Miami Design District, FL - 2019 I 3800sqft
EMBER’s design is inspired by the Streamline Moderne style of art deco architecture and furniture. Dropping the more ornamental, often clashing stylistic elements and bright colors of early art deco styles, Streamline emphasized the forward-looking industrial ingenuity and scientific thinking of the 1930s. Aerodynamic shapes, long horizontal lines, and offset curved and repeating lines replaced the hard edges and rectilinear bulkiness of older, more traditional architectural styles.
In EMBER, offset bullet-like shapes envelop the space and are embedded throughout the project, emphasizing the coalescence of bold shapes, soft lines and a warm palette. The architecture of the space alters one’s perspective and increases the depth of field, leading the eye deeper into the back of the restaurant. The elongated side walls and ceiling draw on the soft curved lines of Kansas City street cars combined with the classic warmth of deco furniture.
Additional influences on the space come from the overlapping of Miami Art Deco with Streamline Moderne. The evolution of this combination is a new style of Art Deco which we are dubbing Neo-Meco: New Miami Deco.
In Partnership: Chef Brad Kilgore
Photography: Mike Butler
“One of my objectives in creating this design was to redefine the aesthetic of masculinity by bringing a balance to the traditional norms associated with a masculine space. EMBER expresses itself as a bold yet soft aesthetic, providing a warm, light environment with a refined but approachable design; its elegance is understated. These elements reflect the character and values of the space, and, by that rationale, EMBER is the embodiment of my friend Chef Brad Kilgore.” -Mark Alan Diaz
Black Rock City - 2024 & 2025
Coachella - 2025
Creative Director & Co-Lead Architect, overseeing concept development, design development, design coordination, project execution, Function One audio coordination, pyrotechnical coordination, and specialty decor feature development.
It's in the heart of the desert, where the dust dances and the sun’s rays paint the canvas of Burning Man’s vast playa, a newborn art car emerges. Its soul is a kaleidoscope of dreams and revelations, a harmonious fusion of psychedelic surrealism, the ethereal world of the dusty digitally presents this neon folkloric infused blossoming enchanting spirit of the circus art car, and a transformation that culminates in a dragon-like form.
INTENTIONS
This mesmerizing art car found its genesis within the intricate articulation of a contortionist’s body. Just as the human form can contort and transform, so too can this vehicle, bending the boundaries of what is possible. The contortionist’s grace and flexibility inspired the art car’s ability to shape-shift and adapt over time, allowing it to contort its physical presence into new and breathtaking forms, embodying the ever-changing nature of our dreams and aspirations. The art car’s very essence is a testament to the contortionist’s art, a living, breathing testament to the boundless movement, creativity and limitless possibilities of the human spirit.
SOUL
Born onto the playa, this art car is a living paradox, a canvas of both past and future, a vessel for the human spirit to soar into the boundless realms of imagination.
Its soul is an invitation to explore the infinite within ourselves and to dream beyond the boundaries of reality, all while taking on the form of a majestic dragon, a symbol of power and transformation.
At the core of its birth, this mesmerizing art car found its genesis within the intricate articulation of a contortionist’s body, mirroring the circus performer’s ability to transform and transcend.
Just as the human form can contort and adapt, so too can this vehicle, bending the boundaries of what is possible, offering a performance that captivates and inspires. The art car now embodied in the form of a dragon, a creature that embodies mythical and artistic expression in its most powerful and transformative way.
BODY
As it traverses the desert, the art car unveils its multi-layered narrative scenes, each an exploration of the human experience, rendered through fractal-like patterns and mind-bending kaleidoscopic visions. It tells tales of cosmic journeys and transcendent revelations, much like the mesmerizing acts under the circus big top, inviting participants to lose themselves in its surreal cyberpunk iconography. And in its dragon-like form, it breathes life into the stories, embodying the fierce and powerful spirit of this mythical creature.
A Message From Long Feng:
“Dear travelers of the playa, I am Long Feng, the embodiment of dreams and boundless imagination. As you stand before me, let your spirits intertwine with the mystical energy I exude. I am the way to the unknown, a gateway to realms yet unexplored.
Embrace the surreal, the fantastical, and the mystical. Step on my platforms, my wings, and let your visions collide with the whimsy of the night. I am a beacon of boundless possibilities, a muse for your wildest aspirations. Allow me to guide you into an enigmatic adventure”.
