Like a true aristocrat the Icon building stands both quirky and imperious, offering superior waterfront residences and sweeping views over the Bay. Having a prestigious South of Fifth address does nothing to reduce its appeal.
Its edgy incongruity begins outside with the asymmetric architecture and modern sculpture, set against traditional, expensively paved stones leading to the elegant porte cochere. Philippe Starck has done justice to his reputation as a stand-out interior designer by giving the Icon building a grand lobby that takes your breath away. A crystal chandelier of palatial proportions is swathed in exquisite white drapes, conferring a combination of 1940s film star glamour with a flavor of South Beach panache.
The Icon is distinct from surrounding luxury condos in that the units are an eclectic mix of nine floor plan designs and four Philippe Starck palettes, the permutations of which add infinite individuality and flair to the residences. The designers describe the four palettes thus:
Nature – Natural wood and stone
Classic – Dark woods and French limestone… a traditional look
Culture – For the eccentric art collector feel
Minimal – Sleek lines, neutral tones and a Zen aura
The artistry of the design team extends to the beautifully landscaped main pool deck overlooking Biscayne Bay. The heated infinity edge pool and several hot tubs and Jacuzzi are served by a trendy pool bar and grill providing snacks and light lunches. For the foodies, a gourmet Residents Café, overlooking the bay is run by Robert Pascal, the French chef who also runs the famous La Piaggia Beach Club in the grounds of Murano at Portofino. For residents with a more workmanlike approach to swimming there is a heated lap pool and whirlpool on the third floor, overlooking the waterfront.
The two storey fitness center is laid out with the most up to date equipment alongside a sauna and steam room. The spacious Health Spa offers the latest health, beauty treatments and massages, using only the most luxurious products. The entertainment area also includes a billiard room. A conference room is available for business purposes and the Icon is wired throughout for high speed cable and internet services.
All the residences are bathed in natural light flooding in through magnificent floor to ceiling windows and the high, 9ft. ceilings add to the feeling of space. Spacious, walk-in wardrobes add a touch of luxury. Oversized, glass fronted balconies afford sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and the famous Miami skyline. Fisher Island lies to the South, stunning ocean views can be seen to the East and residents are priveged to be able to watch the magnificent cruise liners as they leave the Port of Miami on their way out to sea.
All the designer bathrooms enjoy Philippe Starck fixtures, spanning both contemporary and traditional styles. Quality and design are of the essence and top of the range whirlpool baths are installed in every Master Bathroom. Showers are enclosed by seamless glass and rest on marble floors; imported granite graces the vanity tops and double porcelain sinks sit below designer mirrors reflecting the elegance of each bathroom.
Miele appliances with high end features and integrated Sub-Zero refrigerators and freezers are fitted to all Icon kitchens, providing both functionality and design. Countertops are fashioned from imported granite, and sound-insulated dishwashers and Italian custom cabinetry add the finishing touches to these beautifully crafted kitchens.
There is covered, secure garaging for resident’s cars and a valet service operates 24 hours a day. Full security and concierge services are provided round the clock.
For residents of the luxurious Murano Icon, the laid back South Beach lifestyle starts right here. Water sports are on the doorstep and the beach is but a boardwalk away. Life is only just beginning for residents of the Icon.