completed GLASS residential tower by rene gonzalez rises above miami beach

architect rene gonzalez and terra group‘s anticipated GLASS residential tower has recently been completed. based by miami beach, the luxury high rise structure is comprised of ten full-floor residences. situated just steps away from the ocean, the all-glass tower reflects the natural qualities inherent to its east coast context.

the 18-storey tower is located at 120 ocean drive in miami beach’s south of fifth neighborhood
all images by michael stavaridis

‘GLASS embodies terra’s approach to responsible development that strengthens neighborhoods through innovative design and planning,’ comments developer david martin, president of terra. ‘we could have built up to 45 units on this site, but downscaled to only ten units. our belief that ‘less is more’ in real estate, coupled with the designs of rene gonzalez and raymond jungles, has delivered a stronger finished product and enhanced value for our residents and neighbors.’

the high-rise features ten full-floor residences and is just steps away from the ocean

the architecture of the tower reflects the qualities of the sky. open floor plans with 360–degree views and expansive terraces with sliding doors blur the boundaries between in and out. internally, the ceilings of the ten exclusive units echo this natural element with grayscale tones, darker at the lower floors and lighter towards the penthouse. mirrored walls at every entry frame an expansive view of the ocean – indicating the shift between night and day – each foyer contains a custom ceiling combining a translucent latex surface and a programmable lighting system. the density of lights is carefully choreographed at each level, evoking the star-lit canopy of both urban and rural skies.

‘my goal is to shift perceptions of space and design, and evoke powerful emotions of well-being through my work,’ comments gonzalez. ‘architecture offers us the opportunity to engage in conversation with our world, merging culture with nature and people with their environment.’

read our previous article on the GLASS tower here.

the structure dematerializes as it rises, becoming part of the surrounding environment

the design is a response to its setting in miami beach; intended to allow one to experience the surrounding landscape

open floor plans with 360–degree views and expansive terraces with sliding doors