In Partnership: Architectura Mixta & Zingulart
Wynwood Miami - 2023 I 3700sqft
KYU Miami expresses a refined “urban zen” concept—an interplay of fire, nature, craft, and industrial heritage. Designed by Mark Alan Diaz, the space channels the spirit of a wood-fired Asian kitchen through warm materiality and grounded architectural gestures. The palette builds from raw textures—oolite limestone, exposed concrete, blackened steel, and charred wood—balanced with soft, organic elements such as natural timber, warm leather seating, and lush greenery. Atmospheric lighting washes across tambour wall paneling and open structural ceilings, allowing the restaurant’s iconic open-flame kitchen to glow as the heart of the space. Every surface feels intentional, tactile, and connected to the restaurant’s culinary story.
The vibe is elevated but relaxed, blending Wynwood’s industrial edge with sophisticated hospitality design. Diaz created a spatial rhythm defined by backlit bar elements, sculptural partitions, and custom furnishings that encourage flow and intimacy. Warm neutral tones, gold accents, and layered lighting give the dining room a moody, welcoming energy—perfect for both lively nights and slow, sensory meals. The result is a cohesive environment where fire, craft, and community converge. KYU Miami stands as a modern dining sanctuary that honors its neighborhood roots while offering a polished, globally inspired experience.
In Partnership: McKenzie Construction & Apsogi
Miami Design District, FL - 2018 I 2800sqft
KAIDO explores celebration and the hierarchy of femininity in nightlife culture with a youthful rebellious glamorous grit, I'm dubbing as Lux/Punk, while AMA on the other hand expresses the warmth and legacy of the sea diving women of Kuji Japan, which is dubbed as Colorful/Nobility.
Kaido is a collections of experiences, refined details and materials which showcase a dark and edgy inspired take on Japanese Nightlife and Entertainment. After exploring Japan’s diverse Nightlife culture I wanted to create a venue which expresses the beauty I found in sea urchins, which I think are jewels of sea, and transport that beauty into the abyss of nightlife and entertainment.
AMA - Celebrates the proud self-made, mature glowing ocean guardians, the hunters and collectors of Sea Urchins, for the love of Uni. A year ago in Kuji, I spent time with the AMA’s and these women are bright and lively fisherman. They are as strong as they are bold, and as bold as they are proud and are literally glowing happy beings who are stewards of legacy and tradition.
In Partnership: Chef Brad Kilgore
Photography: Mike Butler
Miami, FL - 2020
Miami Shores, FL - 2020
The interior design of Tran An Miami is a compact, vibrant blend of 1970s nostalgia and the "soul of an immigrant family's home," offering a unique "infrared disco hunting lodge" atmosphere. The 750-square-foot space, designed by the owner Jon Nguyen and Mark Alan Diaz, is characterized by red and yellow circular design elements, suede bright maroon booth seating, and a noodle bar with counter seating that provides a view of the open kitchen. Quirky details such as the menu presented in an old-school photo album, severed golden animal heads mounted on the walls, and a bathroom that is described as feeling like a tiny nightclub contribute to the eatery's distinct, personality-filled, and laid-back vibe.
In Partnership: Chef Jon Nguyen and Stephen Shaw
Wynwood Miami, FL - 2008
A Liquor-Fueled Love Machine Designed As A Forum For Creative Expression. Miami's Premier Boutique Music Venue.
The original Electric Pickle in Miami was a beloved Wynwood institution known for its unpretentious, intimate atmosphere and focus on quality underground house and techno music. The interior was raw and warehouse-like, featuring a powerful sound system, a low ceiling over the dance floor that fostered a close-knit vibe, and simple, dark aesthetics that kept the focus squarely on the music and the people. It wasn't about flashy decor or bottle service; it was a dimly lit, often smoky "dive" where people gathered to genuinely appreciate the DJs and the communal experience of dance, a sharp contrast to the high-glamour South Beach superclubs.
The vibe was a blend of a neighborhood bar and an international dance club, creating a "little vacation oasis" where competition was low and camaraderie was high. The atmosphere was inclusive and welcoming to a diverse crowd of music lovers, a place where international DJs could play deep, experimental sets they couldn't anywhere else in the city. It was famous for staying open incredibly late (until 5 AM), allowing patrons to get lost in the moment and creating a "real flames" feel of raw, authentic nightlife that is rare in modern venues.
