Work

Aerial view of a modern beachfront hotel complex with pools, surrounded by greenery.

The Saxony

A Luxe Revival of a Miami Beach Icon

Completed in 1948 by architect Roy France, the Saxony was once the epitome of opulent beachfront luxury, known as the most expensive and lavish resort of its time. Today, a massive rejuvenation effort, spearheaded by Argentinian developer Alan Faena, has brought new life to this iconic hotel. Faena, who has transformed a district of Buenos Aires into a cultural and luxury hub, has now revitalized the central stretch of Collins Avenue in Miami Beach.

Weddle Gilmore Architects was engaged to develop schematic design layouts and creative conceptualization, ensuring that the five-star, 168-suite hotel would be transformed in a way that honors its storied past while embracing Miami’s contemporary cultural scene.

The Saxony, once dubbed the queen of Collins Avenue, has poised to become a temple of eccentric design under Faena’s vision. The hotel’s Art Deco roots curvilinear forms capture the essence of Streamline Moderne design. The revitalized icon stands as a testament to both its glamorous history and its exciting future, offering a sophisticated, sleek, and culturally rich experience in the burgeoning Faena District of Miami Beach.

Aerial view of a modern beachfront hotel complex with pools, surrounded by greenery, next to a sandy beach and ocean.
People gather outside a modern building with a large photograph of a person on the wall.
A person stands at a large map on a wooden wall in a room with blue chairs, lamps on a console table, and a patterned floor.
White modern building with multiple balconies, surrounded by landscaped gardens, palm trees, red flowers, and a central stone pathway leading to the entrance.
Illustration of an elegant room with tall bookshelves, a large chandelier, and plush seating. The space features a desk, artwork, and neutral colors with blue accents.
A stylish living room with blue curtains, a large mirror, two chairs, a lounger, and framed art on the walls. The room features a ceiling with wooden beams and tall windows.
Illustration of a spacious library room with a large window, bookshelves, modern furniture, artworks, a globe, and ladder, creating an elegant and intellectual ambiance.
Illustrated interior of an elegant cafe with wicker chairs, tables, and large windows. Decor includes plants, hanging lights, and patterned ceiling. Outdoor view features umbrellas and greenery.
Outdoor pool area with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and people swimming in front of a modern, multi-story building surrounded by lush greenery.
Illustration of an elegant, airy dining room with large windows overlooking a beach scene. The room features round tables, wicker chairs, and a decorative ceiling with hanging lights.
Architectural sketch of a modern living room with a sofa, round coffee table, chair, and large mirror. Minimalistic design with neutral colors and geometric lines.
Illustration of a bedroom with a large bed, ocean view, glass sliding doors, and wicker furniture. The floor has a blue-patterned carpet.
Illustration of a bustling, elegant restaurant with diners seated at tables. A large, ornate chandelier hangs from the ceiling, and a bar is visible on the right.
Illustration of a grand theater with a curved balcony, a red curtain stage, and performers dancing in front of a large audience under a starry dome.
A sketch of an elegant restaurant with a large domed ceiling, tables set for dining, and a view of the ocean through large windows.
Illustration of a modern concert hall with an audience and conductor, featuring a dome ceiling and tiered seating.

Project Information

Location

Miami Beach, FL

Collaborators

Mark Cunningham, Inc., Interior Design

Raymond Jungles, Inc., Landscape Architect