What is the Miami Style House Called? Get To Know MiMo!

What is the Miami style house called? Check out this article to learn more about the quintessential style that defined fun in the sun for generations!
a funkyt multi colored image of buildings and palm trees illustrating what is the miami style house called

So, what is the Miami style house called? The Miami style house falls under the MiMo (Miami Modern) design style. Characterized by its contemporary, colorful, and playful elements, MiMo homes (and other commercial structures) are perfect for life where fun meets the sun.

Now that said, MiMo isn’t the only style of design here in Miami. From Cracker Houses to Spanish Colonial and Art Deco to Contemporary Modern, Miami's residential architecture tells the story of the city's evolution into embracing a luxurious tropical modern style that's always, in my opinion, been focused on the future. But before we get there, let's see where we came from.

The Birth of Miami Modern (MiMo) - A Funny Name With Serious Style

A collage of four close-up images of the Chrysler Buildings art deco spire, reminiscent of the vibrant Miami style house aesthetic, showcases variations in lighting and color: a warm sunset, a bright daytime, a greyish metal finish, and a blue-tinted dusk.
Image Credit Tony Zamora, Pinterest

Miami Modern architecture emerged in the post-war era between 1945 and the late 1960s. This distinctive style captured the optimism and energy of the period, combining modern architectural principles with playful, tropical elements that reflected Miami's unique character.

Some have said that if you could dip the Chrysler Building in bright pastel colors and swap steel for stucco, you’d understand MiMo perfectly!

MiMo architects incorporated signature elements like geometric patterns, kidney-shaped pools, cantilevers, and decorative features that created visual interest without the heavy ornamentation (maximalist style) of earlier pre-war periods. MiMo often features "cheese hole" walls (perforated concrete blocks that provide shade while allowing tropical breezes to flow), angular roof lines, and bold use of color.

If you’re wondering what is the Miami style house called, then a stroll through the northern parts of Miami Beach would show you what MiMo is all about. It’s a style that is as alive there as ever and showcases the wealth and prestige that goes along with it.

"It’s So Miami": How MiMo Shaped the City's Identity

The phrase "It’s So Miami" perfectly captures how MiMo architecture embodied the city's spirit. You get to see and experience things here that just doesn’t exist anywhere else. That sense of exclusivity, luxury, and excitement is part of our tapestry. 

These buildings weren't just structures - they were expressions of Miami's emerging identity as a modern, sophisticated destination that didn't take itself too seriously. But ask any 'Cane today and they'll tell you that residents (and visitors) here take luxury and playfulness very seriously!

The aerial view captures a luxurious seaside resort at dusk, reminiscent of Miami style with a large, curved modern hotel boasting multiple stories. Illuminated grounds reveal pools, palm trees, and lounge areas, all backdropped by the mesmerizing ocean.
The Fontainebleau Hotel, Miami Beach. Image Credit: The Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau

Famous examples of MiMo architecture include the Fontainebleau Hotel, the Eden Roc, and numerous structures along Biscayne Boulevard. These buildings helped establish Miami's reputation as a glamorous tourist destination and influenced residential architecture throughout the region.

Morris lapidus, in a red shirt stands in front of a sign that reads Eden Roc, with a classic Miami-style house, also known as the MiMo architecture, visible in the background.
Morris Lapidus, Image Credit Docomomo US

And while I’m at it, it’s important to call out the genius behind these two iconic MiMo hotels: Morris Lapidus. He came to this country with a vision. He embraced a playful style that enhanced the luxury experience, and he’s perhaps most well known for saying, “Why be exotic in private?” An I dea I personally love and inspires some of the thinking behind my outdoor entertaining spaces.

Almost a full generation ahead of his time, this sentiment could arguably be the grandfather of the Magic City’s modern slogan, “It’s so Miami!” Which perfectly embodies how playfulness meets a luxury and style that’s the envy of all the world.

Give it a shot. The next time you’re here on vacation, in colorful beach clothes, driving an exotic sportscar painted in Python Green, try saying, “It’s So Miami!” under your breath.

You’ll understand why the city rebranded itself with this slogan. But it will only make sense once you’re here.

Contemporary Evolution: Miami's Modern Luxury Homes

This house exemplifies the tropical modern miami style with future proof features built in

While MiMo arguably laid the groundwork for modern tropical architecture, today's Miami homes have evolved to meet contemporary challenges and lifestyles. Modern luxury homes in Miami now incorporate:

  • Hurricane-resistant construction
  • Flood mitigation features
  • Energy-efficient design
  • Smart home technology
  • Indoor-outdoor living spaces
  • Sustainable materials

These contemporary homes honor Miami's architectural heritage while preparing for future challenges. They maintain the city's tradition of innovative design while incorporating advanced building techniques and materials that can withstand extreme weather events.

Future-Proof Design: The New Miami Style

Today's Miami-style homes represent a fusion of the city's architectural history with forward-thinking design principles. They combine MiMo's emphasis on indoor-outdoor living and regional adaptation with contemporary innovations in sustainability and resilience.

overhangs and terraces in a modern tropical house with elevated living areas and indoor outdoor entertaining and living spaces

Key features of contemporary Miami luxury homes include:

  • Elevated construction to address flooding concerns
  • Impact-resistant windows and doors
  • Natural ventilation systems (who doesn’t love a sea breeze)
  • Solar power integration (or readiness)
  • Flexible floor plans
  • Smart climate control

These elements ensure that modern Miami homes remain functional and beautiful for decades to come, adapting to changing environmental conditions and lifestyle needs.

What is the Miami Style House Called Today?

At MIK Architecture, we embrace the high-end luxuries that modernize and simply our clients’ connection to the city around them. Our contemporary modern homes trend towards tropical modernism - a style that celebrates the warmth and passion inspired by our beautiful surroundings. Connect with us and let us show you what's possible for your dream home in Miami.

As Miami continues to evolve, its architectural styles reflect both its past and its future; one that you can (and should) be an integral part of.

While MiMo buildings remain important landmarks that tell the story of Miami's mid-century growth, contemporary homes demonstrate how the city's architecture continues to innovate and adapt to a connected and changing world.

The Miami-style house has transformed from the playful MiMo designs of the 1950s to today's sophisticated, resilient luxury homes. Yet, both styles share a commitment to embracing Miami's tropical setting while providing comfortable, stylish living spaces adapted to the local climate.

Whether you're admiring a classic MiMo building or exploring a contemporary luxury home, you're experiencing part of Miami's ongoing architectural story - one that continues to define what it means to create homes that are truly "So Miami."

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Matias Daroch

I came to the US as a Chilean Architect and developer wanting to invest in residential projects. Soon, I found myself learning zoning and building codes in-depth, and understanding them better to maximize my return on investment. Not very long after, I began working and studying until I got my architectural license to practice in the US, and founded MIK Architecture to help other developers get more value for their projects.