Miami’s Art Deco Historic District is an iconic, architectural wonder with it’s pastel-hues, neon signs and retro style.
The vibrant structures you see in South Beach between 5th Street and 23rd Street, along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and Washington Avenue while yes, historic and recognizable, didn’t always look like that— they were completely stark white.
In the 1920’s through the 40’s there were 800+ buildings constructed that were adorned with impressive geometric details and curved ornamental elements. Unfortunately, in the early 70’s, developers wanted to destroy them all to build high-rise buildings like those flourishing up in Palm Beach.
Cue legendary duo Barbara Capitman (60) and Leonard Horowitz (29). Together the eccentric pair founded the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) and set out to protect all of these unique buildings.
Leonard Horowitz said dressing up these beachside facades in bright colors was like putting “frosting on the cake” and slowly his iconic color palette made this collection of buildings internationally recognized and therefore easier to protect.
Fun fact: Miami is still the largest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the world!
Miami Beach’s Art Deco buildings are here to stay. And to pay homage to our Magic City you’ll spot elements of this style in everything that is… Miami Beach Bum.