The Moore Miami begins a phased opening with its flagship restaurant

Miami is so rich in heritage property that architectural treasures are still being reintroduced around the city to new audiences. The latest is the Moore, a furniture factory and showroom designed by David P Davis in 1922 now undergoing a spectacular refurbishment by Design District developer Craig Robins.

Back when the Moore served as a venue for Art Basel Miami Beach, Robins commissioned architect Zaha Hadid to design an amorphous 433-square-metre web spanning its four-storey atrium. Called Elastika, the chalky white form appeared to stretch between the Art Deco railings, drawing the eye up to the new roof lights and creating a contemporary identity for the landmark building.

Today, the installation remains in situ, yet the building has reopened with a modern American restaurant called Elastika, led by chef Joe Anthony and run by the hospitality developer WoodHouse. Located directly beneath the sculpture on the ground floor, the restaurant will eventually form one part of a private members’ club, hotel, retail and exhibition space called the Moore Miami. The 8,400-square-metre space will incorporate a neighbouring structure at the intersection of NE 40th Street and NE 2nd Avenue.

Photography: Todd Coleman courtesy of Woodhouse.

‘Our vision for Elastika extends beyond the menu,’ says WoodHouse founder Brady Wood. ‘We’ve transformed the first floor of The Moore into the lobby of the Miami Design District — an inviting destination where people can gather, dine and enjoy the landmark building and Zaha Hadid’s iconic sculpture.’

The restaurant provides a focal point for furniture by Brazilian designer Sossego and a collection of contemporary art curated by Miami-based art advisor Monica Kalpakian. Interiors were designed in collaboration with the design agency ICrave, with an 18-seat bar, velvet banquette seating and a lounge area for coffee or cocktails.

The club and hotel, designed by Studio Collective, will open in autumn 2024.