Click to Enlarge
In addition to the beaches and bodies, South Beach is also famously known for its beautiful Art Deco style buildings. SoBe, as the locals call it, was the center of some of the most revolutionary architecture in the US in the 1920s and 30s. Designers from around the globe saw their creations go from paper to structures in this relatively small space of land.
The Hotel Breakwater is one of the very unique buildings that line Ocean Dr. Originally created by Yugoslavian architect Anton Skislewicz in 1936, the Breakwater has had its place as an icon of the SoBe scene. Like so many buildings of the area, it fell into disrepair and remained stagnant for decades. The once beautiful colors faded and the building was feared to perhaps even be lost. The 70s and 80s began a revitalization of this area and a multi-million dollar restoration was undertaken after the property was purchased by Jordache Jeans. Today, the Breakwater has returned to its original glory. Located directly across from Lummus Park and the warm blue ocean waters, this is one of the hot spots in the area.
I made this image to bring in the key features that strike me in about this building. These include the strong vertical lines, bright neon colors and, of course, a flowing palm tree to identify its tropical home. The fame was made during the blue hour prior to sunrise.
3 Frame HDR, Processed in Photomatix Pro and LR