In January, the Hilton Bentley South Beach introduced a newly renovated penthouse suite to its selection of sophisticated accommodations. The 3,000-square-foot space—made famous by the Kardashian sisters’ Miami-based reality TV show—offers wraparound views, a fully equipped stainless steel kitchen, and a rooftop pool for the ultimate in private relaxation. John Lacle, general manager of the property, explains that the penthouse redesign, completed by firm Arquitectonica, infuses modern design with natural elements. “We wanted to create a space that was eclectic but elegant—inviting but still chic,” he says. “It was important to use touches of color that worked with the architecture and didn’t compete with the stunning ocean views.”
Blank Canvas
To keep the suite crisp and clean, the design firm painted the walls a bright white and left them mostly unadorned. Subtle pops of color show up in the textiles and accessories. “The walls are a canvas and the furnishings—the palette,” Lacle says.
Knock on Wood
Wooden accents blend with modern finishes for a fresh feel. “We used wood furnishings to convey the concept of soft, natural elements, and the metals are meant to provide a counterpoint to the wood’s warmth,” he says. “It’s all about balance.”
Ocean View
Floor-to-ceiling windows let the outdoors in and provide sweeping views of the waves and the southern tip of South Beach. “Because this particular [space] had such great views, we wanted to establish a visual landscape that married the ocean with the city skyline,” Lacle says. “It’s really nature’s own, ever-changing artwork.”
Branching Out
Special attention was paid to finding the right light fixtures to mix and match within the design, including an artistic, branch-like chandelier pendant above the dining area. “Light sets the atmosphere and sculpts the space,” Lacle says. “It can be soothing, provocative, moody, or sophisticated.”
