENT RENOVATION ENSURES FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S LEGACY CONTINUES TO SHINE AT THE ARIZONA BILTMORE IN PHOENIX

Rewind to the Roaring Twenties, when the entrepreneurial McArthur brothers sought to propel America’s newest state, Arizona, into the travel spotlight, anchored by a luxury resort and residential community. Eldest brother and architect Albert Chase McArthur had previously worked under Frank Lloyd Wright and sought his mentor’s expertise in developing an architectural masterpiece at the foot of the Phoenix Mountains. Upon completion, Wright’s distinctive “texture block” style defined the Arizona Biltmore, a multi-acre expanse strewn with grand architectural assemblies of three-dimensional bricks hewn of local clay, each conforming to one of 34 different designs inspired by the Arizona palm. Inside, ornate details dazzled the United States’ nouveau riche. True to its name, the Gold Room dining hall featured the largest gold leaf ceiling in the world (behind the Taj Mahal),

text PAUL RUBIO

right: The front entrance of the Arizona Biltmore is a prelude to the grand assemblies of texture block architecture that lies within. Upon closer look, one discovers the blocks are anything but uniform, but rather a mix of 34 different designs.

as well as an orchestra pit and a trio of murals by Maynard Dixon, rooted in Hopi and Navajo mythology. The Aztec Room consummated Wright’s vision of “unencumbered beauty,” a vaulted octagonal space crowned by 33,000 pounds of copper in a space that functioned as both a ballroom and movie theater. Interior mazes of contrasting narrow corridors and wide-open spaces embodied Wright’s design principle of “compression and release.”

Fast-forward almost a century and today’s Arizona Biltmore deftly preserves Wright’s architectural ethos while advancing his legacy through new design enhancements recently completed to the tune of $70 million. To ensure the Biltmore remained true to its roots while renovating, two firms versed in all things Frank Lloyd Wright were commissioned: Virserius Design Studio and PHX Architecture. Reimagined guest rooms were inspired by Wright’s love for bold geometric shapes and now feature textured walls divided into non-uniform rectangles and credenzas with protruding triangular wooden drawers. Common areas also highlight Wright’s influence beyond what existed initially. In the lobby, for example, one can’t miss the backlit geometric stained-glass recreation of his 1927 Saguaro Forms and Cactus Flowers drawing, which later resurfaces in a more progressive incarnation at the Saguaro

A private dining space within signature restaurant Renata’s Hearth offers 360-degree immersion into the iconic shapes, textures, and transitional spaces inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright.

right: The property’s renovation included the addition of the Tierra Luna Spa, with includes a soothing relaxation lounge and Sol Garden. The various treatments and design of the spa are rooted in the power and shapes of crystals.

below: The Mystery Room, which never existed on any original blueprints of the Arizona Biltmore, was a secret, gentlemen-only space used during the Prohibition era for drinking, smoking, and stock market updates. In its current form, a wall-to-wall bookcase slides open to reveal a full-service bar.

In addition to guest rooms and suites over multiple wings, the property boasts a number of original 1929 cottages, retrofitted with desert-chic interiors, and firepits and green spaces outdoors.

Pool using colorful mosaic tiles and oval Bisazza coffee tables by Marcel Wanders. Across the grounds, a total of 19 Solemn Sprites safeguard the land, each born from an original sculpture designed by Wright for the Midway Gardens in Chicago in 1914. Additionally, 6,000 of the stylized bricks that first branded the Biltmore an icon have been replaced using original molds and the same process employed in 1929.

Overall, the 39-acre property that now stands as the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, is a living legend steeped in architectural integrity yet thoughtfully modernized to fit today’s design vernacular. arizonabiltmore.com

right: The reimagined Wright Bar, which anchors the lobby, channels Hollywood’s Golden Age glamour and embodies the Frank Lloyd Wright spirit of beautiful places for equally beautiful people. The square walls and columns invite a contrast of soft and voluptuous textures throughout the furnishings. far right inset: Oxidized peacock feather Bisazza tiles cloak the bar in its entirety.

KINETIC ENERGY

IN ONE OF BRICKELL’S MOST STORIED BUILDINGS, A DESIGN TEAM CAPTURES THE DYNAMIC SOPHISTICATION A SAN FRANCISCO COUPLE DEMANDED FOR THEIR BACK-TO-MIAMI HOME

SOME MAY SAY IT WAS KISMET that Miami natives Leslie and David Lefkowitz chose the storied Villa Regina as the place where they would enjoy life during their retirement years. After relocating back to the city from San Francisco, the couple knew the unit they had found in the Brickell high-rise was something special.

Their love for kinetic art, along with the magical coincidence of being part of a work by renowned artist Yaacov Agam— the artist who painted the building’s iconic exterior mural—sealed the deal for the location of their new home. Situated on the tree-lined part of Miami’s Brickell Avenue, the building’s distinct angles and recessed surfaces lent themselves to create the kinetic effect so popular in Agam’s works. More than a mural on a building, the structure itself, built by developer Nicholas Morley, became a work of art that changes constantly depending on the viewpoint and time of day. (Agam first created the painting on a six-foot model of the building and later supervised its transformation into the actual structure.)

left: The living room emanates a bold vibe with a color-banded rug designed to enhance the furniture, artwork, and cabinetry. A black acrylic sculpture by Carola Orieta-Sperman complements a curvaceous daybed from Global Views. Graphic prints by Victor Vasarely pick up hues from the rug and punctuate a neutral beige sofa from Harmony Studio.

A once lackluster entrance hall received a dramatic makeover with custom millwork, innovative lighting effects, and a repurposed herringbone-patterned wood floor. White curved walls and a dome ceiling fixture articulate a dramatic transition to the living space.

“In the end, that is why our clients chose the building,” says Sandra Diaz-Velasco, principal architect of EOLO A&I Design, who the Lefkowitzs enlisted to overhaul the residence. “They identified with the artist since they had one [of his works.]”

The couple wanted to experience luxury and comfort through an improved floor plan reflecting their desire for open spaces and a better connection to the beautiful Biscayne Bay views. Their sophisticated tastes, in addition to their cultured design knowledge and extensive art collection, inspired Diaz-Velasco’s design. Leslie’s passion for the arts goes back to the days when she was a museum curator. Her husband, David, a talented saxophone player and owner of a successful accounting firm, just wanted to see his wife happy.

“ The project was a total gut renovation,” says DiazVelasco. “The apartment shares spectacular views of the Brickell Avenue financial district streetscape and Biscayne Bay, which were a good starting point for our architecture and interior intervention.”

