By Cristina Cuomo
Purist: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach that are underway in Miami promise to be a “beach house in the sky,” full of well-being offerings and custom amenities. What is the ethos of the Ritz-Carlton brand that will be carried throughout these 30 residences?
Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos: The Ritz-Carlton is all about genuine care and exceptional service. It’s a place where every detail is designed to anticipate and fulfill the needs of our guests, often before they even express them. The brand’s ethos is centered on creating a luxury experience that’s both deeply personal and universally unforgettable. It’s about providing care and service that enriches the senses and instills a sense of well-being in every moment.
For the 30 residences at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach, we’re bringing that ethos to life by creating homes that feel like private beach retreats, while infusing them with the sophistication and attention to detail The Ritz-Carlton is known for. It’s about crafting an environment that is both a sanctuary and a celebration of Miami Beach’s vibrant energy, where residents feel cared for, inspired and connected to their surroundings.
Tell us about the design for the luxury residences.
Boutique-sized and exquisitely located, the residences integrate the historic Sagamore Hotel with a contemporary structure. Designed by Kobi Karp, the architecture seamlessly blends art deco and mid-century modern styles with an elegant and contextually appropriate facade, floor-to-ceiling windows and a cantilevered tower over the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach Hotel.
Inspired in equal parts by Miami deco and fresh contemporary design, the interiors by Studio Munge bring together the finest elements of contemporary design with traditional graciousness and convenience. Each unit is a private oasis, floating between sea and sky, within this privileged enclave of just 30 residences.
What are some features that will be offered?
The residences have panoramic Atlantic Ocean and historic Miami city views, 10-foot ceilings, private unit access from elevators and generous terraces in sizes up to 1,040 square feet. The interiors show an exceptional level of customization throughout. Bespoke kitchens feature a mix of honey oak and white lacquer cabinets, bronze inlays, reeded glass vitrines and Gaggenau appliances. Floors are rift-cut white oak and bianco rhino marble. Primary bathrooms feature Covelano silver gold marble, floor-to-ceiling glass showers and custom fixtures. In select condominium residences, full-size laundry rooms are equipped with sinks and custom cabinetry. Two duplex penthouses have private rooftop pools, outdoor kitchens and expansive terraces designed for large-scale entertaining and relaxation.
Why was it important to you to have Michelin-starred chef José Andrés create the dining experience here?
His approach to food is deeply connected to culture, storytelling and community. José brings a unique blend of creativity and authenticity that aligns perfectly with the vibrant spirit of Miami Beach. His culinary prowess at Zaytinya, which blends global influences with Miami’s rich food scene, has already raised the bar at the adjacent The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, and we wanted to extend that same excellence to our residents.
Tell us about the wellness offerings.
Well-being is integral to the design of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach, and we’ve curated a suite of amenities that nurture body and mind. The state-of-the-art TechnoGym fitness center is equipped with everything needed for a customized workout. For those seeking a more serene experience, the private rooftop pool, meditation pods and lush terraced gardens with cascading water features offer tranquil spaces to recharge. We’ve also designed wellness spaces that promote mental clarity, with panoramic ocean views and spaces to connect with nature.
Additionally, residents will have access to bespoke wellness services like in-residence spa treatments, private yoga sessions and curated wellness programming. These services, paired with the thoughtful design of the residences themselves, create a holistic environment where health isn’t just an amenity—it’s a way of life.
What are some of the amenities that make The Ritz-Carlton unique?
The amenities at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach create an intimate, elevated living experience. On an exclusive 8,000-square-foot private floor, residents will enjoy an entertainment lounge with a chef’s kitchen for private gatherings, alongside world-class dining by José Andrés at Zaytinya. The private beach club, with dedicated cabanas and lush gardens designed by Naturalficial, provides a serene space to unwind, while our 50,000-square-foot resort amenities offer full access to the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach Hotel. Residents also enjoy access to the luxurious 16,000-square-foot spa, Ritz Kids programming, a variety of dining options, and event spaces for social gatherings and celebrations.
You also acquired the historic Sagamore Hotel next door. How will the new renovation complement the residences?
The acquisition and restoration of the Sagamore Hotel is an important part of our vision to honor Miami Beach’s iconic art deco history while elevating the overall luxury experience at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach. The historic hotel will be transformed into 55 exquisite Ritz-Carlton suites, blending timeless design with modern comforts. Residents will enjoy direct access to this landmark hotel, including private movie screenings, two beachfront pools with semiprivate cabanas, and exclusive events that celebrate the dynamic energy of South Beach.
What bespoke services will be included?
At The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach, every detail has been crafted to offer an unparalleled living experience. Residents will have access to a dedicated concierge team 24/7, ensuring their every need is met—from securing reservations at top restaurants to arranging personalized travel experiences. In-residence spa treatments, private dining by José Andrés and a full range of services ensures every day is effortless.
With a full-time doorman, valet service and attended porte-cochère, residents will feel like they are always in the lap of luxury. And, of course, they’ll have access to Marriott International benefits, including upgrades and exclusive amenities at luxury hotels worldwide.
Will each residence have an epic ocean view?
Yes, every one of the 30 residences offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, with many also enjoying panoramic vistas of the Miami skyline.
What are you looking forward to this coming fall?
For the past three years, I’ve co-hosted with my daughter, Sophia, the Women’s Power Breakfast at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. It’s become a beautiful tradition of gathering women from all industries to celebrate achievements and empower one another. We’ll be bringing this experience to New York City on October 3, at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad. To learn more, visit womenspowerseries.com or reach out at info@womenspowerseries.com.
When do you hope The Ritz-Carlton Residences, South Beach will be completed?
We are aiming for winter 2028-29. This timeline allows us to ensure that every detail meets the exceptional standards of quality and luxury that define this project. We’re committed to delivering a transformative living experience that’s worth the wait.
Contact 305.564.1533 or sales@rcbeachhouses.com to schedule a private appointment; rcbeachhouses.com