upstairs studio architecture’s poolside pavilion nestled in miami backyard

A MODERN PAVILION COMPLETED IN HAMMOCK DRIVE BACKYARD 

Upstairs Studio Architecture completes a contemporary poolside pavilion in the backyard of a suburban house southwest of Miami city. Realized in 2022, the Hammock Drive pavilion functions as a seamless addition to an existing home. The two structures are connected by a loggia walkway that flanks the pool while also framing the luscious Floridian vegetation.

all images courtesy of Venjhamin Reyes Photography

UPSTAIRS STUDIO ARCHITECTURE’S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY 

Founded in Florida in 1994, Maricarmen Martinez started Upstairs Studio Architecture through a passion for the art of building, specifically using light and vernacular materials. In the design for the Hammock Drive pavilion, the architecture firm set out to blend ‘comfort, elegance, and simplicity’. Materials that were sympathetic to the existing architecture, site, and climate of southern Florida were used, such as native oolite stone, cypress wood ceilings, and concrete. 

A HARMONIOUS BLEND OF NATURE AND ARCHITECTURE 

Upstairs Studio Architecture decided to embrace the lush tropical vegetation and design a pavilion that connects the inhabitants to the outside while still being sheltered. Two of the facades are completely glazed, with one side displaying views of the tropical plants and the other featuring full-height sliding doors that lead to the backyard and swimming pool. The heavy glass, combined with the continued use of Oolite stone, creates a harmonious relationship between nature and architecture. 

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project info: 

name: Hammock Drive 

architecture: Upstairs Studio, Inc.  

location: Miami, Florida  

photography: Venjhamin Reyes Photography 

construction: Forbes Construction 

structural engineer: THM Engineering