Gencom's $100M Renovation of the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne

Key Points

• $100M Renovation: The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, embarks on its first major renovation since 2001, with a $100 million investment.

• Temporary Closure: The resort closed in May 2025, with plans to reopen in December 2025, affecting approximately 425 employees during the renovation period.

• Comprehensive Upgrades: Enhancements include redesigned guestrooms, revamped dining venues, a refreshed spa, and updated amenities to elevate the guest experience.

A New Era for a Miami Icon 

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, is undergoing a transformative $100 million renovation, marking its first comprehensive upgrade since opening in 2001. Spearheaded by its original developer, Gencom, the project aims to blend timeless elegance with modern coastal sophistication. The resort closed its doors in May 2025, with a grand reopening slated for December 2025.

In this blog, we'll delve into the renovation's scope, design inspirations, and what these changes signify for Miami's luxury hospitality landscape.

Renovation Highlights 

• Guestroom Transformation: All 420 rooms will be redesigned by Chapi Chapo Design, incorporating natural tones and textures that reflect the island's serene environment.

• Public Spaces Revamp: Design Agency will reimagine public areas, including a new East-facing glass façade in the lobby to seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor spaces.

• Spa Redesign: The spa will draw inspiration from local elements like mangroves and limestone, offering a rejuvenated sanctuary for guests.

• Culinary Enhancements: A new signature restaurant will debut, alongside refreshed existing venues such as RUMBAR and Cantina Beach, emphasizing bold flavors and local ingredients.

• Amenity Upgrades: Enhancements will extend to swimming pools, the fitness center, The Club Lounge, and the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center, the largest tennis facility among Ritz-Carlton resorts.

Economic and Community Impact 

The temporary closure has led to the layoff of approximately 425 employees, as reported in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) letter to Florida officials. The resort has communicated plans to recall affected staff upon reopening, though details on interim support remain unspecified. 

Strategic Vision by Gencom 

Gencom's reacquisition of majority ownership in 2024 underscores its commitment to long-term investment in the property. The renovation aligns with Gencom's strategy to maintain the resort's competitive edge in Miami's evolving luxury market. With a portfolio encompassing nearly $8 billion in assets, Gencom's stewardship is poised to elevate the resort's status further.