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OBR’s Favorite Miami Buildings

Though Miami is known for its pastel-colored hotels on South Beach, its architecture is defined by a number of contrasting styles. Architects and developers have been transforming Miami’s cityscape into one of the new architectural capitals of America. From a contemporary luxury high-rise to a historical Spanish hotel, we’ve curated a list of our top 5 most iconic buildings.

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The Biltmore Hotel

The Biltmore Hotel was built in 1926 by hotel magnate John McEntee Bowman and land developer George Merrick, who combined his deep affection for lush South Florida landscape with a high regard for Italian, Moorish and Spanish architectural influences to create this architectural gem. The Biltmore Hotel was initially the tallest building in Florida at 315 feet and, today, its 23,000 square-foot pool is one of the largest hotel pools in the continental United States. The Biltmore’s rich history makes it Coral Gables’ most preeminent historic landmark.

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1111 Lincoln

The iconic garage on the west end of Lincoln Road was designed by world-renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron. The open-air structure rises seven stories and includes office space, retail, parking spaces and a mysterious rooftop penthouse. The seventh floor of the garage is also where 1111 Vibe hosts Skywave Yoga on Monday evenings. The view from the top overlooks Lincoln Road, Alton Road and as far as the shores of Biscayne Bay.

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Solitair Brickell

Solitair Brickell, the latest luxury high-rise gracing Miami’s skyline, was recently completed by global architecture and design firm Stantec. The design of the 50-story building distinguishes itself with a unique angular, towering basket-weave design inspired by the majestic Medjool date palm tree popular in South Florida’s tropical landscape. Developed by ZOM Living, Solitair Brickell includes 483 residential units, millennial-friendly amenities and one of the highest rooftop resort-style pools in Miami.

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New World Center

The New World Center is a concert hall in the heart of South Beach, home to the New World Symphony, a post-graduate orchestral academy. A collaboration between the symphony’s artistic director, 11-time Grammy award-winning conductor, Michael Tilson Thomas, and Pritzker Prize-winning architect Frank Gehry, the building features multiple flexible spaces, cutting-edge media equipment, six stories of natural light and views of the iconic Miami Beach Art Deco skyline. A new 2.5-acre public park designed by the firm West 8, features the New World Center’s SoundScape park where New World Symphony WALLCAST concerts are presented on the building’s 7,000-square-foot projection wall.

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One Thousand Museum

One Thousand Museum is a high-rise residential condominium under construction in Downtown Miami designed by the late Pritzker Prize-winning architect Zaha Hadid. When completed, the 62-story building is expected to rise over 700 feet, making it one of the tallest buildings in Miami. The design of the building distinguishes itself with the contrast between the robust exoskeleton and the crystalline glazing of the glass façade beneath it. Gregg Covin, Todd Michael Glaser, Louis Birdman, Kevin Venger, Gilberto Bomeny and Regalia Group are the developers.

OBR Participates in 3rd Annual Drink Miami Hostel at the Freehand Miami Beach

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Josh and Aimet Oberhausen, co-founders of the Miami Hospitality Design Awards and judges of the 3rd Annual Drink Miami Hostel, selected Zacapa Rum as the “Best Themed Room.”

Zacapa’s design was intended to make you feel as if you were floating in the clouds of the Guatemala mountains. Cloud-like elements hung from the ceiling & mist surrounded the room as guests sipped on the “Al Cielo” signature cocktail, which means “to the sky.”

Organizers Gabriel Urrutia, Giovanny Gutierrez, and Matt Hirsch, transformed the Freehand into a virtual drinking tour showcasing the best brands, bartenders, and trendsetting cocktails.

As guests traveled through more than 20 experiences throughout the hostel’s rooms and common areas, they sipped on spirits from around the world and got their “passport” stamped. Guests also had the opportunity to learn more about their favorite cocktails through one-on-one interactions with brand ambassadors and bartenders.

