AQUA Pinecrest January 2025

AQUA JANUARY 2025

CONNECT

PINECREST

With Black Art in Opa-Locka

EXPLORE Gems of the Caribbean

RELAX

In Luxury at the Andaz Hotel

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TIMELESS COLLECTION

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2025

18 F E AT UR E S

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Reviving Opa-Locka

The small South Florida city is celebrating Black culture through art.

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Coastal Frost

Winter may be mild in the sunshine state, but we can still bring the cold-weather style.

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History and Elegance Unite

The Hyatt’s newest brand is coming to Miami; here’s an inside look at what the Andaz property has to offer.

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CO LUM N S

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EDITOR’S NOTE Welcoming the new year

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CONTRIBUTORS Meet our creatives

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ELEVATIONS Living with the waves, a new luxury residence in Sunny Isles Beach

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SUNSHINE STATE Art that sparkles and saves: ecotourism

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THE GIVEBACK Basketball star Brent Wright’s journey to education

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WANDERLUST Gems of the Caribbean

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AQUA ROUGE New year, new you

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Photocredit: Bernardaud

Chiragan brings the finest in luxury home decor and curated gifts. From exquisite tableware to handcrafted linens and loungewear, each piece is a work of art. Elevate your living space with timeless elegance and the art of refined craftsmanship, from our home to yours.

@chiraganhome / www.chiraganhome.com / 255 Altara Avenue, Coral Gables Untitled-3 1

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EDITOR’S NOTE

PHOTOGRAPH BY ALI APPLIN

T

takes us to nearby Opa-Locka, the small town with big dreams of highlighting the Black experience in Florida.

She writes about a current exhibition, “Black Aliveness: The Aesthetics of Being,” held in the city that showcases Black excellence and why Opa-Locka is the perfect site for a proposed Black History Museum that would be the state’s first and only.

Art is having a moment beyond Opa-Locka, too; in this issue, we give you a preview of a beautiful upcoming project that aims to protect our local reefs while dazzling visitors with enchanting underwater art.

We also spare a moment to chat with basketball star turned hometown hero Brent Wright. After returning to the U.S. following a successful career on the European circuit, Wright opened a K-8 school focused on the arts, technology and social development for students in Liberty City. His heartwarming path to education is sure to inspire.

Whether you’re appreciating the carefully crafted writing or just taking in our artful photography, this issue of AQUA is a great beginning to the new year. We hope you enjoy perusing these pages and get inspired to chase your own adventures this year.

Happy 2025!

WELCOMING THE NEW YEAR THE NEW YEAR IS UPON US, and with it, so many wonderful experiences await. Here in sunny Florida, we can enjoy warm weather, pristine beaches and plenty of cultural hotspots while many other parts of the nation are knee-deep in snow. And the best part? We’re a hop, skip and a jump away from other fivestar destinations.

In this issue, we jet set to the Caribbean where travel writer and explorer extraordinaire Gerry Barker shares a few of his favorite island gems. His picks are perfect for those who want to recover from the busy holiday season and bask in the laidback vibes of paradise.

Looking for something close to home? Contributor Suzan McDowell

Sophia Carlisle Editor

PINECREST Advertising Director Daisy Abreu daisy.abreu@wainscotmedia.com Creative Director Kijoo Kim Editor Sophia Carlisle Columnists Gerry Barker Julieta Figueredo Dana Goldberg Rochelle B. Weinstein aquasouthflorida.com

WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden VP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan Art Director Rosemary O’Connell Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer Operations Director Catherine Rosario Production Designer Chris Ferrante Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

AQUA Pinecrest magazine is published

by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Pinecrest and surrounding areas of South Florida, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail.

Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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CONTRIBUTORS

AMIT BLOOM

GERRY BARKER Gerry’s two passions are writing and travel. Atlanta-born and Texas-raised, he left an award-winning media career to see the world. Today, he maintains a website, North Palm Beach Life, and works as a freelance travel writer. Follow his adventures every month in Wanderlust.

