Refined and Bold Aesthetic Rules in Edgewater Condo

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By merely stepping from the elevator into the grand foyer of a residence at the Elysee tower in Edgewater, guests are instantly gratified with a dynamically framed view as seen through the creative lens of the owner and his interior designers. A young entrepreneur, the resident’s design directive was to capture and integrate all the best sights Miami has to offer. Perched high above the city, the stunning apartment does just that. With splendid vistas that include the downtown skyline, the Design District, Midtown, Wynwood, and Biscayne Bay, the unit offers one of the most enviable vantage points in the city.

A first-time client for Osirys Mendez and Sabrina Vela, partners at Mendez Vela Design, the homeowner first approached the team as a referral from one of their existing clients. “He expressed a desire to blend the area’s scenic natural elements and breathtaking 360-degree views with a refined aesthetic,” says Vela. “Drawing inspiration from the surrounding environment and the mixed city views, we created an elegant yet livable space inclusive of the art, studies, and travels of our client.” 

To complement the skyline and seascapes, the designers selected a palette of soft neutrals mixed with bold black, subtle whites, and hints of blue that transition to cool shades of aquamarine. Unexpected accents of moss green, citrine, and brilliant red incorporate moments of pause and vibrancy within the subdued design. Porcelain floors emulating natural oak planks in a herringbone configuration create pattern and movement throughout, lending a luxurious yet relaxed vibe.

“The original foyer was a small, enclosed space with a wall that segregated it from the rest of the apartment,” says Mendez. “Our intent was to transform this area into a grand foyer where the client can display pieces of his personal art collection and his artistic tastes, creating a captivating first impression for guests. Additionally, the redesigned foyer serves as an introduction to other spaces, providing a seamless transition to areas where people can gather and socialize.”

The airy abode encompasses 3,887 square feet of interior space and a glorious 710-square-foot terrace for tranquil outdoor moments and alfresco entertaining. Inspired by soft neutrals and earth tones, the open living and dining room creates a versatile, welcoming, multifunctional space. “By strategically planning an open, fluid layout, selecting organic materials, and creating seamless connections between the interior and exterior, we aimed to generate a design that harmonizes with the stunning views and provides an immersive and captivating experience for the residents,” notes Vela. “While there is no explicit delineation of spaces, the great room design allows for a natural segregation of areas based on the choice and mood of the occupants.”

Carefully curated from the design duo’s preferred showrooms and exceptional product lines featured in their studio, the furniture selection considers both aesthetics and functionality while prioritizing pieces that provide comfort, durability, and practicality for everyday use. In the dining room, contrasting textures and finishes combined with strategic positioning contribute to a charismatic and stylish experience. A statement chandelier emits shimmering rays, casting a beautiful display on the ceiling and surrounding walls. The kitchen further enhances the overall flow by effortlessly connecting to the dining and living areas, allowing easier interaction and additional seating. “We created pops of color throughout the space intentionally to add vibrancy, visual interest, and a sense of storytelling,” says Mendez. “We composed small vignettes by grouping art and objects together based on their color palettes.”

Thrilled to see his vision come to fruition, the homeowner was impressed with how the team’s design solutions aligned perfectly with his individuality. “As designers, we invest emotionally in every project we undertake,” says Mendez. “More than just a design, it is a manifestation of our client’s needs, desires, and aspirations—a true reflection of their unique lifestyles, preferences, and personal tastes.”

Story Credits:

Interior Design by Osirys Mendez & Sabrina Vela, Mendez Vela Design, Miami, FL

Text by Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Kris Tamburello, Miami, FL

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