David Grutman swaps disco balls for tropical modernism in Miami Beach

The shift from nightlife to sanctuary

While David Grutman rules the neon-lit world of Miami hospitality, his personal residence on the bay serves as a necessary antithesis to the high-energy environments he curates professionally. Rather than leaning into the "disco ball" aesthetic many expect, the home functions as a grounding sanctuary designed for family decompression. The architecture, led by Caesar Molina, ensures that every room maintains a visual connection to the water, prioritizing serenity over spectacle.

Tropical landscapes and Brazilian roots

Isabela Grutman infused the property with the lush, untamed spirit of her native Brazil. The couple enlisted Raymond Jungles to create a "tropical island" feel, complete with personal touches like a productive banana grove and a koi pond at the front entrance. The integration of art and nature is seamless; the Tree of Life sculpture by Prune Nourry anchors the garden, while a wildflower meadow sits unexpectedly atop the gazebo, replacing traditional turf with biodiversity.

Curating the show kitchen and living spaces

The interior design balances high-end curation with quirky, personal obsessions. In the kitchen, a sculpted travertine island and a custom indoor grill reflect David's passion for the Benihana dining experience, elevated through luxury materials. The "show kitchen" acts as a stage for entertaining, featuring Haas Brothers salt and pepper shakers and a Stuart Haygarth chandelier crafted from vintage espresso cups and dessert bowls. This play between grand scale and miniature "knick-knacks" defines the home's personality.

Master suite and private retreats

The primary bedroom features a suede-leather bed inspired by a Lenny Kravitz shoot—a piece the musician-turned-designer personally helped them source. For functionality, a motorized "James Bond" railing brings the TV to the bed, eliminating the need for multiple screens. The primary bathroom serves as a textural masterpiece, clad in a rare, "saddle green" onyx inspired by a Celine retail store, further cementing the home's status as a collection of curated experiences.