Amit is a beauty enthusiast from Miami, where she founded and edited an award-winning lifestyle magazine for over 20 years. She parlayed her love of makeup and skincare into a thriving Instagram page, @amit.beauty.talk, with loyal followers thirsting for luxury beauty news.

When she’s not writing, Amit is active in her local community as an elected official, proving that beauty and brains do go together.

JOSIE GULLIKSEN

SUZAN McDOWELL

OMAR SOMMEREYNS

Josie, a Miami native, is a freelance writer, arts advocate and enthusiast. She currently contributes to South Florida on the Cheap, Biscayne Times, and Artburst Miami, where the inspiration for her AQUA article originated. Josie has been an arts writer for over three decades and has her own blog, Scene Around South Florida, at josiegulliksen.com.

Suzan’s marketing agency, Circle of One Marketing, which she founded 23 years ago, has grown itself into a formidable and influential brand in South Florida.

The agency’s work is mainly done in the multicultural space for a variety of clients and industries.

Omar is a journalist and content strategist based in Miami. His career has fluctuated between working as a writer and editor at print magazines and digital publications and creating content for various brands and tech companies, including Amazon and Monster.com.

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ELEVATIONS

Oceanfront

SYMMETRY Stunning views, serene surroundings, impeccable service and a private beach club.

Sound like a home only found in dreams? Meet St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach.

BY OMAR SOMMEREYNS

AQUA SPOKE TO Edgardo Defortuna, president, CEO and founder of Fortune International Group, about his development: St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach.

There are many waterfront buildings in Miami, and your website for this project cleverly refers to it as a pied-à-mer.

Can you please tell our readers why it’s described as such?

We call St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach a pied-à-mer because it truly represents the ultimate home by the ocean, where luxury and nature come together seamlessly. One of the standout features of this property is its 435 feet of pristine oceanfront—a feature no other current development in Miami can offer. My wife, Ana Cristina, and I wanted to create a project that would maximize the experience of living directly on the beach, offering

residents uninterrupted views of the Atlantic and a true oceanfront lifestyle. This isn’t just a place to live—it’s a private retreat where the ocean is part of your daily life, wrapped in the elegance for which St. Regis is known.

The idea of a pied-à-mer is about more than just being near the water—it’s about creating a lifestyle that combines the serenity of the ocean with impeccable service.

Whether it’s managing daily needs, arranging special occasions, or offering personalized service 24/7, the legendary St. Regis Butler Service ensures that every resident feels cared for in a way that is unmatched. The partnership with Chateau Group allowed us to offer a comprehensive lifestyle that is about more than just luxury finishes—it’s about creating an experience where service and comfort are paramount.

Based on the renderings, the building’s façade seems to mirror the translucency and reflective qualities of the ocean. Was that intentional?

Yes, the design of the St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach was heavily inspired by the ocean. Our development team, working closely with Chateau Group and Arquitectonica, wanted to create a building that didn’t just sit next to the water but actually felt like part of it. The curvature of the towers, the use of reflective glass—it’s all designed to mimic the fluidity and natural beauty of the Atlantic. As the sun moves throughout the day, the building catches the light and changes, just like the ocean, creating a dynamic and everchanging façade that feels alive.

In Miami, particularly in Sunny Isles Beach, the relationship between the architecture and the environment is critical. We didn’t want the towers to feel disconnected from their surroundings. By using materials that play with light and reflect the sea, we’ve created

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RENDERINGS PROVIDED BY ST. REGIS RESIDENCES, SUNNY ISLES BEACH

a building that almost becomes one with the water, making it an integral part of the landscape rather than a separate entity.

How do the waterfront elements seep into the interiors?

The connection to the ocean was central to our design for St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach and Patricia Anastassiadis brought this vision to life with her exceptional expertise.

Known for her work on prestigious projects like the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France, Anastassiadis crafted interiors that reflect the calm and beauty of the natural environment.

