Deauville Redevelopment Land Use Changes Approved by Miami Beach Board

Key Points:

• Project Expansion: Developers seek to increase the floor area ratio (FAR) from 3.0 to 5.5, allowing for a nearly 916,000-square-foot development.

• Planned Development: The proposal includes two condominium towers and a partially reconstructed Deauville Hotel, featuring a branded 100-unit condo and a 150-room hotel.

• Community Feedback: While some concerns were raised about potential view obstructions and setbacks, the overall response has been positive, with many praising the developers' community engagement efforts.

The iconic Deauville Beach Resort site in Miami Beach is poised for a significant transformation. The Meruelo family, in partnership with developer David Martin of Terra, has secured unanimous approval from the city's planning board for proposed land use changes. These changes aim to facilitate an expansive redevelopment project on the 3.8-acre oceanfront property at 6701 Collins Avenue. The proposal is now set to be presented to the Miami Beach City Commission, potentially as early as March.

Project Details:

• Increased Density: The developers are advocating for a legislative amendment to boost the property's floor area ratio (FAR) from the current 3.0 to 3.15 up to 5.5. This adjustment would permit a development encompassing nearly 916,000 square feet, significantly enhancing the site's potential.

• Development Plan: The envisioned project comprises two condominium towers alongside a partially reconstructed Deauville Hotel. Specifically, the plan includes a branded 100-unit condo and a 150-room hotel, with design contributions from renowned firms Foster + Partners, Shulman + Associates, and ODP. Construction is tentatively slated to commence in 2026.

Community Feedback:

During the recent planning board meeting, community members and neighboring developers voiced concerns regarding potential view obstructions and the proposed building setbacks. However, the general sentiment was favorable, with many attendees commending David Martin for his proactive engagement with the community and the modifications made in response to feedback since the previous meeting.

Historical Context:

The Deauville Beach Resort, a landmark built in 1957 and designed by Melvin Grossman, has a storied history, including hosting The Beatles during their U.S. debut in 1964. The resort suffered damage from a fire and Hurricane Irma, leading to its closure in 2017. In 2022, it was declared unsafe and subsequently demolished, leaving the site vacant since.

The unanimous approval from the Miami Beach planning board marks a pivotal step forward in the redevelopment of the historic Deauville site. As the proposal advances to the city commission, stakeholders remain optimistic about the project's potential to revitalize the area while honoring its rich history. Investors and community members alike will be keenly observing the forthcoming developments as this ambitious project progresses.

Collins Ave. Construction:

The Deauville will join other historic hotels on Collins Ave. that are being redeveloped for modern day, including the the Raleigh Rosewood, Aman Miami, Bulgari Hotel Miami Beach, among others.