Miami Beach Home

As a child, I had a book called A Caribbean Christmas about celebrating in tropical climes. I was skeptical about stringing up seashells and caroling on the beach then, but I’ve gradually warmed up to the idea. And since seeing this contemporary waterfront spread in Miami Beach, I’m downright keen on a warm-weather Christmas. Here’s why.

The back of the house is open to both the heated pool and 275 feet of waterfront. Sure, this shot gets some added drama from the sunset, but the house — and its huge, warm-breeze-welcoming windows — is stunning enough on its own. If that much glass seems unwise in hurricane-prone Florida, rest assured that it’s impact-rated.

An interior courtyard makes every room breezy. The lush vertical plantings and beanbag-like chairs create an intimate space for chatting or reading, while similarly rock-lined Zen gardens elsewhere on the property make the perfect place to zone out.

While this lounge area and games room is impressive (particularly the warm, trendy white oak floors), I’m more intrigued by the glassed-in gym. I’m willing to bet that, scientifically, exercising in a room with that kind of view is much more beneficial than sweating it out in my windowless gym.

Thanks to the courtyard and glass-walled construction, even the bathtub and shower look out over Biscayne Bay. With 11 full bathrooms (that’s more than one for each of the nine bedrooms), there’s plenty of soaking space to go around.

And here’s the water view from the expansive terrace. There is, of course, a gourmet kitchen indoors, but this covered outdoor living area is a great spot for fixing a snack or drink before returning to the couch or pool even more relaxing.

How about it? Are you ready to head south for the season?

For a different twist on Miami Beach cool, check out Chloe Berge’s post on South Beach style.

Photo credits:
1-5. ONE Sotheby’s International Realty