Miami’s Design District is going through a complete renaissance, as warehouses and gallery spaces have been converted into high-end retail, restaurant, design, and architectural destinations, catering to the well-heeled crowd. This section of the city was founded in the 1920’s during the Art Deco boom, but unfortunately deteriorated throughout the years, until this recent awakening. Playing a prominent role in Art Basel Miami, as well as the glamorous party circuit, this area- a quick fifteen minute ride from South Beach- has become a hub of innovative and bohemian activity thanks to developer Craig Robins, who has been the force behind this metamorphosis, and responsible for the boom in luxury real-estate sales, led by Brazilians and other foreign investors.
Envisioned as a walk-able upscale environment for those who are inclined to seek out a more interesting and cultural experience in Miami- as opposed to the glitzy Vegas-style South Beach- this new resource of cool offers up some pretty impressive shopping that is in direct competition with the nearby Bal Harbour chic-ness. Louis Vuitton- whose image you see above- pays homage to graffiti artists, melding together raw and artsy with extreme luxury. Christian Louboutin was one of the first designers to arrive in the district, closely followed by Celine, Prada, and Hermes, while Tom Ford and Zegna are slated to open their outposts this year.
Decorator showrooms are also predominant, and include Holly Hunt, Armani Casa, Kartell, Bulthaup, and Ann sacks, among others. Art Galleries and Design Studios such as de la Cruz Collection, the Haitian Heritage Museum, and Ricart Gallery, are sprinkled everywhere, and every second Saturday you can indulge in the popular art crawl at the Wynwood Artwalk– where you can take a one hour guided tour. For those who may want to imbibe in the thriving restaurant and bar scene, Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink, Crumb on Parchment, and Pasha’s are the go-to spots. As I always find myself drawn to places that are on the fringe of the next big thing, I’m thinking this stylish slice of Miami is almost there… www.miamidesigndistrict.net
