Reviving the Deauville: A Vision for North Beach’s Future

December 2, 2024

The iconic Deauville Hotel, a cherished piece of Miami Beach history, is set to rise again—this time with a modern twist. In a presentation to a city board last week, developers Terra and the Meruelo family unveiled exciting new details and renderings for the redevelopment of the North Beach landmark. The plans promise a bold reimagining of the site, blending historic charm with innovative design.

A Glimpse at the New Deauville

Demolished in 2022, the original Deauville Hotel will be reborn alongside two new condominium towers. This ambitious project will be brought to life by an esteemed design team, including Foster + Partners, ODP, and Shulman + Associates. Together, they aim to create a development that respects the area’s heritage while elevating its modern appeal.

Breaking Boundaries with Tall Towers

One of the most striking aspects of the proposal is the developers’ request to build the new condo towers at an impressive 400 feet—double the current height limit. This bold move reflects the grand vision for the property, though it will require special permission from the city.

Reducing Density for a Better Experience

While the towers’ height may increase, the overall density of the project will be reduced. Current zoning allows for up to 977 hotel rooms and accessory uses, but the proposed changes would cap the development at 280 hotel rooms and 140 multifamily residential units. Additionally, the rebuilt hotel tower will include some residential units, and the number of hotel rooms will be significantly lower than the original.

Enhancing the Community Experience

The proposed plans go beyond just buildings; they aim to enhance the pedestrian experience and the surrounding community. Key improvements include:

• Wider Sidewalks: Designed to be more pedestrian-friendly, these sidewalks will feature retail spaces and food and beverage outlets to create an active streetscape.
• Underground Driveway: To reduce surface-level congestion and improve walkability, a buried driveway will provide a seamless solution for vehicular access.
• Landscaped Walkway: Connecting Collins Avenue to the beachwalk, this green pathway will offer residents and visitors a serene transition from city streets to the shore.

What’s Next?

The Miami Beach Planning Board is scheduled to hold a hearing on February 4 to discuss the project further. This comes after deferring a decision during their last meeting. The presentation has already sparked significant interest, with both excitement and questions about the scale and scope of the development.

The revival of the Deauville is more than just a redevelopment project; it’s a symbol of North Beach’s evolution. With a commitment to preserving the area’s character while introducing thoughtful modern elements, this new chapter for the Deauville promises to redefine luxury living and hospitality in Miami Beach.