You will either love or hate the Faena. I love it!
Argentine hotelier Alan Faena enlisted the help of ‘The Great Gatsby’ director Baz Luhrmann and his wife, Oscar-winning, costume and production designer Catherine Martin, to give this 1940s building a properly theatrical makeover. The result is a theatrical fantasia in red, gold and tiger print, dusted with mind-bending contemporary art.
If while wandering the grounds you find yourself asking, “Did I just see a golden woolly mammoth skeleton in a glass cage?” the answer is yes. Outside by the pool, a woolly mammoth skeleton dipped in 24-karat gold stands inside a temperature-controlled glass case overlooking the beach, palm trees swaying overhead. It’s a Damien Hirst sculpture entitled “Gone But Not Forgotten”. Both commissioned and acquired art is deeply incorporated into the hotel’s design scheme.
The hotel is situated in the eponymous Faena District on Miami Beach between 32nd and 36th Streets. Within this area, you’ll find the Faena Forum and Faena Bazaar, both used as arts and events spaces. There’s also a luxury condominium and sister boutique hotel, Casa Faena. This area is known for its Art Deco architecture, restaurants and buzzy nightlife.
The gilded cathedral entrance bears eight neo-romantic murals by Spanish artist Juan Gatti and its own custom soundtrack by DJ Henrietta for a New Age-y reverential effect. The over-the-top Living Room Lounge is upholstered in rich ruby and silky tiger prints with a gold show-stopping chandelier of exposed bulbs.
The 179 rooms and suites are full of classic Art Deco design touches, like bright reds and gold accents. You’ll also find a pop of leopard print here and there. The Art Deco-style wooden bed frame is its own piece of art, as are its matching nightstands. There’s a bit of an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ feel to the Faena, and this carries through into the rooms, particularly with the smaller accents and pieces of furniture you’ll find yourself “discovering” as your stay progresses.
The hotel is family friendly offering The Faena Play, the kids’ club on property. It provides a plethora of activities to keep kids entertained whether that’s a cooking class, football game, or playing some video games. There is something to suit all children.
This is a true foodie destination hotel with Los Fuegos, the first North American restaurant by legendary Argentinean asado grill master, chef Francis Mallmann.
Pao by James Beard Award-winning chef Paul Qui presents inventive pan-Asian cuisine underneath a dramatic dome overlooking the ocean.
El Secreto Omakase with James Beard Award winning chef, Paul Qui, unfolds an ultra-exclusive speakeasy style Omakase experience.
The Living Room, a well-appointed gathering space, features small plates, bespoke cocktails and a broad array of wines to enjoy over live evening entertainment.
Tree of Life is an intimate gathering space with outdoor seating. It features imaginative cocktails, small plates and a broad array of wines with spectacular views of the pool area and ocean.
Veranda offers spectacular views of the pool area and ocean, an inviting place for a morning coffee or leisurely breakfast.
Saxony Bar allows guests to enjoy an intimate setting steeped in golden-age glamour. It is a lively late-night lounge featuring a classic menu of time-honored cocktails and live DJ sets.
Gitano Miami brings an air of Tulum without ever leaving Miami Beach. It offers signature tropical vibes, gipsy-disco sounds on its vivacious rooftop.
Inspired by Europe’s grand opera houses and the glittering allure of Old Hollywood, the intimate Faena theater showcases ambitious artistic productions and Faena’s very own highly-acclaimed cabaret show.
The hotel makes the most of its 100,000 square feet of private white sand beach with the Faena Beach Club, which has adorable red-and-white candy-striped lounge chairs, plus a range of private cabanas that can accommodate large groups. Poolside butlers are there to indulge your every need or craving.
The Tierra Santa Healing House spa is home to all types of amenities, including one of the largest hammams and a marble Ice Parlor, which uses the power of ice and air to strengthen your immune system.
Faena has a state-of-the-art gym for all your workout needs. Daily yoga and boot camp classes are offered on the beach.
The staff will take care of you from one smiling attendant to the next. This level of service is maintained throughout your stay, from restaurant staff to beach attendants. Hospitality is genuinely friendly, skilled and well trained to consistently deliver stellar service.
The Faena has everything you could possibly need right at your fingertips, The staff is wonderful and dedicated to making sure your every request is taken care of. It’s a true resort, and you could easily spend a few days here and still leave without having had a chance to experience every amenity the hotel has to offer.
