Florida Design Miami 20.4

FLORIDA DESIGN

Art & Design 2024

Interiors With Cultural Cachet

ART WEEK PREVIEW

The Artists to Know & the Shows You Can’t Miss

PLUS: Basel, Design Miami & Everything Else!

Photo Andrea Ferrari

FLORIDA DESIGN

gleaming textures, and modernist European furnishings add to the immersive allure of a Sunny Isles Beach pied- à-terre.

On the Cover

INTERIOR

CHARLOTTE DUNAGAN & TOM DIVERIO

An architectural marvel on San Marino Island merges a museum-quality art collection with the

INTERIOR DESIGN BY NICHOLAS GENNARI & ROBERTO RACY

A Portland homeowner taps the ideal design team to bring his vision of a Brickell penthouse to life.

Departments

62 Design news and notes from Miami and beyond

82 THE MAIN EVENT

Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 reawakens the city’s cultural spirit.

84 POSITIVE THINKING

Design Miami heads into its 20th edition with a celebration of optimism.

86 SECOND CHANCES

Artist José Parlá’s new exhibition at the Pérez Art Museum Miami marks an emotional return to his hometown—and to life.

88 MEMORY LANE

A new exhibition by Rachel Feinstein at The Bass Museum of Art rolls back the years on Miami.

90 REVOLVING STAGE

Dacra founder Craig Robins prepares to share his world-class (and ever-growing) art collection with Basel’s visiting VIPs.

92 BODY OF WORK

Miami artist Nina Surel’s new ceramics chronicle the myriad experiences of womanhood.

94 NOW, VOYAGER

Miami ceramicist Lauren Shapiro’s commissioned works for Vizcaya Museum & Gardens are informed by the property’s design heritage and the artist’s penchant for exploration.

92 BODY OF WORK

DESIGN

98 CULTURED PEARLS

Artist and designer Nicole Nomsa Moyo’s 2024 Design Commission highlights the jewelry traditions of African women and puts them on proud display.

100 PAST PERFECT

At his Miami studio, creative Luis Ignacio Figallo keeps an ancient art form alive.

REAL ESTATE

102 COOL FACTOR

Miami’s most stylish photography collection isn’t in any museum or gallery, but at the sales center of one of the city’s latest residential developments.

SHOWROOMS

106 ZONE OF INTEREST

Three showrooms are ready for discovery at the Miami Design District.

FD ASKS

108 FUN HOUSE

A Star Island residence showcases the joys of contemporary art and collectible design.

INTERIORS

112 ARTISTIC INTEGRITY

Designer Holly Hunt infuses her version of modern elegance in a Miami home defined by its contemporary art collection.

COVET

166 CHAOS THEORY

Miami designer Sabrina Maclean appreciates the discordant beauty of Hervé Van Der Straeten’s Console Twist 606

112 ARTISTIC INTEGRITY

FLORIDA DESIGN

editorial director

DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

editor-in-chief

LUIS R. RIGUAL

design director

LAURIE SPECTOR

acquisitions editor

ANNETTE SESSA-GALBO

market editor

KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE

web editor

ABIGAIL DUFFY

contributing writers

RIKI ALTMAN-YEE | CHRISTOPHER DAY

JEANNE DELATHOUDER | SAXON HENRY

KELLEY MARCELLUS | BETSY RILEY

contributing photographers

KRIS TAMBURELLO

GABRIEL VOLPI

production director

SELENE M. CEBALLO

production manager

LOURDES LINARES

production coordinator

ILEANA CABAN

ANAELY J. PEREZ-VARGAS

digital prepress specialist

GEORGE DAVIS

senior designer JEFFREY REY

publisher TERRY DUFFY

associate publisher HARVEY M. DANA

account executives

KIM ALOIA | DENISE AUTORINO

JENNIFER DARDANO | ELIZABETH GOODMAN

SUSAN GIBSON HOWARD | DINA TURNER

digital accounts manager RYAN HOLLIHAN

marketing manager REBECCA DESIR

digital marketing manager TYLER SANSONE

advertising services coordinator ELIZABETH HACKNEY

chief operating officer TODD SCHMIDT it manager OMAR GREENE

circulation manager MARJORIE LEIVA

distribution manager JUDY HEFLIN

circulation promotions manager DAVID SUPPLE

circulation assistants BRITNEY STINSON | CATHY HART

logistics manager OMAR MORALES

accounting specialist MARY BETH COOK

accounts receivable specialist ANA CORONEL founder JEFF LICHTENSTEIN

ART FORWARD

As I write this, much of the country’s attention is on the presidential election, but Miami’s creative types are focused on a different event: the return of Art Basel Miami Beach and the cultural excess the fair brings to our shores.

Art Week in Miami has become as synonymous with December as Christmas. And how could it not? Those seven days come with a whirlwind agenda of new museum exhibitions, gallery shows, public installations, and tented art fairs from deep in Wynwood to the sands of South Beach. This issue is a celebration of all that.

As you can see from our cover, we’re embracing the spirit of art wholeheartedly. This photograph by Kris Tamburello represents just one corner of a massive San Marino Island estate that houses a museum-quality collection of contemporary art. Designers Charlotte Dunagan and Tom Diverio were entrusted to create a proper backdrop for works by the likes of Gino Miles, Kevin Box, and Kelly Reemtsen while still delivering a comfortable modern home for the family that lives there. They succeeded, to say the least, and I promise you that cover image is just one example of their dynamic approach.

Since Basel MB made its debut over two decades ago, it’s become de rigueur for the city’s museums to bring out the big guns with intriguing exhibitions that will deliver foot traffic. This year, both the Pérez Art Museum Miami and The Bass Museum of Art come through on that front with shows by homegrown artists who now reside in New York. At PAMM, Homecoming is an immersive journey into José Parlá’s work that explores his Cuban roots, his Miami upbringing, and his return to painting after a nearly fatal bout of COVID-19 that left him in a coma for months. At The Bass, Rachel Feinstein reflects on a city that no longer exists in The Miami Years, an exhibition marked by a site-specific, 30-foot mural that represents a career-defining moment for the artist. Both exhibitions deal with the power of nostalgia and the idea of returning home, and I hope our articles entice you to check them out.

In this edition, we also introduce you to two local artists who are making their names through the field of ceramics. At Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Lauren Shapiro’s Pastiche installation of nature-inspired sculptures set against the ornate rooms of the property offers a glimpse at Shapiro’s fascination with exploration, a recurring theme in her work. On a different note, Nina Surel’s surrealistic ceramics of the female anatomy explore the changing experiences of womanhood. Nina is making her Basel debut with this new body of work, so we expect to hear much more about her in the future.

I’m running out of room (and perhaps rambling on a bit), but I’d be remiss if I did not mention two more Art Weekrelated articles. One of those is on Design District Design Commission winner Nicole Nomsa Moyo and the way her Pearl Jam installation will acquaint Miami with the jewelry traditions of Southern African women. Also of note: Saxon Henry’s article on the rehanging of developer Craig Robins’ art collection at his Dacra headquarters, which reveals a collector who’s truly attuned to what collecting means.

On the art-meets-design front, we highlight a colorful (and over-the-top) assemblage of collectible design and contemporary art at a Star Island home curated by Avant Gallery + Home founder Dmitry Prut, as well as a Miami residence with a Guggenheim-approved art collection designed by the mighty Holly Hunt. Plus, there are three additional features besides the cover article that all highlight the art and interior design balance in some way or another.

We had a pull-our-hair-out blast curating this edition for you, so we hope you enjoy it. Happy Art Week.

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

PHOTO

ART & DESIGN

As we head into the winter season, we gladly present the Art Issue of Florida Design Miami. During the first week of December, Miami and Miami Beach will once again play hosts to Art Week, a special time of culture fueled by the mighty Art Basel Miami Beach and dozens of other fairs that pop up around town, including Design Miami, Art Miami, Context, Untitled, Aqua, Scope, and many more. These dynamic gatherings bring thousands of galleries, collectors, artists, and art aficionados to town for seven days and nights of artistic excess—not to mention the A-list celebrities who descend on our shores for the glamorous VIP parties and dinners hosted by leading fashion and design brands. As this issue was going to press, we were busy planning our own events for the week, and by the time you read this, I’ll have my own plan of action for navigating Art Week in place. While exciting, this time of year can be a bit frustrating as there’s so much to do in such little time. Whether you’re a Basel novice or a seasoned veteran, use this issue to help you navigate the cool madness. As usual, the editorial team has curated this edition with highlights to see and experience. I was able to preview some of the articles, which range from a profile on local artist Nina Surel to an inside look at developer Craig Robins’ magnificent art collection at Dacra in the Design District. I can assure you that you’re in for a treat. Just as worthy of your attention are the home features in this edition, which include residences by the likes of Dunagan Diverio Design Group, Nar Design Studio, STA Architectural Group, and The Wall Studio, all of which showcase an ideal balance of art and interior design.

As other matters go, in September I headed up to New York to celebrate the grand opening of the new Artefacto showroom in Manhattan’s NoMAD district. The expansive, two-floor space did not disappoint. It was great to see this brand, which established its U.S. presence right here in Miami and has been part of the Florida Design family for 20-plus years, take on New York. Congratulations to family members Paulo, Bruna, Pietro, and Bruno, as well as the entire Artefacto team for such a spectacular endeavor. Well done!

Back here at home, FD co-hosted a dinner with Fendi Casa at the showroom’s Design District location to celebrate the brand’s new 2025 collections. The gathering brought together 24 top interior designers and featured a spectacular seven-course Italian dinner. I’d like to give a special shoutout to Giacomo Rossi, VP of Fendi Casa Americas, and Bianca Bloise, the showroom’s manager, for their hospitality and support.

Finally, I’d like to announce that we are now accepting submissions for our third annual Seaglass Awards, which will once again honor interior design professionals from all around the state in a variety of categories. Visit fdseaglassawards.com for additional information. Our 2025 winners will be announced in May.

For now, enjoy this issue. I’ll be filling you in on my own Art Week highlights in our spring 2025 edition. As the locals say: Happy Baseling!

HARVEY M. DANA Associate Publisher hdana@floridadesign.com

above: Associate Publisher Harvey M. Dana (seated) with Giacomo Rossi, Bianca Bloise, Camila Castello Branco, and Henry Palomino at the Fendi Casa Design District dinner

above: Paulo Bacchi, Bruna Horn, and Associate Publisher Harvey M. Dana at Artefacto Manhattan’s opening.

CHARLOTTE DUNAGAN & TOM DIVERIO

Dunagan Diverio Design Group

“Artistic Movement,” page 128

ISABEL TRAGASH

STA Architectural Group

“Lasting Impressions,” page 140

A world-class art collection deserves a world-class design team to present it in its best light, so it’s not by coincidence that the owners of the San Marino Island residence that graces this issue’s cover sought out Charlotte Dunagan and Tom Diverio for the job. The design team has proven it’s well-equipped to handle museum-quality art collections and deliver standout interiors worthy of them time and again. “This was a true collaboration between all the parties involved,” says Diverio. “Because of that, we were able to deliver a spectacular backdrop for the owners’ amazing art collection, as well as a stunning home they will enjoy for years to come.” dunagandiverio.com

BLANCA WALL

The Wall Studio

“Natural High,” page 148

The stylish high-rise residences designer Blanca Wall creates all around Miami reflect her love for both natural materials and fine art, and the Apogee home featured in this edition is no exception. The owners requested a home that was elegant yet low-key, and reflective of their styles. Wall delivered that and so much more. “We wanted to focus on having materials as close to nature as possible—stone that was honed, wood floors that were brushed,” says Wall. “The goal was a feeling of understated serenity.” Mission accomplished. wall-studio.com

Sensuous and daring is the best way to describe the Sunny Isles Beach pied-à-terre that designers Isabel Tragash and Jordan Dobrow created for a Texas couple with a penchant for irreverent yet sexy art and provocative photography. “Our clients’ affinity for Saint-Tropez and cosmopolitan city life inspired the sleek architectural backdrop complemented by ocean hues expressed through the furnishings and artwork,” says Tragash. “Their genuinely distinctive vision offered us a clear direction, and we deeply valued their unique perspective as it opened the door to an exciting creative freedom in our work.” staarchitecturalgroup.com

ROBERTO RACY & NICHOLAS GENNARI

Nar Design Studio

“Miami Modern,” page 158

Designers Roberto Racy and Nicholas Gennari made an impression on the owner of a Brickell Flatiron penthouse long before they ever met him. The entrepreneur had seen their design work while touring a Nar-designed unit in the building that he ultimately didn’t purchase. Months later, when he found a residence in the same tower that suited him, he made sure the team was available to work on its interiors before he acquired it. “Thoughtful placement of low-profile furniture, clean lines, and an open layout to enhance the perception of spaciousness was the way to go with this project,” says Racy of their overall approach. “The rethinking of space distribution made all the difference.” nardesignstudio.com

BAXTER MIAMI

photography by Andrea Ferrari

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CRYSTAL REVOLUTION

Known for creations that date back to 1588, SAINT-LOUIS made a striking statement at the recent edition of Design Miami Paris with the debut of Chamade, a set of three extraordinary crystal pieces by artist-designer Pierre Marie that illustrate his mastery of the medium. Inspired by flowers and music, the trio showcases hallmarks of the Saint-Louis brand with mouth-blown shapes, bold color, and rich hand-cutting, as well as Marie’s vision for the ultra-exceptional. saint-louis.com; pierremariestudio.com; designmiami.com

Seating Chart

CHAIRS MAKE A SCULPTURAL STATEMENT WITH EYE-CATCHING SILHOUETTES

Blending fashion and design, the Archibald chair in denim upholstery from POLTRONA recalls a stylish pair of dark-wash poltronafrau.com 2 Designed by Tiziano Guardini and Luigi Ciuffreda, the Narinari chair for B&B ITALIA offers an origami silhouette. bebitalia.com 3 Mixing leather and animal prints, the Wild armchair ROBERTO CAVALLI HOME INTERIORS the brainchild of designer Fausto robertocavallihomeinteriors.com; imperialmiami.com 4 Form meets function in the 1994 chair designed by Sergio Prieto for DOVAIN STUDIO dovainstudio.com Mineral Yeti armchair designed by Vincent Mazenauer for STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN is covered in faux fur for a luxurious look and feel. studiotwentyseven.com 6 Available in left- or right-facing configurations, the Fairfax chair by KELLY WEARSTLER is the epitome 4 2 6 1

