Elastic, the international architecture and design studio founded by Ria Xenou and Alexandros Xenos, has been named the winner of the AHEAD Americas Award for Best Renovation, Best Bar and Best Lobby for its work on Delano Miami Beach.
The award recognizes Elastic’s transformation of one of Miami Beach’s most iconic hospitality properties, honoring Delano’s celebrated history while introducing a contemporary vision for its next chapter.
Originally opened in 1947 and transformed into a global hospitality icon by Ian Schrager and Philippe Starck in 1995, Delano Miami Beach recently reopened following a comprehensive redesign by Elastic The studio approached the project as a dialogue between past and present, preserving recognizable elements of the property while creating a more contemporary, emotionally driven experience.
Elastic’s design retains signature elements including Delano’s white drapery, colonnade and theatrical sense of arrival, while introducing custom furnishings, sculptural details, artwork and a softer, more intimate atmosphere throughout the property. Guestrooms were designed as cocoon-like retreats, while the iconic Rose Bar returns with a new interpretation.
“We are incredibly honored to receive the AHEAD Americas Award for Best Renovation, Best Bar and Best Lobby for Delano Miami Beach,” said Ria Xenou, Principal and Co-Founder of Elastic. “Delano is such an important part of Miami Beach’s history, and it was a privilege to help shape its next chapter. This award is a wonderful recognition of the vision, creativity and collaboration that went into bringing the property back to life, and we are incredibly proud of the result.”
The AHEAD Awards recognize excellence in hospitality design and experience across the Americas, celebrating projects that demonstrate creativity, innovation and a strong connection between design and the guest experience.
Founded by Ria Xenou and Alexandros Xenos, Elastic is known for creating immersive hospitality destinations that blend architecture, interiors and storytelling. The studio’s global portfolio includes projects for leading hospitality brands including Aman, One&Only, Rosewood, Four Seasons, Delano, Nobu and Nammos, with work spanning Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia.
Delano Miami Beach is owned by Cain International and operated by Ennismore.
ABOUT Elastic
Elastic is an international architecture and design studio founded by Ria Xenou and Alexandros Xenos, specializing in hospitality, resorts, residences, restaurants and wellness environments. Known for creating immersive destinations that bring together architecture, interiors and storytelling, the studio’s portfolio spans Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia and includes projects for some of the world’s leading luxury hospitality brands, including Aman, One&Only, Rosewood, Four Seasons, Delano, Nobu and Nammos.
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