Entering this space reveals a masterful balance of function and refinement. Purchased with the intention of serving as a hybrid home office and guest retreat, the space exudes effortless sophistication. While the owners reside in another apartment within the same building, their desire for a separate yet connected sanctuary in Miami Beach informed every design decision, resulting in a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic.
The integration of the office and living area commands attention. Originally a standard two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath layout, the design team faced the challenge of optimizing the space for productivity while maintaining an open and airy feel. The solution was nothing short of ingenious: a striking floor-to-ceiling glass panel, supported by a custom stone low console that acts as both a divider and a functional design element. This bold move not only expanded the perceived footprint of the office, but also allowed natural light to flood the entire great room, enhancing the fresh and light tones that the clients desired.
The design embraces a clean, uncluttered approach that reflects the owners’ aesthetic sensibility. The color palette remains rooted in soft, neutral tones, while textures and materials play a crucial role in adding depth. A noteworthy feature is the custom desk, the centerpiece of the office, which seamlessly integrates with the wall unit behind it—crafted from the same exquisite stone used in the low console. This consistency in materials reinforces the apartment’s cohesive aesthetic.
The dining area has been transformed into an inviting lounge space, perfectly embodying the apartment’s versatile design. Four plush lounge chairs from Design Within Reach encircle a sleek, low table, replacing the traditional dining setup with a relaxed and refined environment. This reimagined space is ideal for impromptu meetings or intimate conversations, effortlessly blending comfort and sophistication. The choice to forgo a conventional dining arrangement reflects the client’s desire for a more fluid and adaptable lifestyle, prioritizing functionality without sacrificing style.
Designing within an existing structural framework posed its challenges, but the renovation process was kept intentionally minimal. The primary structural modification involved the removal of the walls separating the office from the living room to accommodate the expansive glass panel. However, this relatively minor intervention had a transformative impact, visually uniting the spaces and amplifying their functionality.
The decision to opt for a single custom glass panel, rather than splitting it into two for easier installation, presented logistical challenges that required innovative problem-solving. Hoisting the oversized panel into place was a complex feat, but the payoff was undeniable. The uninterrupted expanse of glass creates a seamless visual connection between spaces, amplifying the apartment’s open-concept allure and making a bold statement in both design and functionality.
One of the most compelling design features is the striking built-in shelving unit that capitalizes on the large column in the living room. Rather than treating the column as an obstacle, the design team turned it into an architectural highlight, adding both storage and sculptural appeal. This thoughtful approach extends to the wood ceilings, which mirror the warm tones of the flooring, creating a harmonious flow throughout the apartment.
Framing the breathtaking Miami Beach FL oceanfront views, the apartment’s wraparound balcony serves as a tranquil retreat that effortlessly extends the living space outdoors. Designed with warm, inviting furniture, the space strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. Thoughtfully chosen pieces—plush seating, natural wood accents, and soft textiles—create an inviting atmosphere for everything from morning coffee to sunset relaxation. Whether used as a private escape or a space to entertain guests, the balcony embodies the seamless indoor-outdoor connection that defines the apartment’s design.
Custom elements abound, reflecting the owners’ refined taste and desire for a bespoke environment. From the intricately designed living room shelves to the statement powder room sink, every piece has been carefully curated to enhance both form and function. These elements lend a sense of exclusivity and individuality to the space, ensuring it remains both practical and visually compelling.
The project’s departure from convention proved especially rewarding. The design team’s bespoke solutions transformed a standard layout into a space that perfectly balances work and leisure. Here, purpose and beauty converge to create something extraordinary.
Guided by a passion for design and architecture Luciana Fragali first pursued her studies in architecture and interior design in her native Brazil and later received a degree in interior design at the Fort Lauderdale Art Institute before launching her design firm, Design Solutions, in 2005. Luciana Fragali, who has owned Miami-based Design Solutions for 15 years, has completed over 400 high-end residential and commercial projects to date. As such she has a unique set of influences from which her sophisticated, sumptuous, and refreshing brand has blossomed.
