Ep 1. Welcome to Miami

As a new show on HGTV, Designing Miami takes viewers on a journey through some of the most glamorous and luxurious designs in Miami, Florida. Season 1 episode 1 is titled "Welcome to Miami" and it introduces viewers to the city's diverse culture and shows how this culture plays a role in the designs throughout the city.

The episode starts with an introduction to the Miami-based architecture and interior design firm, D'Amico Design Associates. Viewers will get to meet the firm's owner, Jeff D'Amico and his team as he welcomes us to their first project of the season. Jeff has got his work cut out for him as the property he is designing has not been updated since it was built in 1972, and is in dire need of modernization.

The designer pulls inspiration from Miami's vibrant culture, its history and with the help of his team, begins to transform the home into an elegant Oceanside retreat that perfectly captures the essence of Miami living.

To do this, Jeff first introduces the viewers to the concept of 'Miami Modern', an architectural style that emerged in Miami during the mid-20th century. He also discusses how the city's diverse culture has influenced the town's design. Through his designs, he showcases how Art Deco and vibrant Latino influences are woven into the very fabric of Miami's design.

By taking us around the city, Jeff and his team provide an intimate look at how Miami's modern design is influenced by the past, present, and future. Viewers will visit some of the city's most iconic sites, including the Versace Mansion, the Perez Museum of Art, and the Wynwood Walls, an urban art district. Each site helps to illustrate the varying influences of Miami's diverse culture on architecture, design, and art.

Throughout Welcome to Miami, viewers will get to see Jeff and his team tackle obstacles that come with any design project. They must work within strict budgets, navigate through city rules and regulations, and handle unexpected construction issues that can arise during the renovation process.

Jeff and his team make a remarkable transformation as they gut the old and create a modern masterpiece with an ocean view. Not only do they transform the interior spaces to create a modern and functional living space, but they also tackle the exterior of the home to add the necessary curb appeal it deserves.

Overall, the episode Welcome to Miami provides an excellent introduction to the show's premise and sets viewers up for future episodes. While Jeff D'Amico and his team transform the home to stunning results, viewers get an intimate look at Miami's unique culture that has influenced the city's design so thoroughly. Through Jeff's expertise and insight, the episode showcases the challenges and complexities that come with designing high-end spaces in a city that is known for its visual appeal. For anyone interested in architecture, design, and Miami's culture, the first episode of Designing Miami is a thrilling and fascinating introduction to the world of Miami design.