Seamless Flow Achieved in Bellini Condo

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A tropical Hawaiian-like sway of palm trees dotting the shoreline landscape characterizes the architecturally stunning glass, steel, and concrete pinnacle known as Bellini poised along Bal Harbour’s scenic oceanfront. Offering an idyllic stretch of white-sand beaches and the area’s finest coastal amenities, the property sits within walking distance of posh neighboring beaches, including Hollywood, Sunny Isles, Haulover, and Surfside.  

Inside this tower, spectacularly positioned above the azure-blue waters of the Atlantic, a 7,000-square-foot condo captures the natural beauty of the ocean views while showcasing the sophistication and luxury of Bal Harbour living. From the looks of it now, no one would guess a complete gut renovation was in order when its owners approached designer Sarah Zohar to create the ultimate vacation haven for their large family. Zohar and her innovative team vigorously took on the task, which included a merger of two units and a total overhaul of both the architectural and interior design. Clients and designer decided on a modern, beachy vibe, which typically dictates a less-is-more approach with clean lines and visual simplicity. The design aesthetic emphasizes an open-concept layout to create a seamless flow between indoors and out. Large windows, sliding glass doors, and brilliant natural light flooding the entire unit work together to create a bright and airy atmosphere. Zohar’s concierge turnkey approach includes guiding her clients through every step of the design journey, from mood boards to construction to hand-placed furniture installation. This project was no different. 

“This is exactly what our client requested,” says Zohar, “a breezy look that we carried out with light wood finishes throughout, including the floor. We meticulously selected materials, finishes, and furnishings to meet the owners’ expectations and stay true to our modern biophilic design style. For instance, we tied in the blues from the ocean with accent pillows on the sofa and upholstery fabric for the swivel chairs, as well as embellishments in the furniture pieces, such as the side tables that have a wave effect on the base.” 

The captivating entrance into the residence speaks to the tranquil grandeur that unfolds inside. Visitors are greeted with a gold light fixture that guides the eye into an expansive open view of the main living space and dining area. The living room offers a luxury haven connecting effortlessly with the glorious ocean views. A pair of alabaster chandeliers illuminates the elaborate seating area, featuring a plush and massive sectional sofa. Recessed LED lighting encompasses the space, forming a constellation-like ceiling design that twinkles like stars in the evening. Zohar created an additional seating area facing the ocean, offering meditative water views day and night. An adjacent dining area aligns with the living room aesthetic without disrupting the design flow, its elegant oval table custom-crafted to accommodate seating for 12. 

“This unit is entirely custom,” notes Zohar. “However, we had an interesting time designing the kitchen island, given this unit is positioned at an angle. We had to be innovative and design around the layout, so we ultimately came up with this gorgeous diamond-shaped kitchen island that offers both functionality and a beautiful aesthetic.” 

Dressed in high-contrast tones of black and white, the chic primary suite features custom millwork designed with functionality in mind, including a statement dark wood armoire that greets you as you enter the room. A decidedly minimalist platform bed complements a luxurious custom-upholstered headboard, giving the homeowners a plush perch with optimal ocean views. “We wanted to keep it simple yet sophisticated with light and dark hues, so we played up the darks through the woods, the nightstands, and decorative lamps,” Zohar adds.  

The primary suite also features two bathrooms—one for her and one for him. A free-standing soaking tub, tile embellishments, and a glamorous vanity lend a resort-style spa aesthetic to her private bath. In contrast, an ombré tile treatment brings a masculine element to his bathroom, yet blends seamlessly with the suite’s overall design.  

In the guest room, a pair of lavish platform beds, a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, and an abundance of storage and workspace give the homeowners’ daughters their own private sanctuary with plenty of room to stretch out with friends. Expansive open-air spaces, visible from almost every room, connect the interiors to the scenic coastal grandeur that is synonymous with Bal Harbour. 

“The clients have a large family who they enjoy hosting for holidays and getaways,” says Zohar, “so they are absolutely loving their two-in-one vacation home. We loved working on this challenging and rewarding project, and our team is thrilled to have made this beautiful oasis happen for them.” 

Story Credits:

Interior Design by Sarah Zohar, Sarah Z. Designs, Aventura, FL

Text by Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Craig Denis, Miami, FL

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