Miami's Shelborne Hotel Has A Shiny New Lobby (And There's More Where That Came From)

March 15, 2011 at 2:21 PM | by MsRebecca | Comments (0)

One of our favorite pastimes in Miami is strolling Collins Ave. and checking on the progress of new hotel construction. (Maybe even doing a little day-dreaming!)

And on a recent walk, something glittery caught our eye and it wasn't the back of a Spring Break-er's Ed Hardy t-shirt. It was the sparkly new chandeliers in the lobby of the Shelborne Hotel!

This was most exciting, as we'd seen renderings of the planned renovations and found them a little Alice in Wonderland (read: Mondrian). But in real life, the new lobby has a lot less frills and more simple, clean likes. So far, so good...

The rendering. Much better in real life, no?

When we first heard about the 'rebirth of the Shelborne,' as its being billed, it was set to be revealed in December, although we're now looking at seeing the completed face lift--including a revamp of all 280 rooms--in August.

Aside from those Maria Theresa crystal chandeliers, the lobby's new look includes a lot of high-gloss white with black marble accents. Soon after WMC is over, the concierge will score a fancy 'bubble desk' (more nightclub-like, natch), while the lounge will have white leather, tufted banquettes, and a silver pool table. Even the lobby restrooms have been sexed up, with black subway tile, glowing LED sinks, in-mirror TVs and 'provocative imagery on the vinyl walls.' Va va voom!

Amenity-wise, we can expect: Zama Sushi Bar in the lobby (which should open by mid-April); a contemporary Latin fusion restaurant with a casual poolside Cafe and bar; and a beachfront taqueria.

But who knows if we'll be eating at all, since the new infinity pool will feature:

an expanded "Beauty Deck," with an upper sun deck (topless sunbathing area) connected by a catwalk for dramatic entrances.

Did we mention there will also be a communal outdoor shower?

For more on the new-look Shelborne, come back tomorrow for a chat with owner Keith Menin.

[Photo: Courtesy Shelborne Hotel ]

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