3 of chic simplicity. 5

Space to Grow

STOWAWAY STORAGE

INNOVATIONS KEEP KITCHENS CLEAR OF CLUTTER

above and inset left: The Moving Table island enhancement from HÄCKER KITCHENS can be effortlessly shifted to uncover cooktops and to extend counter space. hackerkitchens.us

left: With the in-drawer Gourmet Line Tool Holder from FEBAL CASA, chefgrade cooking tools are artfully organized and always at hand. febalcasa.com

above: Designed for corner cabinets, SecretSpace by SIEMATIC offers modules that swivel 180 degrees to reveal elegant shelves. siematic.com

above and inset right: The Phoenix kitchen by POLIFORM allows users to hide or reveal storage nooks and appliances as needed. poliform.it/en

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Mural Milieu

WALLCOVERINGS GO THE DISTANCE WITH BOLD COLORS, TEXTURES, AND PATTERNS

above: The One Way by Tecnografica stone-effect wallcovering from TWILL & TEXTURE reinterprets the expressive characteristics of natural marbles and granites without the weight and cost of the real thing. twillandtexture.com

left: The Horizon Blue bespoke wallcovering by GRAHAM & BROWN offers sea-inspired tranquility to any room. grahambrown.com

below: Designed by Véronique de Soultrait, the Cordes Sensibles pattern from ELITIS covers walls with colorful Art Deco influences. elitis.fr/en

below: Inspired by antique decorative moulding, the Greenhouse Gathering wallcovering from MOOOI stuns in a monochrome palette that’s reminiscent of ancient plasterwork. moooiwallcovering.com

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YEAR

LEFT: Self-supporting wood veneer panels are arranged in a domino-like structure around a central light source in the Escape Suspension fixture designed by Ray Power for LZF LAMPS lzf-lamps.com

RIGHT: The modular structure of the Maglia tallboy dresser by Atelier Oï for FENDI CASA is composed of six stacked drawers crafted from curved wood. fendicasa.com

Against the Grain

WOOD FURNITURE AND FIXTURES TAKE ON SURPRISING SHAPES

Designed by

ABOVE: Like a silent sentinel standing guard, the Still Sand No. 20 sculpture by ESCALONA features a stack of smooth, wooden shapes. joelescalona.com

LEFT: With its curved silhouette, the Vic rocking chair by Piegatto for ARTEFACTO adds an effortless artistic statement to any room. artefacto.com

JOEL

LEFT:

Charlotte Perriand for CASSINA, the Ventaglio table is made from 14 wood planks that have been artfully joined together. cassina.com

Burgundy and Beyond

REMINISCENT OF WINE AND ROYALTY, PURPLE’S COUSIN MAKES A STRIKING STATEMENT

of the Bun lounge chair from M2L ensures stylish versatility and comfort. m2l.com

Featuring an organic shape insired by natural forms, the Viola table lamp from AQUA CREATIONS is crafted from sculptural silk. aquagallery.com

LEFT: Inigo Elizalde’s Selva! rug from CLIMA HOME celebrates the deep, dark nature of lush jungles and the creatures that live within. climahome.com

Two sinuous supports create the legs, armrests, and backrests of the Dudet two-seat sofa by Patricia Urquiola for CASSINA cassina.com

ABOVE: Designer Piero Lissoni created the Assiale table for B&B ITALIA out of Levanto red marble for a monumental impact in any space. bebitalia.com

WALL PANELLING SYSTEM, SIXTY COFFEE TABLE. DESIGN GIUSEPPE BAVUSO

American Gothic

IN THE HANDS OF MIAMI ARTIST AUTUMN CASEY, TIFFANY LAMPS EMBRACE A CHARMINGLY UNREFINED AESTHETIC

TEXT LUIS R. RIGUAL

THE BACKSTORY

Part of an exhibition at The Future Perfect gallery in New York earlier this year, The July Tree is one in a series of lamps inspired by the designs of Louis Comfort Tiffany created by Miami-based artist Autumn Casey. “I think of them as gothic cartoon versions of classic Tiffanys,” she says. “I’ve always been attracted to the extravagant and feminine forms of Art Nouveau in general, and to Tiffany lamps in particular. Their possibilities are endless.”

THE INSPIRATION

“The July Tree is a mass-produced version of a Tiffany lamp, not a real one, that I came across after a search on Google,” says Casey. “I loved the composition and decided it would be a good challenge to try and replicate it. When I was making it, my dog, Duke, died, so I see the birds as a symbol of our love for each other. The name alludes to a Nina Simone song. I often see my loved ones through my sculptures, and I like to reference things that accompany me in the studio, like music.”

THE MATERIALS

“I use steel, wire, plaster, Apoxie paste, acrylic paint, resin, light fittings, and repurposed fabric from my grandmother, who left me all her doll-making supplies when she passed away,” says Casey. “The magic comes together from the time spent crafting all the layers together.”

THE FINAL WORD

“I think of my lamps as ways to mark the changing of the seasons,” says Casey, who will be presenting new designs at this year’s Design Miami. “They’re like time markers about the persistence of love.” autumncasey.com; thefutureperfect.com

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SUITE LIFE

CHECKING IN IS NOW A THING AT THE MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT WITH THE DEBUT OF THE HOTEL AT THE MOORE

Luxury fashion and top-tier design? Been there. World-class culture and Michelin-star restaurants? Done that. There isn’t much more the Miami Design District can offer visitors these days, but the powers-that-be have done it again with the recent debut of The Hotel at The Moore, a new, all-suite hotel on the fourth floor of The Moore building (now a private club) for those who want to partake in the neighborhood’s action around the clock and then stay the night. Accommodations at the venue range from 700 to 1,000 square feet, and amenities include a restaurant, multiple dining rooms, a karaoke room, a couple of hidden cocktail lounges, a game room, an entire floor of workstations, and even a library. As for the interior design by Studio Collective and ICRAVE? Think midcentury-modern with copious wood panels and custom furnishings by Mous and Sossego. Art Week—as expected—is already fully booked. mooremiami.com

right: Alteronce Gumby’s artistic practice includes painting, ceramics, installation, performance, and film.

PRECIOUS COLORS

Alteronce Gumby—remember the name. You’re bound to be hearing it often while making the rounds during Art Week. The New York-based artist, known for his innovative use of materials and deep fascination with astronomy and color theory, will debut a new mural made up of multiple gemstones in the Design District’s Jade Alley. The move marks his first outdoor public project—and his largest artwork to date. “Living the Dream is a cultural celebration,” says Gumby. “The mural invites the community to connect with Miami’s urban beauty on a deeper level, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation. Through this visually engaging project, I hope to evoke both awe and tranquility.” The unveiling will take place in early December. miamidesigndistrict.com; alteroncegumby.com

below: Gumby’s Living the Dream mural incorporates a variety of gemstones (including green jade, turquoise, red jasper, and black obsidian) and fossilized shark teeth.

left: Wood paneling and midcentury-modern furnishings are common to all the hotel’s 13 suites.

above and right: The Hotel at The Moore’s lobby area features art by Soraya Abu Naba’a (left), Emil Lukas (center), and Samuel Olayombo (right), and armchairs by Emotional Brands.

Local Presence

PININFARINA SPREADS ITS WINGS ON BRICKELL KEY

On the heels of its 10th anniversary, Pininfarina recently revealed an expansion of its Americas office on Brickell Key. Spanning 5,000 square feet, the design firm’s new look blends Miami sensibilities with iconic Italian design and includes flexible rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that can be adapted in various configurations, as well as a state-of-the-art materials library with 3D printers. “The improved office is an extension of Pininfarina’s leadership in design, and the space is reflective of how we intend to serve our clients through elegant design and cutting-edge innovation,” says Claudio Da Soller, the company’s senior vice president and general manager. “We are pleased to support our continued investment and growth in the United States.” Some of Pininfarina’s recent projects include the Andare Residences condo building in Fort Lauderdale, the Maringa Tower of apartments in Maringa, Brazil, the Arco Kitchen Collection for Florense, and Aldea Uh May, a conscious living community in Tulum, Mexico. The Italian company was founded in 1930 and has offices in Italy, China, Germany, and the U.S. pininfarina.it

PERCHANCE TO DREAM

Set to open this winter, the new Hästens showroom at the Esplanade shopping center in Aventura will feature the Swedish brand’s full lineup of made-for-royalty beds—including the decadent Grand Vividus, which ranges in price from $656,000 to $1 million. (More approachable models start at around $6,000.) For the uninitiated, Hästens’ beds, which date back to 1852, are made by hand using materials such as horsehair, cotton, wool, and flax to ensure a “breathable and body-responsive sleep experience.” The Aventura location will also house a sleep spa, where serious buyers can schedule a personalized snooze experience to see which bed best suits their needs. hastens.com

above: Maringa Tower is one of five design projects by Pininfarina in collaboration with Plaenge in Brazil.

above and left: Developed by Related Group, Andare Residences in Fort Lauderdale features interior design by Pininfarina.

below and right: Hästens’ exclusive beds have been made by hand since the company’s founding in 1852.

above: Hästens’ Vividus bed is one of the brand’s most luxurious models.

In the Glow

DESIGNER BARCLAY BUTERA LETS HIS TALENTS SHINE WITH A NEW COLLECTION FOR FINE ART HANDCRAFTED LIGHTING

Fresh from its fall debut at the High Point Furniture Market, Embark is a new collection by designer Barclay Butera for Miami Lakes-based Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting. Marked by waves and sails shapes in marine-inspired hues, the line includes everything from chandeliers and sconces to elegant table lamps, in both indoor and outdoor options. “There is a very upscale and bespoke element to Embark,” says Butera. “The handcrafted designs feature three distinct moods: The white has a contemporary feel; the amber evokes a moody vibe; and the blue offers a subtle nod to maritime style.” finearthl.com

Furniture designer Yrjö Kukkapuro with three different versions of the Experiment chair sometime after its release in 1984

EXPERIMENTAL PROCESS

In 1984, Finnish furniture designer Yrjö Kukkapuro gave the world the bold and expressive Experiment chair, a piece that quickly became an icon of 1980s design. This past October, Hem and Studio Kukkapuro released a reissue of the chair that perfectly preserves the distinctive visual expression of the original—to ensure that, Hem worked closely with the 91-year-old Kukkapuro and his daughter, Isa Kukkapuro-Enbom. “Yrjö has always been ahead of his time, and as a major trailblazer in furniture design, his signature style and thoughtful constructions are still at the cutting edge,” says Petrus Palmér, founder of Hem. “We are beyond excited to bring the Experiment chair back.” hem.com

above: Designer Barclay Butera

far left and left: The Embark collection includes the Amber Waves circular pendant and the Amber Sails sconce, both of which celebrate the beauty of sea travel.

left and inset below:

The new Experiment chair’s frames can be paired with dynamically shaped wooden armrests available in red, blue, green, or black, along with three new upholstery options, offering 16 distinct configurations.

The Blue Sail pendant from Embark by Barclay Butera for Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting was inspired by waters from the coasts of Morocco and Santorini.

below:

FAB COLLAB

INTERLUDE HOME AND KRAVET JOIN FORCES IN THE NAME OF CUSTOM DESIGN

above: Landon II stool in Kravet’s Donghia Casino Royale fabric by Rayman Boozer: “I used this fabric in one of my first projects about 25 years ago, so I was happy to see that Kravet has brought it back.”

Talk about going the extra mile. To showcase Interlude Home’s COM program, in which customers can choose from a variety of fabrics to upholster any frame in the brand’s collection, the company recently tapped four designers from across the United States—Rayman Boozer, Susan Glick, Tamela Greathouse Greene, and Melanie Calder—to custom design the Interlude Home seating piece of their choice with textures from Kravet’s family of fabrics. The results were inspiring to say the least, with everything from an abstract bench by Calder to a ski chaletinspired chair by Glick. The pieces made their debut at the fall High Point Furniture Market and will be on display at Interlude Home’s Miami showroom starting this November. interludehome.com

left: Darcy ll chair in Kravet’s Bewitching, Creme, and Modern Velvet fabrics by Susan Glick: “I love the creativity of the Kravet line of fabrics, so I naturally gravitated to the higher-end lines.”

below: Targa swivel chair in Kravet’s Donghia Art Theory fabric by Tamela Greathouse Greene: “It’s a playful fabric pattern and I think this chair lends itself to that joyful aesthetic.”

Bennet Grand bench in Kravet’s Lee Jofa Bleecker fabric by Melanie Calder: “I knew I wanted a fun pattern for the bench to give it the real Calder Design Group signature punch. I chose it because it reminds me of an abstract painting in my living room.”

SURFACE

Based in South Florida

Coral Gables to highlight its entire selection of hardwood, porcelain tile, natural stone, and vinyl slabs from Spain. The new space offers an immersive experience of the ACE inventory with large displays that showcase the surfaces as if they are works of art. “Our new showroom provides homeowners, builders, contractors, and designers with unparalleled access to a curated selection of options for flooring and walls,” says Mercy Rivero, the company’s president. “It represents the next chapter in our journey.” aceflooringmiami.com

above and inset top left: ACE Flooring’s surface options include hardwood, porcelain tile, natural stone, and vinyl imported from Spain.

left:

TEXTURE TACTICS

COLOMBIAN DESIGNER JOHANNA

ORTIZ DELIVERS HER BRAND OF FABRIC FINESSE FOR SCHUMACHER

Schumacher certainly knows tastemakers who can deliver. The brand recently tapped Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz for a new collection of fabrics, wallcoverings, and trims that launched in October and the results are sure to become bestsellers. The line is unified by Ortiz’s signature motif, the palm tree, and each design reflects her connection to Colombia’s biodiversity and heritage with materials such as linen, sisal, and raffia. “Every day, I look out my window and see the palm tree standing proudly as my eternal muse,” says Ortiz. “Its forms and beauty embody my home’s spirit and essence, and its soulful presence has inspired this collaboration with Schumacher, translating whispers of tropical paradises into this line.” schumacher.com; johannaortiz.com

ARTISTIC ORGANISMS

Next time you’re strolling through Lincoln Road, you are likely to encounter one of Obras Studio’s Amoebas. Located near the Euclid Avenue part of the promenade, the artworks were conceived as “objects of play” intended to be climbed and jumped on. Originally colored in blue automotive paint, the sculptures now feature floral motifs by Miami artist Jayda Knight or metallic shades of copper, gold, and silver. lincolnroad.com; obras.studio

above: The Andean Tribute embroidery fabric on cushions

left, and below: The Lincoln Road Amoebas were originally conceived by Omar Moreno of Obras Studio. The sculptures’ floral motifs are the work of Miami artist Jayda Knight.