The team began the renovation of the 2,005-square-foot condominium by structuring a more efficient circulation system that would properly connect spaces while creating an attractive path. Diaz-Velasco strategically designed

above: A custom art niche integrated into a wood paneling system creates a focal point in the primary suite entrance hall. Accented with a dazzling blackand-white patterned vintage chair, the clever millwork system includes hidden storage.

right: A hallway with custom millwork and an invisible door panel system connects the living space with the private areas. Built-in shelving embellished with sculptural art pieces lends visual interest to the living room entrance.

The newly relocated kitchen provides a multi-functional space that fully integrates the living, dining, and cooking experience while opening to beautiful ocean views. High-performance surfaces and appliances accommodate the owners’ passion for cooking. Walnut wood veneer, custom stainless-steel finishes, sculptural dining pieces, and a stunning chandelier from Catellani & Smith communicate their sophisticated tastes.

each room to direct attention to focal points of interest. The previous entrance hall lacked character and created a long distance to the living area. To solve this challenge, Diaz-Velasco improved the interior architecture by customdesigning millwork, adding dramatic lighting effects, and using repurposed wood flooring to bring a welcoming sense of warmth to the walkway. White curved walls and a dome ceiling fixture define the vestibule and communicate an elegant transition between the entryway and the living space. At the end of the path, a newly relocated kitchen with hidden cabinets punctuates the space, and sculpture-inspired dining pieces devise a captivating focal point visible from the entrance. “The lighting is sensual and soft,” says Leslie. “We also love the wood floors and the use of natural materials throughout.”

Once at the open living area, guests can experience a generous unobstructed space with extraordinary views of the water. The living room, TV area, bar, and dining room are now connected, allowing the family to feel comfortable while entertaining guests. One of Diaz-Velasco’s primary design goals was to create a fluid connection to nature and natural light. To achieve this goal and to complement David and Leslie’s wish to enjoy the sunset views, she incorporated a transparent floating bar engineered to hang from the ceiling concrete slab

below: Arguably one of the best seats in the house, the living room bar features a floating acrylic shelf and rack designed by EOLO A & I Design to take advantage of the splendid views. Sleek and streamlined bar stools from Harmony Studio complement the clean look, and a brilliant artwork by Alexander Calder delivers a colorful statement.

that would not block the views. In addition, the old kitchen now occupies the TV sitting room. “We had to get creative here to hide electrical conduits left exposed after demolishing the wall dividing the old kitchen from the living room,” notes the architect. “We designed a wood column, and a sculptural light ring connects it to the soffit that virtually defines the TV sitting room space.”

The newly relocated kitchen area now achieves a generous open space that fully integrates the living, dining, cooking, and entertaining experience with the gorgeous ocean views. “We redesigned the existing MEP systems to allow this movement,” notes Diaz-Velasco. “The new kitchen can dress up for special occasions, and the cabinet modules conceal all the mess created by a full-time cooking schedule. A pair of rolling stainless steel tables disappear into the cabinetry after working as moveable countertops while cooking and serving.”

above: In the home office, a custom-designed shelving and storage system includes a hidden Murphy bed for occasional guests. A custom color-banded rug and an abstract painting by Stephen Henriques offer a splash of color.

right: The powder room’s exotic aesthetic includes a natural rose quartz shower wall and pink metal mosaic tiles cladding the remaining three walls. A metal vanity cabinet by Ornare and a circular mirror echo the pink palette, while a white countertop, fixtures, and flooring balance the color scheme.

The fully furnished outdoor terrace features a striking wall treatment composed of a trio of painted panels by Brazilian artist Andre Poli. A textural woven rug by Gloster anchors sculptural seating pieces from Harmony Studio. The fluid lines of a contemporary wine cooler emit an organic vibe.

Throughout the project, every detail, including the ceiling design, was carefully considered. Diaz-Velasco selected advanced-technology miniature lighting that creates a sculptural effect and keeps the ceiling surfaces free of visual clutter while meeting design standards for form and function. The hallway’s custom millwork and invisible door panel system connect the living space with the private areas, and a new laundry room tucks snugly inside the hallway. Compelling artwork graces nearly every space, including the outdoor terrace, where a three-paneled wall hanging by Brazilian artist Andre Poli captures the spotlight. And a secondary bathroom clad in a glamorous pink palette is deemed by the owner as a hidden jewel.

“Working with EOLO has brought our dreams to life,” says Leslie. “We couldn’t have asked for a more considerate, attentive, and respectful team.”

SOURCES LIVING ROOM

Sofa and chairs – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Bench – Global Views, Miami, FL

Cocktail and side tables – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Accent table – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Floor lamp – Floss, usa.flos.com

Artwork above sofa – Victor Vasarely

Area rug – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Wall paneling – Twill & Texture, Miami, FL

KITCHEN

Cabinetry designed by EOLO A & I Design, Miami, FL, and fabricated by Citco USA, Miami, FL

Table and chairs – Avenue Road, Miami Beach, FL

Chandelier – Catellani & Smith, catellanismith.com

BAR AREA

Shelf and rack designed by EOLO A & I Design, Miami, FL, and fabricated by Sanandres Construction, Miami, FL

Bardot barstools – Gabriel Scott, Miami, FL

Artwork – Alexander Calder, calder.org

OFFICE

Drink table – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Artwork – Stephen Henriques, stephenhenriques.com

Area rug – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

GUEST BATHROOM

Cabinetry designed by EOLO A & I Design, Miami, FL, and

left: In the primary bedroom, wood paneling and a textured Moooi wall covering fashion an oversized headboard for the custom-designed platform bed. Alluring pendant lights from Lee Broom illuminate the nightstands while accenting the wall, and a custom millwork piece holding a revolving TV panel serves both the bedroom and bath.

below: A water-resistant wood panel ceiling and accent wall bring an element of warmth to the all-white primary bathroom. A massive custom bathtub centers the space, and matching vanities flanking the entrance create a sense of symmetry. Robern medicine cabinets and full-height closets at each side of the tub provide generous storage.

fabricated by Ornare Miami, FL

Shower wall – Cosentino, Miami, FL

TERRACE

Chairs and tables – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Wine cooler – Gloster, DCOTA, Dania Beach, FL

Area rug – Gloster, DCOTA, Dania Beach, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and night table designed by EOLO A & I Design, Miami, FL, and fabricated by Citco USA, Miami, FL

Wall designed by EOLO A & I Design Miami, FL, and fabricated by QOM Design, Miami, FL

