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Modern Yet Natural / Moderno Au Natural
By Patrícia Salvadori, translated
The design of the Coral Gables Residence, located in the Miami metropolitan area, provided a challenge. Completed in 2012, this home belongs to a modern, tech-enthusiast homeowner. However, Coral Gables has a zoning plant that favors , and is characterized by, historic architectural styles rather than contemporary design. This apparent conflict between the client’s desire for a modern home and the more classical character of the area’s buildings shaped the home’s design. One side draws inspiration from the Miami environment with its miles of beaches, exclusive boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. The other is very much like a tropical resort, with large windows overlooking the water. Two openings break up the stone-clad facade. Hard to spot from the street, the only glimpse one can get of the house is the row of windows with grilles at the top of the wall. Even the roof is somewhat hidden on this property, which has a total area of 6,091 m².
How was this duality made possible? The project’s façade consists of two stone-clad volumes arranged like a “mask” to disguise the house from the view of passersby. The living areas all face the bay and extend onto a small terrace located between the two volumes of the residence. The exterior of the house also features a deck and a pool for enjoying sunny days. Alcoves in the courtyard were incorporated into the design to provide private outdoor space. Harmony with the outdoors: Upon entering the interior of the residence, the impression one gets is that it is anything but traditional. The dining room, though enormous, feels more intimate. The large floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views, and the sloping roof seems to flow over the floor. The glass walls support the sculptural roof, which provides shade and protection for the spacious open terrace, offering, as a bonus, a view of the stars at night. While the interior of the house is minimalist in design, the backyard is lush. Large potted palm trees complete the overall look of the terrace, creating a stunning connection with the landscape. This house is a dream for anyone planning to live by the beach or for those who need a bit of contemporary inspiration for their own decor.
See the full feature in Portuguese below.
