Miami Beach Inspires the Revival of Historic Art Deco Architecture

Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach is proud to announce the launch of the Art Deco Painting Incentive Program. This initiative aims to revitalize iconic Art Deco architecture by incentivizing property owners and tenants to refresh properties in the Architectural District with historic pastel colors. The Art Deco Painting Incentive Program will officially launch during Miami Design Preservation League’s annual Art Deco Weekend 2025, taking place January 18–20, 2025 in Miami Beach. The program will complement the city’s reputation as a global leader in architectural preservation and cultural innovation.

“We cherish our Art Deco architecture that defines our city,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “Preservation of this form of architecture is what makes Miami Beach stand apart from the rest, and it is our duty to protect it.”

The Art Deco Painting Incentive Program will provide matching grants, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs, with a maximum city contribution of $20,000 per property. Property owners and tenants, within the Miami Beach Architectural District (generally bounded by 6 Street on the south, 23 Street on the north, between Lenox Avenue and the ocean) are encouraged to apply and join this collaborative effort to preserve the city’s storied past.

“This initiative is a labor of love for our city and history,” said Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, who sponsored the program. “The matching grants will revitalize our cultural legacy and define Miami Beach’s commitment to historic preservation for the next generation.”

Renowned British designer Barbara Hulanicki will partner with the city as a pivotal figure in architectural revitalization. Hulanicki will aide in ensuring authenticity and provide historical expertise. She will consult and assist owners along with tenants in color selections and design, and safeguard adherence to the Leonard Horowitz pastel color palette, which plays a transformative role in the Art Deco resurgence.

“I am pleased to partner with the city to preserve the Leonard Horowitz’ contribution to Art Deco design, as it is vital to the architectural integrity of the buildings and the era they represent,” added Barbara Hulanicki. “This program preserves history and breathes new life into cherished buildings and protects their beauty.”

With an inaugural budget allocation of $88,000, the Art Deco Painting Incentive Program expects to initially support a minimum of four projects. The spirit of the program is to preserve the innovation, optimism, and fascination with bold colors and geometric patterns of the Art Deco era that appeals and invites residents and visitors, increases property values, and supports local businesses It encourages investment in the restoration of other historic properties and nurtures the city’s cultural identity.

Property owners and tenants can now submit applications via mbbiz.gosmart.org.

For more information on the Art Deco Painting Incentive Program, visit mbbiz.com or contact the City of Miami Beach Economic Development Department at mbbiz@miamibeachfl.gov

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About Art Deco Weekend
Art Deco Weekend is a free community festival hosted by the Miami Design Preservation League. It celebrates Miami Beach’s iconic Art Deco architecture through tours, lectures, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. For more information, visit artdecoweekend.org.

About Miami Beach Economic Development Department

The City of Miami Beach’s Economic Development Department is dedicated to establishing a robust economy that stimulates balanced growth by connecting business, community, people and jobs, business assistance and resources, corridor development/ redevelopment, real estate as well as creating a diverse economy for this dynamic and resilient community. www.miamibeachfl.gov