Remodeled condo gets full makeover

It stands to reason that the more walls you have in an oceanfront condominium, the more your views are likely to be blocked.

That was precisely the situation with this South Beach condominium. Larissa Sand of Sand Studios, who was commissioned to redesign the interior, says the spectacular sea views were not maximized nor was the floorplate.

"The condo had a typical layout. It had a small footprint, and was broken up into a number of small rooms with a diagonal hallway. To create a more dynamic, open interior, we gutted the space, leaving just two walls intact. The remodel was then designed to maximize functionality with a more fluid space."

Sand says the new interior is a composition of simple, pavilion-like walls in natural materials of varying textures and hues. The existing structural sheer walls of the high-rise were uncovered to reveal the original pitted concrete.

"The raw concrete is a counterfoil to refined polished marble and ethereal up-lit etched glass. And we added natural brushed limestone flooring and walls to echo the texture and hue of the concrete."

Indian rosewood veneer, cut so that the graining has a highly linear look, also features extensively throughout the interior.

"The veneer is further highlighted by its refined minimal detailing," says Sand. "All the doorways and closets disappear into the architecture, and the floor-to-ceiling paneling is flush. The kitchen is also detailed with minimalism in mind. Utilities and storage are concealed in cabinets that create a sleek backdrop to the living area."

Several of the custom-fabricated functional components of the architecture double as key sculptural elements.

"The entrance door, for example, plays with the idea of depth and weight in its composition solid stainless steel is juxtaposed with the transparency and luminosity of layered panes of glass," says the designer. "It can be interpreted as a vault door, with its position at the elevator lobby eliciting a sense of preciousness inside."

In the main living space another glass and steel door slides across to unveil a home office. When open, the door also partially screens the master bedroom, which lies behind a full-height glass wall. Automated blinds can be lowered in the bedroom for privacy if required.

"From the bed, it is possible for the owners to see right across the living area to the view beyond," says Sand. "They can also enjoy an ocean view from side windows in the suite."

Another full-height glass wall appears in the guest suite, separating the marble-lined bathroom from the bedroom. Here also, there are automated blinds to screen the bathroom.

To highlight the diverse materials in the condo, indirect accent lighting washes the walls and lights up the glass. Sand added custom-designed and fabricated chandeliers to enhance the ambience of the entry and dining area.

Environmental considerations were another key driver for the design. This included the use of eco-sensitive cabinetry fabrication and the use of ultra-thin veneers. Stone was also sourced for its low environmental impact.

"The metal elements contain a minimum of 70% recycled content, with many of these items manufactured locally," says Sand.

"In addition, we have kept heat gain to a minimum and reduced energy consumption overall by providing an integrated system for the lighting and window shades that makes it easy to adjust temperature and lighting levels."

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Ken Hayden