331373710

Miami, USA

Visualization © Arne Berndt

Architects: Oppenheim Architecture

Scope

131,360 SF retail mixed-use project. Architecture/Interior finishes

Location

Miami, Florida

Advantageously located in walking distance from Coral Gables and Coconut Grove with world renowned shopping center Merrick Park only blocks away, Vasantii rises elegantly as a timeless piece of contemporary architecture embodied by simple yet powerful geometry. Clearly distinct from its surrounding buildings the design comprises a unique typology founded on elemental clarity. 60 ft columns emerge from the ground accentuating the verticality of the project, resulting in the creation of a dynamic arcade for a pedestrian shopping experience that is tailored around exclusive European boutiques.

Various programs including retail components, office spaces and parking are arranged around an interior courtyard where a bamboo garden and water ponds strategically control light and sound to create a pleasant environment while additionally serving as a buffer from exterior traffic. A 30 ft high open space facing Bird Road with a 4000 square foot Orangerie provides a versatile space for outdoor, under cover restaurant seating also accommodating the possibility for numerous activities such as fashion shows, events and live music. The design capitalizes upon the opportunity for billboard advertisement on the second floor façade taking full advantage of ample street frontage also facing the highly transited Bird Road. Furthermore, the ground floor retail opportunity is maximized through the continuation of public space from the exterior urban bustle into the serene and more private courtyard.

Our proposition is fine-tuned through manipulations of scale and proportion to respond to issues of site and a high-end programmatic schedule endowing a fine office, retail experience. Vasantii is manifested as an iconic moment of architecture in an upcoming residential area creating interest for the area and beyond.