Newly renovated Nautilus Hotel opens in Miami Beach

The Nautilus Hotel, a 1950’s Art Deco property along Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, is now open following an extensive restoration and renovation. 

Nautilus, a SIXTY Hotel, was renovated by Quadrum Global and its partner InSite Group. It opened on Friday, Seth Schumer, Quadrum’s head of U.S. investment, told The Real Deal.

The 250-key oceanfront property was built in 1950 and is protected by the historic preservation board. Schumer said the hotel, at 1825 Collins Avenue, was in “terrible condition” when the owners bought it for $61 million in 2011 – with nightly rates hovering around $75. They began construction about a year later.

“We bought the hotel at a time of distress,” he said. “Our investors thought Ocean Drive was the No. 1 area … In my opinion, it was closer to Lincoln Road.”

Since then, projects such as the Miami Beach Edition, the Faena District, 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach and the Shore Club have been announced or completed, which Schumer said contributes to the walkability of the area.

“What we liked about the neighborhood was the energy, what was going on with the restaurants, that it was close to Lincoln Road,” he said.

The porte cochere, 25-foot lobby ceilings, the Morris Lapidus “Staircase to Nowhere,” beveled windows, teal green tile and the Driftwood Room supper club, are among the historic elements preserved at the Lapidus-designed property. Its new owners took a nautical-themed Art Deco approach to the renovation, including “jet-set” style furniture, warm, neutral colors, mini bars in vintage-style trunks and conch shell lamps. The eighth-story penthouse features a rooftop garden terrace.

Amenities include an 1,890-square-foot heated salt water pool, 24-hour gym, spa, the Nautilus Cabana Club, outdoor deck and bar, cabanas and a lush, tropical backyard. All food and beverage, including the 200-seat signature restaurant, will be led by celebrity chef Alex Guarnaschelli and operated by China Grill Management. The restaurant, which includes the private Driftwood dining room, will feature a farm-to-table menu, highlighted by local fish and vegetables, Schumer said.

The Nautilus, at 1825 Collins Avenue, first opened in 1951 as the largest oceanfront hotel with 300 rooms and suites. In 1981, it was renovated as a 246-unit hotel condo, sold in 1985 – when it became the Riande Continental Hotel. Schumer said the only interior photos they found of the historic hotel was from a couple’s honeymoon trip.

“From the day we acquired the property and began to reposition it, our goal has been to recreate the sense of liveliness that once filled Nautilus’ halls and common areas,” he said.