THE TRENDIER, THE BETTER
Deck -- Name Brand Designers make South Florida Condos Hip
It used to be that metropolitan cities like New York, Chicago or Los Angeles got all the glory by setting new trends – high rises that are now known as landmarks – thanks to the special touch of famous interior designers or master architects. Richard Meier’s acclaimed Perry Street towers in New York have attracted celebrity buyers, and his design for the Getty Center in Los Angeles is continuously drawing the curious. In Burbank, California, the Walt Disney Co. headquarters donned the unique touch of famed designer Michael Graves, and is now an attraction unto itself.
The name-brand fever then spread south and headed for the Sunshine State. The Delano Hotel, for example, is known as the place to be in Miami’s South Beach, where designer Philippe Starck has made a statement of exclusivity with his well-known sense of whimsy, and where locals and tourists spend their time away from the daily rigors of life. Equally illustrious is the Mandarin Oriental, in Miami, where the world-renowned firm of Hirsch Bedner and Associates concocted the perfect mix of tranquility and extravagance.
That’s when South Florida condo developers noticed the impact of using famous architects and designers’ talent. It became clear that such artistry could lure homebuyers all while setting their projects apart from others. Since this epiphany, hiring esteemed designers and architects has become a major preoccupation.
A Booming Market
South Florida is now a destination of choice for artists, entrepreneurs and moguls in every field. In fact, it has become a favorite of film producers, movie directors and music moguls who scout locations, develop plotlines and compose lyrics along, or about, its palm-lined streets. And the most prominent socialites want to be seen in vogue at the latest night clubs. But more importantly, people are choosing to live here.
In 2003 alone, Florida had 248 sunny days, 70% of the year, and the temperature never dropped below 30°, and many are relocating because of the favorable weather. Companies like U-Haul reported that same year that 8% of the one-way rentals, among the top 50 cities in the U.S., were to Florida. Now that the world is recognizing this state for its appeal and proven ability to set new trends, the market is now quasi saturated with homebuyers looking for the best living experiences, and developers are scurrying to meet those demands.
In a world where people are increasingly identifying with name brands and labels like Gucci, Prada or Louis Vuitton, architects and designers are becoming just as essential. In other words, everybody wants one.
Fort Lauderdale Fancy
The challenge for condo developers in this highly populated state where property value is constantly on the rise, is to offer living spaces that distinguish their product and magnetize homebuyers with a flair for the bold and the beautiful. The Trump International Hotel and Tower Fort Lauderdale is doing just that, and has taken the lead by commissioning the world-renowned firm of Michael Graves & Associates to design the 24-tower building right on Fort Lauderdale beach. Even before construction is completed, this luxurious condo hotel has become a landmark, and not just because of the Trump name.
The 301-residence development will feature the architecture firm’s touch, and will be visibly reminiscent of a twentieth century ocean liner, reflecting the ocean and boating themes for which the city is reputed. The exterior stucco and glass facades will curve gently as they rise, and the building will feature hues of cream and blue, touting the nautical lifestyle.
“For us, what our buildings look like is not a matter of style so much as using architectural language to develop the idea of ‘character,’” says Michael Graves. “Character, for us, creates a building’s identity, its personality, both inside and outside. In the case of Trump Fort Lauderdale, the character is derived from the regional context and a somewhat romantic idea of life associated with the sea.”
Already, the majority of units are reserved at the Trump International Hotel & Tower Fort Lauderdale, and construction is progressing quickly. Roy Stillman himself, managing member and development partner of Trump International Hotel & Tower Fort Lauderdale, is excited to see the project come to completion.
“For a development of this caliber, we could only work with the best,” says Stillman. “Michael Graves & Associates continuously delivers projects of spectacular design, and we wanted a true master on board to help us achieve a cutting-edge yet classic condo hotel that people would also see as a masterpiece.”
Also on this city’s ocean shores, the W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel and Residences is embodying high living in true South Florida fashion, with none other than Clodagh Design at its helm. Known for her worldwide experience in architecture and interior design, and celebration of “the experience of living,” the singularly named Clodagh has received a number of awards for her constant innovation.
There, “space defines the experience,” and for this project, the ambiance will be softer than that found in a W in a city like New York. Here, she will create an urban retreat with textured stones, concrete, and natural materials, all conducive to a more serene atmosphere where residents and guests will gather for conversation.
“We wanted a designer that would understand the need for a sophisticated yet serene beach-like ambiance,” says John Yanopolous, CEO of Colonial Development Group, LLC, developer of the W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel & Residences.
