Current hotel design is rooted in the history and personality of the property’s locale—so when a hotel is located in an area rich with inspiration, the possibilities are endless for the design team. The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami recently unveiled a yearlong redesign—and its new look and feel draws upon the independent and artistic spirit of the area.
“Coconut Grove is the oldest neighborhood in Miami,” said Bill Rooney, president and design director, Bill Rooney Studio. “With 19th century origins, it has been cultivated into an ever-evolving lush and cultured bay front community. The origins of this enclave are based upon a progressive, enduring modern spirit. Heritage is juxtaposed cohesively with its current modern expression. This community of independent thinkers is grounded with a love of nature, history, music, art, relaxation and food. We draw inspiration from this history of the neighborhood and the classical architectural backdrop to create an aesthetic that is boho-chic and relaxed Florida sophistication.”
Mark Ferland, GM, The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami, added, “The community of Coconut Grove is going through a revival, redefining itself as Miami’s original neighborhood and art district. We thoughtfully drew inspiration to reflect a legacy the Coconut Grove district has etched in history and embody what the community has become today. The ambiance and style elements infuse the neighborhood’s bespoke artistic heritage through an avant-garde style that is distinct to The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami. The hotel remains an instrumental piece in telling the Coconut Grove story.”
The 115 redesigned guestrooms feature new neutral-toned furniture, luxe white fabrics and beachy textures, including teak, canvas and jute. Gold accents and locally sourced art pieces tie in a bespoke bohemian vibe.
“The relaxed Florida sophistication is inspired by a boho-chic mood,” Rooney said. “The mood is expressed in the materials used in the guestrooms. The rooms are defined by off-white colors, a hints of blue, light wood floors, raffia wallcovering lace/net inspired artwork, shagreen covered case goods, live edge wood furniture, organic patterns and modern rattan seating.”
Meanwhile, the lobby offers a black and white backdrop with upscale features: leather-wrapped columns, pops of peacock hues, and dark green velvet furniture among them.
“The main lobby is a key component in the design, bridging the gap between city living and a seaside escape,” Rooney said. “The black and white aesthetic and leather-wrapped columns offer modernity, while the tall ceilings and greenery exude an inviting ambiance. When guests step out to the pool area, they will immediately feel immersed in a luxury topical oasis that just happens to be in the middle of Miami.”
Describing the look and feel of the hotel as being influenced by the tropical gardens and charming galleries of Coconut Grove, Rooney said, “The seamless indoor and outdoor living concept sets the tone and creates cultural, social and innovative spaces throughout. Al fresco elements like pergolas, teak and wooden furniture, lanterns, and more greenery transport visitors to a tropical bohemian hideaway in the middle of Miami.”
