Residential SERIES  •  Project FEATURE

Modernism in the sky - The Elysee by DLAB Interiors

The Elysee is an audacious architectural endeavor that challenges the norms of Miami’s luxury landscape.

Conceived as both a home and a curated gallery space, it masterfully integrates the raw essence of brutalism with refined craftsmanship. Each material, from blackened steel to sculpted concrete, was selected to create a dialogue between strength and elegance, allowing light and shadow to sculpt the space in dynamic ways. This residence is not just a home—it is an immersive experience, a bold artistic statement in the sky. The design vision for The Elysee was clear from the outset: to redefine luxury through architectural authenticity and artistic expression. The client, a passionate collector of contemporary art, sought a residence that would not only house their collection but also serve as an extension of it. This required a departure from Miami’s traditional design language, favoring instead a philosophy that celebrates material honesty, minimalist detailing, and bold structural elements.

"The Elysee redefines luxury through bold architecture, material authenticity, and seamless art integration."

The concept of ‘Elevated Brutalism’ guided every design decision, merging the raw beauty of brutalist architecture with the precision of contemporary luxury. Poured concrete, blackened steel, and artisanal glass were layered to create a sophisticated yet industrial aesthetic. Rather than relying on ornamentation, the design embraces sculptural forms, allowing the interplay of textures and shadows to define the space. This approach results in an environment that feels both powerful and refined—a balance rarely achieved within brutalist design. A central challenge in The Elysee was designing a home that functioned both as a personal residence and an art gallery. To achieve this, DLAB Interiors approached each space as a three-dimensional canvas, where walls, lighting, and structural forms became integral to the art display. Suspended concrete panels act as sculptural dividers, while bespoke lighting solutions highlight artworks with precision. The seamless integration of architecture and art results in a space where neither element competes for attention—both exist in perfect harmony.

Every material in The Elysee was meticulously selected to support the narrative of brutalist luxury. Architectural concrete, finished with varying textures, brings depth and tactility, while blackened steel introduces a striking contrast against the softer elements. Natural stone with dramatic veining, handcrafted metal accents, and innovative resin applications add layers of refinement, ensuring the space remains warm and inviting despite its industrial undertones. The material selection is not just aesthetic—it enhances the home’s acoustics, longevity, and overall livability. Lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping The Elysee’s atmosphere. Custom LED installations and recessed lighting were strategically integrated to cast sculptural shadows across the space, transforming concrete walls into dynamic canvases. During the day, floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to animate the interiors, emphasizing the contrast between the home’s structural elements. At night, an intricate play of indirect and accent lighting enhances the artwork and architectural details, ensuring the space evolves throughout the day.

"The Elysee is a living masterpiece—an ode to modernism, where brutalist strength meets refined elegance in perfect harmony."

Rather than incorporating traditional biophilic elements like wood and greenery, The Elysee interprets nature in a more abstract way. Expansive glazing frames the ever-changing views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, creating a living landscape that shifts with the weather and time of day. Custom concrete formations subtly reference geological patterns, while light-reflective surfaces capture the movement of the sun, evoking the natural rhythms of the environment. This nuanced approach maintains the project's minimalist integrity while forging a deep connection between the built and natural worlds. The floor plan was designed with careful consideration for both aesthetic impact and everyday functionality. Public and private spaces transition effortlessly, with open-concept living areas giving way to more intimate, secluded zones. Key sightlines were preserved to ensure the artwork and city views remain focal points, while discreet service areas maintain the purity of the design. The dual terraces extend the living experience outward, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior and reinforcing the project’s connection to its surroundings.

The Elysee’s success lies not only in its conceptual boldness but also in the technical precision required to bring it to life. Engineering challenges, such as achieving a consistent blackened steel patina and integrating lighting within concrete surfaces, were addressed through rigorous prototyping and collaboration with master craftsmen. Acoustics, often a challenge in hard-surfaced environments, were optimized through strategic material layering, ensuring a balance between aesthetics and comfort. Each design solution was tailored to enhance both the architectural vision and the practical needs of its occupants. Despite its strong brutalist influences, The Elysee remains a deeply livable space. The interplay of raw and refined materials creates warmth, while thoughtful spatial planning ensures comfort and functionality. Unlike many high-concept designs that prioritize form over function, this residence strikes an impeccable balance—offering an immersive design experience without sacrificing the everyday usability of the home.

The response to The Elysee has been overwhelmingly positive, both from the client and design professionals. The client expressed immense satisfaction with how their vision was realized, particularly praising the seamless integration of their art collection and the bold yet welcoming atmosphere of the home. Visitors, too, have been captivated by the interplay of textures, shadows, and light, often noting how the space feels simultaneously striking and inviting. Design experts have commended the project’s fearless approach, recognizing its significance as a departure from conventional Miami luxury. The Elysee stands as a powerful example of what is possible when a client places complete trust in the creative process. The client’s willingness to embrace unconventional materials, bold architectural forms, and avant-garde design solutions enabled DLAB Interiors to push boundaries and redefine what luxury can mean in a modern context. This project reinforces the idea that the most extraordinary results come from a true partnership between designer and client—one where vision, innovation, and trust converge to create something truly remarkable.

The Elysee is more than just an architectural achievement—it is a declaration of design intent. It challenges the status quo, proving that brutalism can be luxurious, that minimalism can be expressive, and that art and architecture can exist as one. This project reaffirms that the future of luxury design lies not in excess, but in authenticity, thoughtful materiality, and the courage to break away from tradition. In a city known for its glossy, high-glamour aesthetics, The Elysee stands as a striking contrast—an unapologetic statement of modernism in the sky.