Each space is its own chapter and together they create a
classic tale with tension, drama and sophistication.
My experience in imagining this volume is most likely familiar
to many authors: I immersed myself with the colors, sights,
sounds and tastes of my locale to bring readers (or in this
case, guests) an experience that challenges expectations
and truly acknowledges the heart of Miami. I wanted to
design a hotel that embraces the fluid, eclectic ethos of a
lush, sexy and layered environment, a very different vision
than the modern, austere architecture often duplicated in
the area.
Truthfully, creating the layers of this design was an artistic
process—quick and inspired. In my professional and personal
life, I work at a very rapid pace or I wouldn’t be able to
accomplish as much as I do. When I fall for a detail, idea
or feeling, I just move on it; I commit and forge ahead. Just
over the weekend, I went to the Santa Monica vintage show
and I was Speedy Gonzales—in just an hour, I separated the
gems from the junk, selecting 8 pairs of shoes, jewelry and
dresses—all of which I adore. I’ve always moved at lightening
speed, letting emotion and instinct guide me. If I stop to think
too much, I lose the organic element of the process and it
becomes inauthentic. I’m definitely a free thinker—I know
what works and don’t have the luxury of being indecisive.
