Suite surroundings

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach has revealed the reimagined Ritz-Carlton Suite at the historic resort. In partnership with hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), the renovated Ritz Carlton Suite with ocean views is now open for reservations.

“The Ladies and Gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach are thrilled to reopen our exciting Ritz-Carlton Suite,” said Jacqueline Volkart, market general manager, The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach and The Ritz-Carlton, Bal Harbour. “The spacious floor plan and luxe design elements will play off of and enhance the breathtaking, nearly 360-degree water views on center stage throughout The Ritz-Carlton Suite to elevate the experience. During their stay in the Suite, guests will be transported into a private sanctuary of their own where they will want for nothing.”

Inspired by the hotel’s original architect Morris Lapidus, the rich history of Miami Beach, the exotic local flora and fauna and the unique Latin rhythm that is central to the South Florida lifestyle, HBA combined elements within The Ritz-Carlton Suite to create an all-encompassing sensorial tribute to the beautifully unique Art Deco and ‘Mimo’ styles as well as an ode to the artistry and creativity of Lapidus.

“Central to our vision for The Ritz-Carlton Suite was to offer a unique guest experience for today’s luxury traveler. We paired a chic contemporary design with the flexibility to work, entertain and play,” said Dayssi Kanavos, co-owner, The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach/president, Flag Luxury Group.

The immersive experience begins in the foyer, where guests will be whisked into another world dedicated to beauty and comfort. Upon entering The Ritz-Carlton Suite, large custom-crafted mirrors are perfectly placed in the grand foyer to surround guests with the sights and sounds of the sea from the moment they arrive. Equipped with custom-crafted, transparent room screens with encapsulated, locally sourced natural elements, the foyer utilizes nature and symmetry to create a unique pathway which leads to the living area.

During the transition from the foyer into the lounge, guests will find sculptural furniture layered with memorable design elements such as a curvilinear, sleek velvet couch; a black-lacquer console with a wave facade; a geometric bookcase; and a pale wood floor with a herringbone detail to add further dimension to the space. The living space is adorned with moody, sultry textiles, hardwood floors and brass metals to honor the Art Deco spirit while creating a modernized feel. The indulgent Miami Beach glamour imbued in the space contrasts poetically with the beautiful beaches on display.

As guests confront the floor-to-ceiling windows spanning the entire common space, they can step out onto the Suite’s wraparound balcony and engulf themselves in views of the white, sandy beaches and music of the Atlantic waves washing ashore.

While venturing to explore the dining area, guests will discover a built-in bar which can be stocked with liquors, wines and other beverages. Guests can even ask for their favorite hand-crafted cocktail to be whipped up for them in the comfort of The Ritz-Carlton Suite. Central to the design is a spacious, modern dining table that transforms into a billiards table, so guests can work, eat and play within the same space. Overhead, a statement lighting fixture with globe pendants constructed of frosted glass and brass illuminates the open-plan area.

The primary bedroom has a custom-made, monumental headboard. Specially engineered by HBA for the Suite, the headboard is comprised of three layered elements: a cushioned, leather board directly behind the California King bed; an oversized, U-shaped floating headboard lined in atmospheric, LED lighting that also encloses custom-made, floating side tables; and finally a custom millwork, paneled wall that grounds the entire structure making the sleeping space feel expansive and all-encompassing. The primary bedroom also features an inviting, velvet bench at the foot of the bed, an intimate seating area, curated fine art and a working desk that overlooks the water.

Unwind and refresh in the large-scale, open-plan primary bathroom and connected walk-in closet, both crafted from gray Terrazzo and pale Oak wood. The bathroom features a standalone, round soaking tub adjacent to back-to-back double sinks accented with black stone and brass. A large, private shower cove curls behind the double sinks offering an immersive bathing experience. Waterfall fixtures rain down as guests gaze out of the eye-level window built into the shower that overlooks the ocean.

For guests traveling with a larger party, the one-bedroom luxury Ritz-Carlton Suite can be expanded by opening up access to an adjoining room, enlarging the footprint of the space.