With the building boom in Miami leading to a shortage of concrete, we developed the concept for Cube using a steel superstructure—a faster and cheaper way to build, also suited to this challenging site in the Miami Design District. The dynamic steel frame creates a framework, so buyers can purchase different modules and connect them together—creating a ”user-generated” architecture.

Rising 22 stories above ground, the mixed-use condominium provides retail spaces in the base. Above, homeowners can design their own domain by connecting multiple cube modules vertically, horizontally, and diagonally; they can insert double-height volumes, garden voids, and cantilevered living environments in the process.

Functional and flexible, the volumetric play of the building creates intriguing arrangements of solid and void, making it truly interactive. Live–work environments engage with the street, producing a dynamic arcade for pedestrian enjoyment. Metallic screens of varying porosity and pattern create a reflective urban mosaic on the garage front. A rooftop pool and activity zone occupies interstitial spaces, producing unique urban “rooms.”

Removing the architect and creating a hyper-efficient superstructure ensures what happens within is determined by the market itself. Individual design expression can be easily achieved as the occupants quite literally bring the architecture to life.