Bloommiami Develops Multi-Tier Activation for La Prairie at LAX

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Bloommiami developed a multi-layered, interactive activation for the leader in luxury skincare, La Prairie. The retail-focused design agency produced, implemented and managed the activation located inside DFS, Los Angeles International Airport in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Bloommiami incorporated luxury materials including marble-like, black and chrome finishes into the design to create a high-end, exclusive environment that is in line with the La Prairie look and feel and appeals to luxury travelers. This is the first collaboration between Bloommiami and the Swiss skincare brand.

Miami-based creative agency Bloommiami has teamed up with La Prairie to launch a multi-tiered interactive activation in Los Angeles International Airport’s (LAX) Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT).

Located inside the high-trafficked entrance to DFS Group’s store and running through 30 April, the three-part retail unit begins with a window display and is supported by two high-profile promotions (HPPs) showcasing La Prairie’s White Caviar Collection.

“From the moment travelers enter the store they begin interacting with the La Prairie brand and continue to do so at different touchpoints throughout the store, furthering their engagement,” commented Robert Ayona, Partner at Bloommiami.

“The activation’s location is key as it captures the most visibility for La Prairie and reaches its target audience.”

To read the full story, visit TR Business.

Midtown 8 Residential Development in Midtown Miami Tops Off

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Architecture and design firm Stantec, Kast Construction and developer Wood Partners celebrated the topping off of the 28-story Midtown 8 residential development located on a two-acre site at 2901 and 2951 NE 1st Avenue in Midtown Miami. The mixed-use development includes 387 residences, retail space and parking.

When completed in May 2019, Midtown 8 will feature 30,000 sq. ft. of commercial space, an amenity deck above an attached 519-car garage, 27 Citi Bike spots, a clubhouse, a landscaped linear outdoor space with dog walk area and a colorful mural art wall expressive of the neighborhood. The residential units range from studios, one-bedrooms, two-bedrooms, and three-bedroom penthouses with elevated ceilings.

Other residential amenities include a co-working space in the lobby, spacious hammock garden, a rocking chair lounge area, yoga studio, demonstration kitchen and juice bar. The outdoor amenity spaces will have lush greenery and green walls creating an inviting and relaxing oasis for residents.

PCCSF’s Dr. Allan Greissman honored with JDCH Circle of Friends Award

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Dr. Allan Greissman of Pediatric Critical Care of South Florida was recently honored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Circle of Friends for his outstanding work as a pediatric intensivist.

JDCH’s Circle of Friends is part of the hospital’s giving societies. The award recognizes physicians that exemplify the spirit and mission of the hospital and provide extraordinary care for JDCH patients, families and community.

As a senior member of Pediatric Critical Care of South Florida since 1994, Dr. Greissman develops procedural sedation programs, the care of the chronically ventilated patient and community outreach. He actively lectures throughout the South Florida community on various topics related to pediatrics.

Congratulations Dr. Greissman and thank you for your work!

Bloommiami Brings First Johnnie Walker store to the U.S.

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Bloommiami is taking the airport shopping experience to the next level for all Miami International Airport travelers. The retail-focused design agency served as design consultants, fabricators and project managers of the first full Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky store in the United States for Diageo Global Travel, the leader in beverage alcohol in Travel Retail. Bloommiami incorporated stretch fabric ceiling canopies, edge lighted shelves and backlighted product glorification pads to create a museum-like environment. The permanent store is located at Miami International Airport.

The airport experience has evolved over the years in an attempt to ease the tribulations associated with air travel. Airports are no longer defined by fast-food restaurants and duty-free shops; they have become something more akin to shopping malls, with luxury retail stores and expensive, sit-down restaurants.

Exhibit A: The first Johnnie Walker store in the U.S. recently opened in Miami International Airport’s North Terminal. In addition to purchasing Johnnie Walker products, the 1,145-sf store creates a museum-like experience for customers to learn more about the brand.

