As Miami’s Brickell Avenue in the heart of downtown continues to emerge as the city’s “go to” destination for dining, shopping and nightlife, Four Seasons Hotel Miami – the hotel that set the area’s renaissance in motion with its opening in 2003 – is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. Highlights of the project include redesigned guest rooms and suites, a new restaurant and resort-inspired enhancements to the Hotel’s two-acre pool terrace.

Set to debut in fall 2011, the newly redesigned guest rooms and suites will mirror the Hotel’s overall updated Art Deco style. “We have designed a new, fresh update with a more sophisticated, cleaner and even more modern look,” says interior designer Frank Nicholson, whose acclaimed 2003 design set a new standard for luxury in the destination.

Inspired by the Hotel’s celebrated USD 3 million art collection and its glittering Biscayne Bay views, Nicholson and his team designed two themes – red and slate and gray and blue – anchored by deep chocolate brown accents. Nicholson opted to enhance each room’s views with built-in, deep-cushioned window seats and fabric-surround treatments that frame postcard views rather than covering them. Competing with the views are original works by Miami-based artists Bruce Tolman, Annie Wharton and Vickie Pierre, all part of the Hotel’s prized art collection.

All new furnishings and fabrics are custom-designed, including carpet in a striking linear slate and white pattern inspired by the famed sidewalk of Brazil’s Copacabana Beach. Sleek bed headboards in light sycamore and mother-of-pearl textured lacquer add a sense of drama. Accent pillows in a variety of textures and patterns introduce a pop of colour. “The overall feeling is fresh and modern,” says the designer. “Our aim is to deliver a guest experience that defines Four Seasons comfort yet is in keeping with the urban sophistication of the destination.”

The room redesign is part of a larger, multi-million improvement project that includes a new restaurant. Set to open in late 2011, the restaurant will feature a sleek design with a vibrant bar and outdoor dining. “The restaurant will be a dynamic spot central to the Hotel and neighbourhood experience. We are designing a space with a great bar and lively atmosphere that is sure to become a gathering place for Miami residents, Brickell Avenue executives and Hotel guests,” says General Manager Simon Pettigrew.

On the pool terrace, new day beds and improvements to signature services and amenities, including Evian spritzes, cool towels and butler-passed frozen treats, will enhance the Hotel’s urban resort ambiance.