Lifestyle designer Johanna Ortiz at her colonial home in Colombia

left: Wall and ceiling clad in the Amazonas Mystique wallcovering

left: Wall and ceiling covered in the A Palm is

wallcovering

WEST PALM NAPLES

JUPITER

MYERS

PALM BEACH

WELLINGTON

Warhol For Rent

A NEW MIAMI SERVICE

LETS ART LOVERS

EXPERIENCE THE HIGHS

OF OWNING A PRIZED COLLECTION—ALBEIT FOR A LIMITED TIME

Conceived by Miami attorney Daniel Novela, Alevon is a new online platform that allows art lovers to rent artworks valued at more than $100,000 and collection owners to put their prized masterworks up for rental. “It’s similar to how Airbnb and Turo revolutionized the home and auto rental industries, but unique to the world of art,” says Novela, a collector himself whose practice is well-versed in art law. “By providing a seamless user experience, a rigorous vetting process, and partnerships with galleries, artist estates, art storage, art funds, and auction companies, Alevon aims to create a thriving marketplace that benefits both art owners and art renters.” Using Alevon’s app interface, members can explore a curated selection of works though high-resolution images and videos with detailed descriptions and contextual information about each piece, as well as see the art in their spaces to inform their rental decisions. For the owners, Alevon ensures each insured piece undergoes an appraisal and condition report before and after each rental. alevon.com

REALTY CHECK

What does $40 million buy you in South Florida these days? At the Renzo Piano-designed Eighty Seven Park in Miami Beach the answer to that question is an oceanfront penthouse with 6,380 square feet of interior space and 3,287 square feet of ample terraces. The place comes completely furnished with interiors by RDAI that include furniture by Hermès, European closets by Rimadesio, Macaubas marble counters and Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances in the kitchen, and artworks by Claude Monet, Keith Haring, and Andy Warhol (for an extra charge, of course). The residence houses six bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms and is accessed via private elevator. And yes, parking is included. stepinsidewithme.com

The residence’s marble-clad primary bath with soaking tub ensures a spa-like experience.

below:

inset right: The penthouse’s kitchen features Macaubas marble counters, as well as Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances.

Eighty Seven Park’s $40 million fully furnished Penthouse II offers views of the Atlantic Ocean and the downtown Miami skyline.

above and below: The new Alevon platform offers works like Pablo Atchugarry’s Untitled sculpture and Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe screenprint on a rental basis.

above: Alevon founder Daniel Novela

MESKITA MAGICAL KINETIC ART

Ale Meskita was born in Brazil to a family of artists. At 15, she began painting, weaving, and working with textiles, and in 2010, started the fashion line MESKITA in New York, attaining success in department stores worldwide. She finds her artistic inspiration in the creation of textiles and the structured movements of her embroidered fashion designs.

In 2016, Meskita married her art aesthetic to tailored craftsmanship, creating artwork for her Miami living room. She intricately entwined acrylic-painted canvas with colored cords and yarns. Meskita wanted to create art that could be touched and retain its form; however, she also wanted to create something that changes shape and hue when admired from different angles, becoming a completely different art piece based on one’s reference point. Through weaving, and painting, she portrays a dance of movement onto her walls, incorporating a kinetic effect and kaleidoscope of color, pattern, and texture.

Meskita’s work quickly gained recognition, transforming her career into that of an artist’s. She resides in Miami, working with internationally acclaimed galleries, luxury interior designers, and prominent art collectors.

Meskita also creates bespoke art for visionary collectors who seek an “artist experience” by delicately pairing colors, styles, and textures to perfectly dress a space.

MESKITA

Text: 561.360.8811

@MESKITA

CASA GIOVANNI

Introducing Casa Giovanni, a captivating collection of signature sculptures by visionary gallerist Giovanni Rossi. With over 30 years of experience in the art world, including his renowned Cartel Contemporary gallery, Giovanni unveils his Butterfly Collection. This award-winning design, patented by the artist, brings ethereal beauty and symbolism to life. Choose from a range of sizes—3-inch, 5-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch—available in six colors, such as white, black, nickel, rose gold, matte gold, and gold. Discover the perfect piece to elevate your space. Custom

colors and sizes are also available upon request. To learn more, scan our QR code, call 561-957-3256, or visit casa-giovanni.com. Immerse yourself in the world of Casa Giovanni and embrace the timeless beauty of butterflies.

Casa Giovanni Fort Lauderdale, FL

561-957-3256

casa-giovanni.com

WHITE

BLACK NICKEL ROSE GOLDMATTE GOLD GOLD

ROY LICHTENSTEIN | L.E. GALLERY

KENNY NGUYEN | SUNDARAM TAGORE GALLERY

LEFT: “I am deeply honored to assume this role and to join in the transformative journey of Art Basel Miami Beach,” says Bridget Finn, the fair’s new director.

After successful runs in Basel, Switzerland (where it all began), Hong Kong, and Paris, Art Basel closes 2024 with the 21st edition of its Miami Beach fair. Here’s a primer on what’s new and what to expect.

THE NEW BOSS

Art Basel Miami Beach’s new director, Bridget Finn, comes to the post with, as the powers that be at Basel put it, “deep knowledge of the gallery ecosystem.” She’s held various positions with top galleries in the United States and Europe and in 2022 established FLOURISH, a platform that employs art to drive advancements for children with rare diseases. “We are categorically focused on the quality of exhibitors and works on view, making sure we deliver an experience that is truly unparalleled,” says Finn as to what we can expect this year. “This edition has been designed [with first-time visitors, seasoned fairgoers, and collectors] in mind to maximize at every turn the opportunity for surprise encounters and revelatory discoveries.”

The Main Event

ABOVE: Presented by Pearl Lam Galleries in the Meridians sector, Pathway (2024) by Zhu Jinshi is a walk-in sculpture made from 16,000 sheets of paper suspended over an armature of thin bamboo and cotton.

THE ENERGIZED SECTOR

Always a popular section in the fair, the Meridians sector will be curated for the first time this year by Yasmil Raymond, a former curator at The Museum of Modern Art in New York. Titled State of Becoming , Meridians will feature 18 projects highlighting new and historical works. Not to be missed is Metal Storm , a new installation by Rachel Feinstein depicting three figures suspended above each other and spinning midair.

THE LOCAL CONTINGENT

Miami-based galleries participating in this year’s Basel include David Castillo, which will be part of the main Galleries sector, and Spinello Projects in the Nova sector, which is devoted to younger galleries presenting work created in the last three years. Fredric Snitzer Gallery will be part of the main floor as well as Meridians, and Piero Atchugarry will also do double duty with presence in Survey (the section of the fair devoted to historical art) and Meridians.

THE DETAILS

Art Basel Miami Beach will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center from December 6 to 8, with VIP preview days on December 4 and 5. artbasel.com

LEFT: Pico Blanco (2024) by Federico Herrero will be presented by Sies + Höke in the Kabinett sector of the fair.

Positive Thinking

DESIGN MIAMI HEADS INTO ITS 20TH EDITION WITH A CELEBRATION OF OPTIMISM

In a year that saw a debut in Los Angeles and successful runs in Basel, Switzerland, and Paris, Design Miami is finishing 2024 with the 20th edition of its first and original fair.

THE FAIR’S THEME

“This December in Miami, things will be looking up,” says Curatorial Director Glenn Adamson about this year’s Design Miami theme: Blue Sky. Optimism and positivity are in the air at the 2024 edition of the fair, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Although details were short, organizers promise “an exploration of the boldest leaps of imagination happening today that will highlight design as a risk-taking venture to meet the challenges of the present.” In other words: Expect surprises.

THE HISTORY LESSON

Fair participant Gallery FUMI from London will honor past contributions to aesthetics through a program that celebrates traditional craftsmanship and contemporary works. FUMI will spotlight works by Francesco Perini, JAMESPLUMB, Casey McCafferty, Jeremy Anderson, and Max Lamb alongside present-day artists whose creations are defined by a blend of natural elements and meticulous techniques.

THE CERAMICS EXPLORATION

A popular mainstay of DM, Cape Town’s Southern Guild turns its attention to ceramics this year with a presentation of vessels, furniture, and wallhangings rendered in clay by artists from the southern region of Africa.

THE TEAM EFFORT

Up for a group exhibition? New York’s Ateliers Courbet has you covered with SCULPT , a presentation that explores the connections between natural and manipulated forms and textures. The show includes 13 creatives, including sculptor Philippe Anthonioz, designer Pieter Maes, and ceramicist Valéria Nascimento.

THE DETAILS

Design Miami will take place at Pride Park in Miami Beach from December 4 to 8, with a preview day on December 3. desigmiami.com

text CHRISTOPHER DAY

Part of Gallery FUMI’s programming, Pitkä-Kotka Cabinet (2023) by Kustaa Saksi is constructed with woven fabric made from Japanese paper.

right: Nomggabazo (2024) by Andile Dyalvane is one of various ceramic works that make up Southern Guild’s clay presentation.

left: Included in Ateliers Courbet’s SCULPT exhibition, Fold Stool Natural (2024) by Pieter Maes is a piece that tests the possibilities of cedar.

above: Curatorial Director Glenn Adamson

Second Chances

ARTIST JOSÉ PARLÁ’S NEW EXHIBITION AT THE PÉREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI MARKS AN EMOTIONAL RETURN TO HIS HOMETOWN—AND TO LIFE

TEXT SAXON HENRY

“You can never go home again.” That old adage, adapted from a 1940 Thomas Wolfe novel, holds no truth for artist José Parlá, whose new exhibition at the Pérez Art Museum Miami proves you can—and in more ways than one.

Homecoming (November 14, 2024 to July 16, 2025) celebrates the painter’s return to Miami and his Cuban roots as a subject matter and his own comeback to art after a life-threating case of COVID-19 that caused severe brain bleeding and then left him uncertain as to whether he would ever stand in front of a canvas again.

“The first brushstroke felt heavy with uncertainty but also filled with hope,” says Parlá, who’s based in Brooklyn. “I was relearning my own language, reconnecting with the gestures, the textures, the layers. Painting became a way to heal, to document what words couldn’t express. The act itself became a meditation, a

LEFT: “Miami is embedded in my DNA,” says artist José Parlá.

“The rhythms, the colors, the textures—it’s all there in my work.” Behind him are American Mindscape, 2024 (left), and Heritage Trails, Journeys of Home and Renewal, 2024 (right).

BELOW: Parlá’s Return to Miami’s Ancestral Circle, 2024, illustrates the forceful sense of movement he creates with the abstract gestural marks of his works.

BELOW: “These paintings are raw; they’re filled with the intensity of survival,” says Parlá of works such as Breath of Life, Inhale and Exhale, 2024. “Each one is a record of the time I spent confronting my own fragility, and yet, they’re also filled with resilience.”

the complexity of emotions I went through,”

Parlá. “The pieces have a tactile quality, almost as if you can feel the breath, the heartbeat, the struggle within the work itself.”

histories,”

says. “This exhibition is an homage to Miami, to the streets that raised me, and to the layers of life that exist in those spaces.”

dialogue with my body and spirit, transforming the pain into something tangible, something I could share with the world.”

Not only will Parlá’s dynamic textural compositions enliven the experiences of museumgoers, he will infuse their visits with a dynamic energy by painting a mural on-site, as well as welcome them into a replica of his studio replete with paint-splattered tables, a vinyl Cubaninspired record collection, and decades of his archival memorabilia. The songs are relevant to Parlá’s process because his work is shaped by music, calligraphy, dance, and the decay of urban architecture and

advertisements. The latter will be concretely expressed in the works on view. “The walls of a city tell its history,” he explains. “They carry the marks of its people, its struggles, its celebrations. By using posters from the streets of Miami, I’m embedding the stories of the city directly into the work.”

Above all, Parlá hopes the experience he is creating will be resonant: “I want people to feel that sense of reconnection when they walk through; to see the layers of history, of pain, and of hope—not just in the works but in their own lives.” pamm.org; parlastudios.com

right: In The Spiritual Cleansing of Home, 2024, the viewer can make out one of the Miami street signs Parlá incorporated into it. “Home isn’t just a physical place; it’s an emotional and psychological landscape shaped by experiences, memories, and

he

left: A Life of Memories Racing Through Art Deco Miami Beach Avenues, 2024. “I use the act of layering ink, paint, and plaster to reflect

says

Memory Lane

A NEW EXHIBITION BY RACHEL FEINSTEIN AT THE BASS MUSEUM OF ART ROLLS BACK THE YEARS ON MIAMI

Reflecting on a childhood spent in Miami is a complex exercise for artist Rachel Feinstein, who grew up in a decidedly different place than she finds when she visits today.

“I am a very nostalgic person, and the vision I have of Miami in the 1970s and ’80s brings tears to my eyes,” she says. “It was a very magical place, and I don’t think that type of magic exists anywhere anymore due to the internet and how our world has drastically changed.”

That past allure she feels has to do with the feeling of quiet and sense of aloneness that defined her youth. The works in Rachel Feinstein: The Miami Years at The Bass Museum of Art (through August 17, 2025) certainly reflect this. While many of the sculptural pieces in the show seem as if they’ve been eerily frozen in a twisting metamorphosis, paintings reflect an enchanted stillness. One of the most impactful pieces in the group is a 30-foot-long mural, a site-specific commission titled Panorama of Miami (2024) made of mirrored wall panels that depict tropical settings superimposed with nostalgic scenes that are slightly askew.

