Model Cadillac Redux

The Cadillac Hotel – with no association to the car company, but bearing the luxury brand’s name and crest – has been recognized as one of Miami Beach’s most iconic historic hotels. In fact, it was recently added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Sitting just north of South Beach, it was initially designed in 1940 by prolific architect, Roy France. One of Mid-Beach’s classic hotels, it has experienced several renovations over time, but one thing is for certain – it has always maintained its vintage Art Deco appeal.

Most recently, a multi-million-dollar renovation has captured the hotel’s original essence and paired it with modern materials and contemporary details to create an engaging hospitality experience reflective of the fabulous ‘50s. New York-based Bill Rooney Studio found inspiration in the elegance and glamour of the era’s traveling society, as well as Miami Beach’s lush landscape and notoriety for being an international city.

“I wanted the interiors to offer multiple experiences at different levels for the guests,” said Rooney. “The Cadillac is a place that allows you to be as casual or chic as you want to be.”

He describes curating the traveler’s experience from the moment of entry keeping the original terrazzo floors, grand staircase with historic railings and radiant white pillars that shoot up to the ceiling in the lobby space. Rooney modernized the space incorporating vertical flutes along the walls, adding contemporary halo lighting pendants that hang above the center of the lobby, and a revamped concierge desk with a hand-gilded gold backdrop and black ebonized wood. Décor, drawing inspiration from the glamour and sophistication of the 1940s European Riviera is spotted throughout the hotel.

“We tried to capture the essence of Miami Beach as truly an international city,” said Rooney. “From the outdoor common areas to Dona Mare, the hotel’s restaurant, to the suites, and hotel bar, it all exudes a sense of 1940s Riviera.”

The hotel experience evolves from formal to casual, as one makes their way through the hotel grounds toward luxurious lounging nooks near the pool. Upstairs, Rooney describes the guest rooms as an elevated space where hotel guests can set the stage for the day in bright and fresh rooms with built-in wall and ceiling lighting. The desks also illuminate the rooms and allow the white porcelain marble-style floors to shine. White paneled walls and ceilings create a nautical ambiance with particular detail given to the custom channel tufted upholstered headboards and desks. Modern elements, like mirrors illuminated by one’s touch, are combined with vintage-inspired freestanding drink carts crafted from ebonized wood with brass accents.

The newly-renovated Cadillac hotel now offers guests an elevated, modern design experience that harmoniously blends luxury elements with Miami Beach’s style, vibrancy, and a little bit of history.