Using a palette of blues, greens and neutrals inspired by the sea and sky, along with innovative textures, she created luxurious yet timeless spaces that seamlessly blend modern elegance with nature’s serenity.

The attention Anastassiadis brings to detail is evident in every element of the design, from the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows to the generous terraces that ensure residents are always connected to the stunning views of the Atlantic. Her ability to blend functionality with beauty makes the residences not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday living. The constant presence of the ocean, whether indoors or outdoors, is a testament to her thoughtful design, creating a harmonious living experience where the water is always within reach.

For people who love the water, what is one aspect of this project you would point out to them and why?

For anyone who loves the water, the private beach club is without a doubt the highlight of this project. Ana Cristina and I have always believed that living by the ocean should be about more than just the view—it should be about experiencing the beach as part of your daily life. The private beach club at St. Regis Residences offers residents direct access to the Atlantic, complete with cabanas, a beach bar and dedicated service. It’s designed to offer a level of privacy and exclusivity that you simply don’t get at public beaches, allowing residents to truly embrace the beach lifestyle in luxury and comfort.

What is the effect you’re seeking for people to experience when they enter and leave the property?

When people enter the St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach, we want them to feel

an immediate sense of calm and luxury.

Everything about the property is designed to evoke tranquility, from the elegant lobby to the sweeping ocean views that greet you as soon as you walk through the doors. The St. Regis brand has always been synonymous with timeless elegance, and we’ve made sure that every detail, from the architecture to the interior design, reflects that legacy. We want residents and visitors to feel as though they’ve entered a world where everything has been considered for their comfort and enjoyment.

And when they leave, we want them to feel rejuvenated, as if they’ve spent time in a private retreat by the sea. The St. Regis experience goes beyond physical luxury— it’s about how a place makes you feel. By combining Miami’s stunning natural beauty with the unparalleled service of St. Regis, we’ve created a sanctuary where people can truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves. That’s the kind of lasting impression we hope to leave.

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AN AVANT-GARDE ATTRACTION TO

ECOTOURISM A 7-mile underwater public sculpture park, snorkel trail and purpose-built reef is coming to the Miami Beach shoreline.

THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX and in an effort to combine their love of art and the environment, Ximena Caminos, founder and artistic director of The Reef Line, along with Colin Foord, a marine biologist and founder of Coral Morphologic, are making their dream a reality.

Caminos, whose work involved discovering talent and creating launchpads for them, met Foord years ago and fell in love with his avant-garde style but was also taken with its duality.

“It felt so Miami and so international at the same time. Colin’s work is beautiful and very important,” says Caminos.

It’s obvious why she tapped Foord to work with her on this project: Coral Morphologic aims to blend science and art with the goal of showcasing the coral’s

beauty, while inspiring people to restore the reefs as way to protect the planet.

Caminos, who arrived in Miami in the 2010s, is no stranger to both national and international projects of immense magnitude. Having worked with two large scale cultural districts in North and South America, including Faena Group in Miami Beach and Buenos Aires, Argentina as well as The Underline, she understands the scope of the Reef Line.

The Reef Line will be a 7-mile underwater public sculpture park, snorkel trail and purpose-built reef, located off Miami Beach’s shoreline, within swimming distance from shore. It grew out of a conversation with Foord about the current condition of Miami Beach reef heads and artificial reefs in place south of Fifth Street. That conversation ignited

a desire to do more, leading Caminos and Foord to apply for the Knight Arts Challenge grant.

The Reef Line combines art and science, involving experts from the Department of Environmental Resources Management and the Army Corps of Engineers. Sylvia Earle, a renowned marine biologist and oceanographer, was initially skeptical but recognized the project’s importance. All of these elements combined were the key to winning the Knight Arts Challenge grant.

Caminos was thrilled when Victoria Rogers, Vice President for Arts at the Knight Foundation, called with the news.

“Victoria said she’d awarded it to us because she knew we could pull it off,” says Caminos.

