The Betsy Orb: “The Egg” Connects Miami Beach’s Architectural Past with Contemporary Art
The Betsy Orb, affectionately referred to as “The Egg,” links the Ocean Drive section of The Betsy Hotel, which was originally the Betsy Ross Hotel established in 1942, to the former Carlton Hotel located on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. This spherical structure highlights the architectural differences between the two buildings, adding to their historical importance. The Betsy, celebrated for its fusion of art and culture, utilizes the Orb as a distinctive space for modern artistic endeavors. Crafted by L. Murray Dixon and Henry Hohauser, the Orb symbolizes the intersection of Miami Beach's past and present, acting as a cultural hub that reflects the city's architectural evolution through art, design, and hospitality.
Key facts
- The Betsy Orb is a skybridge nicknamed 'The Egg' connecting two historic buildings of The Betsy Hotel in Miami Beach.
- It connects the hotel's Ocean Drive property with the former Carlton Hotel on Collins Avenue.
- The structure was designed to embrace the architectural differences between the two buildings.
- The Betsy Ross Hotel opened in 1942 at 1440 Ocean Drive and was designed by architect L. Murray Dixon.
- The former Carlton Hotel was designed by architect Henry Hohauser.
- The Orb is part of The Betsy's arts and culture program, which also includes a Poetry Rail.
- The Betsy describes the Orb as an 'orb-shaped skybridge.'
- The structure contributes to the dialogue between Miami Beach's architectural history and contemporary culture.
Entities
Artists
- L. Murray Dixon
- Henry Hohauser
Institutions
- The Betsy Hotel
- Betsy Ross Hotel
- Carlton Hotel
Locations
- Miami Beach
- Florida
- United States
- South Florida
- Ocean Drive
- Collins Avenue
- 1440 Ocean Drive