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The Webster South Beach – As Builts

As built plans and elevations for The Webster’s flagship location: a 20,000 square foot luxury multi-brand boutique located in the heart of Miami Beach, in a historical Art Deco building designed in 1939 by famed architect Henry Hohauser.

Retail As Builts

Welcome to Architecture Experience Inc.’s showcase of existing building survey drawings for The Webster South Beach. Our team embarked on a transformative journey to meticulously document as-built plans, interior elevations, and existing spaces digitally, laying the foundation for a major renovation of The Webster’s flagship location.

Originally built in 1939 by renowned Art Deco architect Henry Hohauser, innovator of the Nautical Moderne style and who had also designed the Colony Hotel and Essex House, this iconic 20,000-square-foot building in South Beach, Miami, holds a significant place in architectural history. The Webster, which was once a luxury hotel, was transformed into a high-end retail boutique by Laure Heriard Dubreuil, combining the elegance of Art Deco design with modern retail sensibilities. As part of the next phase in its evolution, our team was called in to survey and document the existing structure before its contemporary renovation.

For a project of this complexity, our architects and surveyors used state-of-the-art Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to field survey and 3D model the as-built building plans and interior elevations. This digital documentation process was crucial in capturing every architectural detail, from the intricate Art Deco motifs to the building’s structural features. These digital records provided a comprehensive understanding of the building, enabling the renovation team to proceed with precision and efficiency, while respecting the historical integrity of the space.

Our approach went beyond just capturing the building’s architecture. We also created a digital furnishings inventory, meticulously documenting every detail of the interior. This inventory was vital for the design process, as it informed key decisions during the renovation. From the preservation of historical fixtures to the integration of new, contemporary elements, no detail was overlooked. The Webster’s distinctive blend of Art Deco elegance and modern flair was carefully preserved, ensuring that the renovation honored the building’s past while bringing it into the present.

The result of our thorough documentation and collaboration with designers and fabricators is a successful contemporary transformation of The Webster. Now a luxury 11,500-square-foot multi-brand boutique, the space continues to embody sophistication and style, blending historic charm with modern allure. Visitors are greeted with a vibrant and curated retail experience, where the architectural heritage of South Beach’s Art Deco era is celebrated while offering a contemporary shopping environment.

The digital documentation of The Webster South Beach not only preserved its architectural significance but also allowed the renovation to move forward with confidence. Our BIM modeling and survey expertise provided a robust foundation, enabling designers to effectively plan the renovation with an in-depth understanding of the building’s structure, layout, and design elements. This level of detail was crucial in navigating the complexities of working within a historic building, where accuracy and respect for the original design are paramount.

At Architecture Experience Inc., we are proud to have played a key role in this project, contributing to the revitalization of a historic landmark while ensuring it remains a vital part of South Beach’s cultural and architectural fabric. The Webster South Beach is now an inspiring example of how historic architecture can be seamlessly blended with contemporary design, creating a space that is both timeless and forward-thinking.

See more at: Webster South Beach

Project Data

Project Name: The Webster South Beach
Location: Miami Beach, Florida
Architect: Architecture Experience Inc.
Client: The Webster

Project Types: Retail, Restaurant, Hotel Renovation, Historic Preservation, Rooftop Bar & Lounge, Art Deco Boutique
Project Scope: As Built Drawing Survey, Digital Furnishings Inventory
Size: 11,500 sq.ft.
Completion Date: 2024

Project Team: Matthew Ostrowski, Luis Morillo, Suja Arun