Newly reopened and lushly renovated, W South Beach is ready to welcome 2021 in style.
The Wet pool deck at W South Beach PHOTOS COURTESY OF W SOUTH BEACH
Since it opened to much fanfare in 2009, W South Beach has stood out among Miami’s five-star crowd thanks to a dedication to quality and service that extends from penthouse to lobby and everywhere else in between. Now, the newly reopened hotel has revealed a $30 million renovation that touched just about every corner of the property.
“Our vision when we first opened was to develop a world-class hotel that embraced the dynamic energy of the city,” says developer and co-owner David Edelstein. “Since then, Miami has evolved into a thriving cosmopolitan center. Our renovation reflects that evolution.”
Designed by Urban Robot Associates, the new Away Spa at W South Beach features 9,000 square feet of pure heaven. PHOTOS COURTESY OF W SOUTH BEACH
Edelstein tapped Urban Robot Associates to rethink each of the W’s 408 guest suites and amenities. “The new design is an expression of where Miami is headed and is enriched with refined art and culture,” says Justine Velez, partner at Urban Robot. “We preserved some of the original vibe and edge while introducing a beautiful fresh blend of natural light, warm wood tones and various shades of colors from the sea.” Gone are the dark tones and more serious aesthetic of yesterday. In their stead? Bright colors (from soft corals to shaded teals) and warm wood tones (natural oak) that make the most of natural light and the W’s optimal ocean views. Additional touches include circadian lighting (purported to enhance sleep), sand-gradient blackout shades, under-bed lighting that creates a floating effect and seaside-inspired photography by Jean-Philippe Piter and paintings sourced from Farmboy Fine Arts. In the bathrooms, local artist Juan Manuel Rozas went to work with a custom motif on the powder room walls.
Urban Robot Associates designed the hotel’s newly renovated suites to evoke a beach retreat.
The redesign also yielded a sanctuary. The new Away Spa is a pampering refuge, marked by neutral colors, white fabrics and fine brass finishes, that houses seven treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, dedicated manicure and pedicure spaces, the requisite spa lounge and an outdoor terrace to relax before or after the venue’s detoxifying massages and skincare treatments. Also upgraded was the Wet pool deck, which now features plusher cabanas. On-site dining options Mr. Chow and RWSB continue to serve up decadent cuisine led by chef Vincenzo Scarmiglia. And in 2017, Urban Robot renovated Irma’s, the hotel’s outdoor garden bar, using reclaimed materials from Hurricane Irma.
Additionally, Edelstein worked with renowned art collector and hotel co-owner Aby Rosen to upgrade the W’s already impressive art collection. Valued at $50 million, the refreshed art collection now features 21 original Andy Warhols including three pieces that are a collaboration between Warhol and Basquiat.
Sure sounds like guests will be in good company. 2201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach,305.938.3000, marriott.com
