Located in Miami Shores, a residential neighborhood in the Greater Miami area, this 400-square-meter residence was completely transformed to reflect the lifestyle of a couple seeking a lighter, more comfortable home connected to nature. Spread across two floors, the residence was redesigned by Brazilian architect Mariana Maisonnave, who had previously worked with the couple on a project in southern Brazil and was later invited to design their new home in Miami.

The owner works in healthcare in Miami, while her husband manages his businesses and investments. Despite their busy professional lives, their weekends revolve around outdoor activities and life on the water. Located along a canal within a private gated community with a marina reserved for residents, the property offered the ideal setting for a lifestyle centered on well-being, leisure and a close connection to nature. Passionate about boating, the couple particularly valued the location for its proximity to the water, which allowed them to spend weekends enjoying one of their favorite pastimes: boating.

The architectural concept grew directly from this relationship with the surrounding landscape. A contemporary design language, light palette and timeless materials such as wood and travertine create a calm backdrop for the views of the canal, while encouraging a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. The intention was to create rooms that engage with their surroundings without competing with them, allowing nature to become the protagonist of the living experience.

The renovation focused on creating a more fluid and integrated layout, particularly across the social areas of the home. The living and dining rooms, kitchen and outdoor entertaining area were reorganized to establish a natural connection between one another and with the landscape beyond. By opening up these spaces, the project brings more light into the interiors and strengthens the visual relationship with the canal, making the view an integral part of everyday life.

The material palette reinforces the home’s warm, natural character. Throughout the ground floor, the original flooring was replaced with Oasi Paradiso porcelain tile by Portobello, chosen for its understated, natural appearance. One of the main focal points of the social area is a large wall clad in rock-face travertine. In the outdoor kitchen, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops create an elegant contrast with the light wood cabinetry.

The renovation also made a point of preserving elements that were already part of the house. Upstairs, the original natural wood flooring was of excellent quality but had a reddish tone that no longer suited the new concept. Rather than replacing it, the entire surface was sanded and treated with a tinted finish, softening its color and bringing it into harmony with the new palette.

Cotton, chenille, wood and woven materials used throughout the furniture and rugs contribute to the sense of comfort and informality. Fluid silhouettes are paired with pieces sourced from markets, artisan shops and international suppliers. Highlights include a woven bench imported from Thailand, tables made by artisans and carefully selected decorative objects that bring character and authenticity to the interiors.

The home was also designed around the needs of its two four-legged residents. The owners’ dachshunds, Piper and Milka, influenced several design decisions. In the primary suite, for instance, the bed was specified at a lower height to make it easier for the dogs to move around and to give them greater autonomy and comfort in their daily routine.

The lighting design combines functional, ambient and decorative lighting to create different atmospheres throughout the day while highlighting the architecture and materials. Recessed fixtures provide discreet functionality, while concealed LED strips integrated into cabinetry and countertops create soft, welcoming pools of light. Adjustable spotlights and exterior sconces complete the scheme, drawing attention to selected architectural and decorative elements.