Wallcovering – Moooi, Twill & Texture, Miami, FL

Bench – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Lighting – Lee Broom, leebroom.com

Area rug – Owner’s collection

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Tub – Citco USA, Miami, FL

Shower wall designed by EOLO A & I Design Miami, FL, and fabricated by QOM Design, Miami, FL, and Cosentino, Miami, FL, and Sanandres Construction, Miami, FL

Bird sconces – Moooi, moooi.com

Stool – DWR, Miami, FL

THROUGHOUT

General contractor – Jose Velasco, Sanandres Construction, Miami, FL

Flooring – Citco USA, Miami, FL

interior design MATTHEW MACDONALD & LENORA BROOKES-WILKS, MACDONALD DESIGN ASSOCIATES, EL PORTAL, FL

text JEANNE DE LATHOUDER photography KRIS TAMBURELLO, MIAMI, FL

VILLA UPGRADE

A SEASONED DESIGNER GIVES A TUSCANSTYLE HOME A KIND AND RESPECTFUL MAKEOVER WITH SOME HELP FROM ITS YOUNG HOMEOWNERS’ ART COLLECTION

left: This Tuscan-style villa in the heart of Coconut Grove emanates Italian grandeur upon first stepping into the magnificent foyer. A sweeping staircase with the original ironwork takes the spotlight underneath a Lindsey Adelman custom chandelier. Decorative sheep stools by Judith Hopf adorn a sleek black cement table from B&B Italia.

above: Avid collectors, the homeowners opted to display contemporary art in nearly every space, including the living room, which is accented with abstract paintings by Aaron Curry. Croydon’s chic white lounge sofa complements a Ligne Roset blue club chair and a vintage stool with horn legs.

IT MAY SEEM SURPRISING THAT

a young couple in their mid-thirties with three small children sought to make a grand Italianate manse their family home, yet the address proved to be the perfect fit for these avid art collectors who love to entertain. Nestled in the historic heart of Coconut Grove, the property emanates Italian grandeur reminiscent of the enchanting, sunbaked villas dotting the picturesque hillsides of Tuscany. Built in 2005, the bones of the home were truly magnificent, so there was not much work needed for the original structure when it came time to renovate.

“We had two missions here,” says Matthew MacDonald, the well-known Miami designer the couple enlisted to modernize the house. “We wanted to retain many of the original architectural details of this stately [structure], design around them, and use this as a giant space for the clients’ important art collection while creating a home—not a museum.”

Because the couple collects contemporary art, MacDonald’s design scheme was to blend the pieces with the traditional architecture and restore many of the home’s original finishes. He opened up a wall from the foyer into the living room to create more of a grand entrance. He also removed one other interior wall to add a bar and wine room—essential features for these clients who open their house to guests often.

The design team then meticulously selected fabrics and furniture that accentuated each room’s exquisite artwork.

right: Shades of blue bring a serene vibe to the living room with MDA’s curvy sofa accented with J. Nelson ombré drapery fabric in Tranquil Indigo. A sculptural Caste Design cocktail table emits an organic feel that mirrors the sofa. Vincent Wolf lounge chairs and a Decca Home daybed give a chic modern edge to the ethereal space.

A vibrant abstract by Jon Pestoni and Bernhardt’s retro-inspired walnut Anne chair upholstered in lemon velvet provide unexpected splashes of color to the family room’s otherwise neutral palette. Holly Hunt’s linear two-tiered Gemini cocktail table and club chair combine with a plush white MDA sofa, lending a stylish yet laid-back feel.

“ There was so much natural light to play with that we let it inform our choices of colors and textures,” notes the designer. “This Tuscan-style home was very traditional. It was originally painted in yellow, beige, and warm neutrals, so it screamed for color. I wanted to freshen the home by using blue, white, and sand hues to modernize the space.”

The living room’s soothing blue and white palette emits an ethereal vibe that counterbalances the visual heft of the architecture and the home’s wall-to-wall stone floors. The elegant curve of a low-slung blue sofa echoes the organic form of a sculptural cocktail table made of whitewashed walnut. A plush deep blue throw drapes over a chic white daybed, and ombré curtains in hues of indigo and white lend a subtle modern touch while allowing the artwork to take the spotlight. “It was clear from the start that we needed to lighten the original mood of the home to reflect the tastes of its new, more youthful occupants,” says MacDonald.

In the family room, a 12-foot sofa provides luxurious comfort and anchors the space with floating Minotti and Holly Hunt club chairs that add coziness and warmth. MacDonald opened this area up considerably, connecting it to a bar and wine room with open access to the kitchen. “I knew right when we conceptualized the space and laid out the room that it would prove to be the place of gathering for the family—and indeed it is,” he says.

For the kitchen, a soft modern feel lends itself to the Italian influences of the original house. A barrelvaulted ceiling feature brings a wine-cellar ambiance to the space, complementing a vintage-inspired Ann Sacks tile backsplash. This Old-World aesthetic aligns with the loggia, a wonderfully rustic outdoor area that combines well-worn patinas with sleek seating and a pair of striking cobalt blue glazed ceramic benches.

above: The decidedly Tuscan-inspired kitchen includes a barrel-vaulted brick ceiling feature that lends an air of Old-World elegance. An Ann Sacks Nottingham tile backsplash creates textural interest against a mix of white and walnut custom cabinetry. Woven Crin counter stools from McGuire surround a center island embellished with Urban Electric’s Globus pendant light.

Perfect for entertaining, the al fresco space was designed for intimate gatherings but could easily transition to accommodate large parties.

“[The homeowners] are definitely bon vivants, so they were so fun to work with,” says MacDonald. “It was clear their home would be used for year-round entertaining, so practicality was a component, but style and design were never compromised.”

