Sunny Isles Beach Residence Epitomizes Luxury

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One of South Florida’s real estate nirvanas, Sunny Isles Beach attracts residents for its privacy, pristine ocean views, and A-list leisure. Those attributes plus a star address were enticing enough for a Latin couple to take a chance on the city and purchase a residence at the Estates at Acqualina, the luxurious twin towers known the world over for their Karl Lagerfeld-designed lobbies.

“We chose the area because it offered a prime investment opportunity, a hub of architectural development, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle,” says homeowner Julieta Lopez. “The waterfront location, direct beach access, and the unparalleled level of service at Acqualina were too enticing to pass up.”

Design work on the 4,450-square-foot condo began as the building was being constructed, which allowed for easy communication between the development team at the Trump Group, the owners, and their interior designer, Ricardo Britto.

“We all worked closely together to merge the clients’ vision with my design expertise to create a stunning and highly functional home,” says Britto. “The residence offers exhilarating east-facing views of the Atlantic Ocean and stunning westward panoramas of the city skyline, capturing both sunrise and sunset in a way that feels almost cinematic.”

Envisioning each space with a clear purpose, Britto incorporated high-end furnishings, textures, and finishes to cultivate a sophisticated, cohesive environment. His skillfully executed floor plan accentuates fluidity, natural light, and a tableau of refined materials. A curated mix of rare marbles, bespoke wallpapers, handcrafted leathers, rich textiles, and polished metals compose spaces that feel at once timeless and urbane.

“A key inspiration for the aesthetic came from the clients’ passion for luxury sports cars and high fashion,” notes Britto. “This influence is reflected in the sleek lines, superior materials, and attention to intricate details throughout the home.”

An example of that attention to details is the way Ettore Bugatti’s signature Bleu Royal Carbon racing hue defines the common color thread flowing from room to room. In the dining area, an automotive-grade carbon fiber material appears in a reinterpretation of Carlo Bugatti’s 1902 Cobra Chair. In the great room, a Butterfly sofa from Bentley Home balances comfort and style via its quilted leather frame and linen-upholstered cushions. Nearly every custom piece of furniture in the home is imported from Italy, ensuring that each element complements the home’s clean-lined architectural silhouette. Integrated custom millwork, built-in cabinetry, and high-gloss ceiling treatments enhance the overall sense of refinement. “Every selection in this home reflects the homeowners’ tastes while ensuring a seamless integration of function and luxury,” says Britto. “The combination of high-end furniture, noble materials, and tailored architectural accents gave us a space that’s effortlessly sophisticated and deeply personal.”

Viewing their home more as a private oasis than a space for frequent entertaining, the homeowners focused on creating a comforting, cozy environment where they could unwind, enjoy the seascape, and spend quality time with their dogs. They wanted a luxurious yet intimate refuge where they could escape from the city’s energy. With its sweeping oceanfront views, the east terrace generates idyllic mornings, while the west terrace delivers stunning sunsets during quiet evenings. “Our home is our sanctuary—a place to relax and, on occasion, to share special moments with close friends and family,” says Lopez. “Even within the lively atmosphere of Sunny Isles Beach, our residence feels like a soothing retreat.”

Story Credits:

Interior Design by Ricardo Britto, Britto Design Studio, Miami, FL

Text by Jeanne de Lathouder

Photography by Craig Denis, Miami, FL

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