Penthouse living room
Photo by the ingalls
When it opened in 1941, The Shelborne quickly became one of the defining Art Deco landmarks along Miami Beach’s famed Collins Avenue, attracting a steady stream of celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe and the Beatles. With its iconic neon sign, sleek lines and rounded corners, the beachfront property soon established itself as one of South Florida’s signature stays.
Eight decades later, a $100 million restoration and redesign has ushered in a new era for the historic property, now known as The Shelborne By Proper. Purchased in 2023 by California-based Proper Hospitality, known for its design-driven hotels in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Austin, the 251-room landmark reopened in May 2025, refreshed yet faithful to its past, preserving signature features such as the historic facade and the beloved 1950s-era diving board overlooking the oceanfront pool.
The revamped lobby feels warm and inviting. A palette of camel and earth tones anchors the space, while oversized sofas and plush chairs create comfortable areas for lingering.
Contemporary works by emerging Latin American artists and lush greenery add color and texture, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
The vibe will be recognizable to anyone who has visited a Proper Hotel, and it comes courtesy of creative director Kelly Wearstler, a fixture on the AD100 list.
Lobby
Photo by Patrick Michael Chin
The color scheme carries into the guest rooms, where the design firm ADC & Tuneu combines it with mid-century-inspired details, travertine floors and handwoven wall coverings. Guests wishing to stretch out can opt for one of the residential-style villas or suites, which feature expansive living areas, kitchenettes and private balconies. (For large groups, the Two Bedroom Pool Villa Suite and the Oceanview Pool Villa One Bedroom Suite can even be combined.) The crown jewel is the Oceanfront Balcony Penthouse, a palatial space with a 1,700-square-foot private deck and front-row views of the Atlantic.
Penthouse terrace
Photo by the ingalls
While The Shelborne By Proper is within close proximity to Miami Beach’s most popular restaurants, dining on-property may be the smartest move. Pauline — named for Pauline Baker, the wife and muse of famed travel writer and cocktail authority Charles H. Baker Jr. — is overseen by chef Abram Bissell formerly of New York City’s three-Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park. The restaurant draws from Latin American and Caribbean influences while emphasizing thoughtful, ingredient-driven cooking. Seafood takes center stage, with dishes such as Conch Ceviche, Rock Shrimp Fideos, Caviar Tostada and Lobster & Mussel Sancocho, a hearty Latin American stew.
Little Torch bar
Photos by The Ingalls
The hotel’s swanky bar, Little Torch, features a tableside cocktail cart showcasing rare and storied spirits, alongside clarified punches, all served in a softly lit lounge designed for slow sipping and easy conversation. Can’t decide between the Shelborne Martini (Condesa gin, avocado oil–washed Grey Goose, vermouth, Cocchi Americano, fennel, orange bitters) and the Coconut Manhattan (Maker’s Mark, Santa Teresa 1796 rum, coconut, rosso vermouth, vanilla, bitters)? You just might have to stay for two rounds.
By the pool, palm trees and baby-blue umbrellas shade loungers, and the beach is just steps away. The all-day menu includes frozen cocktails, seasonal paletas, conch fritters and Jerk Burgers with Manchego cheese. Those with kids can enjoy Sunset Family Hour from 5 p.m. until sundown, Thursday through Sunday.
Pool
Photos by The Ingalls
Guests looking to stay active will find daily classes, including yoga and breathwork, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center that’s open 24 hours a day and is equipped with Peloton bikes, Pilates reformers and a wide variety of weights and punching bags. Of course, with the scenic Miami Beach boardwalk — popular with joggers, cyclists and rollerbladers — right outside, some might prefer to work up a sweat in the fresh ocean-tinged air. For those who want to keep the routine going after checkout, the hotel also offers a beach and wellness membership.
In a city known for reinvention, The Shelborne By Proper shows how a classic can step confidently into its next chapter.
The Shelborne By Proper is located at 1801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For more information, call 305-341-1400 or visit shelborne.com.