Aside from its beaches, resorts, and world-class attractions, Miami Beach is also famous for its unique collection of Art Deco architecture. These Art Deco buildings represent an eclectic design and style you literally won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Thanks in part to the Miami Design Preservation League, the Miami’s Art Deco Historic District is home to the single largest collection of Deco buildings found anywhere in the world.
Art Deco is known for the extravagant buildings that sprang up in every big city in the 1920s. Miami Beach’s boom came during the 2nd phase of the movement, known as Streamline Moderne. It was less decorative, a reflection of the Great Depression. Architects used local imagery to create “Tropical Deco.”
These Miami buildings feature relief ornamentation with flora, fauna and ocean-liner motifs. You will also find Mediterranean Revival architecture throughout the city as well, although more can be found in Coral Gables.
Visiting Miami Beach’s Art Deco District
If you’re visiting Miami Beach for the first time, it’s highly recommended that you make a visit to the Art Deco Welcome Center, located on Ocean Drive in heart of South Beach Miami.
Here you will learn about the history of Art Deco architecture, who the architects were, see old photos and posters, and see why Miami Beach played such an important role in the movement.
Since the Art Deco Welcome Center is located on Ocean Drive, you’ll also get a first hand look at the beautiful and brightly colored Deco Hotels and neon lights found along Ocean Drive and seen in thousands of movies, TV shows and posters.
Another great thing to do is to join the Art Deco Walking Tour, which meets out front of the visitors center every day and is a fantastic way to learn first hand about the history of art deco district, while enjoying the beautiful streets and sounds of South Beach Miami.
Miami Beach is a blend of old and new
One of the many things that define Miami Beach real estate is its unique blend of old and new. You’ll find homes dating from the 1930s alongside some of the sleekest modern condo buildings in the city.
But Miami Beach is also a fast-growing and dynamic community that’s constantly evolving and reinventing itself. Thus, it’s not uncommon to witness new overtaking old on every block.
Real estate developers are replacing the aging old hotels and buying some of the very last few unrestored properties in all of Miami Beach—for a while, despite the efforts of some to preserve and restore it and despite being located in a locally and nationally designated historic district.
Condos located in the South Beach Art Deco District.
The Aloha
Built in 1937, The Aloha is a cozy and fully renovated boutique deco condominium located on Meridian Avenue, found just at the end of the equally historical Española Way in Miami Beach.
The chic Aloha condo building consist of just 8 units, each ranging from 1 to 2 bedrooms and from 540 to 940 square feet. Every residence is fully updated and features modern kitchens, upgraded baths, and new electrical and plumbing systems.
Over-sized windows and high ceilings make for a roomy feel, while the tropical landscaping and trendy location bring out the best of Florida living. If you’re looking to buy a condo in South Beach, The Aloha would be a great place to call home.
The Cabana Miami Beach
The Cabana, located on 1551 Lenox Ave in South Beach Miami, is a 2-story condominium that dates back to the 1940s. Having undergone a relatively recent renovation, it is now a lovely combination of modern and classic amenities. All 8 of its units have 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a living area ranging from 920 to 990 square feet.
Each condo features new central air conditioning, hardwood flooring, high-end finishes, and European kitchens complete with granite countertops, custom cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Its lush landscaping and close proximity to Lincoln Road will help you enjoy Miami Beach Florida living to the fullest. The Cabana is a great example of Miami’s art deco architecture.
The Vanderbilt
Finally, there is The Vanderbilt, located on 810 Pennsylvania Ave, and so exemplary of an Art Deco style building, that it has won the Miami Design Preservation League Award. Originally built in 1946, The Vanderbilt underwent a complete restoration in 2004 that has fully-updated its amenities and features while retaining its chic Miami Beach Florida style.
Each of its 14 one-bedroom residences include such remarkable designs and features as Brazilian cherry wood floors, cararra marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and impact-resistance windows. Additionally, two of the penthouse units include 300 square feet of private terraces.
Most of these Miami buildings have undergone some kind of renovation — some more recently than others, and some to a higher degree of quality. Josh Stein has a vast experience with Miami’s Art Deco scene and counts these structures among his favorites architecturally. (He even lives in one.)
These are just a small sample of the lovely sample of Miami Beach’s Art Deco Condos that make up this dynamic real estate market.
Explore The Netherland, One of Miami Beach’s Finest Condos
Of all the excellent Condos offered by Josh Stein Realtor, one of the most iconic is The Netherland, located in South Beach. Considered one of Miami Beach’s most iconic and popular condominiums, it also has the distinction of truly beautiful Art Deco architecture.
The Netherland is located on 1330 Ocean Drive, in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant resort cities. Its residents enjoy peerless access to some of the finest restaurants, clubs, shops, and other attractions in the area. You’re also only a short walk away from the city’s famous beachfront, giving you privileged access to what people form all over the globe travel to enjoy.
Of course, The Netherland has more to offer than its prime location. First built in 1936, the nine-story building remains one of the oldest and most venerated residential buildings in the city. It’s been fully updated to provide the most modern comforts imaginable, while still nonetheless retaining its chic and stylish designs, inside and out.
