Laurence Grigorov, director of Johannesburg based residential property development company Laurence Martin Developments, enjoys traveling abroad as a way to relax and to find inspiration and ideas for future residential development projects. Having recently visited Miami in Florida, USA, Laurence Grigorov was fascinated by the blend of styles and culture in the city and the unique atmosphere this created.
Even if there was no beach, Miami would still have undeniable allure. The gorgeous 1930s hotels lining Ocean Drive are part of the world’s greatest collection of art-deco buildings. Lavishly restored, Miami’s art-deco and mid-century modern hotels are also the playground for locals and out-of-towners alike, with sunny poolside terraces, artfully designed dining rooms and plush nightclubs.
Miami has so many different facets to its diverse neighbourhoods that it’s hard to believe it all fits in one place. By day you can admire incredible photorealistic murals, then spend the evening immersed in Afro Cuban jazz in Little Havana, followed by rooftop drinks atop the city’s latest skyscraper.
When the sun sets and the brilliant colours of a South Florida sunset fill the sky, that’s when the best part of the day begins for Miami’s party people. By moonlight, all the magic of the city unfolds, in its salsa-filled dance halls, swanky candlelit lounges, and rooftop bars with sweeping views over Biscayne Bay and the glittering city skyline. While there’s plenty of bling on display, Miami has something for all, from backyard bars full of indie rockers to hidden dens of debauchery concealed behind neon-lit taco stands.
Chalk it up to Miami’s diverse population, or perhaps its love of always being on the cutting-edge. Whatever the reason, creativity is one of the great hallmarks of this city. From art and design to global cuisine, Miami remains ever on the search for bold new ideas, which manifest themselves in surprising ways. The one constant in Miami is its uncanny ability to astonish.
Few cities are as blessed as Miami when it comes to natural beauty. Sparkling shores lapped by aquamarine waters set the stage for a memorable array of adventures, from sunrise strolls along peaceful stretches of Mid-Beach to scenic paddles in search of manatees off Virginia Key. With year-round sunshine, and a love for celebration, the open-air is also where Miami’s biggest parties unfold – whether at massive music and dance festivals or the neighbourhood fiestas that pack Miami’s cultural calendar.
Exposure to the different cultures and styles of Miami and the way they fit together offers new insights into architecture and design for Laurence Grigorov. This allows Laurence Martin Developments to continually evolve the residential products that they delivers to the market.
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