What is South Beach’s Famed Retro ‘Art Deco’ Architecture? Posted on September 26, 2017August 16, 2018 by Michael Light Miami Beach is undeniably a melting pot of different architectural work and design, but it is certainly most famous for its vibrant, retro-fabulous “Art Deco”-style. So, what is Art Deco??? Art Deco, which is the famed architecture in the heart of South Beach, is not only an architectural style, but is a global design aesthetic that first trended in Paris in 1925. Art Deco then spread worldwide during the 1920’s through the early 40’s and popularized during this time period in Miami Beach. The Art Deco style is a modern take on neoclassical, one that is equally historic and retro and appealing to the eye. Art Deco is marked by its characteristic bright vibrant colors, elaborate embellishments such as glass blocks to porthole windows and prominent structural gems like geometric statues or fountains. Art Deco infuses artistic touches into functional objects, which is different from fine arts where the works have no practical purpose beyond the aesthetic viewing. Most of the Art Deco buildings in Miami Beach, including over 800 structures built during the 1930’s and early ‘40’s, are considered to be Streamline Moderne, which is the American version of Art Deco that was a pared, sleek version of the more elaborate European-style of Art Deco. And, as Miami loves to put its own spin on things, it did the same with the Art Deco design, as it incorporated its tropical environment and seaside influences complimenting the Miami Art Deco scene with aquatic and floral embellishments, nautical designs and pastel colors, what some may call ‘Tropical Deco.’ Where is the Art Deco District in Miami Beach??? The Art Deco District in the heart of South Beach is located between 6th and 23rd Street along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and Washington Avenue. So, if you find yourself strolling along one of these celebrated streets, you will notice the Art Deco architecture on the exterior façade of many of the buildings, but some of the most quintessential Art Deco buildings in South Beach are The Colony Hotel, Park Central Hotel, Essex House, The Clevelander, The Delano, The Webster, The Breakwater, The Raleigh and The Tides. For more information on Art Deco preservation, history, attractions, etc., you can check out the full-service Art Deco Welcome Center located at 1001 Ocean Drive and enjoy guided tours and much more!