South Florida’s award-winning architectural and branding firm, ArquitectonicaGEO, has been appointed to spearhead a multi-million dollar renovation project for the grounds of Continuum on South Beach, starting in May and anticipated to last between 18 and 24 months. This is the first renovation undertaken by Continuum since it was built 19 years ago. ArquitectonicaGEO will redesign the exterior of the property, from the South of Fifth public roadway leading to the entrance of the property, through to the Upper Rotunda situated between the two towers. The design incorporates the latest in local Florida plant life, trees, landscaping and water fixtures to further embellish the pedestrian neighborhood in and around the South Pointe corner.
“We are very excited to open the next chapter in our progressive journey to establish a new and improved identity,” says Rishi Idnani, Managing Director of Continuum On South Beach. “For almost two decades Continuum On South Beach has become established as the crown jewel in South of Fifth. The brand has grown to become recognized on an international scale, well beyond Miami Beach. We therefore thought it necessary to reflect this growth and reputation in our logo and corporate identity. We are also pleased to be working with one of today’s leading brand architects, ArquitectonicaGEO, for the outdoor renovation and transformation of our grounds that will ultimately mark a new beginning for the entire aesthetic of the Continuum and its surrounding neighborhood.”
ArquitectonicaGEO designed the exterior renovation around the theme of “Infinite Wellbeing” in-line with the resort-style philosophy of the property. The brief was to transform and embellish the outdoor space at the Continuum so residents and visitors utilize it to its maximum potential over time. Tree species currently being selected for the project include the Autograph Tree, Pigeon Plum, Green Buttonwood and Gumbo Limbo. The existing water fountain fixture in the Lower Rotunda will be replaced with a “Specimen Tree” to establish a more interesting and statuesque aesthetic during the arrival experience. The large water fountain within the Upper Rotunda will be replaced with a smaller, more tranquil water fixture, together with green foliage and plants that will encourage pedestrians to sit around. Multiple pathways will also be formed through the center of the rotunda, creating a walkway that does not interfere with arriving vehicles or valet.
“Our aim is to entice homeowners and their guests to be outside as much as possible,” says Michelle Cintron, Vice President of ArquitectonicaGEO. “If we increase the lushness for the pedestrian and bring them closer to nature, they are more likely to use their grounds and even arrive by foot instead of by car. This can be achieved by introducing some tropical plants and trees that are native to Florida and more recognizable to everyone. The end goal of this transformation is also functionality, performance and to establish long-term maintenance of the property as a whole. Part of the project will naturally result in beautifying the surrounding neighborhood to make it more pedestrian friendly,” adds Cintron. “This will potentially activate the nearby retail area to a larger extent.”
Other changes at Continuum include a name change as the building, formerly known over the last 19 years as “Continuum on South Beach,” has decided to change the corporate identity of the luxury property to now be simply known as “Continuum.” Fully established and recognized across the country by global homeowners, Continuum is re-positioning itself as an international property, owned by international residents.
“For more than 18 years, the Continuum has enjoyed widespread recognition as one of the nation’s market leaders in elite luxury living,” says Keith Marks, Board President and Chairman for the Continuum On South Beach Master Association. “To strengthen our position as pioneering among residents looking for the preeminent lifestyle offered, we thought it necessary to open a new chapter for the identity and aura of the property, that will ultimately enhance our unique appeal in contemporary design and serenity.”
