The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami Unveils $100M Transformation Ahead of 2025 Reopening
June 16, 2025
by: Jacki Taylor
Set on 17 acres along the serene barrier island of Key Biscayne, the iconic Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne resort is undergoing a sweeping $100 million transformation—its first comprehensive renovation in nearly 25 years. The resort is scheduled to reopen in December 2025, reintroducing itself as a reimagined haven of coastal luxury that blends natural beauty with refined design.
Originally co-developed by hospitality investment firm Gencom, the 13-story, 420-room resort has long stood as a symbol of Miami’s sophisticated hospitality scene. With 600 feet of pristine beach frontage and a commanding presence at 455 Grand Bay Drive, it has served as both a peaceful escape and a world-class destination for global travelers.
This transformative renovation is being led by an acclaimed design team, including architectural firm Hart Howerton, with interiors for public spaces curated by DesignAgency and guestrooms reimagined by Chapi Chapo Design. Together, they are crafting a design narrative that celebrates the property’s island roots while elevating its sense of luxury and modernity. The refreshed resort will feature serene palettes, lush landscaping, and organic textures inspired by the surrounding ocean, sand, and native foliage.
A revitalized arrival experience will greet guests with a new East-facing glass façade that blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor, ushering in natural light and unobstructed views of the Atlantic. Inside, the lobby and communal areas will reflect tropical sophistication, creating a seamless transition from the vibrant Miami culture to the tranquility of Key Biscayne.
Notably, The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami will undergo a full redesign, emerging as a sanctuary inspired by the island’s mangroves, limestone, and coastal elements. This holistic wellness space will embody the serenity of its surroundings while offering elevated spa and wellness experiences.
Culinary innovation is also at the heart of the resort’s evolution. A new signature restaurant will debut, featuring bold flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, the resort’s six beloved dining venues—RUMBAR, Cantina Beach, Dune, Scoop, Stefano’s, and Key Pantry—will be thoughtfully refreshed, preserving their character while aligning with the resort’s refined new identity.
Enhancements will also reach every aspect of the guest experience, from upgraded swimming pools and a revitalized Club Lounge to improvements at the world-renowned Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center—the largest tennis facility among any Ritz-Carlton resort. Business and event travelers will continue to enjoy access to the resort’s 37,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, now set to offer an even more elevated and inspiring environment.
Karim Alibhai, Founder and Principal of Gencom, emphasized the project’s significance: “With this transformative renovation, we are honoring the property’s legacy and doubling down on our 25-year commitment to the Key Biscayne community. 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.”
Alessandro Colantonio, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer at Gencom, added, “This investment reflects our long-term vision and dedication to redefining the luxury hospitality experience in Miami.”
As a flagship property within Gencom’s expansive global portfolio—spanning nearly $8 billion in assets under management—the reinvention of The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence. It joins a prestigious lineup of renowned properties including The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, The St. Regis Chicago, and Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
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