Alongside her on this journey

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF REEFLINE

BY JOSIE GULLIKSEN

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SUNSHINE STATE

and lending his expertise is Foord, a graduate of the University of Miami in marine biology and co-founder of Coral Morphologic.

“Our organization is Coral Morphologic, which we founded in 2007 and works to draw awareness to Miami’s reef track, which is the third largest in the world. It’s right here, and there just wasn’t a lot of awareness about it,” says Foord.

Connecting with Caminos was inevitable as Foord has been dedicated to making the reefs along Miami Beach accessible once again. The Reef Line project had been a long-time ambition for Foord, and with their combined expertise in art and science, they formed the perfect team for this innovative arts and science hybrid project.

Foord explains, “Miami Beach’s

development hindered reef accessibility, so it was crucial for me to create a place that is accessible. Using art as a means of attraction not only promotes ecotourism but also serves an ecological purpose.”

The Reef Line is really a collaboration with nature, and the sculptures are the beginning of its evolution. Overseeing the creation of the sculptures and working with the chosen artists will be Shelby Thomas, CEO and Director of Research of Ocean Rescue Alliance International.

“Shelby is in a position to guide the artists on how they create art that will help corals settle more easily and her involvement really makes this a true collaboration between scientists, arts and nature,” says Foord.

One of those commissioned artists is Miami-based multimedia artist Carlos

Betancourt, who Caminos immediately tapped for the project.

Betancourt’s Miami Reef Star prototypes will form a monumental starshaped artificial reef. This environmental sculpture will be visible from flights over Miami Beach and was inspired by his childhood memory witnessing a starfish migration while snorkeling in Puerto Rico.

Learn more about The Reef Line project and all those involved, including scientists, artists and environmentalists, by visiting TheReef Line.org.

ArtburstMiami.com is a nonprofit media source for the arts featuring fresh and original stories by writers dedicated to theater, dance, visual arts, film, music and more. Don’t miss a story at artburstmiami.com.

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The Art of Transformation:

REVIVING OPA-LOCKA Ten North Group’s Art of Transformation exhibition, now part of Art Basel, is helping to grow Opa-Locka into a destination that celebrates the global Black experience.

i

BY SUZAN MCDOWELL

“Garden Of Humanity,” curated by James Brazil.

IF YOU HAVEN’T HEARD that Opa-Locka is on the come-up, you need new sources. Home of both the largest installation of Moorish architecture in the United States and the largest collection of art from Africa and the African diaspora in Florida, Opa-locka’s star is rising.

Today, the very name ‘Opa-locka’ brings to mind the art, architecture and design that celebrates the global Black experience.

For the past 12 years, Dr. Willie Logan, president and CEO of Ten North Group, a 40-year-old non-profit fostering equitable access to housing, economic opportunity and cultural engagement, has strategically focused on acquiring art from Africa and the African diaspora, especially the Caribbean.

Logan has traveled across Africa, searching for artists who would embrace his unusual business model

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for art acquisition. His approach involves purchasing high-level fine art directly from the artist to establish a direct connection.

The incredible work of these aweinspiring artists could easily (and many times does) get lost in a huge gallery, a private collection or worse—a museum warehouse—in obscurity, never even making it on the walls.

In exchange for this direct access, Logan promises laser-focused personal attention, more wall space, enhanced exposure and inclusion in their art loan programs, where their collection is shown in museums, galleries and other public spaces worldwide.

“We give access to the artist’s work, and we have greater access to the artist. Our meaningful interactions and relationships with these masters of fine art from the African diaspora, like Mali’s Abdoulaye Konate known for his bold, colorful and intricately detailed largescale textile installations and Afro-Cuban artist Juan Roberto Diego, whose work examines themes of marginalization and ancestry, make our model unusual,” Logan says. “Our ultimate goal is to make these works available to the general public, specifically communities from the diaspora, free of charge.”

Logan stressed using art to bring outside people inside the African diasporic experience, with the hope that people will invest in and see these communities in a different light.

