A new exhibition that invites guests to explore the rich history of architectural design in Palm Beach will debut Monday.
“All Roads Lead to Palm Beach: Tracing the Provenance of Historic Architectural Elements” will be on view through March 7, 2025, at the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach, 311 Peruvian Ave.
The exhibition showcases the rich influences that shaped the island’s elegant estates, Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach Vice President Katie Jacob said in a statement.
“‘All Roads Lead to Palm Beach’ provides an engaging exploration of the rich history and enduring appeal of Palm Beach’s architectural heritage,” she said. “It’s fascinating to trace the origins of some of the area’s most iconic architectural elements, which have not only defined its timeless elegance, but also played a pivotal role in shaping the unique charm and character of Palm Beach.”
The exhibition delves into the early 20th century when Palm Beach was a “burgeoning frontier,” Jacob said.
Architects and developers who were tasked with the challenge of converting swamps and jungles into an elegant winter refuge found inspiration in their travels across Europe, she added.
Renowned architect Addison Mizner led this movement, infusing his designs with features like 300-year-old wood paneling and chandeliers sourced from Spanish castles.
Throughout the exhibition, guests will discover how early architects, such as Marion Sims Wyeth and Maurice Fatio, and designers sourced antiques from Europe and how local artisans replicated Old World techniques at Mizner Industries.
The exhibition also explores the development of Georgia Avenue in West Palm Beach as a scene for artisans who continue to play an important role in preserving these traditions.
Additionally, the exhibit highlights the role of Ohan Berberyan, a prominent antique dealer whose shop became a top destination for architects seeking European artifacts during Palm Beach’s building boom.
The exhibition will be open to the public on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit palmbeachpreservation.org.
Jodie Wagner is a journalist at the Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at jwagner@pbdailynews.com.