Shelborne South Beach has emerged from its multimillion-dollar renovation, overseen by ADD Inc Miami. The firm implemented a “naughty and nice” design theme that reinterprets the vices and virtues of the 1940s and ’50s. The Art Deco landmark greets guests with an interpretation of an original Morris Lapidus-designed floating porte cochere and curved glass entry with a panoramic view of the lobby.
The lobby design focuses on tuxedo tones featuring prominent white walls while preserving the elegant effect with black accent pieces. Maria Theresa crystal chandeliers glow in soft amber while walls dressed with flowing drapery complement white terrazzo floors. Framed with stark white lacquered material, the reception desk (also referred to as the “bubble desk”) contains rows of sparkling acrylic orbs illuminated from behind and a concierge desk wrapped in black stingray skin. Two dominant black Marquina Negro marble columns with channels of white veining counteract the starkness of the reception desk.
Meanwhile, the lobby lounge adds modernity thanks to its black terrazzo flooring, elegant black tufted lounges, pool table, and photo wall, while the lounge walls are finished with black mirrors illuminated by glass sconces. Crème Design spearheaded the interiors of the Shelborne’s F&B outlets, including Bar Tanaka, Vesper American Brasserie, and poolside taco stand Lucy’s Cantina Royale.
The mix of past and present continues in the guestrooms, where a blend of black and whites, rich black and gray wall-to-wall contemporary carpet, modern furniture, and Art Deco-styled accents converge. A classic striped backdrop of gray and white frames the beds, outfitted with tufted white headboards and bright decorative pillows, while a screen wall with triangular motifs resembles the pattern in the hotel’s original porte cochere structure. The bathrooms feature custom wood and marble vanities and polished white marble flooring.
What’s more, a walkway with white exterior walls and ceilings covered in live lush vines, banquettes with colorful pillows, and glass guardrails leads guests to the new infinity pool. Poolside cabanas with private showers and a beach garden surround the pool area, and a MiMo-style staircase showcases a glass bubble roof. In the new ballroom, custom-designed gray diamond carpet with floral motifs captures the hotel’s original diamond façade. Carrera marble walls and bars, white sheer drapery, and linear crystal chandeliers round out the space.
