Introduction to the Restoration of the Raleigh Hotel
NBC6’s What’s Being Built Here series is exploring something old that’s becoming something new. This time around, it’s a historic hotel in Miami Beach. NBC6 anchor Roxanne Vargas goes to the Art Deco landmark on Collins Avenue to reveal the big plans there.
The flair, this famous façade, the feel of The Raleigh in art deco Miami Beach. The likes of Audrey Hepburn and Madonna cooled down poolside in cabanas here.
History of The Raleigh Hotel
It’s where fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld launched Chanel’s first resort wear line in 2008 by the fleur-de-lis-shaped pool. In 1996, it was home to Robin Williams and Nathan Lane in the classic film "The Birdcage." But after a decade of neglect, a blow from Hurricane Irma in 2017, it was shuttered.
This is the return of The Raleigh.
Restoration Plans
"These are properties that really should be seen as they were designed in the 40s," Michael Svho said. "These are gorgeous properties, and we agreed with the city to go and strip out anything that is not original and restore these to the original design." Luxury real estate developer Shvo purchased The Raleigh in 2019 and shares with NBC6 the future of the 215 feet of beachfront property but is still paying homage to the Raleigh’s history and story.
Bringing The Raleigh to the Highest Level of Luxury
"We’re taking this hotel and bringing it to the highest level of luxury," he said. "This is going to be the leading hotel on the beach, but still maintaining all the original design elements, from the Martini Bar to the Tiger Room to all the little details on the flooring 707 that you’ll see when we go to The Raleigh that will show people how it was when it was designed, but obviously upgraded to 2027." The Raleigh pool was named the most beautiful pool in America by Time Magazine in 1967.
New Additions and Features
Rooftop space, restaurants, private pools, no details go unseen. Renowned architect Peter Marino reimaged the 60-key hotel, which will thoughtfully and completely be visible from all sides because the 17-story residential tower with 40 unique waterfront residences will sit closest to the water. Ten million dollars to $150 million to live in a landmark.
Why The Raleigh is Unique
"The Financial Times had an article, not probably two years ago, that Miami is the most important city in America," Svho said. "People live in Miami now, people eat in Miami, people also vacation in Miami. But Miami became what I call a true city that has a full life here, not a place where you just come and visit. There is no other Raleigh."
Conclusion
The restoration of The Raleigh Hotel is a significant project that aims to bring back the hotel’s original glory while incorporating modern luxury elements. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and prime location, The Raleigh is set to become one of the most desirable destinations in Miami Beach.
FAQs
Q: What is the Raleigh Hotel?
A: The Raleigh Hotel is a historic hotel in Miami Beach that is currently undergoing restoration.
Q: Who purchased The Raleigh Hotel?
A: Luxury real estate developer Shvo purchased The Raleigh Hotel in 2019.
Q: What are the plans for the restoration?
A: The plans include restoring the hotel to its original design while incorporating modern luxury elements, including a 17-story residential tower with 40 unique waterfront residences.
Q: How much will it cost to live in the new Raleigh Hotel?
A: The cost will range from $10 million to $150 million.
Q: What is the expected completion date of the restoration?
A: The article does not mention a specific completion date.
