Al Capone a/k/a Scarface was an American gangster and businessman who attained notoriety during the Prohibition era. His tumultuous seven-year reign as a crime boss ended when he was just 33. The notorious Chicago criminal spent a lot of time in South Florida where his name is still associated with legend and lore.
Capone’s Palm Island Miami Beach home is still a point of interest for tourists. Whether or not this deco-style home in Hollywood, Florida was Capone’s riverside hideout remains a mystery.
“I didn’t know about the Capone legend until we were almost finished,” says Interior Designer Perla Lichi. “All I knew was that it was a very interesting home and a joy to design,” Due to structural constraints, the ceilings of this 6,500-square foot home had to remain low. “We began by creating an all-white background: White walls. Reflective white ceilings embedded with LED strips in random geometric patterns. White porcelain tile floors. In addition to providing a perfect white canvas on which to display clients’ artwork, this triple white combination creates the illusion of higher ceilings.”
A silver-leafed grill defines the entryway. The home’s signature statement is a wall-to-wall back-lit feature wall in the dining room. The mural’s colorful onyx pattern brings in the colors of the pool, setting the soothing palette that flows throughout the home. The geometric patterns of the ceiling lighting visually connect the living room, dining room, and family room.
The ultra-modern kitchen combines a white quartz countertop, high-gloss walnut panels and a glass mosaic backsplash for a thoroughly modern look. The glass mosaic tile is repeated under the counter creating visual continuity and interest. White leather stools make it easy for family and guests to join the conversation.
A row of white sliding glass doors along the back of the house opens to the indoor pool. Beyond is the Intracoastal Waterway. One can just imagine Capone’s speed boat pulling up to unload a shipment of bootleg whiskey!
Perla Lichi is a Florida licensed interior designer with offices in Pompano Beach, Florida. To set up an appointment, call 954.726.0899 or fill out a “Jump Start” form at https://www.perlalichi.com.
