Miami Beach’s once-iconic Fontainebleau Hotel, originally designed by renowned architect Morris Lapidus, is once again ready for its close up after a billion dollar renovation and remodel. New owners sought to infuse the space with a modern sense of style and sophistication. From its public spaces, lobby and highly-stylized restaurants to its guest rooms, spa and pool, the resort sparkles with an intoxicating mix of old and new.

In the process, the original Lapidus buildings were stripped to steel studs and bare concrete in order to entirely recreate guest rooms, public spaces and resort facilities. Painstakingly, the design team preserved or recreated many of Lapidus’ historical design elements – including the circular ceilings, bow-tie design motifs and famed “Staircase to Nowhere.”

Fronting the Atlantic Ocean, the 1504-room resort’s most distinguishing features include two new towers, 11 restaurants and lounges, a 40,000- square-foot spa, and dramatic oceanfront poolscape featuring a freeform pool shaped as a re-interpretation of original architect Morris Lapidus’ signature bowtie design.

Lapidus once wrote, “If you create a stage and it is grand, everyone who enters will play their part.” Few would argue that the new Fontainebleau succeeds in offering a pulse-quickening setting in which guests can make an unforgettable entrance.

For more information on the Fontainebleau, visit www.fontainebleau.com.