Faena House
Craftsmanship through Time
Faena House – Hardcore Art Deco
To truly appreciate craftsmanship, one need not dwell in the past; rather, one can find joy in its legacy. For the project at Faena House in Miami, the client sought a vision of “Hardcore Art Deco.” This was not merely an obsession with the style, but rather an appreciation for the finest elements of the past, blended with a forward-looking perspective and invitation to indulge in Miami’s vibrant culture alongside the Faena Hotel and adjacent cultural centre.
The building by Foster & Partners is a new landmark on Miami Beach reflecting a modern interpretation of the glamour of 1930s Miami. We worked with local craftsman to create authentic details for furniture, doors and plasterwork.
Art Deco has profoundly influenced modern design, presenting both a delight and a challenge for our team. Initially, the client perceived our design aestetic as too minimalistic for the grandeur of Art Deco, but our approach, as in all projects, is to highlight the essence of a theme in a contemporary context.
A dialogue between the past and the future
Our journey began with an exploration of Miami’s unique interpretation of 1930s design. We traced the evolution of design elements and discovered that the works of Paul Evans from the 1970s and Vladimir Kagan in the 1990s echoed a similar spirit. The creations of contemporary French furniture designers including Patrick Naggar, Hervé van der Straeten and Negropontes also beautifully encapsulate the enduring qualites of Art Deco.
These pieces seamlessly integrated into our design, enhancing the overall aesthetic with a refined elegance that resonates with the project’s vision. Each designer’s unique interpretation of Art Deco craftsmanship added depth and character, further enriching the dialogue between the past and the present. This thoughtful curation not only honours the heritage of Art Deco but also invites a contemporary appreciation for its timeless appeal.
“The details are not the details. They make the design.”
– Charles Eames
What defines art deco in reality?
But what defines Art Deco quality? It transcends mere nostalgia; it represents a clean, proportioned approach to ornamentation. The details celebrate craftsmanship through symmetry and geometric forms rather than organic shapes, creating a dialogue with modern design.
A touch of glamour
With a thought provoking contemporary art collection at hand, the client was able to select as well as commission new pieces that vibrantly complemented the intended aesthetic of the space. The resulting ambiance exudes opulence, inviting guests to feel at ease whether lounging on the beach or dressing up for a glamorous evening out—where a touch of elegance is always appreciated.
Projects
A selection of projects created by Wetzels | Brown. On request we have more projects available to show you. Feel free to contact us.
Chrisco
One of a Kind
This project beautifully encapsulates the essence of collaboration and creativity, where the vision of the clients and the dedication of the team converge to create something remarkable. The strong chemistry among the team members fosters an environment where innovative ideas flourish, and every detail is meticulously crafted to reflect the clients’ aspirations and lifestyle.
Mediterranean Penthouse
Natural and Artificial Light
This project prominently features light as a constant element high above the city, thanks to its 360-degree windows that showcase the shifting illumination throughout the day. The apartment design was inspired by our client’s vision of a bespoke coastal entertaining space – relaxed and comfortable with just the right amount of city chic. We took inspiration from the location – hot sun, warm sea and endless sand dunes.
Legato
Colour in Life
We have recently completed a yacht for a client whose vision was to evoke feelings of summer joy and foster family bonding during the warm summer days. This family boldly embraced vibrant colours that mirrored their optimistic perspective on life. Our task was to harmonize these vivid dreams without compromising their vibrancy.
Contest Yachts
A remarkable collaboration
This is a story of a remarkable collaboration for the last 14 years. Our goal has been to blend the luxurious spirit, spaciousness, and comfort of a large superyacht with the excitement, practicality, and flexibility of a semi-custom production yacht.
Parisien Pied-a-terre
A celebration of Parisian elegance
Travel has opened up the world, bringing different cultures within reach, yet some argue that it has made experiences feel uniform. Our mission is to root each project in its unique surroundings, cultivating a sense of calm and belonging. While the practicalities of life can remain consistent, the style and interaction with the environment should resonate with local culture, history, and nature.
Where curiosity meets,
ideas grow
Are you interested in our way of working or is there a project that attracted your attention? Feel free to contact us, we are happy to answer any questions you may have.