In 2022, he snagged the official and prestigious Art Basel nod to extend the luxurious Miami Beach annual celebration of fine art to Art of Transformation in historic Opa-Locka in North Dade, a hub for Black empowerment.

The programming, which ran from Dec. 4 to Dec. 8, was created by artists, curators, scholars and collectors conceived to address issues in politics and aesthetics and their resonance in the contemporary era. Most exhibitions are still on display until Feb. 28, 2025, free and open to the public by appointment only.

EXHIBITION

Black Aliveness: The Aesthetics of Being continues the exploration of the interrelations between words and image-

“Cockpit Country Entanglement and Hope” (Jamaica) by Bryan Mcfarlane, part of Aliveness & Livity. Oil on linen, 2022. Image courtesy of the artist.

making in the Black world. It builds on the work of African American scholar Kevin Qashie, “Black Aliveness or a Poetics of Being” (2021), Duke University Press, which pairs Black texts with imagemaking by artists from the Black world.

As African and African diaspora writings are debated, contested, legislated and banned, it is worth considering how the Black world conceives and uses literature and image-making to construct an autonomous field.

In Praise of the Blues by Edouard Duval-Carrié (ARC), curated by Adrienne Von Lates, this piece explores historical, cultural and spiritual resonance of the color blue in the Black Atlantic diaspora.

Under the Bridge, Beyond the Beach, Above the Muck (Historic Train Station), curated by Professor Yacouba Konate; snapshots of the Ten North’s collections, this exhibition articulates the Group’s approach to collection, embodying and enacting black memory principles. It serves as a locus of memory, a landmark around which past events structure present memory.

And Is: The BlackFlorida Project (The Hurt Building), curated by Melissa Hunter; this presents the photography of Johanne Rahaman, focusing on the complex and evolving landscapes of Black communities across Florida.

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Left: “And Is” photographed by Johanne Rahaman, Eatonville, 2016. Image courtesy of the artist. Below: Dr. Willie Logan, President & CEO, Ten North Group.

Embodiment of Aliveness: The Sculptures of Siriki Ky (Historic Train Station), curated by E. H. Malick Ndiaye, this piece explores Black resilience and identity in Ky’s powerful bronze sculptures.

Site Memory: The Sculpture Garden (VFW Garden), led by landscape architect James Brazil; the former Veterans of Foreign Wars site becomes a space through which past and present experiences fuse to commemorate Black history through sculptures and installations inspired by banned African American literature.

Tales of Opa-Locka: A Heritage Journey (Historic Train Station), curated

by Alex Van Mecl, Founder, Opa-locka Preservation Association. This inaugural historical experience presents an in-depth exploration of the city’s near-centurylong history and cultural heritage, offering visitors a carefully curated journey through Opa-locka’s unique architectural and social legacy. The exhibition also examines the City’s military history as a training site for the U.S. Naval and Marine Corps before and during World War II.

Local leaders believe the museum would be an anchor in a community that plans to use culture to rejuvenate itself—the ultimate art of transformation. A museum of this magnitude and relevance is touted as a financial boost to Opa-Locka and the entire Miami-Dade County economy.

Logan asserts that Opa-locka is the State’s perfect choice based on Miami’s eternal popularity, its proximity to Latin America and the Caribbean and access

Florida Museum of Black History (rendering).

ARGUING THE CASE FOR A MUSEUM CELEBRATING FLORIDA’S BLACK HISTORY

Opa-Locka is among three finalists, alongside St. Augustine and Eatonville, as potential locations for the first and only Florida Museum of Black History.

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“The Thinker” by Siriki Ky. Photograph

by Zangrà T. Michel.

“Beast of Burden” by Edouard Duval Carriér, 2021; mixed media on aluminum 96”x96.”

to ports that bring in thousands of tourists who could easily spend an extra day or two if there were a cultural museum of this sort as an excursion option. His argument draws the obvious conclusions of the tri-county economic upside of lodging, restaurants and transportation, that just an extra day in South Florida could generate.

