Imagine stepping onto a private terrace at dawn, the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly before you. Palm silhouettes sway against the horizon, and the teak deck warms underfoot as sunlight glints off a copper bar. This is Penthouse One, the Owner’s Suite at the Pelican Hotel on Ocean Drive—often referred to as Renzo Rosso House for its ties to the fashion visionary who restored the property.
In this article, you’ll explore the suite’s layout, standout features, design philosophy, and practical guest experience. We’ll cover how it fits into the Pelican’s boutique hospitality while offering tips for booking your stay.
The Suite in Snapshot
Penthouse One spans about 1,200 square feet, plus a generous private terrace that commands panoramic ocean views. This top-floor retreat serves as the Pelican Hotel’s flagship Owner’s Suite, blending exclusivity with bookable access for guests.
Key highlights include:
- A built-in copper bar for intimate gatherings.
- A private hot tub on the terrace.
- A 235-gallon tropical aquarium is a striking focal point.
- Sunbeds and a dining table for eight, ideal for al fresco meals.
- Direct booking through the hotel site for verified availability.
These elements create a first impression of cinematic luxury, setting the stage for a deeper exploration.
Layout & Signature Features
Enter Penthouse One through a welcoming foyer that opens into the main living area. Here, vintage furnishings and curated interiors invite you to unwind, with eclectic pieces sourced from flea markets adding a layer of personality. The space flows naturally, drawing your eye toward the ocean beyond.
The 235-gallon aquarium acts as a clever architectural divider, separating the living zone from more intimate areas. Its glowing tropical fish create a serene ambiance, especially at dusk when light filters through the water. This feature enhances the suite’s experiential stay quality, making everyday moments feel like scenes from a film.
Beyond the aquarium lies the bedroom alcove, positioned for direct ocean views that greet you upon waking. Plush bedding and subtle lighting keep the focus on relaxation, while adjacent spaces maintain privacy without feeling confined.
Step outside to the private terrace, the suite’s crown jewel. Equipped with sunbeds for lounging and a dining table for eight, it offers unobstructed sights of the Atlantic and Ocean Drive below. The terrace hot tub provides a spot for evening soaks, turning the outdoor area into a versatile extension of the interior.
Materials & Aesthetic
Penthouse One’s design draws from the Pelican Hotel’s Art Deco heritage while introducing playful, upcycled elements. The renovation, led by Diesel Living creatives, preserved the building’s exterior lines but infused the interiors with vintage charm. Think flea-market finds reimagined as statement pieces, creating a contrast that’s both surprising and cohesive.
Materials like copper in the built-in bar add a warm, metallic sheen that catches the light, complementing teak accents on the terrace. Vintage upholstery and curated art pieces contribute to the eclectic vibe, evoking a cinematic set design rather than a standard hotel room. This approach ensures each corner feels intentional, blending restoration efforts with modern touches for a timeless appeal.
The overall aesthetic prioritizes curation over uniformity, making the suite stand out in Miami’s luxury landscape. It’s a dialogue between the hotel’s historic roots and contemporary creativity, resulting in spaces that feel lived-in yet luxurious.
Amenities & Practicalities
Guests at Penthouse One enjoy a suite of amenities tailored for comfort and convenience. The private hot tub and copper bar stand out as self-contained luxuries, perfect for unwinding without leaving the terrace. The 235-gallon aquarium adds a unique touch, serving as both decor and a calming element.
Practical features include the terrace’s dining table for eight, supporting private meals or small gatherings. Boutique hospitality extends to in-suite services, though specifics like meal options should be confirmed during booking. Privacy remains a priority, with the suite’s top-floor position ensuring seclusion amid Ocean Drive’s energy.
For rates, some coverage references premium nightly pricing—always verify current details directly with the hotel to align with your plans. This setup makes Penthouse One functional for extended stays or special occasions.
The Pelican Context
Penthouse One crowns the Pelican Hotel, a boutique gem on Ocean Drive known for its Art Deco facade and themed rooms. The property’s recent renovation preserved its historic charm while introducing unique interiors across its rooms, each designed as a distinct moment. This context elevates the Owner’s Suite as the pinnacle of that vision.
Ocean Drive’s vibrant scene—think beachfront paths, cafes, and cultural spots—complements the suite’s calm. From your terrace, you overlook this lively strip, blending seclusion with easy access to Miami’s energy. The hotel’s 30th anniversary highlighted its enduring role in the area, underscoring Penthouse One’s place in a storied setting.
Nearby draws include:
- Direct beach access for morning walks.
- Local eateries like the Pelican Cafe for quick bites.
- Iconic spots such as Muscle Beach for people-watching.
This integration makes the suite more than a room—it’s a gateway to Ocean Drive’s boutique appeal.
Experience & Ideal Use Cases
Picture yourself as a creative or photographer: the terrace’s panoramic ocean views and aquarium’s ethereal light offer endless inspiration. Capture sunrise shots from the sunbeds or use the copper bar as a prop for styled sessions—ideal for those seeking a cinematic backdrop.
For intimate celebrations, the dining table for eight and private hot tub create a seamless setup. Host a sunset dinner with ocean breezes, turning the terrace into your venue without the hassle of larger spaces.
Film enthusiasts will appreciate the suite’s set-like design, evoking James Bond vibes. Spend a weekend immersed in its eclectic details, from vintage furnishings to terrace lounging, for a getaway that feels scripted yet spontaneous.
Art fair visitors or design lovers fit perfectly too—pair your stay with Miami’s cultural events, returning to the curated interiors for reflection. Start with a beach run, grab breakfast downstairs, and end with a terrace soak. These scenarios highlight Penthouse One’s versatility for targeted escapes.
Booking, Rates & Insider Tips
Securing Penthouse One starts on the Pelican Hotel’s official booking page—reserve early, especially during peak seasons, to lock in availability. Confirm details like terrace access, private hot tub usage, and any event policies directly with the concierge.
Insider tips:
- Opt for off-peak dates to enhance privacy and potentially secure better rates.
- Request advance info on curated art pieces or aquarium maintenance for a smooth stay.
- Inquire about add-ons like private dining setups to customize your experience.
Always verify nightly rates on the site, as they fluctuate. For the best outcome, contact the hotel team with specific questions before arrival.
Conclusion
Penthouse One at the Pelican Hotel masterfully fuses Art Deco legacy with upcycled, cinematic interiors, delivering a Miami sanctuary that’s equal parts private retreat and experiential highlight. Envision that final terrace sunset, waves crashing below, as your lasting memory.
Ready to step inside? Check Penthouse One’s availability on the Pelican Hotel site or follow their Instagram for design inspiration and updates.