“The design immerses customers in the history, provenance, and pioneering spirit of the Johnnie Walker brand,” says Darin Held, Partner at Bloommiami, the firm that served as design consultants, fabricators and project managers for the store.

At the tasting bar, guests can sample various whiskeys and use iPads that provide additional information about Johnnie Walker products. Also working to create a museum-like ambiance was the lighting, which includes stretch fabric ceiling canopies, edge lighted shelves and backlighted product glorification pads.

Other design features include a Johnnie Walker Striding Man Statue, large wall-to-wall light box with images inspired by Miami, museum-style images depicting the history of Johnnie Walker, an engraving station where customers can personalize bottles, intricate floor work that took 56 hours to install, and a single malts library display wall designed to mimic a mixer’s lab.

To see photos, visit Building Design + Construction.

Choeff Levy Fischman’s Hibiscus Island Gem Featured in Private Air

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The latest issue of Private Air Magazine features a recently completed Tropical Modern home in Miami Beach designed by Choeff Levy Fischman. Located on Hibiscus Island, the residence features Brazilian Oak wood floors, Calacatta marble accents and disappearing sliding glass doors that create a seamless transition between inside and out. With this property, Choeff Levy Fischman blended cutting-edge technology with custom millwork and high-quality finishings throughout the residence.

Known for their star-studded clientele, the inventive minds behind the award-winning Miami-based architectural firm, Choeff Levy Fischman, presents their new high-end Tropical Modern residence that offers the best of indoor-outdoor living where one can enjoy waterfront living, alfresco dining, fantastic city views, and much more.

Located on exclusive Hibiscus Island in Miami Beach, Florida, this jaw-dropping, waterfront contemporary residence boasts 6,000 sq. ft. of luxury overlooking the Miami skyline, with an impressive 80 feet of waterfront with private dockage for your yacht.

Meticulously designed by renowned architects Ralph Choeff & Paul Fischman, the two-story, five-bedroom, five and a half bath estate blends cutting-edge technology and the highest quality finishings in every room. Designed with disappearing sliding glass doors, one can seamlessly transition from indoors to the lush landscaped outdoors, enjoying all the residence has to offer.

The sexy modern fully-equipped chef ’s kitchen features exotic Italian millwork, Calacatta marble, and a designated bar made of stained Italian Oak with Sub-Zero wine coolers – one for red and one for whites. Soak in the bay views, from the floating master bedroom suite outfitted with Brazilian Oak wood floors, a spa-inspired master bath with large soaking tub, marble shower, balcony, and home office with unobstructed views.

Outside a 590 square foot pool sits beneath the suspended master. Across the floating steps, adjacent to the pool, lies a shallow wet lounge where homeowners can dip their feet, play with small children, or simply enjoy the sun. Colorful Brazilian Cumaru wood, lush foliage, including a Bamboo garden, adds life and color to the residence.

In addition to the home’s stunning design, architects included several sustainable features to help protect the home against Miami’s natural elements such as an onsite rainwater retention system, insulated glazing low-energy film on windows to minimize solar heat gain, glare and reduce energy costs, high Albedo roof membrane to reduce heating and cooling usage. The south facing waterfront home was created to resist hurricane winds, storm surges, and rising sea levels. At the time of the design, the seawall’s code requirements were 4.8 NGVD. However, this residence stands at 7.26 NGVD and sits 22 to 26 feet away from the seawall, allowing for additional barriers from storms.

“This home is unique because of its pie-shaped lot and connection to the open bay. We designed the residence to maximize waterfront views, while also creating a seamless transition between the interiors and exteriors with column-free, corner opening, sliding glass doors which disappear into pockets when opened,” notes Paul Fischman, principal at Choeff Levy Fischman.

 

OBR’s Newest Client, FRONTIER Building

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Oberhausen Marketing & Public Relations (OBR) is proud to announce the addition of FRONTIER Building to its premier client list. FRONTIER Building is a national general contractor, construction management and design-build services firm that specializes in providing turn-key construction projects for its clients.

