Situated along the iconic Ocean Drive, the Pelican Hotel is celebrating three decades of unparalleled hospitality and innovative design. Marking its 30th anniversary under the visionary ownership of Renzo Rosso, chairman of the international fashion powerhouse OTB, the historic Art Deco landmark continues to be a destination for creatives and savvy travelers alike.
HOTELS
To commemorate this significant milestone, the DSCENE team had the pleasure of staying in the hotel’s uniquely themed “Go Bananas” room, a playful nod to the hotel’s eclectic aesthetic. This immersive experience was part of the grand celebration during Miami Art Week, where the Pelican Hotel transformed into a vibrant hub of style and culture.
Design and Innovation
Originally constructed in 1948, the Pelican Hotel underwent a remarkable transformation when Renzo Rosso acquired the property in 1990. By 1994, under the creative direction of DIESEL’s renowned team, the hotel was reborn with a fresh, modern flair while honoring its Art Deco roots. Over the past 30 years, the Pelican has become synonymous with contemporary fashion, cultural vibrancy, and culinary excellence, making it a staple on Miami Beach’s bustling Ocean Drive.
The hotel boasts 32 meticulously themed guest rooms, including seven luxurious suites, six ocean-view rooms, and an exclusive penthouse. Each room is a tribute to cinematic artistry, featuring original vintage artifacts and furniture that span from the 1930s to the 1990s. Guests can revel in the unique blend of antique treasures and modern comforts, all thoughtfully curated to provide an unforgettable stay.
Creativity and Community
The 30th-anniversary festivities celebrated the Pelican Hotel’s role as a creative hub. During the event, DSCENE Editor Katarina Doric had the exclusive opportunity to interview Renzo Rosso, talking about his inspiration and vision for the hotel. Reflecting on the changes in South Beach since acquiring the hotel, Rosso shared, “South Beach was different then. You’d see Gianni Versace taking walks, and there were just a couple of main spots. Over time, it became too commercial and even rough. It’s not the same as the ’90s, but it’s better than a few years ago. I believe the Pelican and its Art Deco heritage can keep thriving as Miami evolves.”
When developing the hotel’s unique concept, Rosso explained his collaborative approach: “When I decided to create the Pelican, I asked everyone in my design studio to propose ideas. Each came up with their own concept, resulting in 33 distinct rooms. The idea was to make something truly original, where the room itself becomes part of the Miami experience.”
Timeless Evolution
The event highlighted Rosso’s dedication to maintaining the Pelican’s unique charm while adapting to the ever-evolving Miami landscape. His commitment to original design and authentic vintage décor has ensured that the Pelican remains a one-of-a-kind destination for guests seeking an eclectic and energetic experience.
The celebration also featured the unveiling of Room55, an intimate speakeasy within the hotel’s penthouse. This exclusive venue blends the rich history of the Pelican with the glamour of the roaring ’30s, offering breathtaking ocean views and expertly crafted cocktails that tell a story with every sip.
The Annual Pelican Hotel Day
In recognition of its enduring impact, the City of Miami Beach honored Renzo Rosso with a special proclamation declaring December 5 as the annual Pelican Hotel Day. Commissioner Laura Dominguez presented the accolade during an intimate gathering at the hotel, highlighting the Pelican’s significant contribution to the local culture and economy. The presentation featured remarks from Commissioner Dominguez and Mr. Rosso in front of an exclusive audience, celebrating this notable achievement in true Miami Beach style.
Amenities and Dining
Guests and locals alike unwind at the cozy in-house restaurant Pelican Café, a hotspot known for Italian cuisine with a modern twist, led by South Beach’s most adored Italian chef, Gio Sofia. At the bar, a specially curated wine list brings together great Italian labels from North to South, including Rosso’s own Diesel Farm bottles, plus a collection of Italian Spumante and French Champagne.
Thoughtful amenities include beach access with lounge chairs and towels, food and beverage service, and valet parking. A 24-hour concierge is onsite to help organize offsite activities and reservations, ensuring that every guest’s stay is seamless and memorable.
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Looking Ahead
As the Pelican Hotel looks to the future, it remains a sanctuary for those seeking an eclectic and energetic experience. Whether lounging on the beach with provided amenities, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or exploring the vibrant local scene, guests are invited to become part of the Pelican’s storied legacy.
The Pelican Hotel
826 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach
+1 305-673-3373
reservation@pelicanhotel.com
pelicanhotel.com
i love seeing this! what a beautiful design! Bravo for Renzo’s team!
Love what Renzo is doing ! All of his brands are pushing boundaries this is amazing way to revive an iconic hotel. And very Miami ❤️
Remix and his team did a beautiful job on renovating this hotel 😍
Omg can this be more Miami 😍