The 4,700-square-foot Palm Island Residence is a striking example of contemporary waterfront architecture. Designed by Reinaldo Borges, AIA, NCARB, in collaboration with homeowner Hassan Jalali and interior designer Mark Diaz, the home draws inspiration from its Biscayne Bay setting through bold geometry, expansive glazing, and carefully curated natural materials. The result is a residence that embraces its surroundings while reflecting exceptional craftsmanship and modern luxury.
Palm Island Residence
Product
Application
Architect
Borges, Borges & Borges Associates
Photographer
Steven Brooke
Modern Waterfront Design Inspired by Biscayne Bay
Hurricane-Rated Glass Walls for Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
To strengthen the connection between the interiors and the waterfront, the design team specified NanaWall SL73 Hurricane Approved Folding Glass Walls in the living room, primary suite, kitchen, and billiards room. Large opening spans allow these spaces to flow effortlessly onto outdoor terraces while framing panoramic bay views.
The SL73 was selected not only for its expansive openings but also for its proven engineering. As the first folding glass wall system with Miami-Dade and AAMA hurricane certification, it provides the performance required for South Florida's demanding coastal conditions without compromising the architectural vision.
"The choice of NanaWall was ideal for the house. The rigorous engineering and flawless construction of the openings perfectly matched the crisp detailing of the project."
Premium Materials Reinforce the Modern Aesthetic
Throughout the residence, warm wood finishes, natural stone, black lacquer cabinetry, and stainless-steel accents soften the home's contemporary design. The wood-look finish available on the NanaWall SL73 integrates seamlessly with these materials, complementing the sophisticated palette while maintaining the clean lines of the architecture.
As Borges explained, using rich woods and stone helps bring warmth and comfort to modern spaces inspired by nautical design.
Expansive Openings Create a Seamless Bayfront Experience
Nearly an entire wall of the main living level opens to Biscayne Bay, while the primary suite features a dramatic opening spanning much of its exterior wall alongside a large picture window. These oversized glass walls dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors, flooding the home with natural light and waterfront views.
By combining hurricane-rated performance with flexible operation and refined aesthetics, the NanaWall systems allow the residence to embrace open-air living while remaining comfortable and secure year-round.
What Our Customers Have to Say
Manhattan Motorcars Hamptons
The project’s main focus was to design a dealership for high-end cars. But, a unique concept evolved to include a restaurant on the second floor with a viewing platform open to the showroom below.
Palm Beach Cabana
With help of the SL73 Aluminum Framed Thermally Broken Hurricane Approved Folding System, this Palm Beach cabana offers homeowners a superb indoor/outdoor entertainment space.
“Using the NanaWall operable glass walls presented an opening to bring in the pool deck and an exterior view without any obstructions. I am very satisfied with the outcome.”
— Paul Louis Haberman, President, HKi Architects, Architect