Local designers are also part of the name-brand trend, and favorites like Paola D. Smith are entering the scene to consult on the design of Europa-by-the-sea, a new ultra-luxe condominium in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
“Europa-by-the-sea encompasses pure luxury, and everything that we incorporated within its design speaks of elegance,” says Smith.
For Smith, this is a new challenge which she will tackle with the same enthusiasm she demonstrated designing the residence of Prince Nasser Abdul Aziz, in Fort Lauderdale, and a series of yachts for automotive magnate Jim Moran. Now, she will incorporate her flair for refinement into Europa-by-the-sea to offer residents the wondrous lifestyle they seek.
Miami Beach Glamour
Meanwhile, south of Fort Lauderdale, in Miami Beach, the world’s leading hospitality design firm, HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates, is mirroring the Mandarin Oriental’s sophistication in Mei, the Asian-themed condominium located on the last parcel of oceanfront land in Miami Beach. The firm, which has also designed the Beverly Hills Hotel in California, and the Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans, is aiming to incorporate exotic elements like bamboo, rice paper, linens and glass features to create a sensuous haven for residents in the lobby, tea lounge, and the Asian spa and fitness center.
Mei is Mandarin for beauty and femininity, and the designer is striving to create the most graceful of living experiences for homeowners. The principals at Property Markets Group (PMG) wanted a designer that would step up to the challenge.
“We want to create a space that’s beautiful but not overstated,” says developer Mitchell Schneiderman of PMG.
Also in Miami Beach, the Caribbean hotel, a 1940s vestige, is undergoing a revival as it is being converted to a luxurious condominium, with interiors being redesigned by the renowned Christopher Ciccone, brother to pop artist Madonna. Already used to the spotlight, Ciccone has been appointed to create lavish spaces that evoke that same plush ambiance of the good old days, when Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. frolicked along the beaches.
Ciccone is famous not only because of his singing sibling, but because he has also had a hand at directing and designing major concert tours, music videos and film, and is already a well-established artist. His brand name furniture was even selected to adorn the New York office of President Bill Clinton. With a designer of his pedigree on board, the Caribbean is sure to attract homebuyers worldwide.
Then, there are architects like Richard Meier, who needs no introduction in the world of design. This award-winning professional has already inspired New York City with his unsurpassed talent, and on the former site of the Beach House Hotel, a favorite destination for celebrities, he will introduce his design to the Miami set with Beach House, a new high-end, all-glass, oceanfront condominium.
A Touch of Whimsy
But perhaps one of the most talked-about, upcoming projects will be in Brickell, where uber developer Jorge Perez is conceiving his latest gem, ICON Brickell, along with the incomparable mind of designer Philippe Starck. Known for his vivid imagination, his spontaneity and his extraordinary vision, Starck is generating a buzz with his ideas for the new high-rise, which will be located in the heart of Miami’s financial district.
The designer of The Delano and ICON South Beach is seeking to inject passion, brilliance and seduction into the living areas at ICON Brickell, including his amazing visage pieces of art that tend to adorn the spaces in most of his projects. Plus, his custom-designed Yoo by Starck furniture package will grace the public areas of the building.
Local Talent
Right in the magic city, Michael Wolk Design Associates is generating acclaim as one of South Florida’s most in-demand interior design firms today, with Michael Wolk at its forefront. Honored with prestigious and international awards for more than 30 years, the company’s signature design adorns the interiors of some of the region’s most famous residential, luxury estates. Among its projects are the Trump Royale and the Trump Grande, in Sunny Isles, Florida, and the prominent Diplomat, in Hollywood.
Michael Wolk Design Associates is also heralded for having designed the lobby at 500 Brickell, one of The Related Group of South Florida’s most illustrious projects. There, the team has astounded residents with gold quartzite flooring, floating ceilings and curtains of rain-like water that magically perforate the ceiling to create a translucent transition. The company is also responsible for the magnificence of Sky TV media facilities, and continues to arouse the mind with its unique yet enthralling design.
Branding
Interior design and architecture have become as fashionable as fashion itself. The trend, apparently, is to experience the highest quality in living, whether it is reality or perception. And what better place to escalate your stature than with real estate, where the home reflects social standing and personal style? After all, bragging rights are all about the ability to, well, boast a bit, and brand name buildings let buyers do just that.