Helping their clients transform imagination into reality, FRONTIER Building focuses on the unique needs of each of its clients in each particular market. Their well seasoned and carefully trained project managers, estimators and superintendents have market-specific expertise, which translates into seamless and successful construction projects for their clients.

The OBR team has been working to rebrand FRONTIER Building and deliver new marketing tools. Although FRONTIER Building has thrived over the years by consistently delivering for its clients and fostering valuable relationships, in today’s world, businesses need to leverage different tools to manage relationships, stay ahead of the competition and accelerate growth. To optimize effectiveness, we’ve created an improved modern, relevant image for the FRONTIER Building brand that stands unique in the national, commercial construction market, while also appealing to the high-end interiors clientele. In the coming weeks, OBR will be delivering new corporate websites and materials and launching a national public relations campaign. Stay tuned!

MCAD Hosts First Annual Urban Warrior Awards

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The Miami Center for Architecture & Design promotes awareness and appreciation of the ways in which architecture and urban design influence and enhance the quality of life in our community.

On Thursday, April 19, MCAD will host the first annual Urban Warrior Awards. MCAD promotes awareness and appreciation of the ways in which architecture and urban design influence and enhance the quality of life in our community. The new signature event recognizes individuals who have accomplished much to better our urban landscape.

This year’s honorees include:

  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Miami architect and visionary, Ken Treister, FAIA, whose projects include the Holocaust Memorial in Miami Beach, Mayfair Shops in the Grove and Mayfair House Hotel
  • Visionary Award: Founder and President of The Underline, Meg Daly
  • Visionary Award: Owner of Books & Books, Mitch Kaplan

Enjoy cocktails, light bites, live music and more as they celebrate their honorees.

Urban Warrior Awards will take place on Thursday, April 19, 2018 from 6-9 p.m. at the mindwarehouse 111 NE 1st St., 7th Floor Downtown Miami.

Click here to register.

Stantec Designing Amenity-Driven Residential Buildings to Attract Millennials

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South Florida developers and architects are challenged to attract millennials by meeting both the price points and features that millennials are seeking. Multifamily residential developers must even re-think pricing, technological amenities, transportation and parking elements if they want to attract young buyers and renters. Architecture and design firm Stantec in Miami is implementing co-working spaces, communal kitchens and billiard lounges in their designs to appeal to this growing population. Their projects offer residents all the modern amenities to be expected of an upscale apartment community in an urban setting. According to Jon Cardello, Vice President of Stantec’s Miami office, “communal kitchens, like the ones at Vu New River in Fort Lauderdale, are a popular amenity for millennials. They are more likely to eat out or order takeout than cook at home, so they can have smaller kitchens in their apartments. The communal kitchens, with several ovens and a host of cooking appliances, allow them to throw parties and host family gatherings.”

Developers in South Florida are changing how they plan and design homes to attract the fast-growing millennial population, a group that faces unique challenges in the residential market.

Their construction initiatives are critical to preserving the building industry’s future bottom line. But businesses and cities have a stake, too. With more than 75 million people nationwide, the millennial generation will soon make up the heart of the workforce, and companies will decide to locate and grow in communities that can attract them.

“We are competing more with other cities in other states for housing options for them,’’ said Art Falcone, managing principal of Boca Raton-based Encore Capital Management.

For local developers, millennials present a huge opportunity – and a big challenge. The tri-county region ranks near the bottom among major metropolitan areas for millennials as a share of the total population, and leads the nation for the highest percentage of young people living with their parents.

High housing prices, below-average wages, and a strained transportation network present major obstacles to homeownership for millennials here. Deep college debt also means many recent graduates are on a tight budget, so they must be prudent with housing costs.

But developers are adapting, offering price points and features that differ from South Florida’s traditional garden apartments and country club communities to appeal to millennials.

To read the full story, visit South Florida Business Journal.