In terms of recognition, the Electric Pickle achieved national and global acclaim. It was featured on Rolling Stone's list of the best dance clubs in the country in 2013. Its most significant impact, however, was its foundational role in building and sustaining Miami's underground electronic music scene. The club served as a crucial launchpad for local talent and a trusted venue for world-class DJs, proving that Miami could support a vibrant, music-first alternative to its mainstream club culture. Its closure in 2019 was mourned by many as the end of an era, marking the loss of one of the city's most culturally important and authentic nightlife venues.
In Partnership: DJ Will Renuart I Tomas Ceddia
Photography: World Redeye
Miami Beach, FL - 2013
You have two choices; Dance or Leave. So don’t sit.
In Partnership: DJ Behrouz I DJ Will Renuart
JugoFresh Wynwood
Wynwood Miami - 2014
Design Collaborator of Wynwoods favorite juice bar!
JugoFresh in Wynwood was a groundbreaking project for Miami’s arts district, setting a new standard for how wellness, street culture, and design could coexist in a single retail environment. As one of the first true “third-wave” juice bars in Wynwood, its interior architecture celebrated raw creativity and urban grit while introducing a fresh, vibrant visual language to the neighborhood. The design fused reclaimed woods, polished concrete, exposed structural elements, and hand-finished surfaces with splashes of vivid color drawn from the brand’s organic juices and Miami’s tropical palette. The result was a space that felt both handmade and forward-thinking—authentically Wynwood, yet unlike anything the district had seen. The use of neon accents, mural-like graphics, and crafted material textures established a bold, youthful identity that instantly resonated with the creative community.
The layout emphasized transparency and craft, placing the production process front and center so guests could witness the energy and freshness behind every bottle. Color played a major role in the experience: bright citruses, deep greens, and bold reds echoed throughout the shelving, signage, and accent details, giving the interior an expressive rhythm aligned with the neighborhood’s street art DNA. JugoFresh quickly became a cultural touchpoint—more than a juice bar, it was a lifestyle space that bridged wellness culture with Wynwood’s artistic spirit. As a trailblazing breakout project, it helped define the retail evolution of the district and proved that design-led, health-driven concepts could thrive in Miami’s most expressive, visually experimental community.
Interior Architect: Shulman + Associates
Contractor: McKenzie Construction
Photographer: Robin Hill
Awards:
2018 AIA Miami Honor Award/ Interior Design
2015 Hospitality Design Awards: Judges' Award for Placemaking
2015 AIA Florida Award of Excellence
2014 AIA Miami Award of Excellence
Miami Design District, FL - 2018 I 1250sqft
AMA - Celebrates the proud self-made, mature glowing ocean guardians, the hunters and collectors of Sea Urchins, for the love of Uni. A year ago in Kuji, I spent time with the AMA’s and these women are bright and lively fisherman. They are as strong as they are bold, and as bold as they are proud and are literally glowing happy beings who are stewards of legacy and tradition.
The design has been dubbed: Colorful Nobility
ELEMENTS:
AMA - The Dream of the Fisherman's Wife : A frosted mirrored rendition of the original erotic woodblock art from Katsushika Hokusai in 1814. The piece speaks to the profound mutual sexual connection and enjoyment between an Ama and two Octopuses.
AMA - Chandeliers : Sea Inspired Shell chandeliers which bring a delicate femininity to the bar. Each chandelier has its own personality and some even resemble jelly fish. Each one was personally selected by Chef Brad & Soraya on their travels, in Bali.
AMA - Divers : A filtered rendition of the Sea Diving Women of Japan as photographed by Fosco Mariani in 1954. These Japanese free divers women tradition holds that the practice of Ama may be up to 2,000 years old.
AMA - Pachinko Machines : While traveling in Japan we ran across droves of Pachinko Gaming Dens which felt like the Dive Bars of the gaming world, which brought an active, bright & loud paradise of distraction. After our experience, I wanted to bring the fun of gaming to Ama and bring a bit of my history in as well. Having and playing one of these gorgeous machines as a child I was so very happy to visit the Mecca of all thinks Pachinko.
AMA - Floors : The Shimmer of light reflecting off the scales of fish reinterpreted into a high polished resin filled floor of two-toned blue and gold fabric.
Ft Myers, FL - 2024 I 1900sqft
Hogwash in Fort Myers is a contemporary interpretation of the classic speakeasy—lush, moody, and unashamedly theatrical. The interior blends Art Deco sophistication with modern sensuality, transforming the historic 1908 building into a sultry, design-forward hideaway. The renovation preserved the original brick walls and century-old flooring, allowing the patina of the past to anchor a palette of polished metals, deep reds, glossy blacks, and warm ambient light. The bar serves as the glowing centerpiece, wrapped in rich finishes and framed by intimate seating zones that invite lingering conversation. Dramatic lighting—often in the red spectrum—creates a savory, cinematic mood that defines the guest experience from the moment they enter.
