Miami's Design District knows a few things about interiors, art and, of course, design. This past Thursday the area was in prime "show pony" mode when Design District Magazine (part of a national chain of magazines including SOHODESIGN Magazine, Avenues of Art & Design West Hollywood Magazine and ART New Orleans Magazine published by The Aston Group) in conjunction with the MDD Marketing Council (a marketing council for Miami Design District merchants) hosted the 8th Eye on The District event at Midblock @ Midtown Miami.

The neighborhood event featured four prominent businesses: two showrooms (Oggetti and Neoteric Home), an art gallery (Miami Art Group Gallery) and an architectural and design services firm (Archiforma Group). The goal was to tell the story of how design and art, coupled with an expert decorator, can transform and individualize apartment dwellings; even within an urban multi-unit high-rise.

To fulfill this mission, Wynwood Art District-based Archiforma Group chose furnishings, accessories and art pieces that were in direct contrast to the loft/minimalistic setting of suite 515 at Midblock @ Midtown. Seeking a woodsy and welcoming vibe inside and out, items from Neoteric Home, Oggetti and Miami Art Gallery Group were carefully selected and strategically placed. "We began with a very clear vision, and were able to give this modern interior, a new edge," said Antony Chandler, President of Archiforma Group.



The distinct décor included a pallet of woods and leathers to warm up an otherwise cold environment. Two natural skin tan leather and chrome chairs manufactured by Oggetti Home created the center piece of the interior space. Wax coated photography provided by MAG Gallery brought life and color to the interior space, and Neoteric's vibrant cushions set the patio ablaze with bright, comfortable and fantastic all weather pieces.

The vast 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom suite boasts a large outdoor terrace with expansive views of Downtown Miami, Biscayne Bay and the Design District - the perfect venue for an engaging and cultural evening. Over 100 style-minded guests came through to see, take mental notes, mix and mingle, while nibbling on tasty Ethiopian food courtesy of Sheba Restaurant. Party people included design sophisticates, neighborhood folks, surrounding business owners and members of the media.

"The turn-out was fantastic. We hosted Eye on The District because we wanted people to experience Midblock, and see first-hand what this unique enclave of homes has to offer," said Paola Petry, Community Manager for Midblock @ Midtown.

The event's generous sponsors included: Hennessey, Sheba, Urban Icons, MDD Marketing Council and Design District Magazine. In its eighth edition, Eye on The District continues to evolve becoming an authentic, aesthetic and memorable experience. If you missed Thursday's event, do not fret. Check out www.designdistrictmag.com or pick up a Design District Magazine next time you are in the neighborhood and you'll find a slew of happenings that will tickle your design fancy.