Summer at the Esme: Johann Wolff
Cultural Icons: The Esme
Certain establishments possess an otherworldly ability of becoming synonymous with a city's identity. From restaurants to theaters to hotels. Attributed to a certain mystic that can be felt right down to the bones of these establishments. Rooted around celebrity scandals and alluring tales that have transcended into pop culture. From Motley Crue riding their motorcycles through the hallways of Chateau Marmont to the countless high-profile long-term residents of The Plaza. These iconic establishments have engrained their names in the psyche of the modern world.
Miami has its fair share of landmarks and lore. In the world of indulgent accommodations, the city is best known for its Fontainebleau and Delano, two infamous establishments of decadence and leisure. Just like trends, the heyday of cultural icons come and go. Newcomers make their way onto the scene, more often than not providing a tasteful glimpse into the past. Even more so than the original icons themselves. The Esme in South Beach has done just so through its continuously surprising grounds. Offering an impeccably detailed homage to Espanola Way and its Spanish architecture. A love letter to South Florida.
From its subtle use of pastel colors to a pleasant use of tactile materials such as wicker and reed, the Esme paints a romantic picture of a nearly forgotten Miami through its exuding South Florida charm. Modern architecture has inundated the city over the past few decades, making it even more rewarding to see a tasteful rendition come to life. The checkered pool deck is the same shade of green as the awnings on the hotel's exterior. Subtle details like this are hidden all around the grounds of the Esme. Which made it a no-brainer when selecting the Esme for a shoot.
The Johann Wolff team scoured Miami looking for the perfect hotel, which was not just in line visually but yet in essence with the brand. The Esme served as the ideal backdrop to highlight the release of the Carousel frame, which is an homage to the past just as the hotel is. Merging influences from the heyday of Formula One racing with the mystic of a romanticized Miami. Johann Wolff is determined to act as a bridge between the past and present, paying respect to origin stories through tasteful refinement.