Unique rooms such as the “Mile High Club” elevate Hogwash’s narrative with a sense of escapism and indulgence. Plush textures, saturated color, and a bold floral mural interplay with neon art and sculptural lighting to craft a highly atmospheric private lounge. Velvet seating, mirrored accents, and layered materials bring tactile richness that echoes the venue’s speakeasy-meets-Deco spirit. Throughout the space, the design balances modern glamour with historic character, resulting in an environment that feels both timeless and provocative—an upscale destination where Fort Myers nightlife finds its most stylish, immersive expression.
In Partnership: Maverick Theory
DWNTWN Los Angeles - 2019
Creative Direction & Environmental Design
In the capacity of Creative Director & Architect, I orchestrated the full environmental design of SUMMIT LA19 — a four-block immersive event experience in downtown Los Angeles that blended talks, performances, art, culinary, and wellness across historic theaters, restaurants, rooftops and open-air spaces. My role spanned from master-planning the “campus” of venues, to designing architectural interventions, scenography, lighting schemes, way-finding systems, and guest circulation strategies that transformed urban infrastructure into a flexible, curiosity-driven platform of experiences.
The design intent was to heighten serendipity, connection and immersion. By applying a cohesive material and lighting language across disparate spaces, I created a unifying sensorial identity—raw finishes paired with curated details, dynamic lighting transitions that supported formal talks through late-night performance zones, and modular spatial systems that could adapt to wellness studios, art installations, and pop-up dining. The overarching outcome: a seamless environment that encouraged attendees to move fluidly from keynote sessions to rooftop lounges to wellness studios, blurring boundaries between content, culture and place. The result was an environment that supported 65+ talks, 40+ performances and 45+ wellness sessions—bringing design, architecture and experience together in a high-impact city-scale event.
Summit LA19 functioned as more than a conference: it was an immersive, city-sized platform that blended business, culture, wellness, design, and social impact in an urban environment. By activating downtown Los Angeles’s architectural and cultural assets (historic theaters, restaurants, rooftops) the event became both a local experience and a globally notable gathering of creative and entrepreneurial leaders. For anyone involved in design, hospitality, event production, or place-making, Summit LA19 is a useful case study in multi-venue programming, experiential architecture and cross-disciplinary engagement.
Notable speakers included high-profile names like Dara Khosrowshahi (Uber CEO), Gwynne Shotwell (SpaceX COO), Hamdi Ulukaya (Chobani founder), Ray Dalio (Bridgewater Associates founder), Satguru, and A$AP Rocky among others.
Photography:
Bow & Marrow, Havre, MT - 2020
Rough-Luxury Steakhouse inspired by the railway way town. Industrial in its parts with the warms of the fireside in its soul. The interior draws on the natural environment of industry surplus and transportation intersection of the town.
Bow & Marrow
Havre, MT - 2020
Bow & Marrow reads as a “rough-luxury” steakhouse: industrial bones softened by fireside warmth and hospitality. The bar is the visual anchor, clad in vertical wood slats with a warm backlit glow, topped in a dark, monolithic counter surface that feels like stone or composite, and backed by a densely layered bottle display. Overhead, a timber ceiling with exposed structure and oversized metal dome pendants creates a low, intimate canopy of amber light, reinforcing the cocktail-bar mood. Floors appear to be polished concrete, keeping the base of the space simple and durable, while the bar face, shelving, and lighting do the expressive work. The overall palette leans into tobacco, brass, and charcoal tones—very much in line with a modern rail-town steakhouse inspired by Havre’s industrial and transportation heritage.
In the dining areas, long channel-back banquettes in striped, earth-tone upholstery run along the walls, paired with simple square wood tables and slender black metal chairs. One feature wall layers a graphic backdrop, a rhythm of tall arched mirrors, and a row of globe pendants to create depth and sparkle; another vignette centers on a masonry fireplace framed by horizontal reclaimed-style wood planks and dark steel bands, overhead a ceiling installation of large metal cylinders that glow softly inside and give a sense of theatrical enclosure. Split firewood is stacked as both functional storage and a sculptural element, reinforcing the “feast, fire, and marrow” story. Black metal screens and latticework subtly divide zones without closing them off, while the overall lighting strategy—lots of warm, low-level points—keeps the room moody and flattering, inviting guests to “come early and stay late.”
