The Shelborne by Proper | ADC Atelier

The Shelborne Hotel first opened its doors in 1940 as an oceanfront Miami Beach luxury retreat designed by architects Igor Polevitzky and Thomas Triplett Russell. An embodiment of Miami’s Art Deco elegance, the hotel was then updated in the 1950s by architect Morris Lapidus, who added a pool deck with cabanas and additional guest rooms while blending the original design with Miami Modernism (MiMo) influences. During this time, the property became a beacon of Miami Beach glamour, hosting legendary guests such as Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and The Beatles. Now, following an extensive renovation in 2024 and having reopened its doors in May, The Shelborne By Proper merges these rich architectural and cultural legacies with refined contemporary luxuries, ushering in a new chapter for the iconic destination.

“We are proud to introduce Proper Hospitality’s signature blend of luxury and design-forward hospitality to the heart of Miami Beach,” says Brian De Lowe, co-founder and president of Proper Hospitality. “With The Shelborne by Proper, we’re breathing fresh life into a Miami icon, pairing timeless design with a contemporary spirit that builds community through art, dining, and wellness.”

A By Proper hotel embodies the hallmarks of Proper Hospitality, but unlike Proper-branded hotels, which are designed by Kelly Wearstler, By Proper properties showcase the vision of other leading designers. For the transformation of The Shelborne, the award-winning design studio ADC Atelier reimagined the landmark hotel by blending nostalgic MiMo and Art Deco elements with elevated, contemporary finishes. Key historic features—including the 18th Street façade and the platform diving board at the property’s famed pool—have been carefully preserved and thoughtfully updated, while the modernized interiors prominently feature honed Perlino marble, travertine, and wood accents, echoing both the Art Deco and MiMo styles. The defining color palette of soft moss greens, terracotta tones, and powder blue accents evokes a warm, tropical vibe, balanced with neutral tones to create a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.

Throughout all spaces, The Shelborne By Proper establishes a unique connection to high-quality craftsmanship and local culture. Upholstery by Larsen Fabrics, Arfelx’s Edo Sofa, custom rugs by Cotlin Raw, Respire Wall sconces by DCW Editions, and vintage-style lounge chairs by Royal Stranger are complimented by unique artworks by emerging Latin American artists. Upon entering the west lobby, guests are greeted by Kenny Nguyen’s sweeping, hand-dyed silk installations that shift delicately with the natural light filtering in. Nearby, Regina Jestrow’s large, fabricated artworks infuse the space with a sense of dynamic movement, while Lauren Shapiro’s sculptures add a tactile, organic presence. Throughout the hotel, every piece—whether painting, sculpture, or handcrafted furniture—is an intentional work of art.

This ethos extends to the 251 guestrooms, including 32 suites and villas. Miami artist Jessy Nite’s handwoven topographic views of the city adorn the Townhouses. In the Junior Suites, Hayley Moree’s palm-inspired paintings reference Miami’s Art Deco heritage with a contemporary vibrancy. Ceramics also play a pivotal role: local artist Carly Graceffa’s handcrafted vases add warmth to public areas and bespoke ceramic bowls made by Barcelona artisan Clara Arbuniés bring an intimate touch to the Junior Suites and Townhouses. In each spacious room, natural light and tropical tones compliment ocean views and city vignettes. Vintage glass windowpanes catch and reflect the sunrise, high noon, and sunset, while serene bathrooms feature travertine floors, sleek fixtures, custom vanities, and Aesop amenities. Among the signature accommodations is a 1,700-square-foot Two-Bedroom Penthouse Suite with a terrace boasting views of the Atlantic Ocean and Miami Beach. The Two-Bedroom Terrace Suite, meanwhile, showcases a curated mix of vintage and contemporary sculptural pieces, complemented by an expansive terrace. Additionally, the Two-Bedroom Pool Villas, located adjacent to the pool deck, are equipped with kitchenettes, lounge areas, and terraces overlooking both the pool and the ocean beyond.

Throughout the hotel, guests will discover five noteworthy dining and imbibing outlets developed in partnership with the acclaimed team at Lowder-Tascarella Hospitality. Helmed by multiple Michelin-starred Chef Abram Bissell—a Florida Keys native known for his leadership at New York’s Eleven Madison Park, NoMad, and The Modern—and globally awarded beverage creative Christopher Lowder, each destination comes alive with the vibrant flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean. At Pauline, the signature restaurant, a seafood-forward menu features artfully presented local catch amongst an elevated yet lively atmosphere. Little Torch, an intimate lounge, invites guests into an exclusive world of refined cocktails. At The Café, espresso beverages are served alongside freshly made traditional and modern Caribbean and Cuban delicacies from Miami bakeries. The Bar, meanwhile, offers a laid-back, inviting space in the lobby to enjoy freshly brewed coffee in the mornings. By night, this space transforms into the hotel’s buzzing social centerpiece, featuring expertly crafted cocktails like a coconut-aged Manhattan or strawberry-tequila espresso martini as well as small bites such as Cubano-style Katsu sando, caviar service, and ancient-grain flatbreads from a wood-burning oven.

Awaiting discovery in the open air are the Pool Bar at the historic pool deck and the Beach Club. A quintessential Miami Beach experience, the pool deck is a tropical escape replete with sun loungers and nine private cabanas where guests can relax and enjoy all-day dining. Refreshing drinks and seasonal paletas are served alongside Latin-inspired takes on poolside favorites like conch fritters, grouper club sandwiches, and jerk smash burgers as well as lighter options. Extending the luxury experience to the oceanfront, the private Beach Club offers dedicated chaise lounges, daybeds, and full dining and beverage service. Whether inside or out, every element of The Shelborne By Proper celebrates Miami’s colors, music, energy, and deeply rooted cultural legacy. Every carefully considered space ensures that the hotel is not just a place to stay, but a living, breathing experience of creativity and craftsmanship balanced perfectly with comfort and sophistication.

LOCATION
The Shelborne By Proper is a centrally located beachfront property on 18th Street in Miami Beach. Situated adjacent to the iconic stretch of Collins Avenue where the city’s legacy of boutique hotels and vibrant nightlife began, the hotel is within walking distance of cultural institutions such as the Bass Museum of Art and legendary spots like Mac’s Club Deuce. A short drive reveals Wynwood’s emerging culinary scene and the Design District’s curated mix of high-end boutiques and innovative fashion houses.