“Going into Panorama of Miami , I knew right away which places I needed to represent: my special childhood spots like the old Parrot Jungle, the Serpentarium, the Biltmore Hotel, Vizcaya, and the Venetian Pool,” says Feinstein “The aspect I did not expect was how emotional I became while seeing the images come together.” To the native Miamians who will take in the exhibition, she says, “I hope my art reminds people of their own childhood memories of Miami.”

The tension between Feinstein’s recollections and the sensory experience of coming to town today have changed during the past several years. “Now that my parents are gone, I am more capable of seeing the new Miami in a better light with all of its changes, especially those as a cultural mecca with Art Basel and Design Miami,” she says. “I can’t live in the past anymore, so now I enjoy spending time swimming and seeing great art.” thebass.org

left: Feinstein stands in front of Rachel Feinstein, Model (2000) and Rachel Feinstein, Mirrored Ball (1998), two works in her The Miami Years exhibition.

text SAXON HENRY

Rachel Feinstein’s Miami Panorama (2024) is a 30-foot, sitespecific mural that was specially commissioned for the artist’s first exhibition for The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach.

REVOLVING STAGE

DACRA FOUNDER CRAIG ROBINS PREPARES TO SHARE HIS WORLD-CLASS (AND EVER-GROWING)

ART COLLECTION WITH BASEL’S VISITING VIPS

A driving force behind the explosion of artistic activity that takes place in Miami each December, Craig Robins has been at the center of the action since he co-founded Design Miami in 2005. His evolution from avid collector, a role he first embraced in the mid-1980s, to organizer of some of the world’s most revered art and design events has been a natural one. Today, Robins continues to collect modern and contemporary art, his current cache of works numbering over 1,500.

As Art Week approaches each year, an uptick in activity takes over the offices of Dacra, the Robins-led company that has developed the Miami Design District into the destination it is today, as he oversees a full reinstallation to bring new pieces he collected during the previous year to Art Basel VIP cardholders. Highlights of the 2024 introductions include recent acquisitions by Kai Althoff, Jana Euler, Jill Mulleady, Mario Ayala, Karon Davis, Bony Ramirez, and Alteronce Gumby.

above left: “They both reflect my own interests—an affinity for humor, darkness, eerie images, and above all, a visual imagination that is both uncensored and highly arousing,” says collector Craig Robins about artists Kai Althoff and Jana Euler.

Once the rehanging is finished, Dacra’s offices hold more than 300 works of figurative and conceptual art, as well as renowned design pieces. “A collection is an evolving portrait of a collector, reflecting changes in tastes over time,” says Robins. “Over the last 40 years, I’ve seen significant shifts—from collecting Miami-based artists like Carlos Alfonzo to more international figures like Marlene Dumas. If I could do it all over, there are certainly artists whose work I would eagerly acquire again.”

Robins says it’s refreshing to change out the collection each year because the narratives shift as he aligns the rotation with artists who are

having particularly interesting moments. One of these is Althoff, whose work has been exhibited in venues like MoMA and Whitechapel Gallery in London. “I’ve collected nearly 60 of his pieces,” he notes, “and I’m proud to have supported him from the start.”

It’s clear Robins’ enthusiasm for collecting has remained strong for over four decades now. One of his favorite moments took place when Jackie Matisse, Marcel Duchamp’s stepdaughter, sent him a letter about a painting Robins had acquired. “She explained that Three Standard Stoppages had been Duchamp’s favorite and that the edition I own is the last work in a private collection,” he says. “That felt pretty exciting!” craigrobins.com; @craigrobins

text SAXON HENRY

below: A Man Called Free, 2004, by Kai Althoff. “Kai is having a remarkable moment right now,” says Robins. “His work has the emotional intensity of Egon Schiele and the tenacity of Francisco de Goya.”

above: Hippie, 2015, by Jana Euler. “Jana represents a younger generation,” says Robins. “She’s an extraordinary talent and a more recent addition to my collection. I’m eager to continue collecting her work and watching her rise.”

Body of Work

MIAMI ARTIST NINA SUREL’S NEW CERAMICS CHRONICLE THE MYRIAD EXPERIENCES OF WOMANHOOD

As life transforms the human anatomy, so does a portion of clay in the artist’s hands—at least, that’s how multidisciplinary-artist-turned-ceramicist Nina Surel sees it.

“There’s a deep connection between clay and the body,” says the Miami-based creative. “I work with clay for its boundless transformative qualities and deep historical references, and because it’s a material that will outlast us.”

She would know. For the past few years, Surel has been experimenting with the medium, and her efforts make up Greta Chamotta/Great Love , a new series with which she will make her Art Basel Miami Beach debut this December. The exhibition (organized by Spinello Projects for the fair’s NOVA sector) is made up of vessels, mosaic tablets, sculptures, and a ceramic wall relief mural made from more than 1,000 pounds of stoneware ceramic with grog that Surel describes as an “assemblage of female figures, pagan deities, and gynoids, drawing from private and popular memories.” The works explore the connection between history, nature, and the female body, a recurring theme in Surel’s work.

“Motherhood has been the seed through which my work has evolved,” says the artist. “I’m interested in recording the temporalities that inhabit our body—aging, hardening, scarring, and mutation—and exploring the feminine with its myths and rituals.”

While her early work included performances, video, and installations, Surel transitioned to ceramics exclusively about three years ago, a move that has made her studio more sustainable, with virtually zero waste. She appreciates the malleability of clay as she shapes and sculpts it, and points to its shrinking and cracking as it dries as a parallel to the evolving nature of the female body.

“I’m constantly inspired by the role women have in making the planet more livable,” says Surel. “[Women are the ones making us aware] of the need to ensure a more comprehensive and less binary world.” ninasurel.com; spinelloprojects.com

TEXT KELLEY MARCELLUS

ABOVE: A Conch Called Snail, 2024, underglaze on stoneware. The female figures in Surel’s work are often fragmented body parts combined with features from animals or plants.

BELOW: Nina Surel is making her Art Basel debut with works that investigate the relationship between earthly elements and the female body.

LEFT: The Holder, 2024, underglaze on stoneware. Surel infuses her pieces with a surrealistic medley of botanical, mythical, and bodily forms. In this case, the Attalea palm tree, exaggerated into shapes resembling breasts, serves as a symbol of fertility and transformation.

ABOVE: Beauty Berry, 2024, underglaze on stoneware over wood. This piece alludes to the themes of slow sexuality, transformation, and the beauty of imperfection through motifs that include ovaries, native Florida beauty berries, and human cells.

and organic forms

NOW, VOYAGER

MIAMI CERAMICIST LAUREN SHAPIRO’S COMMISSIONED WORKS FOR VIZCAYA MUSEUM & GARDENS ARE INFORMED BY THE PROPERTY’S DESIGN HERITAGE AND THE ARTIST’S PENCHANT FOR EXPLORATION

Lauren Shapiro grew up in a neighborhood separated from the Everglades marshlands by a just strip of highway, a fact she credits for her early and ongoing fascination with exploring unknown places.

“Growing up where I did sparked my early curiosity to explore and observe the native Florida environment,” says the Miami-based artist. “I always wanted to know more about [places that were just] beyond reach.”

That interest for discovering the natural world has not diminished. In fact, it’s been a recurring theme in Shapiro’s art career, and it defines her most recent exhibition, Pastiche , at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove. Part of Vizcaya’s Contemporary Art Program, which commissions artists to develop original historic, site-specific work in the public realm, the installation’s ceramic sculptures were inspired by Shapiro’s love for natural forms and materials, and informed by the design of Paul Chalfin, the late artistic director behind Vizcaya’s decoration; even more specifically by Chalfin’s approach to pastiche, the blending of styles to create a cohesive whole, and its many superior examples throughout the property.

“It’s a choreography of sources, inspirations, and references that can be directly traced back to Chalfin’s work,” says Shapiro about the exhibition and its activation within Vizcaya’s enclosed loggia, reception area, and breakfast room, three of the palazzo’s main spaces. Detailed with symbols prevalent throughout Vizcaya—

text KELLEY MARCELLUS

right: Miami artist Lauren Shapiro’s works are influenced by nature, history, and science.

below: Garden Lantern #1, 2024, ceramic, cast glass, and plexiglass, 2024. Shapiro incorporated iconic symbols used throughout Vizcaya for two illuminated sculptures that echo the symmetry of antique Venetian lanterns flanking certain iron gates on the property.

left: Detail of Tea at Sunset, 2024, ceramic and plexiglass. Located in Vizcaya’s breakfast room, this vessel marries the botanic

found just outside the room’s windows.

seahorses, orchids, corals, and the like—the pieces’ colors were meant to evoke the feeling of a lush greenhouse. One selection in particular, Spectral Nature , holds a glass orb that produces a hologram-like effect of the orchids and palms found at Vizcaya, reminding viewers of a late 1800s parlor trick.

“The digitally animated [images] are derived from 3D scans I took of the Vizcaya greenhouses, where the orchids have been cultivated since Chalfin’s time,” says Shapiro. “I am passionate about combining expertise in traditional ceramics with innovative digital art practices.”

Pastiche is one of three public art commissions the in-demand Shapiro has been working on concurrently—a second one for the Port of Miami will be unveiled in 2025 while a third for Miami-Dade County’s Art in Public Spaces program will make its debut in 2026.

“My hope is that all these artworks become a powerful call to action,” says the artist. “My main goal is to raise public awareness of environmental conservations and motivate others to become explorers and protectors of the natural world.” vizcaya.org; laurenshapirostudio.com

right: Spectral Nature (2024, ceramic, glass, digital screen, and plexiglass) is located among the antique furnishings of Vizcaya’s reception area.

above: Inspired by the canvasses and murals that envelop Vizcaya’s second-floor breakfast room, Tea at Sunset is Shapiro’s version of a serving platter and tea set.

above: One of two Garden Lantern sculptures on display in Vizcaya’s enclosed loggia. “The sculpture’s glazed purple color and vibrant green base are evocative of the property’s lush greenhouse,” says Shapiro.

Cultured Pearls

ARTIST AND DESIGNER NICOLE NOMSA MOYO’S 2024 DESIGN COMMISSION HIGHLIGHTS THE JEWELRY TRADITIONS OF AFRICAN WOMEN AND PUTS THEM ON PROUD DISPLAY

Every December, Miami is transformed into a creative cacophony when artists, dealers, and collectors descend in town for Art Basel, Design Miami, and the host of cultural gatherings that take over the town during what’s become known as Art Week. Across the causeway from where much of the action unfolds on the beach, the Miami Design District takes a vibrancy of its own as its streets and plazas spring to life artistically. For the past 10 years, expressive installations have been appearing here thanks to an effort called the Design Commission that is overseen by Dacra and the Design Miami Curatorial Lab, a consultancy that aims to engage new audiences in the neighborhood.

This year, the commission (which will be up from late November through spring 2025) was awarded to African-born, Toronto-based artist/designer Nicole Nomsa Moyo whose jewelry-inspired installations, collectively dubbed Pearl Jam , are colorful tributes to her heritage, which took root in her home country of Zimbabwe and blossomed in South Africa where she was raised. Moyo’s colorful works, which will be installed in four spots in the District and at the entrance to the Design Miami fair, pay homage to the women of the Southern African Ndebele tribe, who have handcrafted jewelry for centuries. The installations include giant pearls, a necklace that comes apart, a sprawling bracelet, a tree made of clusters of pearls, and dangling radiant earrings.

influences can converge to craft a new, resonant story that bridges past inspirations with present innovation.”

Craig Robins, the head of Dacra, says that seeing works like these come to life is inspiring. “The Miami Design District is a living, breathing canvas, and what excites me is how a piece can spark curiosity and conversation,” he notes. “As we celebrate the 10th edition of the Design Commission, the through-line is innovation. We’ve challenged ourselves to offer a platform where experimental ideas can flourish.”

Robins also notes that the commissions can be transformative for the chosen artists, and Moyo certainly agrees. “Being selected for this is an incredible honor, especially in one of the most diverse cities in the world,” she says. “Miami’s vibrant cultural tapestry resonates deeply with Pearl Jam ’s celebration of identity, heritage, and craft.” nnmoyo.com; miamidesigndistrict.com

“ Pearl Jam came from within,” says Moyo. “It’s an expression of how deeply personal experiences and historical

text SAXON HENRY

above right: A rendering of what Moyo’s Pearl Jam installation will look like once it’s set up in the Design District’s Palm Court area

above: The “pearls” in Pearl Jam are made from sustainable materials that contribute to the longevity of each piece.

right: Moyo’s Pearl Jam installation will also have presence at the entrance to the Design Miami fair in Miami Beach.

Design Commission 2024 winner and Pearl Jam creator

Nicole Nomsa Moyo

PAST PERFECT

AT HIS MIAMI STUDIO, CREATIVE LUIS IGNACIO FIGALLO KEEPS AN ANCIENT ART FORM ALIVE

Luis Ignacio Figallo spends his studio time channeling the past to bring an ancient art form into the present. His interpretations translate into minimalist designs that play with light and create their own sense of movement, which is quite a feat given the tonal uniformities and shapely simplicities that exist in them.

“Bas-relief, also referred to as low-relief, has origins dating back approximately 30,000 years in caves and stone structures,” says the founder of BAS Atelier. “In my work, I seek to convey my appreciation for nature through this medium, crafting a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic that, through its interaction with light, reflects the passage of time.”

Blurring the lines between design, architecture, and art was a natural progression for Figallo, as he evolved through the various disciplines in New York. When he moved to Miami a couple of years back, the change in topography was impactful. “My recent works were inspired by the subtle patterns observed in eroded natural and urban landscapes,” he explains. “These observations are expressed through carving, resulting in a series of abstract compositions. Each element and shape is designed to create a visual and formal balance that connects the transient with the grounded.”

About the expressive qualities of each piece, he notes, “The sculptures emerge from a reflective process of studying and documenting natural patterns, which are then translated into a series of spontaneous drawings. Each piece develops organically through an intuitive sketching method, followed by carving into reclaimed wood panels at varying depths, and finishing with carefully applied layers of limewash pigment.”

