Miamism’s Mood-Driven Guide to Miami’s Architectural Marvels

You guys obviously think I’m a travel agent or something because you keep asking me about places you cannot miss if you visit Miami. Well…here’s a short list that describes my mood today. If you ask me next week, the list may be different.

1111 Lincoln Road

This isn’t your average parking spot; it’s a statement, designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Who knew a parking garage could be so cool? Built in 2010, it’s a testament to Miami’s flair for the dramatic and the stylish.

Miami Marine Stadium

Next on my mood board is the Miami Marine Stadium. Designed by Hilario Candela in 1963, it’s a monument to the glory days of water sports and concerts. Despite its current state of abandonment, its architectural beauty and waterfront views are unmatched.

The Freedom Tower

We can’t talk about Miami without mentioning the Freedom Tower, can we? Crafted by Schultze and Weaver in 1925, this piece of history served as a beacon for Cuban refugees. Its Mediterranean Revival style makes it a standout piece in Miami’s architectural landscape.

Miami Tower

Then there’s the Miami Tower (originally known as The Centrust Tower), the chameleon of the skyline, thanks to Pei Cobb Freed & Partners. Finished in 1987, its changing lights make every night in Miami a celebration. It’s a symbol of our city’s vibrant energy.

The New World Center

And last, but certainly not least, the New World Center, because who doesn’t love a bit of Frank Gehry in their life? Opened in 2011, this concert hall is more than just a venue; it’s an immersive experience where architecture meets music.

Additional must see architecture in Miami

For those of you who still have some wanderlust left in you, Miami has plenty more architectural gems. Here’s a few more to visit:

• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens – previously known as Villa Vizcaya, is the former villa and estate of businessman James Deering, designed by F. Burrall Hoffman, with landscape architecture by Diego Suarez, located in Coconut Grove
• Biltmore Hotel – designed by Schultze and Weaver, located in Coral Gables, Florida – known for its Mediterranean Revival style, built in 1926​.
• Perez Art Museum Miami – contemporary art museum in downtown Miami, known for its modern design by Herzog & de Meuron.
• Arsht Center – in Downtown Miami is a hub for performing arts, designed by Cesar Pelli.
• Atlantis Condo – on Brickell Avenue, famous Miami-Vice Iconic building with hole and palm tree, by Arquitectonica.
• Fontainebleau Hotel – in Miami Beach, a luxurious resort known for its 1950s glamour, was designed by Morris Lapidus.
• Art Deco District on Ocean Drive – in Sout Beach and showcases historical buildings from the 1920s and 1930s, though individual architects vary across the district.
• Brickell City Centre – is a large mixed-use development in Miami’s Brickell district, with architecture by Arquitectonica.
• Faena Forum – in Miami Beach is part of the Faena District, known for its cutting-edge design by Rem Koolhaas’ OMA.
• Museum Garage – in the Miami Design District features an eclectic design by various architects under the coordination of Terence Riley.
• Olympia Theater – in downtown Miami, a historic venue, has been a cultural staple since its opening by John Eberson.
• Bacardi Building – in Edgewater, Miami – a notable example of modernist architecture, was designed by Cuban-born architect Enrique Gutiérrez and constructed in 1963.
• South Pointe Park – designed by the landscape architecture firm Hargreaves Associates, with expansive views across Government Cut, its proximity to residential neighborhoods, and direct access to both the bayfront and beachfront to create a dynamic and engaging public space
• Espirito Santo Plaza – designed by the architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, located in Brickell is a sleek skyscraper for office and hotel use, contributing to the Miami skyline.

Miami’s architecture is as diverse and dynamic as its people. So, whether you’re looking for inspiration, a photo op, or just a good story, Miami’s buildings have got you covered. Let’s explore together and see what other stories these structures have to tell. And don’t forget to click on ARCHITECTURE here on the blog for different takes on landmarks and icons across Miami, including historic restoration stories.

**article idea and outline completed with the help of ChatGPT. Written, edited and composed by a real miamism human. Image created with help of  ChatGPT and edited by a miamism human.