There are lots of things that make Miami unique and one of those things is its awesome Art Deco architecture. It’s the perfect combination of modernism, cubism, and Gothic Revival architecture. The abundance of Art Deco buildings in this city is something you won’t find anywhere else. Art Deco was a style of visual expression that arose as a response to the disruption caused by World War I. The period, roughly from 1925 to 1933, saw a boom in the construction of buildings with striking geometric façades and bold new structural techniques. In this article, we explore 10 awesome Art Deco buildings in Miami that you must visit.
History of Art Deco architecture in Miami
The 800+ buildings and structures in Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District were built between 1923 and 1943. The preservation of this area is a result of the hard work and perseverance by the Miami Design Preservation League, which has been working since 1976 to create their iconic style. This league is considered to be world's oldest society with regards to Art Deco architecture, which means they have contributed significantly towards preserving it through restoration projects that make an effort at keeping original details intact.
1. Park Central Hotel
Park Central Hotel is a stunning Art Deco building that was designed by the same architect who designed the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. The hotel has a stunning interior that features a combination of Beaux-Arts architecture, Baroque architecture, and Art Deco architecture. Guests can enjoy visiting the hotel lobby since it’s open to the public. You can also visit the rooftop where you can see the beautiful city skyline.
Address: 640 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
2. Freedom Tower at the Museum of Art
This building is considered to be the world’s largest collection of Art Deco architecture. It is definitely one of the top Art Deco buildings in Miami. The building was constructed using Art Deco motifs like the zigzag design, geometric shapes, and the use of vibrant colors. It was built to mimic the New York City skyline but with a tropical flair. The Freedom Tower is open for visitation and you can go up to the observatory. It’s definitely worth the visit!
Address: 600 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
3. The Bass Museum
The Bass Museum is a gorgeous Art Deco building that was constructed in 1931. The building was designed by architect Ralph Twa, whose notable Art Deco buildings include the Detroit Public Library, the Miami-Jacobs Building, and the Hotel George Wharton in Philadelphia. Since the museum is a repository of art, you can expect to see plenty of Art Deco sculptures and paintings. You can also visit the museum’s café and gift shop, which are open to the public.
Address: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
4. The Deco District
The Deco District is a place that is brimming with Art Deco architecture. The place is packed with hotels, restaurants, and stores all designed in Art Deco style. You can visit The Deco District at any time of the day but visiting during the night is recommended. That’s when the place is lit up and looks more beautiful. You can also visit the famous Fountain of Youth, which is located in The Deco District.
Address: 1001 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
5. The Colony Hotel
The Colony Hotel is an Art Deco building that was designed by architect Arnold M. Krammer. The building has a stunning architecture that is enhanced with geometric patterns, zigzag design, and bold colors. It’s definitely worth visiting this Art Deco building. You can visit the lobby and the rooftop. The rooftop is a great place to enjoy a drink while admiring the city skyline. The Colony Hotel is located in Miami Beach, which is an Art Deco district worth exploring.
Address: 736 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
6. Avalon Hotel Miami
The Avalon Hotel Miami is another Art Deco building worth visiting. This place is a perfect example of Modern architecture. The place has an amazing interior, which is filled with Swarovski crystal and a stunning chandelier. You can visit the lobby of the hotel, which is open to the public. The rooftop of the hotel is also worth a visit. You can enjoy a drink while admiring the city skyline.
Address: 700 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
7. The Commodore
The Commodore is a stunning Art Deco building that was built in 1928. Most people refer to the building as the “Miniature Fox.” The building was designed by architect Robert Stacy-Judd. The ground floor of the building has been converted into a bar and lounge, which is open to the public. You can visit the building and admire its architecture. It’s definitely worth visiting.
Address: 3300 SW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33133
8. Marriott Vacation Club Pulse
The Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, South Beach is an Art Deco building that is adorned with stunning architecture. You can visit the building and admire its architecture, which is a blend of styles, like Beaux-Arts, Baroque, and Modern architecture. You can also visit the rooftop of the building, which hosts many parties and events. It’s definitely worth visiting.
Address: 1685 James Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
9. Cavalier Hotel
The Cavalier Hotel is another Art Deco building that’s worth visiting. The hotel is decorated with beautiful architecture and is a combination of Beaux-Arts, Baroque, and Modern architecture. The building was designed by architect Robert Stacy-Judd and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a great place to admire beautiful architecture. You can also visit the rooftop of the building.
Address: 1672 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
10. The Shepley Hotel
The Shepley, a Miami Beach hotel with roots in the 1930s and 1940s art deco style. It was designed by New York architect Henry Hohauser. Nowadays, Argentinian-born designer Pablo Chiappori has brought back to life this gem of a hotel which features natural colors and neon lights while keeping many signature details from its era like crystal chandeliers or velvety textures that invite you to stay awhile.
Conclusion
Art Deco is a style of architecture and visual arts that was most popular in the 1920s through the 1940s. It was a response to the disruption caused by World War I and the Great Depression. Art Deco architecture is noted for its bold geometric shapes, stylized decorative art, and use of vibrant colors. It was said that Art Deco architecture was inspired by nature and often used floral ornaments. These buildings were made to look like pieces of jewelry. Art Deco architecture can be found all over the world, especially in Miami where it is most prominent. Miami is a city that is known for its vibrant colors and tropical vibe. It’s the perfect place for Art Deco architecture!