Saladino Design Studios dazzles in Miami’s Overtown, ‘Harlem of the South’

Red Rooster Overtown, a swanky restaurant in Miami, might inspire deja vu. An off-shoot of chef Marcus Samuelsson’s famed Harlem restaurant, its creator, Saladino Design Studios, also wanted to pay homage to the Harlem Renaissance. Red Rooster Overtown fuses the artistic spirit of 1930s Harlem with the rich history of Overtown—Miami’s heartbeat of Black culture and creativity.

In an exclusive interview, DETOUR sat down with Sean and Karla Saladino of Saladino Design Studios to get a glimpse into the inspiration fueling their work, the creative flow behind their projects, and the talented 15-member team that brings it all to life.

From humble beginnings, your company has evolved into a thriving design firm. Could you elaborate more on Saladino Design Studios’ early years and what inspired you to take that risk?

Sean Saladino: Saladino Design Studios first started at our kitchen table. This idea blossomed into what we are now. We began the firm from an owner-operator point of view—my background was in owning restaurants and nightclubs, and Karla worked extensively in the industry as well. This gave us a unique advantage in understanding not only the visual appeal of spaces but also how to make them operationally functional. What sets us apart is how hands-on and involved our team is in the design process. We custom design light fixtures, furniture, and wall finishes, ensuring each space tells a story while remaining practical. Karla, my wife, and co-founder, personally selects all the original artwork and accessories, adding an element of authenticity that brings warmth to each project.

Saladino Design Studios is noted for its unique blend of style and function, especially in the hotel sector. How do you balance elegance and efficiency in your work?

SS: At Saladino Design Studios, we believe elegance should be accessible to all, no matter the location. This approach guided our work on the International Inn, originally designed by renowned architect Melvin Grossman. We faced the unique challenge of preserving its historic integrity while updating it for modern use, all while gaining approval from the historic preservation board. We’re excited to welcome back Miami residents who loved the hotel, along with a new clientele. In all our projects, we balance aesthetics with functionality. Every custom-designed detail, from light fixtures to furniture, serves a practical purpose while enhancing the space’s beauty. Our goal is to create environments that are as functional as they are timeless.

YAYA Coastal Cuisine, which opened this summer, is a stunning example of your work. The food was as good as the aesthetic vibe. What was your vision for the design and how did you create that ambiance?

SS: YAYA was designed to transport guests straight to the shores of the Mediterranean, creating a sanctuary of calm amidst the vibrancy of Miami. Our vision was to craft a space where every detail invites guests to slow down and savor the experience. From the moment you arrive—whether by land or by docking your boat just steps from the restaurant—the serene atmosphere is palpable. We embraced a neutral color palette to let the Mediterranean beauty shine, using a bamboo ceiling to evoke the warmth and dappled light of sun-soaked groves. Statement walls adorned with dimensional murals tell silent stories of ancient Mediterranean landscapes, while niches scattered throughout the space hold treasures reminiscent of artifacts collected from seaside journeys.

Our goal was to craft an ambiance that feels like a hidden gem, a place where every visit feels like an escape to the Mediterranean. The sea itself is an integral part of the experience, from the sound of waves to the salty breeze. It’s this connection to nature and timeless design that creates the calm, relaxing vibe we envisioned for YAYA.

Karla, you choose the original artwork for every project on your own. How do you go about choosing art, and how do you make sure it fits in with the space’s overall story?

Karla Saladino: Selecting artwork is a deeply personal process for me. I travel extensively to find pieces that resonate with the design and narrative of each space. For instance, when curating art for [Miami restaurant] Erba, I sought out items that evoked the warmth and charm of an Italian grandmother’s home, bringing a touch of personal history to the project. Each piece is chosen to complement the space and enhance its story, ensuring that the artwork not only fits the design but also adds layers of meaning and authenticity.

What are the future plans for Saladino Design Studios? Can you tell us about any exciting initiatives that are coming up?

KS: We are currently working on several exciting projects, with two standouts: the International Inn and Versailles Restaurant, both historic landmarks in Miami. Our goal is to breathe new life into these iconic spaces, preserving their rich histories while making them relevant for future generations. The International Inn, designed by Melvin Grossman, presented the challenge of maintaining the integrity of the original design while meeting modern standards. We’re eagerly awaiting its completion and hope that both longtime Miami residents and new visitors will enjoy this special place. Versailles Restaurant, a beloved landmark on Calle Ocho, is another project we’re passionate about. We’re working closely with the owner and his daughters to update the space while keeping its charm and history intact. Versailles is a gathering place for people from all walks of life, and our task is to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy its rich history and an iconic Miami landmark.

Evie Blanco is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience who was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Queens, New York. She is extremely well-versed in hip-hop music and culture and is always aware of any developments within it. Whether it’s the latest in pop culture, a fascinating foreign destination, a truly amazing new restaurant, or breaking news, she loves to write about it all.

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