A New Landmark in Wynwood
Dutch architecture firm MVRDV unveiled plans for Woma, a new mixed-use building located in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami. The project, developed by Uribe Schwarzkopf, includes 163 residential units within a district known for its industrial history and current status as a hub for murals and entertainment. The design relies on a facade system that breaks the mass of the building into distinct, color-blocked sections.
The exterior appearance of Woma is marked by a mix of red, blue, yellow, and green elements. According to the design team, these color choices reference the local fashion industry. In addition to the paint, panels of scalloped metallic mesh adorn parts of the facade. MVRDV describes the overall visual approach as textile-inspired, aiming to create a connection to the craftsmanship found in the surrounding neighborhood.
Human Scale and Neighborhood Integration
MVRDV founding partner Jacob van Rijs emphasizes that the building serves as more than a residential block. It is designed to be neighborhood-oriented, both in appearance and in its internal function. Van Rijs stated, "Woma is neighborhood-oriented not just visually but also functionally. It prioritises human scale and pedestrian connectivity, while integrating abundant greenery, neighborhood retail, amenities, and a diverse residential mix – becoming a place where people can meet, interact, and feel part of the community of Wynwood Norte."
To achieve this human scale, the studio fragmented the facade using varying widths and patterns of spandrels and mullions. The structural form consists of stacked blocks, characterized by various setbacks and cantilevers. These architectural choices provide the building with a jagged exterior profile, intended to break up the monolith of a large urban development. A central plaza, accessible via a wide staircase, allows for public movement through the structure, while arched entrances mark the transition at street level.
The Fashion Connection and Broader Industry Impact
The site owner, Miami-based fashion designer Rosita Hurtado, will use a portion of the building as her headquarters. Her presence further cements the fashion theme of the architecture. The entrance to her studio will feature a facade of golden, scale-like elements, which the designers derived from her personal work. Beyond the aesthetic choices, the building includes modern amenities such as green roofs, a pool on the roof, and a pickleball court.
Joseph Schwarzkopf, CEO of Uribe Schwarzkopf, described the project as a mosaic that mirrors the identity of the Wynwood district. He noted that cities are made of relationships rather than just concrete and glass. MVRDV has employed similar strategies in other American cities, such as the Radio Tower and Hotel in Harlem, which also utilized stacked, colorful boxes. These projects reflect a growing architectural trend of responding to the eclectic, patchwork nature of urban environments. As construction continues, the industry will watch to see if this model of neighborhood-integrated design becomes a standard for developers looking to balance high-density residential needs with local community character.