Little Haiti and Little River are long-established communities of rich Caribbean culture in inland Miami, now the most coveted territory for luxury development due to climate change. This phenomenon places at risk the colors, flavors and culture of the people who built the community decades ago from nothing. During the 1980s there was a great influx of Haitians, in which part of inland Miami begins to fill with life and color represented through Haitian architectural typologies, like the Gingerbread style.
For the design of Little Lakay, the Gingerbread style and culture of Little Haiti were the main source of inspiration. The project is composed of a floating path that connects the community to Legion Park and Picnic islands. Throughout the weaving path, a series of nodes are implemented to act as social and cultural spaces for the community. These spaces include the entry portal, agricultural center, leisure parks, civic center, and a watch tower that frames the most prominent views of the contrast between Miami's high-rise development and the Caribbean-influenced community.
In collaboration with Isabella Hillman.