B&M is the new crown jewel of the Hi-Line Railway. Redefining Hospitality in Havre. Population 9,362
In Partnership: Invictus Hospitality, Shaw Design Build
Santa Monica’s Nightlife Sanctuary has been a home for locals since 1949. It history of being the Westside’s first and oldest biker bar has attracted everyone from Jim Morrison and Truman Capote to today's contemporaries. Circle Bar continues to be the Heart of Santa Monica Nightlife.
With careful attention to keeping the original design, much detail was placed to bring the venue back to life. Circle Bar has been a trailblazing cocktail slinger with a deep love for music and locals. By respecting the original bones patrons know what to expect when they arrive - a really good time. The neighborhood may change, the music here and there, but the spirit of Circle Bar will live forever.
The Circle Bar is legendary.
In Partnership: Invictus Hospitality
Miami Shores, FL - 2022
La Yolanda Mezcaleria features a vibrant and intimate "disco jungle" interior design, creating a sexy and trendy speakeasy vibe that is perfect for a date night or a fun outing with friends. The space is small but cozy, adorned with lush greenery, a colorful mural featuring a jaguar and heart-shaped palm trees, funky mirrors, and multiple disco balls that add a groovy, reflective element. Dim lighting, lounge seating, and music provided by a DJ contribute to the laid-back yet lively atmosphere. This unique aesthetic, combined with a focus on high-quality mezcal and craft cocktails, gives the bar an upscale yet approachable feel that has been described as one of Miami's best-kept secrets.
In Partnership: Shaw Design Build
Wynwood Miami, FL - 2013 I 1500sqft
Some speakeasy’s were never designed for Charles Bukowski. What truly horrible lives the other speakeasy’s must have.
In Partnership: Carmel Ophir I Linus Ilario
Photography: Stian Roenning
Wynwood Miami / 2nd Location 2024
OSME Perfumery “liquid art” in Wynwood is a sensory-driven retail environment designed to translate the art of fine fragrance into spatial experience. The interior blends minimalist sophistication with Wynwood’s artistic edge, pairing clean architectural lines with warm, tactile materials that heighten the ritual of scent exploration. Soft, diffused lighting washes over pale woods, sculptural shelving, and curated product displays, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate, quiet, and contemplative. The signature central bar—where guests sample and blend fragrances—anchors the space with a laboratory-like elegance, marrying craftsmanship and curiosity in a setting that invites slower, more intentional browsing.
Throughout the shop, subtle art-inspired details nod to Wynwood’s creative energy while maintaining a serene backdrop for olfactory discovery. Polished concrete floors, muted neutral tones, and matte black accents create a modern, gallery-like aesthetic, while strategic pops of greenery add warmth and life. The design balances refinement with approachability, ensuring the focus remains on the fragrances themselves. OSME functions not only as a boutique but as a sensory sanctuary—an immersive environment where design, scent, and emotion seamlessly intertwine.
In Partnership: Apsogi Construction
Photography: Aidan Gonzalez
Springfeild, MI - 2018 I 2800sqft
Funky Western Saloon in a post gold rush era, with drink slingers and moonshiners that also are serving up funky tunes. Pick and shovel are optional. Collaboration with Latin Grammy Winner Owner/ Operator Jorge Moreno.
In Partnership: INVICTUS Hospitality
Tustin, CA - 2017
Custom Television Set - Design, Engineered, Fabrication, Installation
In Partnership: Flix FX I VisualizeLED I Nathan Taylor
Los Angeles, CA - 2017
Smash Gods & Gate Keepers Championships - Stage Design, The Wiltern Theater, Los Angeles
In Partnership: FlixFX I Monica Glass - Eat
Miami Beach, FL - 2016
Live Nation’s Fillmore Miami Beach is the Premier Live Music Venue at the Jackie Gleason Theater. Miami Beach’s Original VIP.
Photography: Stian Roenning
Daytona, FL - 2021 I 4400sqft
In the belly of the beast she waits. Inspired by a deep connection to the sea, a true story and a dream. Enter into the hull of a ship to find a life size wooden container of hungry inhabitant’s, warm intimate spaces knotted with pride, a savory crew and a bar built for sailors after their whaling mission. As the story goes… ‘It’s Me or The Sea’ and so this venue exists tucked into the Halifax Harbor deeply seeded from the shores Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Mama Foo Foo brings a bold, escapist dining experience to Daytona—an interior concept built on whimsy, seduction, and theatrical storytelling. The design merges tropical vibrancy with elevated bohemian glamour, creating a space that feels part lounge, part fantasy hideaway. Lush textures, sculptural lighting, and saturated color tones define the environment, while custom furniture, rich velvets, natural rattan, and pops of brass layer warmth and sophistication. Oversized greenery and organic forms soften the architecture, giving the restaurant a dreamlike, transportive quality. Every zone—from bar to booth to terrace—was curated to feel intimate, expressive, and photo-worthy without losing its sense of craft.
