Virtuoso Insights - February/March 2009 - (Page 60) The PerFecT eNDING Moon over MiAMi Miami Nice: Art Deco on Ocean Drive. s the sun sets over Biscayne Bay, things really start to sizzle along South Beach’s Ocean Drive. World famous for its vibrant nightlife, the street also marks the heart of Miami Beach’s Architectural Historic District, which is home to more than 800 preserved buildings done in the Mediterranean Revival, Miami Modern (MiMo), and Art Deco architectural styles. Miami Beach’s Art Deco buildings reflect the latter phase of that artistic movement, known as Streamline Moderne, which reached its height during the mid-1930s. The style incorporates long lines and curved edges, with less decoration than earlier Art Deco structures — although architects infused a bit of the local flavor with the use of flamingos, palm trees, and other tropical motifs. Accentuated by neon lighting, the buildings’ trademark pastel colors were actually part of a revitalization effort during the 1980s. The Miami Design Preservation League provides guided walking tours of the city’s Art Deco District daily, except Mondays. And what if you’re busy catching rays along one of Miami’s sun-drenched beaches? The organization offers cellphone audio tours you can access anytime, even by moonlight. A 60 Virtuoso insights
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