The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami has begun a $100-million renovation project that will include guestrooms, public areas, food and beverage outlets and other amenities across the property, with the expectation of a December finish.
The renovation is the first full-scale transformation since the 420-room property opened in 2001. The 13-story hotel, located at 455 Grand Bay Dr., sits on 17 acres and includes 600 feet of beach access.
“With this transformative renovation, we are honoring the property’s legacy and doubling down on our 25-year commitment to the Key Biscayne community,” said Karim Alibhai, founder and principal of Gencom. “These enhancements will allow the property to remain competitive in the region’s increasingly sophisticated hospitality landscape, while further elevating Key Biscayne as a premier destination.”
The design team includes Hart Howerton as design architect, Design Agency for public spaces and Chapi Chapo Design for rooms. The redesign is intended to incorporate coastal elements, using natural tones and textures that reflect the island landscape.
Plans include a new exterior color palette and a redesigned lobby with a glass façade facing east. The updated lobby will include new natural materials and a layout intended to reflect the tropical surroundings. The spa will be redesigned using local materials such as mangroves and limestone.
The food and beverage program will also be updated. A new signature restaurant will be introduced, while the resort’s six existing venues—RUMBAR, Cantina Beach, Dune, Scoop, Stefano’s and Key Pantry—will be refreshed.
Additional upgrades will affect the pools, fitness center, The Club Lounge and the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center, which the hotel said is the largest tennis facility in the Ritz-Carlton portfolio. Meeting and event space at the resort totals 37,000 square feet and will also be updated.
“The transformation represents a remarkable investment in the property’s future that will create an elevated hospitality experience for new and returning guests,” said Alessandro Colantonio, EVP & CIO at Gencom. “With this latest capital investment, we remain committed to ensuring that this iconic resort continues to set the standard for luxury in Miami.”
Gencom owns several Ritz-Carlton properties, including locations in Bachelor Gulch, Colo., New Orleans and Philadelphia. It also owns The St. Regis Chicago and Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Costa Rica. According to the company website, its portfolio includes 23 assets and over 6,000 rooms. Through its operating affiliates Pyramid Global Hospitality and Convene, it manages more than 200 properties.