Anchored by a glowing central bar, the interior unfolds into multiple micro-environments, each with its own character and energy. Playful patterns, mosaic tile moments, and soft ambient lighting shape the overall mood, shifting from vibrant daytime energy to sultry nighttime ambiance. Artistic details and bespoke decor reinforce the venue’s identity, blending global inspiration with a distinctly Florida coastal edge. Mama Foo Foo ultimately becomes more than a dining room—it’s an atmospheric escape, a lifestyle venue, and an immersive environment designed to spark emotion, conversation, and delight.
In Partnership: Invictus Hospitality
Wynwood Miami, FL - 2016
Scent be it a tangled shadow of what is and what was
In Partnership: Linus Ilario
Photography: Stian Roenning I Azeez Bakare Studios
Midtown Miami, FL - 2013
Last night… Well IT Happened like this and IT happened like that.
In Partnership: Linus Ilario I Mckenzie Construction
Shoo is the type of Boutique Hotel Bar you would find while walking the streets of Barcelona, where you meet the Love of your life and when you get home from your trip you only want to tell your best friend, just to keep it a secret.
The interior design of Shoo Shoo Baby masterfully combines a romantic, vintage-inspired aesthetic with a nod to its unique name origin, creating an intimate speakeasy experience in Downtown LA's Financial District. The bar embraces the "power of femininity" and the joyous, celebratory spirit of the post-WWII era, when people were ready to connect and live life to the fullest. This concept is brought to life through elegant design choices: the space features cozy, comfortable seating, often in intimate booth arrangements, complemented by warm candlelight and softer lighting that casts a chic glow over the venue. The decor includes vintage elements, darker woods, and plush fabrics, which work together to create a charming, secluded atmosphere, far removed from the modern hustle of the city outside.
The name "Shoo Shoo Baby" is a dual homage to history and culture: a lively, "girl-power song" popularized by the Andrews Sisters during the 1940s, and the nose art of a B-17G Flying Fortress bomber that survived 24 combat missions. While the core decor focuses on creating a cozy, almost secretive social haven, subtle industrial or war-era hints might be found in the exposed high ceilings of the historic Roosevelt Lofts building where it is located. This integration of a historical military reference into a stylish, inclusive, and intimate bar setting allows for a unique blend of narratives—a story of resilience and celebration. The physical space is designed to encourage conversation and connection, serving as a charming backdrop for varied entertainment like live jazz, burlesque shows, and DJ sets, embodying the vibrant energy suggested by its name's origins.
In Partnership: Invictus Hospitality, Homan Taghdiri, Michael Tipps, David Foss
Hialeah, FL - 2014
Branding, Concept, Custom Design, Build, Consult and Fabrication
In Partnership: Nothingman Studios I Reach Design I Alex Mckenzie
Miami Beach, FL - 2006
711 Interior / 619 Exterior
Boutique Hotel Restaurant & Bar located on Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Originally designed for Executive Chef Roly Cruz-Taura of Miami’s Biltmore Hotel as his first solo restaurant.
In Partnership: Roly Cruz-Taura I Ocean Five Miami Beach
Wynwood Miami, FL - 2016
Funky Western Saloon in a post gold rush era, with drink slingers and moonshiners that also are serving up funky tunes. Pick and shovel are optional. Collaboration with Latin Grammy Winner Owner/ Operator Jorge Moreno.
In Partnership: Linus Ilario I Donato Helbling
Miami Beach, FL - 2018
Late Night Bite Ritual, Healthy Food for Crazy People
Coral Gables 2014
An Open For Life Juicery
JugoFresh – Continuum is a refined reinterpretation of a modern juicery, tailored to the vibrant Coral Gables market and designed under the banner of “Open For Life”. The interior design and architecture merge transparency and craft: clear sight-lines to the production process showcase the fresh juices in motion, while a sleek, pared-back finish palette of reclaimed wood, stainless steel, and polished surfaces reinforces the brand’s commitment to natural, high-tech wellness. Subtle graphic wall treatments and a minimal material vocabulary enable the colorful beverages themselves to become the visual spectacle.
