Miami Art Deco 1

Lining Collins Avenue in Miami is a row of historical buildings, many of which are hotels and restaurants. They were created in the Miami Art Deco style starting in the 1930s, which evolved from the New York Art Deco typified by the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, and also was known as the “Skyscraper Style.” The style was brought back from New Yorkers who visited the 1925 Paris World’s Fair, where Art Deco was highlighted. Miami Art Deco is distinct in its colorful buildings; the palette was chosen by designer Leonard Horowitz, who was inspired by Miami Beach sunsets.

Many of the buildings have stylized flower and sunrise inlaid motifs. Stucco walls with plaster ornamentation, especially plant reliefs, were inspired by the Ancient Romans.

As the decades went on, colorful fluorescent lights were added, creating a festive atmosphere for nightlife that can be seen below when flying to land at the Miami airport.

Passionate about the style, this description was a part of an article I wrote on the subject for Xzib art listings and reviews. If you visit South Beach, you can take a tour to learn more, run by the excellent guides at the Miami Art Deco Preservation Society.