WRITING & RESEARCH
From collaborating with municipalities and design firms to uncover the environmental and cultural significance of historic Miami neighborhoods, such as Overtown, Brickell, and Coconut Grove, to developing interactive walking tours and crafting historical marker applications, Iris’ projects span the spectrum of historical preservation. Whether co-authoring a book on architectural history, creating exhibits highlighting Miami’s past, or consulting on digital mapping initiatives, Iris blends research with a passion for storytelling. Her work doesn’t just document history—it ensures South Florida’s vibrant stories are shared, celebrated, and preserved for future generations. Below is a small sample of her work.
EL JARDIN: CREATING THE MODERN MEDITERRANEAN VILLA
In a book co-authored with University of Miami architecture professor Joanna Lombard, Iris traces the origins of one of Miami’s oldest estates. El Jardin: Creating the Modern Mediterranean Villa features contemporary photography by Steven Brooke. The book was published in December 2020 and is available for purchase here.
KIEHNEL & ELLIOT COCONUT GROVE SURVEY
Richard Kiehnel, senior partner at Kiehnel & Elliot, is among a distinguished group of architects who helped shaped Miami in the early 20th century. In this report, commissioned by the Dade Heritage Trust, Iris highlights Kiehnel’s first South Florida projects located within the historic community of Coconut Grove.
TEQUESTA
Published in Tequesta: The Journal of HistoryMiami Museum, LXXVIII (2018), “El Jardin: The Story Behind Miami’s Modern Mediterranean Masterpiece” gives readers an overview of the estate’s historical and architectural significance. Iris researched and wrote the article in honor of El Jardin’s centennial celebrations.
ALTON BAY OVERVIEW
In the early 20th century legendary developer Carl Fisher helped created the winter playground of Miami Beach. In this marketing piece for a corporate real estate client, Iris shines a light on the area’s illustrious past and its connections to present-day use.