Spatially, the layout emphasizes flow and experience: from the moment a guest steps in, the bar and bottle-cooler are positioned as a central “jewel-box” moment—anchoring the space, organizing circulation, and drawing the eye to the vibrant heart of the operation. Seating zones are consciously simple and efficient, allowing the core brand behaviors (juice ordering, customization, grabbing & going) to dominate the visitor experience. Understated lighting and tactile detailing—like a warm timber accent wall, stainless counters, and crisp industrial flooring—provide a quietly elevated backdrop, transforming what could be a simple kiosk into a destination boutique juicery.
In Partnership: Matt Sherman I Shulman-Design I Mckenzie Construction
Photography: World Redeye
SOuth Beach 2012
An Open For Life Juicery
In Partnership: Matt Sherman I Mckenzie Construction
Pop-Up, FL - 2012
An Open For Life Juicery
In Partnership: Matt Sherman
Coral Gables 2013
An Open For Life Juicery
In Partnership: Matt Sherman I Shulman-Design I Mckenzie Construction
Midtown Miami, FL - 2013
The last Novecento proudly designed for our late friend Hector Rolotti.
A local Neighborhood Steakhouse which opening its doors in 1991 in SoHo, NY, grew to Cañitas, Argentina; Punta Del Este, Uruguay; and Cordoba, Argentina. That success drove the opening of locations in key areas of South Florida. For the Love for people, food and great conversations.
In Partnership: Linus Ilario I Mckenzie Construction I Alejandro Ferllen
Miami Beach, FL - 2007
Commissioned Work
The Concept: Began with my fascination of construction sites and the un-inhabited spaces that existed. I found myself visiting site after site, illegally of course, so I could truly feel the raw space and its emptiness. Of course at the time, I felt my presence in each space as an admirer, began breathing life into the space. I would come to find out later in life that my attraction came from something that was already there... "The Raw" and The Soul of the building. I was finding beauty in the subtle properties of form, construction methods and its possibilities. I was also finding a Very Raw Soulful Piece of myself in the process. This experimentation in spaces has evolved over the last 20yrs.
"The Raw", in this Series, is the Contrast in Vulnerability. One's Vulnerability of Structure and the other is a Vulnerability of Emotion.
The Building naturally exposes its true beauty and yet is Structurally Vulnerable, unless dressed. It's typically dressed with multiple; Moisture Barriers, Stucco Treatments, Corner Beading, Windows, Silicone Sealants, Polypropylene Joints and a Multitude of Applied Finishes. This Undressed Structural Vulnerability is directly in contrast with the human body 'The Inhabitant(s)' and its perfectly complete protective layer of skin.
The Inhabitant, when consciously exposing its true beauty is, typically, Emotional Vulnerable unless dressed. It's typically dressed with many protective layers as well. These layers inhibit true emotion from being exposed or expressed.
In Partnership: Mike Bultler
Wynwood Miami, FL - 2014
RoughLUX Swanky Casual Retail Store
Newport Beach, CA - 2016
Breathe in Light. Boutique Yoga Studio Design Build.
Ra Yoga Long Beach offers a serene and thoughtfully curated environment where architectural calm meets wellness-driven design. The space embraces clean lines, natural materials, and minimalistic detailing to create a backdrop of quiet clarity. Polished floors, soft neutral tones, and understated finishes set a tone of calm focus — ideal for yoga practice and mindful movement. Large windows and open sight lines ensure ample natural light and visual connection, while simple, unobtrusive lighting fixtures provide warm, even glow when daylight fades. The overall aesthetic feels contemporary yet grounded, offering practitioners a tranquil, uncluttered atmosphere to disconnect from outside stress and reconnect with body and breath.
Spatially, the studio balances functional efficiency with softness and flow. The main practice hall is generous and unobstructed — a clean canvas for movement, with flexible layout that serves yoga flows, heated sessions, and restorative classes. Ancillary areas — locker rooms, changing spaces, and entry — are designed with subtle material shifts and calming finishes to maintain a sense of continuity and subtle luxury. Minimal decor, thoughtful acoustics, and a restrained color palette keep the focus on the practice itself, while durable materials and clean design lines ensure the space remains welcoming and timeless. The design supports Ra Yoga’s commitment to community and authenticity by giving students a clean, clear, and calming environment in which to practice, recharge, and belong.
