SOUTH BEACH LIFEGUARD Stations

MIami Beach, FL

In 1995, our office designed five lifeguard towers to replace those destroyed by Hurricane Andrew. These towers quickly became iconic symbols, reflecting the cultural and urban revitalization of South Beach during the 1990s.

Two decades later, in collaboration with the City of Miami Beach, we revisited our original designs and developed six new prototypes to replace the 36 lifeguard towers spanning from South Pointe Park to 86th Street along Miami Beach.

Much like the Moai statues of Easter Island, these towers serve as powerful expressions of identity and culture. Their abstract rooflines, contours, vibrant colors, and materials embody the optimistic futurism of Art Deco, the welcoming simplicity of Cracker Style, and the vivid energy of South Florida’s tropical environment. Beyond their visual appeal, the towers activate public spaces, transforming the beach itself into a dynamic environment. Unlike military watchtowers, these structures host lifeguards dedicated to safety and service, with the potential to save lives in critical moments.

The new designs incorporate meticulous attention to environmental sustainability and programmatic functionality, blending form and purpose seamlessly.

Recognized for their impact, the project received the 2017 Florida American Institute of Architects Merit Award for Built Work.

The project received an AIA Miami Honor Award for Excellence in Design in 1997.