Deco Portals contemporary public art experience designed by participants in Moonlighter FabLab

Deco Portals builds upon that philosophy. Drawing from the geometric forms, repetition, symmetry, curves, and ornamentation of Miami Beach’s Art Deco District, the installation creates a sequence of sculptural portals leading visitors toward and through Lapidus’s existing folly. The portals invite people to walk through, gather, frame views, and experience the space in new ways. By day, they create a visual dialogue with Lincoln Road’s architectural character; by night, integrated lighting transforms them into an illuminated landmark. The result is a project that brings together architecture, public art, advanced manufacturing, technology, and storytelling — honoring Lincoln Road’s history while reinterpreting it for a new generation.

What makes Deco Portals particularly distinctive is how it came to life. Conceived through Maker Cities, Moonlighter FabLab’s National Science Foundation-funded workforce development initiative, the project brought together emerging designers, makers, industry mentors, civic partners, and community stakeholders. Five student teams researched the site, developed proposals, and presented their concepts through a professional design review process before one was selected for fabrication. By taking the project from concept to full-scale installation, participants gained real-world experience in design, engineering, fabrication, and civic collaboration — demonstrating how workforce development, advanced manufacturing, and placemaking can come together to shape the future of Lincoln Road.

Read full press release >