EAST Miami – Latin Flair, Asian Style and Friendly American service

As summer draws to a close my attention often turns to tropical climes. A favourite destination is Miami, a city that pulsates with Latin energy.

Here I recently discovered the EAST, Miami – a seductively stylish hotel in the sparklingly new, exclusive lifestyle and business downtown development of Brickell City Centre, writes Andrew Forbes.

Location

This swanky property was the first North American development by Swire Hotels, following the success of EAST in Hong Kong and Beijing. It is now under new ownership, but maintains the captivating style. Location is understandably the new heart of Miami, since it is just 15 minutes from the airport, yet close to the cool vibe of Wynwood, the Design District, and the iconic but nowadays, somewhat over-crowded South Beach.

The Hotel

The hotel is said to have been designed by Miami-based architects, Arquitectonica, with interiors created by New York’s Clodagh Design. I’m told the interiors have been created in collaboration with masters in the art of Fueg Shui. Certainly design details are thoughtful and the public and guest spaces have a relaxing, harmonious ambience.

Domain

The innovative design is reflected everywhere, no less than at Domain, the lobby café and bar.  By day its a welcoming place to grab a coffee or pastry; then thanks to cool sliding doors, the backdrop of the space changes to a smart cocktail bar.

Pool & Deck

The Brickell City Centre has swiftly become Miami’s go-to destination for smart retail, and upscale leisure.  The complex combines luxury condominium towers, offices, retail and EAST, Miami. So, you’re assured a vibrant local scene. The smart design also means that there is loads of outside space, including the expansive Pool & Deck area where you can chill, play, enjoy cocktails or order snacks from the restaurant.

Sugar

The East takes this to the next level, literally, with the award-winning, celebrated rooftop terrace ‘Sugar’ (designed by Los Angeles-based Studio Collective) a sexy, stylish and exotic night spot that captures the spirit of Miami.

Quinta de Huella

On the lower level of the hotel’s striking tower is the Uruguayan restaurant ‘Quinta de Huella’, the hotel’s signature restaurant, a homage to the famous seaside South American eatery.

This Miami outpost of the famous Parador La Huella restaurant in Uruguay reflects the original’s coastal location with a chic chiringuito aesthetic, and notable art by Pittaluga including a striking drawing, one of the last works.

Lunch was excellent – with many items prepared on the grill.

Guest Rooms

Sleek, sexy and original is how I’d describe the rooms at East, Miami. The latest in hospitality technology means that guests can enjoy keyless entry (using your smartphone) paperless check-in and check-out.

There are a mighty 352 guest rooms and 7 types in EAST. Expect floor-to-ceiling windows, and many with balconies offering views of the Miami skyline and Bay, great beds, and beautiful bathrooms with a walk-in rain shower.

I loved the photographic wall murals, and other ingenious interior design features like drawers made wide enough to pack away your carry-on bag; and a Bluetooth room speaker that also can used as a conference call speaker – ideal if you’re working from your room. After all, they say Miami is now the commercial capital of South America.

Information

This must be at the top of your Miami bucket list – I loved it!