This process results in pieces that unfold as compositions, structures, and dimensionalities begin to emphasize subtle complexities. Once they are hung, there is a give-and-take with illumination that informs them, particularly when Figallo is creating an installation for a specific wall; he studies where the work will be placed so he can observe the direction from which brightness flows. “I consider the environmental lighting of each piece

as a design element in and of itself,” he says. “Understanding the light is the beginning point to creating a work in dialogue with its surrounding space.” This conversation with reflectivity will progress as the arc of the sun travels, providing his pieces with the power to give shifting shimmer and shadow resonant realities. @bas_atelier

text SAXON HENRY

left: Luis Ignacio Figallo at work in his Miami studio

below inset: Each bas-relief is sanded by hand as one of the final steps.

above: Figallos’s bas-relief panels are sketched, sanded, plastered, and painted by hand from start to finish.

COOL FACTOR

When setting the tone for the interiors of The Rider, a 12-story condominium tower developed by Rilea Group that will rise above Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, the design team at Radyca intermingled references to art, film, fashion, and music that were popular in Hollywood during the 1960s and ’70s with an unmistakable a rock-n-roll vibe. As a result, one of the most dynamic aspects of the public spaces is a million-dollar permanent art collection curated by Morrison Hotel Gallery, known for its fine-art music photography; and Iconic Images Gallery, celebrated for its catalog of images from the frontlines of fashion, music, film, politics, and royalty by photographers who were pioneers in their field.

The curated collection is now on view in The Rider’s sales gallery, where

MIAMI’S MOST STYLISH PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION ISN’T IN ANY MUSEUM OR GALLERY, BUT AT THE SALES CENTER OF ONE OF THE CITY’S LATEST RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS

vignettes are composed to illustrate how the common areas will look when the building is completed in 2026. The powerful framed photography is displayed amid midcentury-modern furnishings and vintage Harley Davidson motorcycles featured in niches on the walls—the latter meant to represent the thrill of freedom.

“We approached The Rider with the goal of creating an ambiance where every wall tells a story and every corner bursts with creativity,” says Ramón Alonso, president of Radyca. “This architectural gem will pay homage to an era defined by fearless experimentation and boundless imagination.”

The photography on display includes candid shots of musical legends like Bruce Springsteen, Keith Richards, David Bowie, and Tina Turner, as well as actors and celebrities such as Brad Pitt and Naomi Campbell. “With my background in the film industry, I knew that with Radyca, we could deliver an immersive living experience at The Rider that not only makes residents feel like they’re on the set of a glamorous rock-n-roll movie, but tells the story of a time that so many people still celebrate to this day,” notes developer Diego Ojeda, president of Rilea Group.

To amp up the sensory experiences residents and visitors will enjoy through the photography, a video wall display will loop films and shorts, and a Vinyl Hi-Fi Listening Room, equipped with a limited-edition collector’s turntable, will bring the rhythms of the past into the present. The collected whole will pay homage to the rock stars and luminaries whose famous faces gaze fixedly from the walls. theriderresidences.com

text SAXON HENRY

left and far left: The photography collection on display at The Rider’s sales gallery (which will be part of the building’s public spaces once built) includes a 2005 shot of actor Brad Pitt by Timothy White and a 1981 contact sheet featuring model Jerry Hall and Mick Jagger by Norman Parkinson.

left: Along with fine art photography, The Rider’s lounge holds vintage Harley Davidson motorcycles in niches and original iconic furniture selections, such as the Bridge Sofa that Stefano Giovannoni designed for Ghidini 1961 that sits in the center of this vignette.

1500 N. Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

12828 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34110 (at Imperial Golf Course Blvd.) 239.591.2000 Largest stocking dealer in the USA;

2604 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34103 (near Golden Gate Pkwy) 239.263.6799

Zone of Interest

THREE SHOWROOMS ARE READY FOR DISCOVERY AT THE MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT

THE FAMILY STONE

Founded in 2015 by Emre Basman and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Armina is betting big on South Florida. This December, the stone purveyor is opening the doors to a new 3,250-square-foot showroom in the Design District (at 3635 NE First Avenue) called Armina Luxe where the focus will be on kitchen, bath, and wardrobe installations featuring custom Italian cabinetry and superior finishes. This comes just months after the opening of a 35,000-square-foot facility in Hialeah (1800 West Fourth Avenue) called Armina Stone that houses the company’s design, fabrication, and installation services, and can handle everything from small residential renovations to large-scale commercial projects. “South Florida is the perfect place for our expansion,” says Basman. “This market has incredible potential, and we are excited to offer a one-stop solution that can handle everything from sourcing materials to fabrication and installation.” Lauded for its recent multimillion-dollar restoration of the Nemacolin resort in Pennsylvania, Armina is known for having one of the largest stocks of quartz and natural stones (20,000 slabs and counting) in the world. armina.com

text CHRISTOPHER DAY

left: Armina’s Luxury Beach kitchen is made up of custom wood veneer bleached oak cabinetry, Crystallo Traslux countertops, and Dolomite Bianco flooring.

above: Armina owner and founder Emre Basman

above: Armina’s Tropical Modern kitchen incorporates Dover white marble countertops, Taboo wood cabinetry, and mosaic tile flooring.

NEW & IMPROVED

above right: The showroom’s operational kitchen was designed to host all sorts of gatherings and presentations.

On the heels of a $1 million renovation, Cosentino’s Miami showroom (at 3898 Biscayne Boulevard) is heading into 2025 with a new look that highlights the surface purveyor’s upscale collections (from Silestone, Dekton, Sensa, and others) in more interactive, visitor-friendly ways. “We’ve crafted three distinct bathroom spaces, each exuding its own unique personality,” says Claudia Afshar, the interior and product designer responsible for many of the brand’s lines. “Two of those spaces blend warm wood tones with rich textures and include an impressive array of stone applications, while the third serves as an immersive walk-in area. [This was done to] highlight the versatility of Cosentino’s offerings and create a cohesive yet diverse aesthetic that showcases the brand’s many applications.” Additional new features include displays highlighting the showroom’s sustainable lines, digital displays with high-definition views of the slabs’ veining, color, and detail, a functioning kitchen for events and gatherings, and key products from Pitt Cooking, Miele, Del Corte Angarita, Flos, Naturtex, Gancedo, Andreu World, and Marset. cosentino.com

ITALIAN INTERESTS

Set to debut a flagship showroom in the Design District (at 4141 NE Second Avenue) during Art Week in December, Italy’s Henge is poised to become a destination for design connoisseurs with collectible collections in mind. Founded by Paolo Tormena and Isabella Genovese in 2011, the brand has quickly made a name for itself for its use of rare materials and commitment to artisanal craftsmanship. “The Design District is a perfect match for our brand,” says Tormena. “It’s an area that reflects our passion for innovation, quality, and artistry.” As far as inventory is concerned, visitors should expect the collections Henge introduced at Milan Design Week earlier this year—plus (knowing the way design folks think during Basel) a few interesting surprises. henge07.com

above left: A bathroom display showcasing the Dekton Rem surface on the wall and Dekton Nacre on the floor, as well as a Silestone Marie sink

left: The Origami 120 table by Ugo Cacciatori for Henge is made of pewter and stone.

right: A Murano glass chandelier from the Floyd Lights Series by Henge in collaboration with Venini

above: “This is the home’s main entertainment lounge, and this was the room where I really wanted to infuse a spirit of innovation and mischief,” says Prut. The collectible furnishings here include the grass-inspired Pratone chair by Gufram, artist Gabriela Noelle’s Imaginary Friends sculptures, Gufram’s Cactus sculpture, and two area rugs from a collaboration by The Andy Warhol Foundation and Henzel Studio.

Fun House

A STAR ISLAND RESIDENCE SHOWCASES THE JOYS OF CONTEMPORARY ART AND COLLECTIBLE DESIGN

Launched last year by veteran Miami art dealer Dmitry Prut, Avant Gallery + Home offers art and design curation services for homeowners too busy or intimidated to do it on their own. The company sources collectible artworks and furnishings all over the world, negotiates their sale, and then installs them in a client’s home by Prut and his interior design team. One of the firm’s most recent projects involved a Star Island residence that combines pieces from the Italian Radical Design movement with bold contemporary artworks. Here, Prut reveals the commission’s highlights.

This home seems massive. What can you tell us about it? It was built in 2015 and encompasses 18,000 square feet. It’s the permanent residence of an entrepreneur who’s not intimated by opulence. Upon engaging Avant, he instantly warmed up to the idea of balancing surprise with unexpected fun.

What was his directive? Something colorful. That was all the direction expressed. We were given a blank canvas to work with, and it was transformative. What were your main goals for the project? The most crucial aspect was to balance the mansion’s palatial grandeur with the striking art and design we selected to create an experience of awe. From the outside, the house boasts a grand, neoclassical-modern flair, but inside I wanted to create a dialogue between the architecture and the statement pieces, as well as mix genres and periods.

right: “Jon Koehler’s sculptures, which are sprinkled throughout the property, are meant to resemble totems with letters shaped like Mylar balloons,” says Prut. “We placed XOXO near the owner’s yacht because it’s made from marine-grade polished stainless steel, which makes it perfect for the outdoors.”

text CHRISTOPHER DAY photography MIKE RUIZ

above: Avant Gallery + Home founder Dimitry Prut

below: A different perspective of the entertainment lounge reveals a Mongolian fur chair by Avant Home, the lips-shaped Bocca sofa by Gufram, John Koehler’s Sexy totem sculpture, and a wall painting by Marcos Anziani.

Why did you choose the Italian Radical Design movement for the furnishings? Because many of the pieces are designed to resemble to head of a Grecian or Roman column, which are the types of architectural columns that support this mansion. These types of furnishings are often featured in museums like the Louvre. They bring whimsical twists to a space and they’re not the kind of pieces you typically associate with Miami interior design. What are some of these pieces you’re referring to? In the entertainment room alone, you have the grass-inspired Patrone chair and the iconic Bocca sofa from Gufram, and area rugs from a partnership between The Andy Warhol Foundation and Henzel Studio. There’s a slight 1980s feel to the interiors. What inspired that? There’s certainly a nod to the 1980s Miami vibe from Scarface , but with a much more playful and innocent twist. What are some of the more significant artworks in the house? In the living room you have a couple of paintings by Marcos Anziani who’s a rising star in the world of abstract art. He masterfully fuses

above: One of two Frida Kahlo-themed artworks by Paul Parsons

the energy of New York, where he lives, with the tropical colors of his Dominican roots. We ended up with five of his works in the house.

There are a couple of Frida Kahlo-themed artworks that are impossible to miss. What’s the story behind those? Those portraits were done by AI artist Paul Parsons from the UK. They’re quite stunning images that present the artist in a new light.

What was your favorite aspect of this project? I’ve always been enamored with the idea of juxtaposing modern and classical elements, like those periodic exhibitions at Versailles that feature contemporary artists’ works set against the classic decor of the palace. This property has its own palatial quality and that made it an exciting project to oversee.

What was the homeowner’s reaction when he saw the finished residence? He smiled like a kid in a candy shop. It’s amazing how a fun and exciting design aesthetic can turn back the clock to the joys of childhood. avanthome.com

Two abstract paintings by Marcos Anziani frame the entrance to the residence’s dining room near a sitting nook with gold-hammered chairs by Boca Do Lobo.

The home’s 35-foot-long living room (with 20-foot ceilings) resulted from the combination of two side-by-side apartments in the building. Furniture selections include custom green sofas and white armchairs by Pierre Augustin Rose. The room is crowned by a star-shaped sculpture by

Artistic Integrity

DESIGNER HOLLY HUNT INFUSES HER VERSION OF MODERN ELEGANCE IN A MIAMI HOME DEFINED BY ITS CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION

below: “We loved the collaborative process of working with respected friends and fellow creatives on this project,” says Holly Hunt, founder of House of Hunt. “They provided direction and also entrusted us to spotlight their life’s work and passion.”

When a film producer and art collector and her husband decided to make Miami their second home, they certainly didn’t take the easy route. Instead of purchasing a sleek new condo in one of the city’s shiny new towers, they opted to acquire two side-by-side apartments with views of Biscayne Bay and transform them into one 5,000-square-foot residence with a white oak bridge that connects the two units and flows like a catwalk above the living room.

Once the properties were hers, the homeowner could think of only one team she wanted

Olafur Eliasson.

for the interior design: House of Hunt, the firm renowned designer Holly Hunt established a few years ago after selling her eponymous company to Knoll in 2014.

“Because we were starting from scratch, we needed a designer and architect who would consider the entire gestalt of the space and ensure that every room related to one another in a cohesive and thoughtful manner,” says the homeowner. “Our vision for the space was to create a cozy and harmonious atmosphere, utilizing warm and inviting colors while incorporating

interesting textures to complement our contemporary art collection without overshadowing it.”

Overshadowing said collection would have been a crime. An avid collector with strong ties to the Guggenheim Museum, the homeowner’s assemblage of masterpieces includes works by Rita Ackermann, Aaron Curry, Olafur Eliasson, Alex Hubbard, James Welling, James Rosenquist, Robert Rauschenberg, Rodney Graham, and John Baldessari (to name a few).

Upon being asked to spearhead the project, Hunt’s answer was an enthusiastic yes. “Our primary goal was to create a palette and design scheme that accentuated the incredible multi-medium art collection, while also maximizing exposure to the views of the bay,” says the designer, who worked alongside her design director, Jim Dynes, and lead designer, Neesha Reddivari. “We wanted the space to feel sophisticated yet fun, so we designed the architecture and furnishings to complement the vibrant artworks.”

To ensure the interiors were simpatico with the bold and eclectic art, the House of Hunt crew paid special attention to textures by layering various materials: stone, lacquer, and mirror in the kitchen; glass and metal in the dining room; white oak on the aforementioned bridge that connects his and her offices; and velvet, leather, linen, and bouclé on the furniture throughout the home.

“The furnishings are from a mix of designers to keep the space from feeling uniform, giving it a more bespoke and dynamic character, similar to the art,” says Hunt. “We opted for organic shapes to achieve a fluid layout for a natural and inviting experience.”

