New York has some amazing properties that we love and so does LA, but the boutique hotel scene in Miami is really where it’s at. And one brand really making a mark there with its exceptionally-beautiful hotels located in heritage buildings is Life House. With the Little Havana outpost already making waves, South of Fifth opens on 2 May, 2022 and we’re already obsessed.

 

Life House, South of Fifth opens in Miami

 

Setting the scene

 

Basically, in the 1920s, lots of creatives moved to Miami Beach’s Española Way and an artistic enclave was born. One of these dreamers discovered a Tudor house in the largely Art Deco-filled South of Fifth neighbourhood and made it their home.

Life House South of Fifth opens
Slow down and get comfy in the garden

 

Fast-forward 100 years, and Life House has transformed this unique property into a brand-spanking new boutique hotel, just steps from the ocean, and jam-packed with gorgeous design details.

 

Rami Zeidan, Founder and CEO of Life House explains: “We intend to celebrate the architecture of the landmark building while optimising all spaces for the modern traveller who can spend the week working comfortably from their rooms or public spaces and then run to the beach as soon as that Zoom call ends.”

 

The design

 

A project born from the mind of Rami Zeidan and realised by VP of Design Henriette Kockum alongside Design Director Camilla White and Senior Designer Rachel Przyborski, the overall vision was for an eclectic artisan’s retreat by the shore.

Life House South of Fifth opens
Fresh colours mix with wooden finishes and eclectic art pieces

Outside, the 1930s manor showcases a stucco exterior accented by dark-wood trim and the half-timbered frames typical of Tudor-style cottages. An open-air garden lounge with adjoining garden patio, and an indoor living room that opens up to an outdoor courtyard are perfect for lazy hours catching up with friends over a good drink. Expect to see a variety of reclaimed-wood, cane and wicker pendants, and even a fireplace where you can relax to the sound of a vinyl player.

 

Each of the 26 rooms feel light and airy with their whitewashed wood walls and ceilings sitting next to pops of colours and layers of art and texture. Le Labo bathroom amenities, Revival New York Linens, and Marshall speakers add the finishing touches to the smart design.

Life House South of Fifth opens
We definitely see this Elevated Queen Suite in our future

 

Guests will want to head to the on-site restaurant Pretty Swell, named after the famed surfing spot around the corner, where the laid-back vibes continue and a menu offers refined yet approachable cuisine with a drinks programme that gives a nod to the 70s with charred herbal craft cocktails, fresh pressed juice libations, and a selection of sustainable wines.

 

What’s not to love?!

 

Find out more about Life House, South of Fifth

 

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