It used to be that metropolitan cities like New York, Chicago or Los Angeles got all the glory by setting new trends – high rises that are now known as landmarks – thanks to the special touch of famous interior designers or master architects. Richard Meier’s acclaimed Perry Street towers in New York have attracted celebrity buyers, and his design for the Getty Center in Los Angeles is continuously drawing the curious. In Burbank, California, the Walt Disney Co. headquarters donned the unique touch of famed designer Michael Graves, and is now an attraction unto itself.
The name-brand fever then spread south and headed for the Sunshine State. The Delano Hotel, for example, is known as the place to be in Miami’s South Beach, where designer Philippe Starck has made a statement of exclusivity with his well-known sense of whimsy, and where locals and tourists spend their time away from the daily rigors of life. Equally illustrious is the Mandarin Oriental, in Miami, where the world-renowned firm of Hirsch Bedner and Associates concocted the perfect mix of tranquility and extravagance.
That’s when South Florida condo developers noticed the impact of using famous architects and designers’ talent. It became clear that such artistry could lure homebuyers all while setting their projects apart from others. Since this epiphany, hiring esteemed designers and architects has become a major preoccupation.
A Booming Market
South Florida is now a destination of choice for artists, entrepreneurs and moguls in every field. In fact, it has become a favorite of film producers, movie directors and music moguls who scout locations, develop plotlines and compose lyrics along, or about, its palm-lined streets. And the most prominent socialites want to be seen in vogue at the latest night clubs. But more importantly, people are choosing to live here.
In 2003 alone, Florida had 248 sunny days, 70% of the year, and the temperature never dropped below 30°, and many are relocating because of the favorable weather. Companies like U-Haul reported that same year that 8% of the one-way rentals, among the top 50 cities in the U.S., were to Florida. Now that the world is recognizing this state for its appeal and proven ability to set new trends, the market is now quasi saturated with homebuyers looking for the best living experiences, and developers are scurrying to meet those demands.
In a world where people are increasingly identifying with name brands and labels like Gucci, Prada or Louis Vuitton, architects and designers are becoming just as essential. In other words, everybody wants one.
Fort Lauderdale Fancy
The challenge for condo developers in this highly populated state where property value is constantly on the rise, is to offer living spaces that distinguish their product and magnetize homebuyers with a flair for the bold and the beautiful. The Trump International Hotel and Tower Fort Lauderdale is doing just that, and has taken the lead by commissioning the world-renowned firm of Michael Graves & Associates to design the 24-tower building right on Fort Lauderdale beach. Even before construction is completed, this luxurious condo hotel has become a landmark, and not just because of the Trump name.
The 301-residence development will feature the architecture firm’s touch, and will be visibly reminiscent of a twentieth century ocean liner, reflecting the ocean and boating themes for which the city is reputed. The exterior stucco and glass facades will curve gently as they rise, and the building will feature hues of cream and blue, touting the nautical lifestyle.
“For us, what our buildings look like is not a matter of style so much as using architectural language to develop the idea of ‘character,’” says Michael Graves. “Character, for us, creates a building’s identity, its personality, both inside and outside. In the case of Trump Fort Lauderdale, the character is derived from the regional context and a somewhat romantic idea of life associated with the sea.”
Already, the majority of units are reserved at the Trump International Hotel & Tower Fort Lauderdale, and construction is progressing quickly. Roy Stillman himself, managing member and development partner of Trump International Hotel & Tower Fort Lauderdale, is excited to see the project come to completion.
“For a development of this caliber, we could only work with the best,” says Stillman. “Michael Graves & Associates continuously delivers projects of spectacular design, and we wanted a true master on board to help us achieve a cutting-edge yet classic condo hotel that people would also see as a masterpiece.”
Also on this city’s ocean shores, the W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel and Residences is embodying high living in true South Florida fashion, with none other than Clodagh Design at its helm. Known for her worldwide experience in architecture and interior design, and celebration of “the experience of living,” the singularly named Clodagh has received a number of awards for her constant innovation.
There, “space defines the experience,” and for this project, the ambiance will be softer than that found in a W in a city like New York. Here, she will create an urban retreat with textured stones, concrete, and natural materials, all conducive to a more serene atmosphere where residents and guests will gather for conversation.
“We wanted a designer that would understand the need for a sophisticated yet serene beach-like ambiance,” says John Yanopolous, CEO of Colonial Development Group, LLC, developer of the W Fort Lauderdale Resort Hotel & Residences.
