Mar242012

Grove at the Grand Bay: Raise the Roof

Many years ago I attended one of the best parties ever: the opening of the Grand Bay Hotel in Coconut Grove.  Woody Weiser and Don Lefton threw the party of all parties.  My husband and I got home at 4am after dancing the night away.

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending the launch party of what will become one of the most talked about luxury condominium projects in Miami:  Grove at Grand Bay.  Yes, the old Grand Bay Hotel is coming down but what is going to be built in its place is absolutely fabulous.

The Developer, Terra Group, said they wanted to save the old building but the low ceilings (remember the Grand Bay Hotel was built in the 1980’s when there were different sensibilities about design asthetic) were not going to provide them with a project that they thought would be worthy of its incredible location.

Tremendous thought has gone into the design and landscaping to create a world class finished project. BIG Architects has designed the residences and amenity spaces, and Raymond Jungles has designed the property’s landscaping.  The expertise of the architectural firm of NBWW will ensure faithful implementation of these designs.

According to the developers, “If there were one place you could live the rest of your life, what would it feel like? Where would it be? Life in balance is the journey and the destination.”

This luxury real estate project in Coconut Grove is going to be a phenomenal boost to our neck of the woods. I would love to share my enthusiasm with you so please contact me if you would like to hear more about it.

If you are considering buying or selling in Coconut Grove or Coral Gables, please feel free to contact me and benefit from the Strength of My Experience.

305.710.1010 | csmith@veryspecialhomes.com | facebook.com/CaroleSmithRealtor

Affiliated with EWM REALTY International | Christies International of Coral Gables

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Feb142012

Favorite Spaces Series: Gardens

Seeing as though today is Valentine’s Day and flowers are synonymous with February 14th, I thought it appropriate to feature gardens as part of my Favorite Spaces series.  Landscape architects are some of the unsung heroes in Coral Gables’ and Coconut Grove’s tropical paradise.  They can start from nothing and create an environment that will take your breath away.  Landscaping IS pricey but you get so much bang for the buck that I think the dollars are well spent.  If you get to see some of the local landscaping of Robert Parsley, Dave Lewis, Raymond Jungles, John Farrar, Susan Hall, or Deena Bell (just to name a few), you will be transported.   That’s how I feel when I look at my favorite garden spaces in my Coral Gables and Coconut Grove listings over the years.

Meandering path in Coconut Grove Home

Have a yen for Zen?  Then this was the garden.  The combination of the tropical foliage, the sound of water trickling in the background, and the outdoor wooden chimes moving in the breeze transported you to a quiet, calming place.

Countless shades of green in Snapper Creek Lakes' garden

The fabulous landscaping of Raymond Jungles contributed to this tropical natural hammock with its coral rock floor and created a place where children could cavort or a chilled glass of chardonnay could be enjoyed on a balmy evening.  “Moon lighting” provided a gorgeous backdrop for evening entertainment.

European vistas in Coral Gables, Fl

Is this garden really in Coral Gables or is it the Cotswolds?  The meandering pathways provide a charming gateway to the front door.  Although on a busy street, it felt as though the home was located off a country road.  The red pentas created an oasis for butterflies.

Nature's Majesty in Snapper Creek Lakes

This are over 50 oak trees on this Snapper Creek Lakes property!  Although the home itself is quite beautiful, it is a statement as to why we cannot compete with Mother Nature.

Coral Gables' garden

Simplicity in Coral Gables

This manicured garden was laid out with a neat, symmetrical, orderly design.   It’s structured design felt comfortable and the oak trees allowed the dappled sunlight to break through in a most delightful way.

I hope you enjoyed a tour of my favorite gardens this Valentine’s Day. View my favorite kitchens, pools and living rooms if you haven’t seen them yet.

If you’d like me to find you the perfect home in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove or nearby communities with a picture perfect  garden, feel free to contact me and benefit from my Strength of Experience.

305.710.1010 | csmith@veryspecialhomes.com | facebook.com/CaroleSmithMiami
Affiliated with EWM REALTY International | Christies International of Coral Gables.

 

If you are considering buying or selling in Coconut Grove or Coral Gables, please feel free to contact me and benefit from the Strength of My Experience.

305.710.1010 | csmith@veryspecialhomes.com | facebook.com/CaroleSmithRealtor

Affiliated with EWM REALTY International | Christies International of Coral Gables

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