Poised between the cosmopolitan grace of Miami and the natural beauty of the Atlantic, The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, is embarking on a new chapter. Nearly 25 years since Gencom co-developed the asset, the iconic resort has begun a transformational improvement plan totaling over $100 million, ushering in a new era of coastal luxury. Following completion of the planned improvements, the property is slated to reopen its doors in December 2025.
Located at 455 Grand Bay Drive, the 275,000-square-foot resort spans 17 acres on the barrier island of Key Biscayne. Rising 13 stories above the shoreline, the 420-key hotel features 600 feet of pristine beach access. Since its debut in 2001, the resort has become a premier destination in Miami’s luxury hospitality landscape. The upcoming transformation marks the first comprehensive renovation of this iconic property since its inception.
Spearheaded by design architect Hart Howerton, with public spaces envisioned by Design Agency and guestrooms redesigned by Chapi Chapo Design, the renovation’s vision is deeply rooted in the resort’s island identity while elevating its refined sense of place. Each space will harmonize with the surrounding coastal landscape, incorporating soft natural tones, lush greenery, and textures that evoke the sand and seas.
“With this transformative renovation, we are honoring the property’s legacy and doubling down on our 25-year commitment to the Key Biscayne community,” said Karim Alibhai, Founder and Principal of Gencom. “These enhancements will allow the property to remain competitive in the region’s increasingly sophisticated hospitality landscape, while further elevating Key Biscayne as a premier destination.”
As a visual cue for what is to come, the resort's exterior will be introduced with a fresh, modern color palette that will reflect the surrounding sand and sea. Inside, the lobby will undergo a complete transformation, anchored by a new East-facing glass façade that will seamlessly merge the exterior’s coastal landscape with layered natural textures and warm interior tones. The newly redesigned arrival experience will embrace the island’s tropical elegance, evoking a sense of calm and wonder.
The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, will also undergo a complete redesign to reflect the serenity of its surroundings. Drawing inspiration from the island’s native elements, mangroves, limestone, and the ocean, it will reemerge as a sanctuary for rejuvenation and renewal.
The culinary experience will also evolve with the introduction of a completely refreshed signature restaurant, offering guests and locals bold flavors and locally inspired ingredients. In addition to the new dining offering, The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami will continue to welcome guests to its six long-standing dining venues, including RUMBAR, Cantina Beach, Dune, Scoop, Stefano’s, and Key Pantry. Each space will be refreshed to enhance the overall experience, ensuring continuity and charm that aesthetically aligns with the resort’s broader transformation.
Beyond the culinary experience, enhancements will extend across the property’s impressive suite of amenities. Guests will enjoy an upgraded experience across the swimming pools, fitness center, The Club Lounge, and the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center, the largest tennis facilities of any Ritz-Carlton resort. The hotel also boasts 37,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, making it a favorite among leisure travelers and business groups alike.
“The transformation represents a remarkable investment in the property’s future that will create an elevated hospitality experience for new and returning guests,” said Alessandro Colantonio, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer at Gencom. “With this latest capital investment, we remain committed to ensuring that this iconic resort continues to set the standard for luxury in Miami.”
The property is a cornerstone of Gencom’s prestigious portfolio of branded properties, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, The St. Regis Chicago, and Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Today, Gencom’s portfolio spans nearly $8 billion in assets under management and under development and includes 23 owned assets with more than 6,000 hotel rooms around the world. Through its operating affiliates Pyramid Global Hospitality and Convene, Gencom oversees over 200 properties and more than 2 million square feet of premium meeting, event, and flexible office space.
Exterior Renderings via Hart Howerton | Interior Renderings via Design Agency