The highly anticipated Elle Décor designer showhouse is here and we are thrilled to see its doors open along with Art Basel Miami. This year we were selected among seven other designers to transform the penthouse atop the newly built Paramount Bay tower located in Downtown Miami. Our challenge was to transform a standard terrace into a breathtaking outdoor heaven; we were given a narrative of a fictitious client and a blank canvas featuring spectacular panoramic views overlooking Miami. To reflect the lifestyle of a lively couple known for their love of music, the arts and their world travels, we used organic and exclusive elements as the inspiration behind the design. As we started the process of sketching out ideas, the space slowly began to evolve into this modern outdoor dining and entertaining area suited for their lifestyle and enriched with refreshingly bright colors, clean lined furniture and stylish accents. The end result is a stunning outdoor space that is as equally impressive as the surrounding city views.
Several pieces are custom designed for the space such as a console and the dining tables, artfully constructed and made from driftwood, they immediately grab your attention as you walk onto the terrace. The items bring about an effortless element of beauty and make a great contrast to the modern décor. As collectors of fine art, the lively couple will be able to both recognize and appreciate the artistic and sculptural nature that is brought out by each of the originally designed pieces. The bar is made of an exotic Alexis tree recuperated from the results of hurricane Wilma and a floor to ceiling Plexiglas TV screen juxtaposed by contemporary white woven barstools.
We decided to use a crisp white as the backdrop for the design and popped it with cool blues and tangerine oranges, bringing it all together with a few organic accessories. Our feature wall is a gorgeous reverse painted glass panel which was designed as a floral garden backdrop with hints of the colors used in the room. Lanterns hung as chandeliers gave the space an unexpected element of whimsy, other floor lanterns were placed freely throughout setting the mood. A uniquely styled custom designed orange and white console table, that was placed behind the seating area, simply gave the space another layer of personality and unexpected charm.
The design was a labor of love and as it unfolded, seemingly all the pieces came together. The hand picked pieces of furniture contrasted against the white walls like pieces of art. The chosen scheme reflected colors similar to those seen from the balcony into the cityscape. Intermingling a mixture of lounge chairs, dining seats and bar stools, the space is perfect for outdoor dining, relaxing and entertaining. Want to see how it all panned out?
The finished product was a total transformation, but to see it you’ll have to stay tuned!