Once a crime-ridden oceanfront neighborhood, Miami Beach's Art Deco district has seen a metamorphosis, developing into a flourishing tourist destination which in turn has breathed new life into the many splendid Art Deco structures that give the area its character and charm. Many of the structures were designed by some of the finest Deco architects, including Albert Anis, L. Murray Dixon, Roy F. France, Henry Hohauser, and Anton Skislewic. These five were responsible for at least 70 of the major structures in the district.
In 1979, thanks to the tremendous efforts of the Miami Design Preservation League, the Art Deco district was designated a historic district by the National Register of Historic Places. The most evident area of rehabilitation is Ocean Drive, which consists of trendy hotels (like The Leslie and The Cavalier), and outdoor cafes and restaurants. Collins Avenue is also a hotbed of restoration, with hotels like The Tudor and The Kent getting a total facelift.
I suggest to anyone interested in going to South Beach that they take the walking tour offered by the Preservation League every Saturday morning.
Until next issue.