The dynamic, layered outcome thrilled both the client and the design team equally

“The finished space exceeded our original vision in ways we couldn’t have imagined,” says the homeowner. “And the fact that Holly and I are still good friends after almost four years of an intense working relationship says it all.” houseofhunt.studio

wanted to create a functional, beautiful dining room to be used fluidly with the adjacent living room and outside deck,” says Hunt. “The glass screen in the back was designed to block out the view of the building next door.” The art selections here include a light sculpture by Andrea Bowers and a digital photographic print by John Baldessari. On the upper wall in the foreground are works by Analia Saban (left) and Rita Ackermann (right).

above: “We chose to infuse bold color and pattern into the grandchildren’s bedroom,” says Hunt. “We did that with the drapery, which is balanced with the colors on the bedding and the lounge chair.”

left: “We

A view into the bar reveals a color print series by Olafur Eliasson and a metal and crystal sculpture (hanging from the ceiling) by Lee Bul above a Bell table by Sebastian Herkner and Vera chairs by Honning.

ARTEFACTO’S NEW COLLECTION FUSES CLASSIC AND MODERN DESIGNS

Delicate curves and natural transformation inspire the visual landscape of Vér—Artefacto’s newest collection, meaning “spring” in Latin. As Patricia Anastassiadis’ seventh edition for the brand Vér presents contemporary designs of timeless appeal, an enduring theme throughout the prestigious partnership with the award-winning designer.

“We brought together innovation, industry, and craftsmanship for designs that provoke sophistication and lightness,” said Paulo Bacchi, CEO, who recently opened the brand’s Manhattan flagship with sons Pietro and Bruno.

Among the highlights of Vér is the striking woodwork. Signature pieces include the Vimen chair and Papillon set (sofa, chaise, and armchair). The Circa and Radix dining tables blend wood and stone, while the Shah accent tables come in two tones with chess tops.

The Tassel upholstered bed is honed with curved wood as a subtle nod to exoskeletons—one of the visual references found throughout the collection.

“We searched for traits that evoke movement, transformation, and harmony, translated into furniture with great visual effect and high ergonomic performance,” said Anastassiadis. “This collection was born from a desire to connect with nature and shorten the distance between furniture and art.”

ARTEFACTO

101 South Dixie Hwy., Coral Gables, FL 33146

17651 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, FL 33160

3290 NW 79th Ave., Doral, FL 33166

3501 N. Federal Hwy., Boca Raton, FL 33431

149 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016 artefacto.com

Three Generations: Paulo, Pietro, Bruno and Albino Bacchi

MAITE GRANDA: A VISIONARY DESIGNER SHAPING UNIQUE SPACES

Maite Granda is a leading figure in the world of design, known for her extraordinary ability to create spaces that blend functionality, modernism, and personal style. After graduating from the Miami International Art & Design School in 2011, Granda immersed herself in a career driven by her passion for design, enriched by her experiences living in diverse places and traveling the world.

Her Miami-based studio has gained a reputation for its professionalism and unique approach to each project, creating personalized spaces that reflect her clients’ individual desires. Granda’s eye for art and design is always sharp, with gallery visits and art sourcing a constant in her creative process. Her passion for art is not just a personal endeavor but also an integral part of her work.

Recently, Granda expanded her vision with the opening of O’GAR Design Center in Key Biscayne, Florida. This new venture allows her to showcase curated pieces and decor, offering clients an enhanced perspective on what her studio and brand can achieve. Granda’s work continues to inspire and redefine the possibilities of personalized design.

MAITE GRANDA

658 Crandon Blvd., Suite 100

Key Biscayne, FL 33149

786-738-9368

maitegranda.com

DUNAGAN DIVERIO DESIGN GROUP

Dunagan Diverio Design is an award-winning, full-service firm specializing in high-end luxury residential projects.

Led by Charlotte Dunagan and Thomas Diverio, the firm is renowned for creating spaces that embody timeless, understated elegance. Each project carries a touch of European flair, influenced by Dunagan’s French heritage, and showcases bespoke architectural finishes shaped by Diverio’s architectural expertise.

Their work is deeply rooted in its local environment, seamlessly blending the indoors with the outdoors, and melding sophistication with contemporary elements. The result is homes that exude both serenity and warmth, offering an inviting, luxurious atmosphere.

More than just designers, Dunagan and Diverio are dedicated to building lasting relationships with their

clients, ensuring that every detail is thoughtfully curated and meticulously executed. Their approach goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about creating experiences that evoke comfort and grace. By consistently delivering spaces that feel effortlessly refined, Dunagan Diverio Design Group continues to push the boundaries of luxury home design, leaving a lasting impact on the interior design landscape.

DUNAGAN DIVERIO DESIGN GROUP 2100 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 920

Coral Gables, FL 33134

305-438-0130

dunagandiverio.com

Established in 2005, Christopher Cawley Landscape Architecture (CCLA) is an award-winning firm with a distinctive approach that harmoniously blends a structure’s architecture with its natural surroundings; creating a seamless unity that transcends style, be it residential or commercial, ultra-modern or historical. The CCLA team is dedicated to being an invaluable asset to each project’s success.

In recognition of CCLA’s exceptional contributions, it has been featured in multiple publications and has garnered prestigious accolades, including the 2023 and 2024 Florida Design Seagrass Award for Residential Landscape Architecture, 2023 LUXE Gold List, Travel + Leisure 2023 It List Winner for the Mavfair Hotel. These

honors further underscore his unwavering commitment to excellence in the world of landscape architecture. In addition to his professional work, Cawley has served as chairperson for the Village of Bal Harbour Architectural Review Board and currently serves as the landscape architect for the City of Miami’s Historic and Environmental Preservation Board.

“Our multidisciplinary team has expertise in landscape architecture, architecture, design, and visual arts,” Crawley says. “We collaborate with many of South Florida’s leading architectural firms and development teams on a variety of projects. Our boutique office has extensive experience that ensures meticulous care and attention to detail in every design.”

CHRISTOPHER CAWLEY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

CHRISTOPHER CAWLEY

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

780 NE 69th Street Miami, FL 33138

786-536-2961

christophercawley.com

A variety of palms were strategically placed throughout the property to frame views, create intimate garden spaces, and provide lush screening from neighboring properties.

Tropical groundcovers with varied textures complement the elegant palms, forming a lush green carpet. Coral stone, used throughout the property, enhances its natural beauty, defining pathways and seating areas while blending seamlessly into the tropical landscape.

Architect: Strang Design, Bosch Construction, Avalon Gardens

CHOEFF LEVY FISCHMAN ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN

Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design thrives on strong partnerships. Their seamless collaboration starts with Principals Ralph Choeff, Raphael Levy, and Paul Fischman and extends to the integrated relationships they build with each discerning client.

These highly decorated and experienced principals are recognized as global leaders in the Tropical Modern architecture style. Together, they have built and evolved the firm, mastering residential site planning. They design affluent, efficient, sensible, and stylish residences in prime locations across Florida, the Caribbean, Central America, and beyond. Their high-end homes enhance some of South Florida’s most exclusive enclaves, including Miami Beach’s Star, Hibiscus, and Venetian Islands, as well as North Bay Road.

Homeowners and developers rely on the firm’s expertise and unique midcentury-meets-tropics style for captivating modern living experiences and delivering optimal future returns on their investment. The architects merge lush natural elements with stunning structures utilizing exotic materials, elegant aquatic features, top-end technology, and sharp design finishes to create coveted living environments.

Choeff Levy Fischman has offices in Miami and Tampa, with an array of luxury waterfront projects emerging throughout Florida’s east and west coasts. Their extensive experience includes designing exclusive single-family residences for global entrepreneurs, C-suite executives, professional athletes, and sports team owners.

CHOEFF LEVY FISCHMAN

ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN

2750 NW 3rd Ave, Suite 1, Miami, FL 33127

2023 West Platt Street, Suite 104, Tampa, FL 33606

(305) 434-8338

clfarchitects.com

interior design CHARLOTTE DUNAGAN & TOM DIVERIO, DUNAGAN DIVERIO DESIGN GROUP, CORAL GABLES, FL

architecture RAPHAEL LEVY, CHOEFF LEVY FISCHMAN ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN, MIAMI, FL

builder AUTHENTIC CONSTRUCTION, MIAMI, FL

landscape architecture CHRISTOPHER CAWLEY

text JEANNE DELATHOUDER

photography KRIS TAMBURELLO, MIAMI, FL

Dramatic

a

the play of volumes by highlighting surfaces and deepening the shadows.

nighttime lighting gives this San Marino Island residence

museum-like quality where prominent artwork displays can be seen from the home’s clear glass walls long before reaching the entrance. Artist Gino Miles’ rotating stainless steel Toro sculpture rises from a fountain feature. A luminous glow from within the house further accentuates

ARTISTIC MOVEMENT

AN ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL ON SAN MARINO ISLAND MERGES A MUSEUM-QUALITY ART COLLECTION WITH THE WARM COMFORTS OF MODERN LIVING

AN EMBODIMENT OF its exclusive setting, a magnificent property at the tip of San Marino Island stuns with vast, unobstructed views of Miami Beach and Biscayne Bay. Home to two passionate philanthropists and art collectors, the dwelling integrates modern architecture with carefully curated interiors that are ideal for the homeowners’ regular gatherings. The architectural brainchild of Raphael Levy, principal at Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design, the residence is centered on maximizing views enveloped by the firm’s distinct brand of tropical modernism.

“Each room was designed to respond to its own needs in relationship to the overall site, ultimately creating a fluent environment that optimizes the ideal Miami Beach lifestyle,” says Levy. “Building this dynamic 12,000-square-foot floor plan with distinct volumes and floating spaces allowed the owners to spectacularly showcase their art collection.”

Working collaboratively with the architects and the clients, designers Charlotte Dunagan and Tom Diverio conceptualized interiors that would speak to the tropical modern aesthetic and the enchanting water features surrounding the home, as well as provide a setting worthy of the works in the museumquality art collection.

left: A spectacular sculptural staircase frames Spanish artist Santiago Villanueva’s white Teardrop installation elegantly suspended from the ceiling. Its fluid, sensual form generates a smooth juxtaposition against the hard-edged Stone Paper Scissors sculpture by Kevin Box. Floor-to-ceiling walnut panels bring visual warmth to the double-height foyer, coaxing the eyes upward to a second-floor gallery.

below: The opposite side of the grand foyer entrance displays a delicately balanced sculptural tableau that includes Venezuelan kinetic artist Manuel Merida’s motorized wall hanging entitled Cercle Bleu Outremer. Composed of painted wood, glass, and powder pigment, the vibrant 50-inch sphere reflects the home’s floating staircase.

The east side of the home features a roof canopy that folds down, creating a breezy space between the house and the folded wall. Jagged views of the open sky compose a sequence of spatial experiences, and raised reflecting ponds leading to the guest house and pool deck give the illusion that the house is floating on water.

“We wanted to make sure the design provided a neutral backdrop for the art to be the main focus,” says Dunagan. “All our selections had to be durable yet sophisticated to create a timeless, elegant look. We custom designed all the millwork fabricated by Italkraft and collaborated with Acoustic Architects to create a museum-like lighting design for the significant artworks throughout the house.”

From t he moment visitors pass through the private front entrance gate, they are greeted by a massive pivot door that sets the tone for the home’s grand scale. The exterior materials inform the interior color palette with a garage and front entry door clad in a porcelain compound that

emulates the richness of natural wood but without the maintenance. Black porcelain slabs lend stark contrast while complementing the warm wood-like tones, and a contemplative fountain feature displays Gino Miles’ rotating stainless steel Toro sculpture—the first of many compelling forms defining the property.

“The w ife was a huge influence on the interior design,” says Diverio. “She wanted a clean look with comforting warmth and low maintenance, so we meticulously selected materials meeting said criteria. We used a refined blend of wood tones such as walnut to warm up the living spaces and created contrast with lustrous marble floors and bathroom walls.”

The second-floor landing houses a series of statement artworks, including Kelly Reemtsen’s fashion-centric Rise Up, depicting a woman in a billowing dress standing on a ladder.

left: The ceiling drops dramatically in the formal living area, providing an intimate seating area defined by gray leather sofas, white club chairs, and sleek cocktail tables from Anima Domus. A custom-crafted polished stainless steel wine cellar by Dunagan Diverio Design Group steals the spotlight.

A double-height foyer encased in glass dazzles guests from the exterior courtyard, staging a mesmerizing visual display of sinuous sculptural pieces, colossal artworks, and brilliant lighting installations. An illuminated floating staircase creates an architectural focal point framing a slender two-story white sculptural work entitled Teardrop by Spanish artist Santiago Villanueva. The second-floor landing houses ethereal statement paintings, including Kelly Reemtsen’s Rise Up, which depicts a stylish woman in a diaphanous dress standing on a ladder.

An innovative custom lighting installation by the French brand Blackbody presides over the dining room, where a breathtaking two-story fireplace towers adjacent to a glass wall, enabling

An innovative custom

above: Mirroring the furnishings against the living room wine wall, an opposing seating area provides ample white space to highlight artist Sam Francis’ colorfully explosive acrylic on canvas. Its jarring hues produce a delightful tension and counterbalance against the neutral palette.

below: Adjacent to the dining room, a monumental open kitchen with a built-in circular banquette boasts one of the largest islands ever designed by the Dunagan Diverio team. Fabricated by Italkraft, the galley sink measures six feet long, and the expansive countertop space provides a dream prep station for chefs and caterers. Mel Bochner’s Blah Blah Blah word painting delineates the spatial divide between the dining room and kitchen.

above:

lighting installation by the French brand Blackbody presides over the dining room’s ultra-modern Italian table from Porada and Cattelan Italia chairs. A towering two-story fireplace climbs the wall, and an expansive glass exposure allows magnificent views of the exterior.

above: The primary bedroom features a well-appointed collection of high-end Italian furnishings from Anima Domus and lounge seating from Cierre Imbottiti. An aerial beach scene by photographer Gray Malin infuses color into the space, and a statement chandelier from Atelier Alain Ellouz crowns the room with a luminous halo of alabaster and rock crystal.

left: A lavish white round soaking tub from MTI Baths offers a therapeutic respite outside the primary shower. Patterned Opustone tile backdrops the relaxing vignette, taking color cues from the calming waters outside.

above: The primary bedroom suite includes a luxurious shower spa clad in elegant Opustone marble. The shower door opens onto an outdoor deck area with idyllic views of Biscayne Bay.

an electrifying display from the exterior. The elegant dining space merges with a massive open kitchen boasting one of the largest islands ever designed by the Dunagan Diverio team. Ample counter space includes a galley sink nearly six feet long, providing the ideal workstation for any master chef or caterer. A custom La Cornue range and hood compose an elegant focal point framed in a Calacatta marble surround, punctuating the sleek walnut and white lacquer cabinetry. A built-in circular banquette carves into the end of the island, poised to take in splendid ocean views of the bay, and an unexpected piece by artist Tom Box titled Blah Blah Blah finds a place of prominence on the back wall. Outside the kitchen, a lavish grill station with integrated roll-down screens to protect against inclement weather, creates a glorious alfresco setting perfect for gatherings both large and small.

