Condo In Key Biscayne Renovated To Perfection

Editor's Note: Here is the award-winning design project by Sandra Diaz of EOLO Design in Key Biscayne, Florida.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

The project at Casa Del Mar was part of a complete gut out renovation of a 1960’s-era condo in beautiful Key Biscayne, Florida with a stunning ocean view.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

The clients, a family of five, wished for a large, welcoming, functional space to entertain guests; add a room with a private bathroom, and seamlessly integrate the kitchen with the living and dining areas.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

Our goal was to transform the outdated, closed-off kitchen into a lively flowing space where the family and their guests could enjoy the view and each other’s company. The challenge to transform the closed floor plan into an open, integrated space was further complicated by the aging building and outdated plumbing, A/C and electrical ductwork, as well as the elevator lobby.

Also, extant in the space were structural columns that could not be removed, resulting in a chaotic, narrow, L-shaped kitchen layout with limited storage. We designed a curved wall dressed with wood mosaic connecting the foyer and living area to the kitchen, softening the harsh, constrained angles of the original layout and laying the groundwork for a motive of curves and circles which carried throughout our design.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

To maximize storage and spaciousness, we camouflaged appliances behind false doors, grouping the tallest appliances together to achieve balance and flow. In lieu of an island for the kitchen, we added a dining table in the center of the design, allowing the client to fulfill their passion for entertaining while integrating the social spaces of the residence with the functional space of the kitchen.

Photo Credit: Juan Estupiñan

A large yet delicate sculptural chandelier continued to explore this sense of curvature and transparency. Through a game of proportions, scale, and continuity, we transformed a small, outdated space into a contemporary retreat perfect for a dinner party with a spectacular ocean view.

For more on Sandra Diaz and EOLO Design, visit her Haute Residence profile.

Andres E. Caceres

A fan of reading and writing, Andres got his start in his middle school’s monthly newspaper. He co-founded and acted as Editor-in-Chief of South Florida lifestyle publication Doral Magazine. An avid reader, he enjoys the classics as well as modern books.

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