Meet Bernard Zyscovich and Suria Yaffar, a dynamic team who, as partners in both life and work, have seamlessly blended creativity, innovation, and generosity.

Bernard is founder and CEO of the renowned 46-year-old Miami-based architectural firm bearing his name. The firm now comprises more than 130+ design professionals working worldwide and probing the parameters of design innovation. Suria, who joined the firm in 1997, is Partner and Director of Design. Together, they are devoted to creating dynamic environments and improving urban neighborhoods. Using design solutions, they work to cultivate the economic vitality and cultural landscape of the communities they serve. They have worked with both public agencies and private developers to redevelop and revitalize a broad range of communities in Miami and beyond.

Bernard, also a cycling enthusiast, has spent several years working on the visionary plan Plan Z Miami, a project to turn Rickenbacker Causeway into a “scenic road through a park.”

Marked with landscaped medians filled with shade trees and native species, the road would seamlessly separate vehicle lanes from bike and pedestrian paths.

Since 2018, Bernard and Suria have generously contributed to Bakehouse with annual financial contributions and in providing in-kind architectural and design services to help Bakehouse with the earlier stages of its economic, site, and massing studies, as we explored the addition of affordable housing to our site.

Bakehouse thanks and salutes Bernard and Suria for their contributions to our community and for their active participation in envisioning and shaping the future of Miami.

Why is it important to support artists and the organizations that serve them?

In a world that is arguably driven by returns and interest rates, it is the artist community that reveals and underscores the things in life that are beyond measurement. Organizations that support artists inherently support the possibilities that come with those immeasurable aspects of life.

What inspires you about Bakehouse?

I’m inspired by the sense of community, passion, and exploration illustrated by the artwork.

Why should someone donate to Bakehouse?

Donating to Bakehouse is equivalent to supporting creative energy in its raw state.

What is your wish for Bakehouse as it embarks on its next generation for 21st-century art-making?

I wish for Bakehouse to grow beyond our very expectations, and eventually be recognized as a model for other artist-driven communities.

Where would you like to see Bakehouse in three years?

In three years, I would like to come to Bakehouse to see construction underway for artist’s housing and improved facilities, and find that it has retained the beautiful and exciting character it is known for today.