City View: Miami Design Keeps an Open Mind

In terms of design, when you’re thinking “Miami,” don’t believe “vice.” “Cheesy black and white leather and chrome is a common misconception in regards to Miami design,” states North Miami interior designer Ivonne Ronderos of of DKOR Interiors. “Because so many of the homes here are second homes, the owners are way more open minded to style; they are lively rather than formal.” The rich mixture of history and cultures, the most recent style styles and colour inspired by the colorful surroundings all play a part in providing Miami its different style.

Despite the spectacle that Miami’s Art Basel exhibition is now, we’re presenting a virtual visit for those who can not make the series (December 6 to 9, 2012). Here is what’s happening from the Miami design scene today.

DKOR Interiors Inc.- Interior Designers Miami

In lieu of the 1980s Crockett and Tubbs cheesy bachelor look, Ronderos took a sophisticated approach with this manly area, layering rich textures and warm neutrals.

DKOR Interiors Inc.- Interior Designers Miami, FL

“In Miami individuals are open and keen for new ideas, not the typical interior,” states Ronderos. Case in point: this striking photograph that looks like a gorgeous slab in a powder room.

DKOR Interiors Inc.- Interior Designers Miami, FL

Ronderos also notes the way insides reflect the climate and the seaside environment. “The weather affects a lot how that people perceive their distance and how they want their distance to sense — it’s simple, free and brings the outside in.”

“Culture is also a large influence in creating a different Miami look,” states Ronderos. “You view it inside the regional vendors: Ornare, Adriana Hoyos, Artefacto … it affects the general design of furniture, accessories and finishes.”

Nicole White Designs Interiors LLC

“Color to me is synonymous with Miami design,” says interior designer Nicole White. “Our designs here are deeply influenced by many vivid things, including the ocean, plenty of foliage that never fades and, possibly most different, the selection of cultures we have to draw from here that invariably affect and influence our designs.”

Nicole White Designs Interiors LLC

“We are a diversely rich community, where in a couple of minutes, it is possible to take a drive down precisely the same road and listen to English, Creole, Spanish and Portuguese,” White says. “With that mixture of language comes a exceptional mixture of experiences, and therefore it’s hard not to have that mirrored when you style.”

Nicole White Designs Interiors LLC

“I believe more than anything, the bold splashes of colour I often use in my designs are a direct representation of the vibrancy transported from those civilizations,” White says. “This vibrancy can be often showcased in artwork via endeavors that directly reflect a customer’s history and private musings.” She’s excited about purchasing Art Basel this season with a customer who’s a first-time homeowner.

DawnElise Interiors

While Miami designers don’t shy away from color, they are also embracing neutrals. “A new fad juxtaposes natural colours and materials with items having a more mechanical sense,” says interior designer Dawn Elise.

Case in point: Leather, wood and cowhide mingle with classic Toledo stools, steel and glass.

DawnElise Interiors

Of course, it’s not all neutrals for Elise, who notes Miami designers also use pastels in a distinctive and forward-thinking way. “They can be done tastefully and look great,” she states.

CLAUDIA LUJAN

Interior designer Claudia Lujan notes that Miami homes incorporate clean lines that are clean.

CLAUDIA LUJAN

Lujan also notes that colour is a large factor and that she receives inspiration from the runways.

CLAUDIA LUJAN

“Miami is about fashion and who has the most recent things; the latest style trends inspire my designs,” Lujan states.

Complex Designs

“Over the past 100 or so decades, Miami has seen the tides of design ebb and flow together with all the cultural influences that have landed on our sunny beaches,” says Vic Lohmann, president of Complex Designs. “This wonderful melting pot of flavor makes the area strangely varied and gives a special backdrop of saying.”

Complex Designs

Lohmann points out the influence being a significant port has on design. “Geographically, we’re fortunate to have a global delivery hub in our backyard, so there’s never a shortage of new products like rock, tile, millwork in addition to a very well-heeled artwork marketplace and acquaintances,” he states. “By matching the ever-shifting demands of imagination together with the huge sources of product, you’ve got the perfect incubator for cutting edge design.”

Complex Designs

“No matter an individual’s taste in furnishings, finish and style, there’s a home for it and no shortage of local talent in executing a job from concept to delivery,” Lohmann says.

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