In this elevated sanctuary, the boundaries between ocean and home dissolve. Each element is a tribute to the horizon, where luxury is not just seen but felt—crafted with precision, designed to transcend the ordinary.
Nestled high above the vibrant coastline, on the 49th floor of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, LRB Design’s CEO and Lead Designer, Andres Berroa, along with Lacy Berroa, co-owner and designer, have crafted a penthouse that feels as though it is floating on the ocean itself. This luxurious space, where the boundary between the indoors and the endless horizon blurs, is a testament to the power of thoughtful design that is both timeless and deeply connected to its surroundings.
The travertine flooring, with its warm, sandy tones, was meticulously selected to evoke the feeling of walking on a pristine beach, while the varying shades of blue in the carpets, upholstery, and other details mirror the ever-changing colors of the sea. This intentional use of color and texture ensures that the ocean remains a constant, calming influence in the home, no matter where one stands. Construction of The Ritz-Carlton Residences began in 2007, with the full tower being topped off within three to four years. As one of the final units to be completed, this penthouse benefited from a rare opportunity: a blank slate. When LRB Design first stepped into the space, it was little more than concrete walls, offering them the freedom to reimagine the developer’s original floor plan completely.
This freedom allowed the design team to start from scratch, crafting a layout that not only met the client’s needs but exceeded their expectations. Without the constraints of existing structures, LRB Design was able to relocate spaces and redefine the flow of the penthouse, creating a bespoke environment that speaks directly to the client’s desires. Bringing such a vision to life, however, required collaboration on a global scale. LRB Design worked with artisans and contractors not just from South Florida, but from France, Italy, and Poland, to source unique elements that could only be found abroad. This international collaboration, while challenging at times, imbued the project with a richness and authenticity that is evident in every corner of the penthouse.
“Floating above the world, this penthouse embodies the essence of tranquility and sophistication. A place where the ocean’s palette is woven into the fabric of the design, creating a seamless blend of natural beauty and crafted luxury.”
The client, a lover of bold colors and personalized spaces, was deeply involved in the design process. LRB Design expertly balanced these desires with their own vision, introducing possibilities that the client hadn’t initially considered. This collaboration led to a series of individualized bedrooms, each with its own color palette and personality, making every part of the home feel distinct yet harmonious.
The project began in 2019, with much of the initial work being done remotely—a practice that became commonplace with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges of distance, LRB Design maintained a close connection with the client, sending physical samples of materials and finishes to ensure that every decision was informed by a tactile experience. This approach not only overcame the barriers of virtual communication but also ensured that the client could fully engage with the design process.
Now, after years of meticulous planning, collaboration, and construction, the penthouse stands as a triumph of design. For LRB Design, completing this extensive project is a moment of profound satisfaction, knowing that they have not only met but exceeded their client’s expectations. The result is a space where the client can truly feel at home, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean, both inside and out.
In this penthouse at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, LRB Design has created more than just a luxurious living space; they have crafted an experience—a feeling of floating on water, a perfect blend of nature and design that elevates everyday living to something truly extraordinary.