Miami Beach Art Deco District
Miami is a place that must be savored
By Lena Hunt
Spend at least one night in Miami to savor the Miami Beach Art Deco District before or after your cruise vacation. During the 1920s and 1930s Miami was known as THE tropical playground of the rich and famous. South Beach's Art Deco District was one of the first to be listed in the National Register.
An eclectic array of architecture makes you wonder which era and which part of the world you're in. Hotels, shops, and restaurants line Miami's beautiful palm-tree lined beaches with their amazing turquoise water. No building is the same and as you walk along, you can relive the different eras.
The Atlantic Hotel on Ocean drive is one example of the private resort-like buildings of the 1900-1930s, which is also when Ocean Drive was born. Little or non-existent decoration was applied to these vernacular structures. Only a story or two high, even the roof and porches were kept simple.
Miami Beach Art Deco District
Miami is a place that must be savored
By Lena Hunt
Southern Florida Cruise Port Specialist
Tampa - Miami - Port Canaveral - Ft. Lauderdale
May 9, 2010
Easy breezy bungalows were the in thing in the 1910s -1930s. Reminiscent of the Mediterranean styles, as you visit the different building designs, you wonder if you're in Italy, Spain, or Africa. Tile roofs in the Cuban style, walls made of heavy stucco, arched doorways, creatively decorated doors, and interior designs and furnishings to match the different locations of the world will keep your eyes wondering and your camera snapping.
The 1920s – 1930s roared in a traditional revival theme. Cast concrete, strong patterned terrazzo, etched glass, and metals of many types were used to create geometric designs with strong angular and geometric architecture. This invited the Egyptian and Mayan themes as well as heralded back the indigenous themes of America. We introduced and celebrated transportation and industry in the 1930s – 1940s with everything trains, planes, and automobiles. Oh yeah, and buses, ocean liners, and the American small appliances inventions too.
After the war, this beautiful district in Miami, which hugs the Pacific Ocean, saw architectural themes of openness and nature. As if to celebrate freedom and no longer being confined, the 1960s introduced nautical themes and sea creatures dance along open structures. Everything went outside as dining areas were left wall-less to welcome the balmy sea breeze. This has really helped to create what South Beach is known for – people watching.
The years between 1940s -1960s honored The Garden Style. Courtyards, common garden areas, and even walkways encouraged social interaction and a sense of community as well invited the outdoors in and the indoors out.
So you see, Miami is a place that must be savored before you head out into the Atlantic on your ocean liner. You'll leave with the question, “Was I just in Miami or Manhattan or Morocco or Mexico?”