SOURCES ENTRY

Round table – Tobi-lshi, B&B Italia, Miami, FL

Sheep stools – Judith Hopf, judithhopf.com

Chandelier – Branching Bubble, Lindsey Adelman Studio, New York, NY

LIVING ROOM VIGNETTE

White lounge sofa – Croydon, British Khaki Furniture, Brooklyn, NY

Blue club chair – Rive Droite, Ligne Roset, Miami, FL

Cocktail table – Studio Twenty Seven, New York, NY

Vintage skin stool with horn legs – Owner’s collection

LIVING ROOM

Curved sofa customed designed by MacDonald Design Associates, El Portal, FL

Webbed chairs – Vicente Wolf, vincentewolf.com

Seat cushion – Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

Pouf cocktail table – Caste Design, Chicago, IL

Side table – Robert James Collection, High Point, NC

Murano glass lamp – John Hutton, johnhutton.com

Triple arm floor lamp – Sommerard, Visual Comfort, visualcomfort.com

Daybed – Domicle, Decca Home, deccahome.com

Drapery fabric – J. Nelson, Hollywood, FL

Area rug – Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

Fireplace designed by MacDonald Design Associates, El Portal, FL, and fabricated by Padron Marble & Granite, Hialeah, FL

POWDER ROOM

Mirror – Made Goods, High Point, NC

Hanging pendant – Adele, Arteriors Home, New York, NY

Sconces – Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

FAMILY ROOM

White sofa custom designed by MacDonald Design Associates, El Portal, FL, and fabricated Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

Club chair – Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

Decorative chair – Anne, Bernhardt, High Point, NC

Cocktail table – Gemini, Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

Area rug – Loloi, High Point, NC

KITCHEN

Cabinetry and island designed by MacDonald Design Associates, El Portal, FL, and fabricated by Hector & Hector Miami, FL

Backsplash – Ann Sacks, Miami, FL Stools – McGuire, bakerfurniture.com

Lighting – Urban Electric, urbanelectric.com

LOGGIA

Lounge – RH, rh.com

Cocktail table – Phillips Collection, High Point, NC

Side table – Cane-line, cane-line.com

Ceramic stools – Abitare, Miami, FL

Vintage bar cabinet, pendant, and mirror – Owner’s collection

Sconces – Murray’s Iron Works, Dallas, TX

Cobalt blue glazed ceramic stools from Abitare enliven the loggia’s eclectic furnishings, including an oversized Rutherford sofa from RH, a teak coffee table from Phillips Collection, and a vintage bar cabinet and mirror from San Juan Ventures. A vintage Moroccan pendant and Paradiso sconces befit the space’s rustic, well-aged aesthetic.

BAYSIDE BEAUTY

A BOATING FAMILY FINDS WATERSIDE BLISS IN A SUBLIME KEYSTONE ISLAND HOME

POISED ON A PRIZED CORNER lot with wraparound docks and easy ocean access, Obed and Cristina Arias’ 5,200-square-foot home offers top-notch waterfront living, one of the main reasons the avid boaters chose it. Situated on Miami’s exquisite Keystone Island, directly west of Bay Harbour, the coveted location boasts some of the area’s most spectacular views—beauty and function in one package.

“When we first met with Obed and Cristina, they had a specific vision in mind,” says Jenny Zalkin, who worked on the project alongside partner Josh Fein. “They wanted a contemporary organic feel, so we knew immediately what lines of furniture, fabrics, and finishes would be perfect

With wraparound docks and water access, this Keystone Island property offers spectacular views. The formal living room and game area exude a relaxed vibe with a custom 11 Ravens pool table and a white onyx stone bar outfitted with motorized drop-down shelving. to execute their vision.”

A natural walnut staircase gives rustic contrast to its sleek glass railing, lending an organic feel to the home’s contemporary design. Matching console tables from Cattelan Italia provide a mirroring effect, making the space seem larger while balancing the soaring height of the ceiling.

The team kept the color palette light with shades of taupe, cream, blue, and surprising pops of pink. They hand-picked exquisite natural stones for countertops and bathrooms to coordinate with their lavish custom built-ins. From the expansive kitchen and bar to all the bathroom vanities, they used natural walnut to lend an organic vibe throughout. “The architecture of the home came with a lot of windows overlooking the gorgeous water views,” adds Zalkin. “So, we draped them with textured sheers to create warmth and selected a brass finish for the lighting fixtures, hardware, and cabinet doors to generate some bling.”

interior design JOSH FEIN & JENNY ZALKIN, FEIN ZALKIN INTERIORS, AVENTURA, FL text JEANNE DE LATHOUDER photography KRIS TAMBURELLO, MIAMI, FL

Built for a young couple and their son, the home needed a warm and inviting environment while including elegant details to dress it up. “Whenever starting a project for a family home, we consider what materials will best suit their lifestyle and not compromise the design,” says Fein. “Because this family entertains so much and loves having a seamless indoor/outdoor environment, we incorporated indoor/outdoor fabrics that gave them kid-friendly durability and versatility.”

For the formal living room and game area, the clients envisioned a fun and relaxed atmosphere, so the designers opted for luxe oversize seating, a stone-topped Botempi Italia coffee table, and a plush area rug to lend more depth to the space with texture and materials. The main attraction is a knock-out custom

A smart kitchen serves as the central hub of the house and features an extra-large island that provides everyday dining with counter stools by Interlude. The natural stone waterfall design lends a textural element of luxury, and high-tech appliances from Sub-Zero and Wolf cater to the owners’ passion for cooking and entertaining.

pool table from 11 Ravens that strikes an elegant pose with its curvaceous metal base. Another exceptional feature is a customized bar outfitted with an electronic drop-down shelving system that holds barware and spirits. “Our purpose for putting the extra effort into this motorized unit was to offer the family functionality when needed,” says Fein. “When it’s not being used, it disappears to create a clean, minimalist space rich in texture with a white onyx stone surface.”

The streamlined vibe continues in the kitchen, where gourmet cooking is a daily occurrence. A sleek, natural-stone waterfall island, chic Cattelan Italia dining pieces, and hi-tech Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances provide modern luxury and efficiency, befitting the homeowners’ active lifestyle.

above: The son’s bedroom is outfitted in soft gray hues that he can grow into. The sophisticated palette is tempered with whimsical accents, including a tufted ottoman at the foot of the bed and a compelling collage over the tufted headboard.

below: A stretch of land wrapping the sea wall provides a green backyard space with an outdoor kitchen. Furnishings from Inside Out supply durable comfort that can withstand Florida’s sun, salt, and humidity. Other inviting features include outdoor gaming, fire pit seating, and a Kettal daybed that faces the water.

above: Comfort is essential in the family room, encompassing a roomy custom sectional and ottoman from Nathan Anthony. Adjacent to the open kitchen area, the space includes a built-in wall backed with an antique mirror that reflects the beautiful water views outside. The shelves display a stunning collection of natural coral fans, Murano glass vases, and one-of-a-kind objects.

“Building a custom home was something my wife and I always dreamed of,” says Obed, “and we love indoor/outdoor living and being on the water. We wanted a lot of different seating spaces for our guests, and Fein Zalkin executed this very well. The fabrics they chose are amazing—we love how it all came together.”

