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A striking mid-century modern residence designed by Morris Lapidus has just landed on the Miami Beach market with a price tag of $3.295 million. Best known for his grand hotels like the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc, Lapidus left behind a few residential projects — making this home one of his rarest creations and a true architectural collectible.
A Legacy of Miami Modern Style Lives On
Morris Lapidus shaped much of Miami Beach’s architectural identity in the 1950s and 60s. While his flashy hotel designs defined the “Miami Modern” (MiMo) style, his residential work was almost nonexistent. This makes the newly listed circular home at 4595 N. Michigan Avenue an unmatched opportunity.
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The Only of Its Kind
Unlike most homes, this one isn’t just built — it’s sculpted. With curved walls, a circular footprint, and high transom windows, the layout mirrors Lapidus’ signature approach: movement, energy, and theatrical flair. He believed buildings should flow like art — and it shows.
Step inside, and you’ll find 4,052 square feet of living space with minimal alterations. A sunken living room, double-sided fireplace, and flow-through layout allow natural light to dominate the space. Even after decades, the home has preserved its mid-century charm thanks to minimal renovations by previous owners.
A Rare Piece of Miami Beach Architecture
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Only two known residential properties by Lapidus exist, and this one is a standout. Lapidus built this home in 1954 for Irving Pollack, who operated the Nautilus and Shelbourne hotels. It stayed in the same family for over four decades. That alone adds another layer of historical depth.
Location Meets Design
This home isn’t just about the structure. It sits on a spacious 11,200-square-foot lot in Mid-Beach, a premium Miami Beach neighborhood. Nearby amenities include top-rated schools, worship spaces, and boutique shops — making this property just as practical as it is prestigious.
An Architectural Treasure with a Modern Touch
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Though rooted in the past, this home can still match today’s luxury standards. With five bedrooms and five bathrooms, the layout is ideal for families or collectors seeking space and style. Some parts, like the kitchen, were updated in the ’80s — but most of the home remains untouched, offering a blank slate for sensitive modern upgrades.
Indoor-Outdoor Living at Its Best
From an aerial view, the home’s design has been compared to “Pac-Man eating the pool” — a quirky and perfect representation of Lapidus’ playful philosophy. Outdoor space and fluid interior design make this home ideal for hosting or simply enjoying quiet Miami evenings.
This $3.295 million listing is more than just a luxury home — it’s a living piece of architectural history. Designed by one of Miami’s most iconic architects, this rare Morris Lapidus residence blends art, architecture, and lifestyle in a way few properties can. With demand for authentic mid-century homes rising and few original designs available, this circular marvel won’t stay on the market long.
FAQs
What is special about Morris Lapidus’ design style?
Lapidus is known for using curves, bold spaces, and dramatic shapes that create a sense of motion and glamour — often called the “Architecture of Joy.”
How much is the Morris Lapidus-designed house worth today?
The home is currently listed at $3.295 million, reflecting its architectural rarity, prime Miami Beach location, and preserved mid-century modern design.