“The architecture of the home allows the owners to open the large glass walls, creating a flexible indoor/outdoor living space crucial to hosting all the events they hold throughout the year,” notes Diverio. “A true collaboration between the clients, the architects, and our design team, this project allowed us to construct a series of unique spaces to provide a spectacular backdrop for the owners’ amazing art collection as well as a stunning home they will enjoy for years to come.”

“A true collaboration between the clients, the architects, and our design team, this project allowed us to construct a series of unique spaces to provide a spectacular backdrop for the owners’ amazing art collection,” says interior designer Tom Diverio.

“It’s a stunning home they will enjoy

for years to come.”

SOURCES

LIVING AREA

Gray sofas – Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Club chairs, cocktail, sofa, and drink tables – Porada, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Wine wall designed by Dunagan Diverio Design Group, Coral Gables, FL, and fabricated by Wine Trend, winetrend.com

Area rug – Niba Designs, Hollywood, FL

DINING ROOM

Table – Porada, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Chandelier – Blackbody, blackbody.fr

Chairs – Cattelan Italia, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

KITCHEN AREA

Cabinetry and island designed by Dunagan Diverio Design

Group, Coral Gables, FL, and fabricated by Italkraft, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Hood – La Cornue, lacornueusa.com

Breakfast table – Porada, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Chairs – Ozzio Italia, ozzio.com

PRIMARY BATHROOM & SHOWER SPA

Round tub – MTI Baths, mtibaths.com

Tile wall – Opustone, Miami, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard, drink and night tables, and bench –Porada, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Pendant lighting – Jonathan Browning Studios, jonathanbrowninginc.com

Chandelier – Atelier Alain Ellouz, atelier-alain-ellouz.com

Sitting area lounge – Cierre Imbottiti, cierreimbottiti.it

Area rug – Niba Designs, Hollywood, FL

GUEST HOUSE BREAKFAST NOOK

Cabinetry – Italkraft, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Round table – Porada, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Chairs – Cattelan Italia, Anima Domus, Miami, FL

BACK EXTERIOR

Seating, chairs, stools, and dining table – Kettal, Coral Gables, FL

Umbrella – Tuuci, Hialeah, FL

Pool design – Kiso Group, Miami, FL

THROUGHOUT

Flooring – Opustone, Miami, FL

Millwork – Italkraft, Fort Lauderdale, FL

above: At the back of the home, a glass façade of sliding doors creates effortless indoor/outdoor living, with projections from the house covering the seating areas. This full transparency allows family and guests to feel connected to the bay from nearly every vantage point.

The guest house’s breakfast nook offers views of the pool patio and the water beyond. Chic Italian appointments include a

right:

Porada table, Cattelan Italia chairs from Anima Domus, and cabinetry from Italkraft.

LASTING IMPRESSIONS

FASHION-FORWARD PHOTOGRAPHY, GLEAMING TEXTURES, AND MODERNIST

EUROPEAN FURNISHINGS ADD TO THE IMMERSIVE ALLURE OF A SUNNY ISLES BEACH PIED- À-TERRE

interior design ISABEL TRAGASH & JORDAN DOBROW, STA

ARCHITECTURAL GROUP, MIAMI, FL

text JEANNE DELATHOUDER photography GABRIEL VOLPI, MIAMI, FL, & SOPHIA TRAGASH,

create dynamic contrast.

An Alex Sher photograph layered on sheet steel evokes a sense of style and intrigue—a hint of things to come.

right: The elevator entrance into this Sunny Isles Beach residence at the Estates at Acqualina delivers a vibrant interplay of mirrored walls against dark, lacquered surfaces to

MIAMI, FL

ONE STEP INSIDE THEIR HOME, and it becomes obvious why a couple from Texas chose the Estates at Acqualina in Sunny Isles Beach for their South Florida pied-à-terre. Reflecting the family’s affinity for vibrant city life and the coastal glitz of Saint-Tropez, this goldstandard property, with exquisite lobby designs by the late Karl Lagerfeld, embodies the best of luxury real estate. The couple’s 5,000-square-foot residence is perched on the 18th floor with dreamy horizon views traveling far and wide.

Executed by Isabel Tragash and Jordan Dobrow of STA Architectural Group in Miami Beach, the sophisticated interior design translates through bold patterns, watery blue hues, and contrasting black and white boiserie with highly reflective finishes, amplifying the ethereal oceanscape. A high-impact art collection custom-curated by the design team combines retro black-and-white photography reminiscent of the Mediterranean Riveria’s glory days tempered with modern art set amid coastal backdrops.

“We were solely responsible for conceptualizing the interior spaces, including relocating a few walls to create a dramatic all-black den retreat,” says Tragash.

above: Open living spaces create a crisp contrast, revealing an unexpectedly light and airy ambiance with reflective white boiserie accented by black trim. Philippe Shangti’s vibrant artwork, Topless Island, injects the scene with coastal color.

Embracing the black-and-white palette, the living area emits a playful elegance with Luxury Living Group’s chic Italian furnishings amid hints of cerulean woven into the upholstery and artwork. A white-lacquered concrete column delineates floor-to-ceiling Atlantic views without obstruction, and British artist Sharon Marston’s glass petal chandelier casts a radiant glow. Missoni’s bold chevron fabric intersects gracefully with the watery swirls of a plush area rug underfoot.

above: A sculptural lighting installation by Sharon Marston softly illuminates the dining table, casting a subtle fiber-optic sparkle over the undulating bone china petals. A painting by Felipe Posada infuses the space with a pop of cerulean and a touch of playful humor.

“Our clients’ affinity for Saint-Tropez and cosmopolitan city life inspired the sleek architectural backdrop complemented by ocean hues expressed through the furnishings and artwork.”

Emba rking on their design endeavor in March of 2020, when the world was on lockdown, the STA team faced all the challenges of navigating virtual presentations, mailing finish samples back and forth, and getting to know their clients from behind a mask and through a computer screen. “A year into the process, we finally met in person for furniture and fabric selections,” notes Dobrow. “It was then we could break down barriers and help us reconnect with the more traditional aspects of our work.”

Passionate about entertaining their out-of-town guests, the clients envisioned a carefree lifestyle where they could come and go without concern. “Far from being typical snowbirds who are here only during the winter months, they visit whenever there are exciting events in the city or long for Miami’s pristine sandy beaches,” says Tragash. “The open living areas are thoughtfully designed to accommodate large gatherings of friends.”

The private elevator entrance offers a striking opportunity to captivate guests from the moment they arrive, thanks to its dynamic interplay of mirrored walls against dark, lacquered surfaces. Alex Sher’s black-and-white photograph layered on sheet steel serves as the pièce de resistance, creating the illusion of an underwater swimmer breaking through the wall. Chic Italian seating pieces and occasional tables from Luxury Living Group punctuate the living spaces, exquisitely befitting edgy and brilliant artworks, the likes of which include Topless Island by Phillip Sangti and Heads in the Clouds by Felipe Posada.

The sensuous and eye-catching artistic statements are not relegated to just one part of the residence, but rather ubiquitous throughout. In the all-black windowless den, it’s in the form of

right: The bold veining of Imperial Stone’s book-matched Kieza marble backsplash brings a dramatic edge to the kitchen’s minimalist design. A cantilevered island merges with streamlined cabinetry while complementing a La Cornue signature black and stainless steel range crowned with a white hood from Downsview Kitchens.

Philippe Shanti’s Liberty of Expression, a photograph of a woman halfway out of a Guy Fawkes mask reading a newspaper. In the guest room, it’s with photographer Tyler Shields’ Kodak image of a woman lighting a cigarette with a camera on fire. In the primary suite, it’s via Tony Kelly’s glossy Twin Engine, a close-up of a woman’s legs in heels outfitted with yacht engines. The bold imagery makes its message clear: This is a home of art collectors who like to push the envelope.

“The clients remained steadfast in their unique appreciation for contemporary, provocative art,” notes Dobrow. “Their genuinely distinctive vision offered us a clear direction, and we deeply valued their unique perspective as it opened the door to an exciting creative freedom in our work.”

SOURCES

FOYER

Bench – Slash Objects, slashobjects.com

Wall paneling designed by STA Architectural Group, Miami, FL, and fabricated by D Coded International, Miami, FL

LIVING ROOM

Sofas and club chairs, cocktail, accent and cube tables –Luxury Living, Miami, FL

Chandelier – Sharon Marston, sharonmarston.com

Eye pillow – Global Views, globalviews.com

Area rug – The Rug Company, therugcompany.com

DINING AREA

Table and entry lighting – Luxury Living, Miami, FL

Chairs – Minotti, Miami, FL

Chandelier – Sharon Marston, sharonmarston.com

KITCHEN

Cabinetry and hood – Downsview Kitchens, DCOTA, Dania Beach, FL

Oven – Ferguson Appliances, Coral Gables, FL

Backsplash – Imperial Stone, Hallandale Beach, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bedside chest – Luxury Living, Miami, FL

Pendant crystal lighting – Italamp, italamp.com

DEN

Wall designed by STA Architectural Group, Miami, FL, and fabricated by Krome Construction, Miami, FL

Bed – Luxury Living, Miami, FL

Textured wallcovering – MDC Interior Solutions, mdcwall.com

GUEST BEDROOM

Headboard wall designed by STA Architectural Group, Miami, FL, and fabricated by Krome Construction, Miami, FL

Bed and bedside chest – Luxury Living, Miami, FL

Pendant lighting – Holly Hunt, hollyhunt.com

Wallcovering – Jim Thompson, jimthompsonfabrics.com

Drapery fabric – Jeffrey Michaels, Hollywood, FL

Chandelier – Cameron Design House, camerondesignhouse.com

THROUGHOUT

Developer – A3 Development, Sunny Isles Beach, FL

General contractor – Krome Construction, Miami, FL Millwork – D Coded International, Miami, FL Drapery fabrication – Marsh Industries, Miami, FL

Designed as a windowless retreat for relaxation and hosting guests, the den off the main gallery houses a custom daybed featuring storage below and built-in shelving above. Philippe Shangti’s Liberty of Expression creates an unexpected focal point against MDC Interior Solutions’ reflective, glossy black textured wall covering.

above: In the primary bedroom, textured matte silver wall panels pair with floor-to-ceiling mirrors flanking the bedside tables. Photographer Tony Kelly’s Twin Engine injects humor and color, while Italamp’s clear glass pendants lend an ethereal touch.

Dressed in sultry hues and a Jim Thompson metallic wallcovering, the guest room fashions a glamorous cocoon where photographer Tyler Shields’ provocative Kodak feels right at home. Bedside tables and a leather headboard from Fendi Casa mesh with the metallic theme replete with side-lit bronze mirrors and a luminous Holly Hunt halo chandelier.

NATURAL HIGH

THE BEAUTY OF EARTH’S ELEMENTS INSPIRES A SERENE YET GLAMOROUS OCEANFRONT RETREAT IN MIAMI BEACH

left: A sitting room, located off the kitchen, offers a rich mix of textures accented with a sculptural steel coffee table. The fireplace surround matches the nearby waterfall island. Designer Blanca Wall and the clients chose the Sam Gilliam piece above the fireplace, Musketeers, to add something casual and unexpected to the space.

interior design BLANCA WALL, THE WALL STUDIO, MIAMI, FL

text BETSY RILEY

photography GABRIEL VOLPI, MIAMI, FL

above: Out on this spacious balcony terrace, the homeowners can watch cruise ships come and go. Brushed teak armchairs, a driftwood-style table, and a tumbled limestone floor with fossilized pieces embody the seaside ambience.

DESIGNER BLANCA WALL

moved to Miami from her native Sweden to study architecture, interior design, and fine art at Florida International University. She fell in love with the cosmopolitan city and stayed to launch her career, creating glamorous oceanfront residences and founding her own firm a dozen years ago. But her love for design wasn’t rooted in studies of local starchitects like Morris Lapidus. It began during early childhood on her family’s farm.

“I loved digging in the dirt and searching for unique stones,” she says. “I thought I’d be an archeologist.” Her fascination with materials sparked an early interest in construction. “I loved the notion of building things, of being in my grandfather’s woodshop. I would build tables, small boats, and treehouses, and decorate them with my grandmother’s scraps and whatever nature had in store.”

Miam i has also captured Wall’s imagination. She compares the city to Hong Kong, Dubai, and other international centers that have blossomed over the last few decades: “It’s attracting people from all over the world who crave culture and the arts.”

The h igh-rise residences Wall creates reflect her love for both natural materials and fine art. Case in point: A three-bedroom condominium at the Apogee tower in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood. In fact,

left: The homeowners’ existing table got a new liveedge top in a light contrasting oak, and their previous chairs were refreshed with new lime-washed oak legs. The mirror reflects artwork hanging in a narrow hall opposite. The cantilevered bench below the artwork in the adjoining entry hall is reinforced with steel so that it is functional as well as elegant.

she’d designed numerous apartments in the same building previously, which is how she was referred to the new owners, a couple who were downsizing from their family house near Washington, D.C.