With only 36 residences, the iconic building is one of the most exclusive on the market. The limited number of units guarantees optimal space and privacy, with sizes ranging from around 1,700 to as much as 2,850 square feet! The wide variety of floor plans and layouts to choose from encompass anywhere from one to four bedrooms, with most units providing direct ocean views and expansive terraces.
Among the vast number of amenities and features to enjoy are beautiful and unique interior appointments, modern gourmet kitchens with stainless steel appliances, washer and dryer units, original wood floors, and exposed beams that add a chic industrial look. The Netherland offers around-the-clock security and doormen, retail and dining options at the ground level, and a flexible rental policy that makes it easy to obtain its exclusive lifestyle.
Tribeca South Beach
Tribeca in Miami Beach is one of Josh Stein’s most sophisticated South Florida property. Built in 1940 and remodeled by designer Andi Greenwald in 2004, these spacious units come with one or two bedrooms.
When she redesigned a decade ago, Greenwald even included private terraces to expand the units’ floor space, both a practical and attention-grabbing decision that earned this complex its reputation as one of the most stunning condos in Miami.
First, you must choose between Tribeca East and Tribeca West. Neither will disappoint, though each boasts separate features. The one- or two-bedroom units in Tribeca East have retained their original but refurbished hardwood floors.
The kitchens are both functional and beautiful with black granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Of course the upgrades include new windows and doors, new plumbing and electrical systems and central air and heating. The faux fireplaces add to the modern design scheme expected in this area.
The amenities are similar in Tribeca West, although the kitchen granite is white and the cabinets are Italian. The bathrooms have marble counters and the closets are custom. Residents of either building will enjoy free on-site storage, a heated swimming pool, and private lounge areas. Choose from the outdoor courtyard or a separate seating area. Hibiscus flowers, iconic Florida palms, and a tranquil fountain decorate the peaceful space.
Fontana South Beach
The 1960s are suave again at Fontana, a renovated Miami Beach property on West Avenue. Built in 1962 and renovated in 2007, the place maintains its funky facade. Inside, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of modern living without the polyester.
European washer and dryers are conveniently placed in each unit. The floors are made of a Brazilian teak and the impact-resistant windows stretch from floor to ceiling. Marbled countertops and backsplashes complete the kitchens where appliances are stainless steel. Your gas range includes a hood, and an island provides more space for cooking and high-top dining.
Each one-bedroom unit boasts 822 square feet. Outside, the secured property includes a private pool for guests. Many of the units massive windows overlook the deck, which is outlined with a seaglass border. There are sundecks and lounging areas for innumerable hours under the sun. Parking is also private and reserved for each resident.
Like all Josh Stein properties, you’ll feel like you’ve landed in a private oasis when in reality you’re seconds away from the vibrant city. Walk to Lincoln Road for weekend entertainment and cruise to the beach for sand and saltwater. It’s all within reach at Fontana.
Hotels Located in the Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District
There are hundreds of hotels located along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue in the Art Deco Historic District which attract visitors from around the globe. Greater Miami Beach has always been a favorite vacation destination. From the beach to the incredible variety of food, languages and culture, you will find, the city of Miami Beach is an incredible destination to visit. The city produces many events that attract businesses and conventions to the area.
If you want to get away and take a small excursion for the day, take a drive to the beeautiful city of Coral Gables and enjoy brunch at the Biltmore, which happens to be one of the best brunches in all of Miami. Not only is the food delicious, Coral Gables has tons of history and you can read more about it in both english and spanish throughout the hotel. The place is spectacular and one of the most famous destinations in Miami.
Is the Art Deco District in Miami Safe?
Yes the Miami Beach Art Deco District is safe for everyone and the neighborhood attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors year round. The Art Deco historic district is one of the most famous destinations on the planet and always busy.
Ocean Drive in Miami can get rowdy at night and is probably best to avoid if at all possible. It is also one of the most touristy parts of Miami Florida and prices can be outrageous. Your best best is to spend your time on Lincoln Road, Collins Avenue and maybe even take a walking tour of the Art Deco historic district.
What period is Art Deco?
Miami’s Art Deco period started in the 1920’s and has continued to evolve today, with many developers and investors buying these old Miami Beach’s art deco buildings and renovating them as brand new modern condos. The Miami Beach Art Deco historic district has strict guidelines to make sure that the architectural characteristics of the exterior of the buildings are kept true to the original architecture.
Is Miami Beach dangerous at night?
Miami Beach Florida is just like any other big city. Overall, Miami Beach is very safe and attracts people from all over the globe. Miami Beach is well organized and offers many events and festivals all year long, including Art Basel, the Food and Wine Festival and the Miami International Boat Show to name a few.
Josh’s track record includes record breaking sales throughout Miami and Miami Beach and has many incredible Art Deco properties for sale. For a private consultation and truly expert real estate service, please call Josh at +1 (305) 695-8257 or email him at hello@joshsteinrealtor.com.