When conceptualizing this house, the design team also put much thought into the backyard and outdoor kitchen layout. “Schematically, it almost became endless, as we had a beautiful piece of land to work with that wrapped around a sea wall,” says Zalkin. On a blanket of lush green turf, the finished outdoor oasis features a fire pit, gaming space, and, of course, a signature Fein Zalkin wow piece—an elaborate A-frame cottage daybed from Kettal that gazes out at the water.

“We entertain often, and we have wonderful family gatherings in our beautiful backyard,” adds Obed. “We love nothing more than fishing on our boat all day, coming home to cook our fresh catch, and being with those we love to create lasting memories.”

A spacious primary bedroom closet showcases the wife’s fashion treasures with glass cabinetry and LED lighting. A marble-topped center island and vanity housing handbags and accessories create a functional and stylish dream space for her to prepare for day or evening.

The primary bedroom offers an oasis of luxurious comfort with an oversize Alaskan king-size bed backed by upholstered paneling, bronzecolored mirrors, and built-in walnut end tables. The bed is outfitted with custom sheets from Thread Count, and the remaining walls are covered in Phillip Jeffries wallpaper.

SOURCES

LIVING ROOM AND GAME AREA

Club chairs – Thayer Coggin, Wassers Furniture & Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Chairs – Global Views, globalviews.com

Cocktail table – Bontempi Italia, Wassers Furniture & Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Ottoman – Kravet, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Bench – Nathan Anthony, Wassers Furniture & Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Area rug – Stark Carpet, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Bar cabinetry designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

Pool table – 11 Ravens, Los Angeles, CA

Lighting over pool table – Hubbardton Forge, hubbardtonforge.com

Wall covering – Omexo, Romo, SFDP, Hollywood, FL ENTRY

Console tables – Cattelan Italia, Wassers Furniture & Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Stairs designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL KITCHEN AND DINING AREA

Cabinetry and island designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL Stools – Interlude, Wassers Furniture & Interiors,

Hallandale Beach, FL

Pendant lighting – Victo, Secto Design, sectodesign.fi

Table and chairs – Cattelan Italia, Wassers Furniture & Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Lighting – Hammerton Studio, studio.hammerton.com

SON’S BEDROOM

Bed and headboard designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL Lamps – RH, rh.com

Puff designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

FAMILY ROOM

Sofa – Thayer Coggin, Wassers Furniture & Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Cocktail ottoman designed by designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

Wall unit designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

Area rug – Stark Carpet, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

TERRACE

Lounge – Roda, Kettal, Inside Out, SFDP, Hollywood, FL Day bed – Kettal, Inside Out, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Tables – Kettal, Inside Out, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL Pillow fabric – Romo, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Side tables designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

Bench designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Floating cabinetry designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

Tub – Kallista, kallista.com

Ottoman designed by Fein Zalkin Interiors, Aventura, FL

THROUGHOUT

Builder – Angler Development, North Miami, FL

Flooring – Prosein, Aventura, FL

Drapery fabric – Romo, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

left: The primary bathroom lends an organic vibe with limestone walls from Opustone and Vetrite glass paneling in the shower from Ceramic Matrix. Bathed in natural light, the space emanates a spa-like aura with an elegant Kallista soaking tub accented with a plush ottoman.

interior design RAFAELA SIMOES & LAILA COLVIN, 2ID INTERIORS, HALLANDALE BEACH, FL

architecture TOMA DESIGN GROUP, MIAMI, FL

text RIKI ALTMAN-YEE photography EMILIO COLLAVINO, MIAMI BEACH, FL

A giant Wireflow chandelier commands the circular entry foyer of the residence, just as designers Rafaela Simoes and Laila Colvin intended. Mixing soft and rigid materials with cool and warm textiles was key to satisfying the homeowners’ contrasting visions and tastes.

AFTER SEEING 2ID INTERIORS’

work on Instagram, a young couple from Israel approached company founders Rafaela Simoes and Laila Colvin for their unique point of view to help them transform the home they’d just purchased at Presidential Estates in Aventura. The husband and wife also needed a bit of arbitration from the design team as they did not initially share the same vision for what was to become of it, beyond their desire to expand it from 3,000 to 4,300 square feet.

“He is very modern,” Simoes explains of the husband, who worked closely with the contractor, Oren Development, on the construction side. “And the pictures that were coming from his wife were more [about] light woods and organic touches.”

There were also three young children with whims to cater to and design needs of their own. Fortunately, blending divergent tastes is nothing new for Simoes and Colvin.

Once work got underway, part of the challenge the designers faced on the new floorplan from Toma Design Group’s architects was that they had to utilize a large entry space broken up by structural columns. “We didn’t want to have two living rooms together and

above: Custom Display Carpentry created the wall unit and fabricated the wood ceiling 2id designed. The dining table and chairs are from RH.

The design team worked with MiaCucina to make the kitchen a perfect marriage of modern and organic elements, integrating slate countertops, dove gray and oak cabinets, and stark black fixtures. Chairs from Addison House and lighting from The Lighting Studio of 30A complete the look.

above: Phabrica window treatments balance the flow of sunlight inside the family room, where accessories like metal nesting tables from Modloft and an eclectic floor lamp introduce angular elements to an otherwise cozy space.

then the dining over on the side,” explains Colvin. “So we made it an entryway and made it like a lobby or a lounge area. And we wanted it to be a circular seating area because you walk around it to go to the living room, dining room, and kitchen.” To satisfy the husband’s yen for something of-the-moment with the wife’s longing for soft edges, the design team brought in cushiony Husk armchairs from B&B Italia and a geometric light fixture by Vibia. “The chandelier is very clean and modern,” adds Simoes. “It makes quite a statement.”

The designers also managed to strike the perfect balance in the adjoining dining room, where a large concrete-topped table holds court amid upholstered barrel back chairs, sheer curtains, and a bulbous chandelier. To ensure the existing structural columns defining the space seemed intentional, the design crew installed black metal pillars on either end, then softened the scene with oak panels across the ceiling. A long with keeping the floors uniform, opting to use only large-format tiles that resemble stone and oak panels, Simoes and Colvin incorporated vast

below: The design team incorporated niche storage wherever was possible, and the home office was no exception. Here, the crew backed the space with dark mirror and inserted black metal bookshelves, then kept the industrial theme going with the addition of a vintage-inspired floor lamp with ebonized oak legs from The Lighting Studio of 30A.

millwork throughout, including myriad vertical niches and even bespoke panels behind the family room TV set. However, per the husband’s request, the home lacks traditional elements, including baseboards and trim for the lighting. Every door is flush. The wife had concerns that the finished result would be too minimalist, but Simoes reassured her with a promise to soften all that with the furnishings that would be incorporated later.

