Name: The Lido Spa
Address: 40 Island Avenue Miami Beach FL
Architect: Norman Giller
Style: Miami Modern Architecture
Description: The large sign on the facade reading The Lido Spa pays homage to the properties history, today it is more well know as The Standard Hotel Miami Beach. However, the original building was constructed in 1953, designed by the architect Norman Giller and called The Monterrey Motel and Yacht Club, sitting on Belle Isle in Biscayne Bay just off of Miami Beach proper. It became the Lido Spa in 1960, marketed as the first health resort in Miami Beach. Interestingly enough at the time there was a tax deduction for “businessmen” who needed rest and recuperation. The owner had gym facilities, mineral baths, pools, and dietitians on property, thus guests could take advantage for the tax deduction. The Lido mostly appealed to older individuals looking for relaxation and healthy living in the sun. By the end of the 20th century it was effectively a retirement home. The Lido continued to operate well in to 2000’s when it was purchased by Andre Balazs, also owner of the Raleigh Hotel. Balazs, closed the property for renovation, led by the architect Alison Spear, and reopened it 2006.
Related Buildings:
Motel Ankara, Miami Beach
The Vagabond, Miami
More Reading:
The Standard Spa Miami Beach Rituals of Ancient Bathing Traditions