Fall 2009

PROGRAM:
Commercial Space, Owner’s House, Rental Apartment, Courtyard

MEDIUM:
AutoCAD, Bass Wood Model

Vibrant cities have variations of ”Mixed-Use” or “Live-Work” buildings depending on location, history, and cultural preference.  This project explores the notion of  “Complex Urban Dwelling”, a missing type in South Florida, for the city of Miami Beach.

My design proposes two buildings to be constructed on the site, separated by a tropical garden courtyard.  Fronting the main street, a commercial storefront occupies the ground floor while a side entrance allows access to the owner’s house above. Along the alleyway at the rear of the site, a one bedroom rental apartment is situated above the garage. Unique features of the owner’s home include a bay window allowing for views up and down the street, as well as a three story stairwell leading to a rooftop garden.