The iconic Raleigh Hotel in Miami, a historic landmark known for its starring role in the 1996 film The Birdcage and its connection to Chanel fashion shows, is getting a major makeover.
The Art Deco beauty, situated on South Beach, is undergoing a $1 billion residential transformation under the direction of real estate developer Michael Shvo.
Once a glamorous destination for stars like Audrey Hepburn, Madonna, and Karl Lagerfeld, the Raleigh had fallen into disrepair before Shvo’s revitalization plans took shape.
A Glorious History Before the Renovation
The Raleigh, which opened its doors in 1940, was once a favorite haunt for celebrities, with its famous coat-of-arms swimming pool and luxurious setting.
It was featured prominently in The Birdcage, where it served as the backdrop for several unforgettable scenes.
But after suffering damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, the hotel closed its doors, left to languish for several years.
However, in 2019, Michael Shvo recognized the hotel’s potential and made an off-market deal to purchase it, along with three adjacent properties.
His vision was clear: transform the space into a mix of luxury apartments and a boutique hotel, now known as The Rosewood Hotel & Residences.
A Visionary Renovation by Michael Shvo and Peter Marino
Before lifting a single hammer, Shvo spent three years working with renowned architect and interior designer Peter Marino to ensure every detail of the renovation would preserve the Raleigh’s historic charm while embracing modern luxury.
Shvo made sure that even the smallest details, such as the door handles, reflected the hotel’s legacy.
When completed, The Rosewood Hotel & Residences will feature 40 exclusive residences and 60 hotel rooms.
These units will be furnished with original pieces and include custom-built features such as hand-selected stone flooring, marble countertops, and bespoke Molteni cabinetry.
The apartments will also offer stunning views with 12-foot-wide terraces, rain shower enclosures, and even refrigerators specially designed to store beauty products.
Amenities and High-End Living
The new development will cater to residents’ every need. The building will offer a full spa, a large fitness center, and a children’s playroom.
There will also be 24-hour concierge services, including private butlers, valets, and on-site parking.
Residents will enjoy beach access through a private beach club and will have access to luxury services like refrigerated storage for meal and medical deliveries.
Shvo is adamant about preserving the building’s original design, but he’s blended contemporary updates, like carefully chosen plants, with the hotel’s historic look.
The building spans three acres of prime beachfront property, and despite its renovation, it remains a nod to the past while looking forward to a bright future.
A Growing Demand for Luxury in Miami
As the renovation progresses, Shvo is seeing strong demand for the residences, especially from international buyers.
Many of these buyers, particularly from Europe, are eager to secure a stake in Miami’s vibrant real estate market.
However, these luxurious units are also coming at a time when the housing market in Florida is facing challenges.
With the housing crisis in nearby areas and rising homeowners’ association (HOA) fees, Miami’s high-end market is seeing soaring prices while affordable housing remains scarce.
With the Raleigh’s $1 billion renovation, Shvo is betting that the demand for top-tier luxury living will continue to rise in Miami.
The new development will likely set a new standard for luxury residences in the city while reviving one of its most storied hotels.