In Partnership: Robert Kittleman I Jenny Vande Hei
Los Angeles, CA - 2017
Commissioned Work, Custom Sculpture Fabrication - Blow up your spot, get your tricks in and avoid the cops by stepping into this skate, clothing and accessories brand in Fairfax Village. As it was once said… Skate or Die
In Partnership: FlixFX
2017
“Open Vessel is the soil by which to plant your intentions and sit in stillness while cultivating and observing the flower which is the self.” -M.A.D.
DIMENSIONS: 7’-10”H x 6’-6”DIA
MATERIALS: 100% Wool Felt, FSC Certified Walnut Stained Oak, FSC Certified Walnut Stained Russian Birch
INSPIRATION: The Vessel is inspired by nature and the seeds of life, in that all flowering plants produce a seed. We, as individuals souls, are flowering plants of intentions.
DESIGN: Architecturally / Geometrically: Open Vessel’s Design is a Radial Symmetric Pentadecagram (15 sided) structure with Hyperbolic Paraboloid Shell Panels with a nested BiSliding door system.
FUNCTION: The Vessel with its natural designed chimney effect is complimented by a air circulation system which creates a subtle torus shaped air flow. The torus of cool air mirrors the ideal torus of internal flow from energy received through the crown, out the feet and circulating back around through the crown. Its hidden from view, fully immersive, close proximity sound system provides one grand sweet spot of sound integration. The indirect lighting visually fills the vessel with programmed light-to-sound sync experiences for each track to maximize its therapeutic effects. The perforated cushions allow a quick-to-cool process and heat dissipation for long sits as well as high turnover. Its center removable cushion allows for multiple relaxation positions for individual and group sits in lotus, half lotus or traditional chair posture. While this encompasses the internal features, the soft to touch sound isolating felt exterior shell seals in the warmth and subconscious memory of the womb. All of which collectively transporting its inhabitants from an external intake driven modus operandi to a self observational state of oneness.
“We are all open vessel mirroring that which we are.” -M.A.D.
In Partnership: Jonathan Marcoschamer I Donato Helbling I Sommer Season
Lakeway, Tx - 2020
Gramercy in Lakeway brings a sophisticated metropolitan sensibility to the Texas Hill Country, pairing modern elegance with warm, residential comfort. The interior blends rich materials—dark-stained wood, brushed brass, natural stone, and soft neutral palettes—to create a bar environment that feels both polished and welcoming. Textured wall treatments, refined millwork, and layered ambient lighting establish a moody, intimate atmosphere reminiscent of an elevated New York lounge. The central bar becomes the heart of the space, wrapped in luxurious finish details and anchored by a sculptural back bar display that glows with soft, cinematic warmth.
Across the lounge and dining zones, plush seating, tailored upholstery, and thoughtfully placed accents shape a rhythm of intimate gathering areas designed for conversation and lingering. Custom sconces, warm pendants, and recessed lighting highlight materiality and guide guests through the space, while subtle architectural detailing adds depth without overwhelming the room. Outdoors, the energy extends with a relaxed-yet-refined patio experience that mirrors the interior’s tonal sophistication. Gramercy stands as a testament to refined bar design—elevated, inviting, and crafted to feel like a modern retreat for Lakeway locals and visitors alike.
In Partnership: Invictus Hospitality
Miracle Mile - Coral Gables, FL - 2006
An Industrial Remodel of Miami’s Miracle Mile.
In Partnership: Thierry Painparay
Scope Art Fair & Independant Thinkers, Miami Beach, FL - 2010
‘Darkness into Light’ - Transformation of Hand-to-Hand combat weapon with a dark and jaded past into a brighter future.
Dimensions: 24”Dia x 13.5”H
Materials:
‘Blood Moon’ - Polished Chrome Plated 6061 Aluminum, Red Anodized 6061 Aluminum, Silver Crown/ Chrome Dipped G-25 40W 120V Light Bulb
‘Harvest Moon’ - Polished Copper Plated 6061 Aluminum, Black Anodized 6061 Aluminum, 1910 Edison Style Squirrel Cage 40W 120V Light Bulb
Rockwell Nightclub, Miami, FL - 2017
Commissioned Work, Simply Stated… Custom Neon Instagram Moment
Materials: Radical Red Neon, CNC Red Mirror Plexigrass Lettered Backing
Photography: World Redeye
2015
Commissioned Furniture, Inspired by the draftsman compass. The M.A.D. take, on the great outdoor casual dining experience
