Modern Hotel Design | Motel Bianco | Miami | Florida | DEN Architecture

Sustainability starts by preserving existing buildings, through savings in labor, materials, transportation, and all the embodied energy stored within. The re-branded Motel Bianco is a 1950's building, originally designed in a mid-century local vernacular style referred to as "Mimo" (short for "Miami Modern"). The end product, a collaboration between Den Architecture and Dada design, allowed the structure to maintain it's historic character while upgrading it to current building codes.

The majority of work occurred in the lobby and the courtyard. Walls and partitions were removed to create a light-filled, spacious lobby with tropical tones and retro-modern furnishings. Decorative railings and historic motifs were faithfully preserved and integrated with the proposed design. The courtyard, previously a neglected concrete patio, became a lively social scene with composite wood decking made of recycled plastic milk jugs, native tropical landscaping, and comfortable outdoor furniture. With the remodel, the motel became a boutique lounge, increasing occupancy tenfold. The clientele is now a diverse crowd of artists and tourists from all over the world............more