Her cl ients are elegant and low-key and wanted their new home to “mirror their essence,” says Wall. Out went oversized polished marble floor tiles, in came white oak flooring and fossilized limestone. “We wanted to focus on having materials as close to nature as possible—stone that was honed, wood floors that were brushed,” says Wall. “The goal was a feeling of understated serenity.”

The new entry, a hallway opening off the elevator foyer, sets the tone. The utilitarian space previously lacked a “sense of arrival,” as Wall puts it. To add impact, she anchored it with a large, mixed-media work by painter James Verbicky, flanked by sleek linear sconces and mounted over a cantilevered French limestone bench lit from beneath.

above: A sectional sofa, oversized ottoman, and hair-and-hide rug provide a comfortable corner for the entire family and the dog to relax. The wall artwork, titled A Million Times 120 by Humans Since 1982, is actually a functioning clock.

above: A low-profile television screen is disguised as artwork above a cantilevered console in a bronze metal finish.

below: Another view of the corner sitting room reveals the Humans Since 1982 clock installation changing time and a black-and-white photograph from Holly Hunt.

above: Wall had to convince the homeowners to choose marble countertops for the kitchen.

“When you walk into kitchens in Italy, you see countertops that have patina-ed over time,” she says. “There’s something really beautiful about that, like an old leather chair.”

Although some of the owners’ previous furnishings were repurposed for their new home, most of the art was sourced for the space. The team opted for investment pieces that create interest and add subtle touches of color. In a sitting area off the kitchen, a draped composition by noted artist Sam Gilliam hangs above a ventless fireplace with a streamlined marble surround that echoes the nearby waterfall island. A focal point in the living room—in addition to the spectacular city view—is a framed “clock” titled A Million Times 120 by Swedish artists Humans Since 1982, whose massive kinetic installations hang in iconic places such as Moncler’s flagship store in Milan.

The kitchen turned out to be Wall’s favorite space, but she says it also required the most “dynamic intervention.” High-rise buildings present structural restrictions for remodelers, and the homeowners had a daunting wish list. They wanted a smaller island, a walk-up bar, a dedicated breakfast area, and plenty of cabinets. Guided by Robert Kerr, Wall’s frequent collaborator and the architect for this entire project, the team reduced the size of the island and added a cantilevered breakfast table on the far end. A bar and wine cellar were tucked into the back wall. Illuminated black upper cabinets with glass doors provide ample storage and drama

below: One of the residence’s bedrooms was transformed into an office with shelves that hide a Murphy bed, which can be pulled down for overnight guests.

right: The primary bedroom, which overlooks the water, is a “celebration of textures,” says Wall, thanks to furnishings like the bouclé sofa, tufted headboard, sheepskin pillows, and silk area rug.

below: The original primary bathroom had a recessed tub, but the design team filled in the floor and added a sculptural tub at the owners’ request. Their wish list also included lots of specialty lighting to both illuminate and add subtle drama. Here, “shadow boxes” around built-in mirrors amplify both the bath and newly reconfigured walk-in closet. Limestone and river rock surfaces introduce touches of nature.

at night. But the star of the show is the exquisite Calacatta Gold marble that wraps the island, countertops, and backsplash.

“As designers, we live for these types of transformations,” says Wall. “But sometimes clients are describing a unicorn, and you’re thinking, ‘How am I going to be able to give them that?’” Then she adds with a laugh, “You always want to tell them, ‘Absolutely, we can do that!’”

Fittingly, the kitchen played a key role last winter when the owners hosted a celebration of their new home for friends visiting for Art Basel. The homeowners flew in a favorite chef from the Eastern Shore, as well as the Swedish artist/engineer who created the clock. Wall spoke to the group about the home’s design journey, happily realizing she’d delivered on that unicorn.

SOURCES

TERRACE

Sofa and drink table – Luminaire, Miami, FL

Armchair – Christian Liaigre, Miami, FL

Organic table – Michael Dawkins Home, Miami, FL

Floor lamp – Clima Home, Miami, FL

Area rug – Sharron Lewis, Miami, FL

LIVING ROOM

Sofa, drink table, and floor lamp – Christian Liaigre, Miami, FL

Cocktail table – Nest Casa, Miami, FL

Cabinetry and fireplace wall designed by The Wall Studio, Miami, FL, and fabricated by The Millwork Lab, Miami, FL

Art – Sam Gilliam, Galerie Thomas Schulte, galeriethomasschulte.com

Drapery – Shade and Sound, Miami, FL

Area rug – Saccaro, Miami, FL

DINING AREA

Table – Holly Hunt, Miami, FL

Chairs – Casa Italia, Naples, FL

Mirror – Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Lighting – Luminaire, Miami, FL

Art – James Verbicky, Madison Galleries, madisongalleries.com

Sconces above bench – Allied Maker, alliemaker.com

SITTING ROOM

Sofa and lounge – Casa Italia, Naples, FL

Accent chair – Divine Custom Designs, Miami, FL

Cocktail table – Casa Dio, Miami FL

Round accent table – Nest Casa, Miami, FL

Bench – Le Jeune Upholstery, Miami, FL

Floating console – Poliform, Miami, FL

Floor lamp – RH, rh.com

Clock installation – Humans Since 1982, humanssince1982.com

Area rug – Saccaro, Miami, FL

KITCHEN

Cabinetry – Poliform, Miami, FL

Backsplash and island material – Opustone, Doral, FL

Island and table designed by The Wall Studio, Miami, FL, and fabricated by Yomar Consulting, Wilton Manors, FL

Stools – Thomas Hayes Studio, thomashayesstudio.com

OFFICE

Desk – Anima Domus, Miami, FL

Chair – Design Within Reach, Miami, FL

Accent chair – Divine Custom Designs, Miami, FL

Table lamp – Nisi B Home, Hollywood, FL

PRIMARY BATHROOM

Cabinetry – The Millwork Lab, Miami, FL

Tub and shower – Designers Plumbing and Hardware, Coral Gables, FL

PRIMARY BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – Meridiani, Miami, FL

Bedside sconce – Christian Liaigre, Miami, FL

Sofa – Fine Line Furniture & Accessories, Coral Gables, FL

Console – Interlude Home, Miami, FL

Drapery – Shade and Sound, Miami, FL

Area rug – Niba Designs, Hollywood, FL

THROUGHOUT

Architecture – M3 Design Development/Kerr-Tek Design, Miami, FL

General contractor – Home Image Builders, Doral, FL

Automation – Prestige Audio Visual, Miami, FL

Millwork – The Millwork Lab, Miami, FL

Flooring – Natural Wood Floors, Miami, FL

Greenery – Citiscapes, Miami, FL

MIAMI MODERN

A PORTLAND HOMEOWNER TAPS THE IDEAL DESIGN TEAM TO BRING HIS VISION OF A BRICKELL PENTHOUSE TO LIFE

interior design NICHOLAS GENNARI & ROBERTO RACY, NAR DESIGN STUDIO, MIAMI, FL

RIKI ALTMAN-YEE

GABRIEL VOLPI, MIAMI, FL

FEW PEOPLE MANIFEST as effectively as Portland-based entrepreneur and venture capitalist Nitin Rai. After endless suggestions from friends and associates to visit Miami, he finally did so in late 2022 during Art Week. Just like many others before him, Rai fell in love with the city—particularly with the metropolitan vibe of Brickell and the neighborhood’s Brickell Flatiron, a triangular residential tower designed by architect Luis Revuelta with public interiors by Massiomo Iosa Ghini. Visions of a vacation pad inevitably ensued, so when news of a furnished residence available in the building reached him, Rai went to see it with his real estate agent and fell in love again—this time with the “cool, chic, and modern vibe” of the interiors created by architects and designers Nicholas Gennari and Roberto Racy, the two principals behind Miami’s Nar Design Studio.

The next day, as he considered purchasing the condo while walking around Art Miami, he encountered a painting by Silvia Berton at the Liquid Art System gallery booth that immediately caught his attention. The alluring image of a woman covering an eye with her hand would be ideal for the Flatiron unit, so he promptly purchased it. Surely, he figured, it was a sign he should become a Miami homeowner. Alas, the condo sold before he could even make an offer.

Determined to find another place in Miami, Rai and his Realtor began a search for a new residence. A few months into the hunt, a three-

For this Brickell Flatiron penthouse, designers Nicholas Gennari and Roberto Racy of Nar Design Studio chose pieces to complement sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, including a low-profile sofa, mustard yellow swivel chairs, and an oversized area rug from Harmony Studio. Accents like the origami wall sculpture from One Of A Kind add visual interest to the space.

bedroom penthouse at Brickell Flatiron came up for purchase. This time, Rai didn’t waste any time. As soon as he ensured that Nar Design Studio would be available to handle the interior design, he acquired the residence.

Once onboard, Racy and Gennari had their work cut out for them. While they appreciated the penthouse’s spectacular views, the layout was another story. “The floor plan was tricky, and there was a lot of wasted space,” says Racy. “We knew that to meet Rai’s demands for a residence meant for entertaining we would have to make a few changes.”

And they did. After repurposing the extraneous square footage into usable storage, the design team moved on to finding the right furnishings and finishes. “Thoughtful placement of low-profile furniture, clean lines, and an open layout complemented by reflective surfaces to enhance the perception of spaciousness was the way to go,” says Racy of their overall approach. “The rethinking of space distribution made all the difference.”

Seeking an infusion of warm accents, the duo looked to Rai’s Indian heritage and some of his beloved artworks to inspire the palette. “The colors we used throughout were inspired by Indian spices,” explains

left: A contemporary Aston sideboard by Cattelan Italia, fashioned with wood, metal, and leather is not only functional but also refined for the space. The painting above it, Almost by Silvia Berton, inspired the residence’s gray color palette.

Nar Design Studio paired black leather Pi Greco chairs from Natuzzi with a Tivoli dining table from Harmony Studio. Velum Design supplied and installed the swooping, minimalist light fixture and drop ceiling.

left: An orange storage unit by Millwork Lab adds a vibrant dose of color to the powder room. The resin transparent wash basin is from Cpingao. Capricorn from Julian Castro Art is reflected in the mirror.

below: The guest bedroom features a Haven bed in distressed velvet from West Elm lit from the glow of Kuzco Lighting’s Novel LED table lamp. Modern touches, including Visual Comfort’s Klee LED chandelier and a Palermo armchair from Harmony Studio, work in tandem with artist Angie McMonical’s framed print, In Motion

Racy. To that end, the design team incorporated a clove-colored Désirée lounger from Addison House and mustard swivel chairs by Harmony Luxury Furniture in the living room, outfitted the powder room with cayenne-colored cabinetry, and found a burnt orange headboard for the guest bedroom that recalls the color of saffron.

As for that Silvia Berton painting found at Art Miami nearly a year before? It was hung on a prominent wall by the entrance to the apartment, near another lenticular piece marked by shades of orange, brown, and yellow.

The completed residence was met with nothing but praise from the homeowner. “The minimalist design, the warm colors, the practicality … these guys created art,” says Rai. “Nicholas and Roberto treated this residence as if it was their own, and that’s what makes it truly special.”

above: “A harmonious blend of marble walls, smoked mirrors, and organicshaped furniture creates an inviting and snug atmosphere,” says Racy. The designers called on Snaidero for the kitchen cabinetry and BKF Decor Solutions for the Fior di Bosco marble slab backsplash. Studio Glass manufactured and installed the mirrored walls. Two of the homeowner’s favorite furnishings include the cocktail table made of curved and hammered smoked glass from Arketipo and the curvy Eli Fly lounger by Jai Jalan.

SOURCES

LIVING ROOM

Sofa, swivel chairs, and area rug – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Curved accent chair – Desiree, desiree.com

Cocktail table – Dainelli Studio, Arketipo, arketipo.com

Floor lamp – Michael Anastassiades, FLOS, flos.com

Origami wall sculpture – One Of A Kind, Miami, FL

ENTRY

Console – Cattelan Italia, cattelanitalia.com

Wallcovering – Wall Boutique, Miami, FL

Artwork – Silvia Berton, Liquid Art, Capri, Italy

DINING AREA

Table – Tivoli, Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Chairs – Manzoni & Tapinassi, Natuzzi Italia, natuzzi.com

Lighting – Velum Design, Miami, FL

KITCHEN

Cabinetry – Snaidero, DCOTA, Dania Beach, FL

Backsplash – BKF Decor Solutions, Miami, FL

POWDER ROOM

Counter designed and fabricated by Nar Design Studio, Miami, FL

Wash basin – Cpingao, cpingao.com

Drawers designed by Nar Design Studio, Miami, FL, and fabricated by The Millwork Lab, Miami, FL

GUEST BEDROOM

Bed and headboard – West Elm, Miami, FL

Bedside table – Modloft, Miami, FL

Table lamp – Kuzco Lighting, kuzcolighting.com

Floor lamp – Dainolite, dainolite.com

Armchair – Harmony Studio, Miami, FL

Chandelier – Visual Comfort, visualcomfort.com

THROUGHOUT

General contractor – Padovezi Service, Miami, FL

Millwork – Casa Petrus, Miami, FL

Wallcoverings and window treatments – Wall Boutique, Miami, FL

Mirrors – Studio Glass, Miami, FL

Automation – Showtime Audio, Miami, FL

Chaos Theory

MIAMI DESIGNER SABRINA MACLEAN APPRECIATES THE DISCORDANT BEAUTY OF HERVÉ VAN DER STRAETEN’S CONSOLE TWIST 606

text CHRISTOPHER DAY

THE TASTEMAKER: Sabrina Maclean is the head of Hino Studio, a Miami-based interior design firm founded in 2000 by her mother, Carola Hinojosa. The company is known for impeccable interiors that incorporate top-tier furnishings with world-class art collections.

THE OBJECT: Made of lacquered wood and part of a limited edition of 60 pieces (available through Ralph Pucci in Wynwood), the Console Twist 606 by Hervé Van Der Straeten defies gravity with its haphazard structure of panels, which appear to be floating when viewed from certain angles.

IN HER WORDS: “This is a statement piece any way you look at it,” says Maclean. “What I love most about it is how the ombré effect and the juxtaposition of the cubes work in perfect harmony.” hinostudio.com; vanderstraeten.fr; ralphpucci.com