Love reading Morris Lapidus’ (1902-2011) autobiography, which the American architect, known as the “architect of the American dream,” published in 1996. Entitled “Too Much is never Enough,” summarizing his aesthetic philosophy, the controversial Lapidus provides a glimpse into the world of mid-century tourism architecture. For many years he was disregarded by those writing the history of modern architecture as a creator of tacky, trendy buildings, but in recent years, historians have finally come to consider him as a pivotal figure, who placed his stamp on the modern American resort hotel. During the postwar years, Lapidus had become the most successful architect of Miami hotels, shaping the essence of Miami Beach as a resort city. Through original design which embraced luxury and glamour, he created a unique experience helping visitors to transform from the ordinary to the extraordinary. And, to complete this touristic experience, he designed Temple Menorah for the Jewish visitors flooding Miami Beach (below).
Eden Roc Hotel, Miami Beach, Florida, 1955, 1956.
Fontainebleau Hotel, Miami Beach, Florida, 1954
The Americana Hotel, Bal Harbour, 1956
Temple Menorah, 1962