First opened in 1940 as an oceanfront property designed by Igor Polevitzky and Thomas Triplett Russell, Miami Beach’s Shelborne Hotel embodied the golden age of Art Deco elegance. The landmark underwent a mid-century transformation by Morris Lapidus, who infused Miami Modernism (MiMo) elements—most notably its legendary pool deck—cementing its status as a haven for icons like Sinatra and Monroe. Now, following a meticulous 2024 renovation, The Shelborne By Proper reopens under Proper Hospitality, masterfully weaving its storied past with 21st-century luxuries.
Co-founded by Brian De Lowe, Proper Hospitality approached this revival with reverence: “We’re breathing fresh life into a Miami icon, pairing timeless design with a contemporary spirit.” Unlike Proper’s Kelly Wearstler-designed flagships, this By Proper collaboration entrusted the award-winning studio ADC Atelier to reimagine the space. The design team honored historic preservation while elevating every detail—from the restored 18th Street façade and iconic diving board to interiors awash in honed Perlino marble, travertine, and warm wood accents. A palette of moss green, terracotta, and powder blue nods to tropical modernism, balancing nostalgia with sleek, contemporary luxuries.
Artisanal craftsmanship and local culture pulse through the hotel. Custom rugs by Cotlin Raw, Respire Wall sconces, and Royal Stranger lounge chairs share space with bold works by emerging Latin American artists. Kenny Nguyen’s hand-dyed silk installations dance with light in the lobby, while Regina Jestrow’s dynamic metal sculptures and Lauren Shapiro’s organic forms create layered visual narratives. This artistry extends to all 251 guestrooms, where Jessy Nite’s handwoven topographic maps grace Townhouse walls, and Carly Graceffa’s ceramic vases add warmth. Standouts include a 1,700-sq-ft Two-Bedroom Penthouse Suite with Atlantic views and Pool Villas featuring terraces overlooking the revitalized pool deck.
Five dining and imbibing outlets, curated by Lowder-Tascarella Hospitality, celebrate Florida’s coastal bounty. At Pauline, Michelin-starred Chef Abram Bissell (Eleven Madison Park alum) reinterprets local seafood amidst a vibrant, linen-clad setting. Little Torch lounge crafts refined cocktails, while The Café serves Cuban pastries by day. By night, The Bar transforms into a social hub with coconut-aged Manhattans and wood-fired flatbreads. Outdoors, the historic pool deck—flanked by nine cabanas—offers conch fritters and paletas, while the exclusive Beach Club delivers oceanfront service with chaise lounges and daybeds.
Centrally positioned on Collins Avenue, the Shelborne places guests steps from the Bass Museum, Mac’s Club Deuce, and a short drive to Wynwood’s galleries. This isn’t merely accommodation; it’s a sensory homage to Miami’s legacy—where Art Deco elegance meets MiMo playfulness, and every sunset over the Atlantic feels like a curtain call on history.
The Shelborne By Proper is now accepting reservations at 1801 Collins Ave, Miami Beach.