One area where the wife did not compromise in the least was the children’s bedrooms. For the youngest, a five-year-old boy, Simoes suggested they take his love for animals in an unexpected direction: “‘Instead of a zoo’, I said, ‘why don’t we do more of a camping-in-the-mountains theme?’ That’s when the headboard idea came up.” Because the oldest son loves sports, the designers found a local manufacturer to customize glossy acrylic panels depicting a football player to cover an entire wall. And for the couple’s only daughter? A calm and serene suite with sophisticated shades of rose, gold, and plush textures.

The negotiations returned when it came time to tackle the primary suite. “The wife really wanted it to be very clean, very

Connecting all three of the kids’ rooms is a den with a bright blue Cloud sofa from RH. “The parents were specific about wanting to hide the kids’ games and toys,” explains designer Laila Colvin, “so we provided storage along with a little desk.”

above: Although this animalthemed bedroom is a dreamcome-true for the homeowners’ youngest son, the designers created it with the future in mind. “He can grow into it,” says Simoes. “The wallpaper has no animals—it’s just white and gray—and they can easily remove the headboard.”

right: For the oldest son’s bedroom, the designers scored the perfect bed, night table, and area rug at RH. The winning LED light fixture is

left: In the daughter’s bedroom, a desk doubles as a vanity. A shaggy chair from RH solidifies the room’s intended feminine feel.

from The Lighting Studio of 30A.

white, very soft,” says Simoes. “But, again, by incorporating the husband’s masculine, dark elements, we came up with the final palette and they loved it. We mixed smoked mirrors and soft cushions with the soft paneling headboard and some wood in between.” In the bedroom’s adjoining bath, large porcelain slabs and a dark wood base under the freestanding bathtub satisfied both parties.

A s for the finished product? “When they all saw it, the kids jumped up and down, Mom was smiling, and Dad approved,” says Simoes. “It was a hit all around.”

SOURCES

GREAT ROOM

Decorative chairs – B&B Italia, Miami, FL

Cocktail table – 2id Home, Hallandale Beach, FL

Lighting – Vibia, vibia.com

Area rug – Studio Harmony Rugs, North Miami Beach, FL

Armchairs – B&B Italia, Miami, FL

Area rug –2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Sofa – RH, rh.com

DINING AREA

Dining table – RH, rh.com

Chairs – RH, rh.com

Lighting – Vistosi, vistosi.it

Ceiling designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

KITCHEN

Cabinetry and island designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL, and fabricated by MiaCucina, Aventura, FL Chairs – Addison House, Aventura, FL

Lighting – The Lighting Studio, Miami, FL

FAMILY ROOM

Sofa – RH, rh.com

Cocktail table – Rove Concept, Miami, FL

Floating cabinetry design by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Area rug – Studio Harmony Rugs, North Miami Beach, FL

OFFICE

Desk – 2Modern, 2modern.com

Desk chair – Rove Concept, Miami, FL

Club chairs – Owner’s collection

Cabinetry designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Lighting – The Lighting Studio, Miami, FL

DEN

Blue sofa – RH, rh.com

right: Extending the home’s footprint caused an unusual outcropping in the primary bedroom, but the design team saw it as an opportunity to create a flexible space that could be used for napping, reading, getting dressed or just gazing out the window.

MiaCucina created the floating cabinetry for the primary bathroom, while the bathtub came from Maison Kitchen + Bath. The porcelain slabs were sourced from BKF Decor Solutions.

Cocktail table – Owner’s collection

Artwork above sofa – 2id Home, Hallandale Beach, FL

Area rug – Studio Harmony Rugs, North Miami Beach, FL

YOUNG SON’S BEDROOM (ANIMALS)

Bed and side tables design by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Cabinetry and wall designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Area rug – Studio Harmony Rugs, North Miami Beach, FL

DAUGHTER’S BEDROOM (PINK)

Bed and headboard designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Night table – Pottery Barn, Miami Beach, FL

Fuzzy chair – RH, rh.com

OLDEST SON’S BEDROOM (FOOTBALL)

Bed – RH, rh.com

Night table – RH, rh.com

Lighting – The Lighting Studio of 30A, Miami, FL

Area rug – RH, rh.com

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and side tables design by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Wall designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Bench – Studio Harmony Rugs, North Miami Beach, FL

Lighting – The Lighting Studio, Miami, FL

Seating designed by 2id Interiors, Hallandale Beach, FL

Area rug – RH, rh.com

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Floating cabinetry – MiaCucina, Aventura, FL

Tub – Maison & Co., Miami, FL

Flooring and wall surface – BKF Décor Solutions, Miami, FL

THROUGHOUT

Fabrication – Custom Display Carpentry, Miami, FL

Curb Appeal

A ZOOM-LED RENOVATION

ENTICES AN AVENTURA COUPLE TO LEAVE THEIR CONDO PERCH FOR A COSMOPOLITAN RESIDENCE AT GROUND LEVEL

JOURNALIST ADRIANA CORTEZ and her husband have worked with architect and interior designer Gustavo Marasca for years on multiple projects throughout Brazil, so when the Aventurabased couple found a single-family home near the condo they’d been living in for 15 years, they knew exactly who to turn to to oversee the house’s necessary renovations and new interior design.

The idea of living nearby while the metamorphosis took place made the buy even more appealing to Cortez, but the same couldn’t be said for Marasca. Just as he started work on the project, the COVID-19 pandemic made travel to South Florida from his home base of Rio Claro impossible. For the next three years, Marasca and his team would oversee all aspects of the commission remotely with the aid of Zoom and every-other-day phone calls with the job’s contractor.

To accommodate Cortez’s wishes for abundant light and wide-open social spaces, a nearly complete demolition was required. “We took everything down,” says Marasca. “Only the outer walls of the house were left standing.”

architecture & interior design GUSTAVO MARASCA, GUSTAVO MARASCA ARQUITETURA, RIO CLARO, SP, BRAZIL text RIKI ALTMAN-YEE photography DENILSON MACHADO, RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

The neutral living room gets a jolt of color from photographer Ignacio Gurruchaga’s dynamic image of waves crashing. The artwork shares the space with pieces from Poliform and RH.

