Decorating Guides
City View: Miami Design Keeps an Open Mind
Culture, color, climate and fashion factor strongly in this vibrant port city's design aesthetic
In terms of design, when you're thinking "Miami," don't think "vice." "Cheesy black and white leather and chrome is a common misconception when it comes to Miami design," says North Miami interior designer Ivonne Ronderos of of DKOR Interiors. "Because so many of the homes here are second homes, the owners are much more open minded to design; they are playful rather than formal." The rich mix of cultures and history, the latest fashion trends and color inspired by the brilliant surroundings all play a role in giving Miami its distinct style.
In honor of the scene that Miami's Art Basel exhibition has become, we're presenting a virtual visit for those who can't make the show (December 6 to 9, 2012). Here's what's happening in the Miami design scene today.
In honor of the scene that Miami's Art Basel exhibition has become, we're presenting a virtual visit for those who can't make the show (December 6 to 9, 2012). Here's what's happening in the Miami design scene today.
In lieu of the 1980s Crockett and Tubbs cheesy bachelor look, Ronderos took a sophisticated approach with this masculine room, layering rich textures and warm neutrals.
"In Miami people are open and eager for new ideas, not the typical interior," says Ronderos. Case in point: this striking photograph that looks like a beautiful slab in a powder room.
Ronderos also notes the way interiors reflect the climate and the seaside environment. "The weather influences a lot the way people perceive their space and how they want their space to feel — it's easy, free and brings the outdoors in."
"Culture is also a big influence in creating a distinct Miami look," says Ronderos. "You see it within the local vendors: Ornare, Adriana Hoyos, Artefacto … it influences the general design of furniture, finishes and accessories."
"Color to me is synonymous with Miami design," says interior designer Nicole White. "Our designs here are deeply influenced by so many vivid things, including the ocean, an abundance of foliage that never fades and, perhaps most distinct, the variety of cultures we have to draw from here that invariably affect and influence our designs."
"We are a diversely rich community, where in a matter of minutes, you can take a drive down the same street and hear English, Creole, Spanish and Portuguese," White says. "With that mix of language comes a unique mix of experiences, and so it's hard to not have that reflected when you design."
"I think more than anything, the bold splashes of color I often use in my designs are a direct representation of the vibrancy transported from those cultures," White says. "That vibrancy is also often showcased in art via projects that directly reflect a client's history and personal musings." She is looking forward to shopping Art Basel this year with a client who is a first-time homeowner.
While Miami designers don't shy away from color, they are also embracing neutrals. "A new trend juxtaposes natural colors and materials with objects with a more mechanical feel," says interior designer Dawn Elise.
Case in point: Leather, wood and cowhide mingle with classic Toledo stools, steel and glass.
Of course, it's not all neutrals for Elise, who notes that Miami designers also use pastels in a distinctive and forward-thinking way. "They can be done tastefully and look great," she says.
Interior designer Claudia Lujan notes that Miami homes incorporate distinctive clean lines.
Lujan also notes that color is a big factor and that she gets inspiration from the runways.
"Miami is about fashion and who has the latest things; the latest fashion trends inspire my designs," Lujan says.
"Over the last 100 or so years, Miami has seen the tides of style ebb and flow with the cultural influences that have landed on our sunny shores," says Vic Lohmann, president of Innovative Designs. "This amazing melting pot of taste makes the area curiously diverse and provides a unique backdrop of expression."
Lohmann points out the influence being a major port has on design. "Geographically, we are fortunate to have a global shipping hub in our backyard, so there is never a shortage of new products like stone, tile, millwork as well as a very well-heeled art market and clientele," he says. "By pairing the ever-shifting demands of creativity with the vast resources of product, you have the perfect incubator for cutting-edge design."
"No matter an individual’s taste in furnishings, finish and style, there is a home for it here and no shortage of local talent in executing a project from concept to delivery," Lohmann says.