Parasol House
Parasol House is named for the concrete parasol which extends above the living room volume and provides shade and protection to this modern interpretation of a courtyard house typology. The parasol rises above the roof to allow flowing bay breezes through the site, increasing the residents’ comfort. This parasol also acts as a solar reflector that blocks direct sun throughout the day while allowing the light that is reflected off the living room’s single-membrane roof to bounce off its underside.
This house features a series of three unique courtyards. The street side of the property contains several mature, live oaks that help shape the character of the first court. Appropriately named “Tree Court”, this space is bound by the Florida keystone-clad wall of the guest quarters and the Ficus ripens-covered portion of the garage.
The first perpendicular element, a glass-clad bridge containing the children’s bedrooms, extends from the main bar and rests atop the guest quarter’s volume. This court, the “Rain Court,” is bound on three sides by the circulation spine of the main bar, the guest quarters volume, and the two-story living room. The court opens onto a dense garden wall.
The third court, the “Water Court,” faces Biscayne Bay and encompasses the pool and spa. The space was designed to create an exterior environment that encourages uninterrupted sightlines of the bay’s long vistas and sunsets.
Miami’s design language is rooted in our sunny but challenging climate, and somewhat wild nature. It is lighter, brighter, and freer. When desired, it can immerse us in nature while still having protective boundaries from the sun, heat, and storms when needed.
At the heart of our practice is listening: listening to the unique dreams and passions of our clients and weaving their visions into the vibrant tapestry of our dynamic city. The client envisioned a home that was thoroughly modern yet grounded in historical architectural precedents; like many of our projects, 101 Hibiscus was crafted to respect past design traditions while capturing aspirations for the future.
.jpeg)
The design for Coral Gables Residence exhibits a dual nature: a more traditional façade juxtaposed against a sleek and modern rear exterior.