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I’ve been down to Miami Beach many times this year, but by far the best time is winter – while much of the North East and Mid-West are frozen its BEACH weather in Miami! We stayed at the Standard Hotel on the bay side and while it has probably the best-relaxed pool non-scene/scene anywhere in Miami, the rooms were far from sexy (very basic and small)! On the other hand, if you want glamour, lux and a super sexy ocean view rooms, look no further than W South Beach. The team at Starwood hotels have outdone themselves with this uber chic property. Situated between the beach and Collins avenue stands a testament to Miami Beach’s endurance as a place for international tastemakers and jet setters!
W South Beach
This is by far one of my most favorite hotels on the beach and you will know why when you drive up and enter into the lobby! From the contemporary high-end materials & furnishings used throughout the property to millions of dollars worth of original artworks - Andy Warhol, Damine Hearst, Tom Sachs and lots more from one of the owners, Aby Rosen’s private art collection – carefully curated throughout the property makes you feel like you are in no ordinary hotel! Just worth a visit to check out the art installations alone!!
The Lobby, Artwork by Damien Hearst and George Condo
The Living Room
Living Room Bar, Artwork by Christopher Wool
If you are looking for some great bistro style food, award winning Chef Andrew Carmellini’s of NYC restaurant The Dutch – restaurant, bar and oyster room – opened a Miami Beach outpost at the hotel with a focus on American contemporary casual cuisine. Thus, if you like home style cooking with a flair in same vibe as NYC’s Spotted Pig, Peels and Joseph Leonard (some of my other favorites!) then this is the place for you …. Great ambiance and terrific food- must try the oyster minis! On the other hand, if you have a craving Chinese food then Mr Chows is located on the opposite side of the hotel…great place to eat and be seen!
The Dutch Interior
There is lots more to do at the property such as indulge at WET (pool area), hangout in one of the lush tropical garden spaces and party at WALL nightclub… or just chill on your own private terrace watching the ocean meet the beach & sky…Blissful!
WET, The Pool Area!
One of the Many Lux Rooms to Select From! Photography on Wall by Danny Clinch
Wonderful Studio
W South Beach design team notables:
Guestrooms and public spaces by Anna Busta of Studio B Design
Landscape design by conceptual garden artist Paula Hayes
Architecture by New York-based Costas Kondylis and Partners in collaboration with John Nichols of Miami-based Nichols Brosch Wurst Wolfe & Associates
(images: Starwood)