Local designers are also part of the name-brand trend, and favorites like Paola D. Smith are entering the scene to consult on the design of Europa-by-the-sea, a new ultra-luxe condominium in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
“Europa-by-the-sea encompasses pure luxury, and everything that we incorporated within its design speaks of elegance,” says Smith.
For Smith, this is a new challenge which she will tackle with the same enthusiasm she demonstrated designing the residence of Prince Nasser Abdul Aziz, in Fort Lauderdale, and a series of yachts for automotive magnate Jim Moran. Now, she will incorporate her flair for refinement into Europa-by-the-sea to offer residents the wondrous lifestyle they seek.
Miami Beach Glamour
Meanwhile, south of Fort Lauderdale, in Miami Beach, the world’s leading hospitality design firm, HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates, is mirroring the Mandarin Oriental’s sophistication in Mei, the Asian-themed condominium located on the last parcel of oceanfront land in Miami Beach. The firm, which has also designed the Beverly Hills Hotel in California, and the Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans, is aiming to incorporate exotic elements like bamboo, rice paper, linens and glass features to create a sensuous haven for residents in the lobby, tea lounge, and the Asian spa and fitness center.
Mei is Mandarin for beauty and femininity, and the designer is striving to create the most graceful of living experiences for homeowners. The principals at Property Markets Group (PMG) wanted a designer that would step up to the challenge.
“We want to create a space that’s beautiful but not overstated,” says developer Mitchell Schneiderman of PMG.
Also in Miami Beach, the Caribbean hotel, a 1940s vestige, is undergoing a revival as it is being converted to a luxurious condominium, with interiors being redesigned by the renowned Christopher Ciccone, brother to pop artist Madonna. Already used to the spotlight, Ciccone has been appointed to create lavish spaces that evoke that same plush ambiance of the good old days, when Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. frolicked along the beaches.
Ciccone is famous not only because of his singing sibling, but because he has also had a hand at directing and designing major concert tours, music videos and film, and is already a well-established artist. His brand name furniture was even selected to adorn the New York office of President Bill Clinton. With a designer of his pedigree on board, the Caribbean is sure to attract homebuyers worldwide.
Then, there are architects like Richard Meier, who needs no introduction in the world of design. This award-winning professional has already inspired New York City with his unsurpassed talent, and on the former site of the Beach House Hotel, a favorite destination for celebrities, he will introduce his design to the Miami set with Beach House, a new high-end, all-glass, oceanfront condominium.
A Touch of Whimsy
But perhaps one of the most talked-about, upcoming projects will be in Brickell, where uber developer Jorge Perez is conceiving his latest gem, ICON Brickell, along with the incomparable mind of designer Philippe Starck. Known for his vivid imagination, his spontaneity and his extraordinary vision, Starck is generating a buzz with his ideas for the new high-rise, which will be located in the heart of Miami’s financial district.
The designer of The Delano and ICON South Beach is seeking to inject passion, brilliance and seduction into the living areas at ICON Brickell, including his amazing visage pieces of art that tend to adorn the spaces in most of his projects. Plus, his custom-designed Yoo by Starck furniture package will grace the public areas of the building.
Local Talent
Right in the magic city, Michael Wolk Design Associates is generating acclaim as one of South Florida’s most in-demand interior design firms today, with Michael Wolk at its forefront. Honored with prestigious and international awards for more than 30 years, the company’s signature design adorns the interiors of some of the region’s most famous residential, luxury estates. Among its projects are the Trump Royale and the Trump Grande, in Sunny Isles, Florida, and the prominent Diplomat, in Hollywood.
Michael Wolk Design Associates is also heralded for having designed the lobby at 500 Brickell, one of The Related Group of South Florida’s most illustrious projects. There, the team has astounded residents with gold quartzite flooring, floating ceilings and curtains of rain-like water that magically perforate the ceiling to create a translucent transition. The company is also responsible for the magnificence of Sky TV media facilities, and continues to arouse the mind with its unique yet enthralling design.
Branding
Interior design and architecture have become as fashionable as fashion itself. The trend, apparently, is to experience the highest quality in living, whether it is reality or perception. And what better place to escalate your stature than with real estate, where the home reflects social standing and personal style? After all, bragging rights are all about the ability to, well, boast a bit, and brand name buildings let buyers do just that.
1 Comments:
Florida is an amazing place to stay. I lived in West PAlm Beach for over a year and found it splendidly beautiful. The homes out there are done in a beautiful manner.
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