With the raw blank canvas, Marasca phased into transforming the house by incorporating plenty of natural wood elements for warmth, including wide oak planks for the floors and stained wood cabinets in the kitchen. He also found eye-catching wood furnishings and placed them throughout. The natural ironwood console in the family room is one such standout.

The largely neutral family room opposite the kitchen now features layered rugs and wall art from Artefacto and Kartell, furnishings and accessories from Poliform and RH, and a TV set cleverly camouflaged behind a mirror with a matelassê leather frame. The design team also created what Marasca calls “memorable moments” throughout the first floor by clustering accessories from brands such as Kosta Boda, Lalique, Baccarat, Versace, Rolex, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès.

For the kitchen, Marasca relied on MiaCucina and its modern aesthetic. Here, we see a variety of cool contrasting elements for interest, including white Silestone countertops and finishes that bounce diffused sunlight around.

Color is found sparingly throughout the home, splashed around the first floor in the form of accents and on various linens. The most prominent exception is one giant, glossy image of an ocean wave by photographer Ignacio Gurruchaga that hangs behind the sofa and arguably commands the living room.

above: Architect and interior designer Gustavo Marasca worked with MiaCucina to create every aspect of the home’s modern kitchen. The black metal shelving to the right displays the owners’ collection of cookbooks, jars, and spices from travels around the world.

A bookcase concealing two structural support pillars divides the kitchen from the dining room, the latter of which is furnished with an RH chandelier, table and chairs from Rugiano, and a cabinet from MiaCucina.

The second floor of the house reveals Marasca’s unique take on space distribution. The walls of the primary bedroom were repositioned to create the large closet of Cortez’s dreams (the finished result measures approximately 800 square feet) and the primary bathroom’s floors and walls were wrapped in largeformat porcelain slabs that make the room an ideal backdrop for gold and brass fixtures. The top floor also houses two guest bedroom suites, both with custom walk-in closets by Ornare, and a home office.

The finished result is exactly what Cortez and her husband needed to come down from their condo perch. “Gustavo was able to read my mind and guess all my dreams,” she says. “It’s no wonder he’s my favorite designer.”

above: The Wings dining table from Rugiano makes an elegant statement with its leather-upholstered metal base. An RH chandelier hangs above and a cabinet from MiaCucina holds additional table settings.

left: “I found the idea of the word ‘white’ written in high relief, in white, on an entirely white canvas, very interesting,” says Marasca of the piece hanging above the console. The artwork, from Artefacto, also inspired him to find white ceramic pieces to create an elegant, monochrome composition.

SOURCES

LIVING ROOM

Sofa grouping – Poliform, Miami, FL

Cocktail table – Poliform, Miami, FL

Drink table – RH, Aventura, FL

Photographic artwork – Owner’s collection

Area rug – Artefacto, Miami, FL

KITCHEN

Cabinetry and shelving designed by Gustavo Marasca Arquitetura, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil, and fabricated by MiaCucina, Miami, FL Island designed by Gustavo Marasca Arquitetura, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil, and fabricated by MiaCucina, Miami, FL

Stools – Poliform, Miami, FL

FAMILY ROOM

Lounge and ottoman – RH, Aventura, FL

Side chair – Poliform, Miami, FL

Cocktail table – Poliform, Miami, FL

Drink table – RH, Aventura, FL

Floor lamp – RH, Aventura, FL

Mirror – Rugiano, North Miami Beach, FL

Lamp – RH, Aventura, FL

Drapery fabric – Artefacto, Miami, FL

Area rug – Artefacto, Miami, FL

DINING AREA

Table – Rugiano, North Miami Beach, FL

Chairs – Rugiano, North Miami Beach, FL

Cabinet – MiaCucina, Miami, FL

Chandelier – RH, Aventura, FL

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Tub – Farrey’s Lighting & Bath, North Miami, FL

Lighting – Farrey’s Lighting & Bath, North Miami, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – Rugiano, North Miami Beach, FL

Side table – Artefacto, Miami, FL

Lamp – Artefacto, Miami, FL

Wall covering – Artefacto, Miami, FL

Area rug – Artefacto, Miami, FL

left: Thanks to the positioning of the shower and bathtub, the homeowners can enjoy beautiful views of the canal while bathing. Both the curved tub and spiraling light fixture are from Farrey’s Lighting & Bath in North Miami.

right: The look of the primary bedroom is sophisticated, yet inviting with a Grace upholstered bed from Rugiano. The side table, lamp, wall covering, and area rug are all from Artefacto.

“Gustavo was able to read my mind and guess all my dreams,” says homeowner Adriana Cortez. “It’s no wonder he’s my favorite designer.”

Neutral Territory

A SUBDUED PALETTE AND CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE BRING CHIC SERENITY TO A SUNNY ISLES BEACH VACATION PERCH

WHEN A WORLD-TRAVELING COUPLE from Mexico City swapped their South Florida vacation home for a 4,500-square-foot, new-construction condominium at Turnberry Ocean Club Residences on Sunny Isles Beach’s Millionaire’s Row, they didn’t waste time hiring Design House Studio’s Janine Geller to transform it into a bright and welcoming beachside retreat.

“From the beginning, our taste levels were very aligned,” says Geller, whose reputation for interiors that are elegant without ostentation resonated strongly with the well-heeled and discerning owners.

In the living room, custom wood wall panels open to a media system and wet bar, while the Ditre Italia sectional and bronze-legged arm chairs by Sunpan inspire convivial chatter.

interior design JANINE GELLER, DESIGN HOUSE STUDIO, HOLLYWOOD, FL text KERRY SHORR photography TROY CAMPBELL, MIAMI, FL

Interior designer Janine Geller had the couple’s grandchildren in mind when designing the sun-splashed family room, so everything is treated to withstand abuse. RH’s Rigby table and mini knit poufs serve as a comfortable spot for little ones to draw or have a snack.

A fter a few meetings with her clients, the designer’s mission became clear: low-key and lowmaintenance sophisticated environs. “They entertain a lot and have grandchildren,” says Geller. “They didn’t want anyone feeling uncomfortable about putting their feet up.”

Geller and her team began by culling a neutral-oriented palette that eschews Miami’s glossy white standard in favor of beiges and crème fraîche-colored tones that echo the sandy beaches below. Coming up with refined décor that’s also amenable to spilled drinks and pint-sized handprints was a tall order, but one to which the designer happily rose.

In the common areas of the residence, oversized marble tiles in off-white reflect light and create an air of grandeur. “They make every room seem much larger than it is,” notes Geller. To make up for the home’s lack of storage, custom case goods were added throughout, as was light white oak millwork that begins in the foyer.

