La Corte at 4354 Michigan Ave

"La Corte" was designed with a focus on passive architecture, using natural elements like sunlight, wind, and shading to create a sustainable living space that is energy efficient. The shape, orientation, and selection of materials, fixtures, and appliances were all considered to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction process and enhance the energy efficiency of the house.

Large windows and doors are north facing, allowing for maximum reflected light while controlling the amount of heat and maintaining privacy. The building envelope is highly insulated, and the windows and doors are the most efficient available on the market. All of these elements come together to create an open and welcoming space that is both eco-friendly and luxurious.

The lighting, shading, and cooling systems are coordinated by a smart home system, including a sound system with ceiling speakers in all the common areas and outdoors, as well as a security system. The photovoltaic system not only meets but surpasses the home's energy needs, achieving complete self-sufficiency. Tesla batteries provide reliable energy storage for times when there is less sun or during emergencies such as hurricanes or floods.

In addition, the home was built to be safe and resilient to flooding or hurricanes by being raised 10 feet above the ground and exceeding the minimum elevation requirements, providing an additional layer of safety and peace of mind for the end users. The home is projected to be certified LEED Platinum by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The rationalist architecture style and stoic facades are softened by a natural palette of stucco finish on the second floor, WPC louvers accenting windows and openings, coral stone tiles on the ground floor façades and retaining walls, and architectural eyebrows, reminiscent of Miami Beach’s Art Deco elements.

The U-shaped floorplan of 4354 Michigan offers a unique and functional layout that effortlessly divides the living spaces, without the use of interior walls: the 4,160 SF property, includes 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, an open living room, media room, dining area, kitchen, and laundry room. The U shape design feature allows for a seamless flow from the interior to the outdoor courtyard, which extends the living area by an additional 500 square feet. The courtyard is a stunning space, shaded by local trees and plants, and includes a 90 square foot spa, a covered parking area, and a spacious summer bar for entertaining. The backyard boasts a 45-foot lap pool and a curated sunbathing area, while the front yard has ample space for parking up to 3 to 4 cars.  The outdoor area offers over 1600 square feet of paved space, exuding an elegant and classy environment with a calming flow throughout.

This property's interior design style takes inspiration from Mediterranean Organic Architecture, emphasizing natural materials and textures and a seamless connection with the outdoors.

 As you step inside, the foyer welcomes you with an indoor/outdoor garden room boasting contemporary chandeliers and a double-height space that highlights the striking design of the main stairs. The powder room features an emerald green wall slab and a custom-made stone vanity sink, with a backlit mirror resembling a natural pool of water.

The living room extends to the courtyard with a 24-ft wide sliding door system, seamlessly doubling the living area to the outdoor space that is partially shaded and perfect for basking in the open air even on hot days. Both the living and family rooms feature oversized custom wall units made of natural wood that can be used for storage or to display art and objects. A 20-ft wall opening at floor level provides a unique view of the swimming pool and backyard without too much light reflection, offering an optimal TV and gaming experience.

The dining area sits between the open space kitchen and family room, accommodating a round table for 8-10 people with a bespoke suspension lamp centered over the area. The kitchen comprises three distinct spaces, including an organic island with curved edges and fluted oak wood panels, an understairs bar and pantry with two wine and beverage coolers, and wall units with luxury Star Rated appliances by Miele. The kitchen opens directly to the summer bar area, where a comfortable 10-seater outdoor table can be placed.

All four bedrooms feature balconies or garden access, spacious closets, and luxurious bathrooms. The closets are fully equipped to organize clothing and accessories, while the bathrooms boast high-end plumbing fixtures by Zucchetti, custom-made vanities, and custom LED mirrors. The room situated above the kitchen area offers privacy as it is accessible only through its own stair and is separated from the rest of the house: this unique feature makes it an ideal space for a home office or a guest bedroom. Each of the bedrooms has been thoughtfully designed to provide ample space for a comfortable king-size bed or two full-size beds, as well as a desk for work or study purposes. We hold a strong belief that, in terms of luxury, spacious rooms are preferable over smaller ones, even if it means having fewer but larger rooms.

The master bedroom flaunts a spacious double walk-in closet, a master bathroom and a private terrace with views of the courtyard and pool. The arches that lead to the master bathroom and walk-in closets, along with the fluted wooden boiserie, create an elegant and classical vibe, making the master bedroom the most beautiful room in the house.

 The master bathroom provides a relaxing experience with a double shower offering views of the private terrace garden. The spacious double vanity features two natural stone sinks, and the toilet room is separated from the bathroom area and includes a bidet. The master closet space, spanning over 140 SF, is fully accessorized, and divided into two parts.

 On the second floor, the laundry room is equipped with a sink, Whirlpool washer and dryer, and cabinetry space for storage and organization.

The fixtures, finishes, and equipment have been carefully selected to create a relaxing and welcoming environment for residents. The interior walls are painted with limewash paint, a natural mixture of lime, pigments, and water that creates a soft and leathery look. This hypoallergenic paint is free of solvents and capable of removing odors and harmful CO2, improving the air quality inside the house.

The floors on the ground floor are made of natural travertine tiles sourced from Grupo Arca Miami, while the second floor features European Oak wood planks. Italian porcelain and Dekton were used for the shower walls, shower floors, and countertops to ensure durability and low maintenance. All the woodwork and cabinetry were custom-made in Italy with high-quality materials and hardware to ensure long-lasting quality.

Together, these elements create a sanctuary for residents to disconnect from the outside world and enjoy the inside.