Nearby, the family and media room share a similar lightness thanks to a Ditre Italia sectional topped with cushions in performance fabric. The mostly beige and cream room, which faces a paneled wall harboring a secret doorway leading to the secondary guest rooms, is centered below a tray ceiling with LED lights. “To create the sphere, we had to drop down the entire ceiling about six inches,” Geller reveals. “It’s incredible how much depth and interest a small step up can make.”

While the condo came with a dark walnut kitchen, the designer and her clients agreed it had to be refurbished. The cabinetry was resurfaced in a lighter hue, countertops were replaced with large pieces of Taj Mahal quartz for more surface use, and a supplemental island with barstools was installed. The footprint was even expanded to accommodate an auxiliary wall with custom built-ins for the wife’s collection of fine tableware.

In the dining room, Kathy Kuo metal armchairs pull up to a Reflex Cubitum 72 table.

Ocean views are a given in the primary bedroom, which is anchored by a bespoke bed from DH Home. The chandelier by Solitude is one of two in the residence.

SOURCES

ENTRY FOYER

Wall and floating shelf designed by Design House Studio, SFDP, Hollywood, FL, and fabricated by Sunshine Alliance, Boca Raton, FL Mirror – Eternity Modern, Ferguson Showroom, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Chandelier – Luce Plan, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Sconces – Modern Forms, Miami, FL

LIVING ROOM

Sofa – Ditre Italia, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Chairs – Sunpan, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Cocktail tables – Four Hands, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Chandelier – Bocci, Lumens, lumens.com

Floor lamp – CB2, Miami Beach FL

Area rug – Jaipur, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

FAMILY AREA

Sofa lounge – Ditre Italia, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Cocktail ottoman – Maiden Home, maidenhome.com

Side table – RH, Aventura, FL

Poufs – RH, Aventura, FL

Chandelier – Nemo Lighting, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Area rug – Jaipur Living, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

KITCHEN

Cabinetry designed by Design House Studio, SFDP, Hollywood, FL, and fabricated by Sunshine Alliance, Boca Raton, FL

Island – Marble of the World, Pompano Beach, FL

Stools – Sunpan, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

DINING AREA

Table – Reflex s.p.a. Italia, Italy

Chairs – Kathy Kuo Home, katheykuohome.com

Mirror – John Richard, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Chandelier – Hubbardton Forge, hubbardtonforge.com

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard designed by DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Lounge – CB2, Miami Beach, FL

Chandelier – Hubbardton Forge, hubbardtonforge.com

Area rug – Jaipur, DH Home, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Floating cabinetry designed by Design House Studio, SFDP, Hollywood, FL, and fabricated by Sunshine Alliance, Boca Raton, FL

Mirror – Glass Guys, Miramar, FL

THROUGHOUT

Architect – Covenant Engineering, Inc., Davie, FL

Builder – Ultimate Builders Corp., Parkland, FL

Window treatments – Window Designs by Sonia, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

Wallpaper – Phillip Jeffries, SFDP, Hollywood, FL

The designer’s adoration for wow-factor light fixtures is on display throughout the home, including in the dining room where a crystal Solitude chandelier was so well received, a second one was ordered for the couple’s primary bedroom. The bold illumination choices continue in the semiformal living room with a cluster of bubble-shaped fixtures by Bocci that appear as if they floated up from the ocean and into the residence.

Serenity reigns in the primary bedroom, where a geometric-shaped headboard adds an architectural counterpoint to a sleek, downcushioned chaise lounge from RH. “She wanted something comfortable where she could lay and read a book or look out at the sea,” says the designer. “This was the perfect piece.”

Geller smiles when she remembers her clients’ reaction to the completed project. “I turned the lights down to set the mood and there was this magical orange-pink sunset when they walked in,” she says. “They started crying, then I started crying. Seeing my clients so happy makes me realize how much I love what I do.”

above: “A floating, six-drawer, wall-to-wall vanity with a view” is how Geller describes this area of the primary bath.

right: A guest room with a floating desk and velvet gray swivel chair stays honest to the rest of the residence’s aesthetic.

BEFORE IT’S TRENDING, IT’S AT COVERINGS

April 18 – 21, 2023 Orlando, Florida

Behold the Bold at Coverings 2023

The ultimate destination for breathtaking “wow” moments, Coverings boasts the largest and most impressive display of tile and stone in North America. Explore the latest trends from around the globe that deliver the quality, luxury, and visual appeal your customers demand. With a fresh idea at every turn, there is always a bold innovation to discover, a new partner to connect with, and a planet-friendly product to be specified. No matter your client, you’ll find the perfect source of tile and stone inspiration and knowledge at Coverings 2023.

The Trousseau Effect

Talk about good taste. Florida Design hosted an afternoon cocktail party with Trousseau at the Brazilian brand’s Brickell City Center location in honor of the company’s new collections and its legendary fabrics just before the holiday season descended on South Florida. Florida Design Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos led a chat with brand owners Romeu and Adriana Trussardi, during which they discussed the label’s enduring appeal, trends in linens, and Trousseau’s manufacturing process. Before and after the presentation, guests perused the boutique to take in the various lines as they enjoyed wine, Champagne, and hors d’oeuvres.

DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS, ROMEU TRUSSARDI

ADRIANA & ROMEU TRUSSARDI, RENATA AND CESAR GIOVANNINI

STEFANIA MARCHESOTTI, KATHLEEN CARROLL, HARVEY DANA, MIRTHA ARRIARAN

THE DESIGNER: Revamping her room at age 12, Beatrice Pila Gonzalez has known interior design was in in the cards for her from an early age. The award-winning founder of B Pila Design Studio in Miami has been transforming interiors for three decades and shows no signs of slowing down.

THE OBJECT: One of the standouts in Italian brand Penta’s inventory, the Glo pendant by Carlo Colombo is a glass sphere that enhances the glare of light thanks to a back-and-forth game of reflections between the lamp and the space it’s in.

IN HER WORDS: “When I first saw the Glo fixture, it was love at first sight,” says Pila Gonzalez. “The iridescence of the colors is subtle, but makes enough of a statement to enhance any scheme without clashing or bringing too much attention to itself. With three decades under my belt, I’ve learned to recognize when a product is destined to be a classic.” pentalight.com; bpiladesign.com

In The Glow

DESIGNER

BEATRICE

PILA GONZALEZ CHERISHES THE BRIGHT VERSATILITY OF PENTA’S GIO PENDANT

text CHRISTOPHER DAY