The push to beat out the competitors includes broad and powerful Miami-Dade County support from the Miami-Dade County Commission, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Board, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, University of Miami and HistoryMiami.

“We are here to make sure we can preserve Black history in Florida, and what better place to do that than in Opa-locka,” commented Miami-Dade County Mayor Levine Cava.

“When you used to think about cities that provide a cultural experience, you think about New York, you think about Los Angeles,” Logan said. “You didn’t think about Miami. If you wanted to party, enjoy the sunshine, the beach, then you thought about Miami. Now, we’re becoming a cultural hub—we just need to have a few more museums.”

The final decision will be made during the 2025 legislative session.

Thanks to the Ten North Group Curatorial Team for contributing to this story. Visit tennorthgroup.com for more information.

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Coastal FROST

W

AQUA is bringing winter wonderland vibes to your tropical wardrobe.

BY DANA GOLDBERG

WHETHER YOU LOVE sophisticated fabrics, coalescing textures or accessorizing to the max, express your style no matter where your travels take you!

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF PERFECT MOMENT

Skip the snow and splash into paradise.

Turn up the holiday heat by creating your perfect moment in the sea wearing the most versatile and stylish swimwear.

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC STIFFLER

PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN MARTIN

Radiate with confidence this winter in shimmering fabrics paired with your most luxurious layered pieces.

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Discover the art of wearing your coat as a dress, redefining elegance with minimal layers and maximum impact.

Shop the look at kimonabyjp.com.

Instagram: @kimonabyjpworld

JANUARY 2025 / 21

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HISTORY and ELEGANCE UNITE Hyatt’s first Andazbranded property in Florida will soon make its debut In Miami Beach, occupying a space at 4041 Collins Ave. that has deep historical roots to the city.

BY GERRY BARKER

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RENDERINGS COURTESY OF ANDAZ MIAMI BEACH

We hear the term “Andaz lifestyle.”

Can you elaborate on what that entails and how the Andaz brand stands apart from other Hyatt offerings?

O

ORIGINALLY OPENED in the 1940s as the Lord Tarleton Hotel, the art deco tower on Collins Avenue was the tallest building in the city (the Andaz retains the original radio tower on top, reportedly once used back in the day to arrange VIP visits with the Miami airport). Over the decades since, it has undergone a number of ownership changes and renovations. It was the Thompson Miami Beach hotel when Hyatt acquired it in 2016 and renamed the building The Confidante, joining their Unbound Collection of hotels.

Now, after a major renovation, it will reopen as the Andaz early in 2025. Designed to capture the essence of the South Beach lifestyle, newly-appointed General Manager Fernando Rivera talked with Aqua Pinecrest about what guests can expect.

RIVERA: The Andaz lifestyle brand is more than just a place to stay; it’s a haven for travelers to be who they are and who they want to be through imaginative travel.

Each property is thoughtfully curated to embody the unique energy of its surroundings, with every detail carefully crafted—from unique designs that draw inspiration from the region to food and drink that spotlight local flavors to bespoke experiences that bring the region’s best to life.

It’s about exploring the world in a way that feels personal and authentic, making each stay a memorable adventure.

Tell us about the features that will make the Andaz Miami Beach stand out from other South Beach hotel experiences.

RIVERA: Originally a historic landmark, Andaz Miami Beach has been transformed into a modern luxury retreat that retains the charm of its storied past. As the first Andaz hotel in Florida, Andaz Miami Beach promises to capture the essence of Miami Beach glamor and unscripted luxury. The first-of-its-kind ocean view check-in process will welcome guests to explore the property’s 287 rooms, 64 suites, two pools and a historic beach house, which will be accessible through exclusive private membership.

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Guests can expect a full luxury experience at the Andaz Miami Beach, beginning right at check in.

A standout feature is the dynamic Beach Club, which offers a unique experience exclusive for beach club members. The historic 1930s house serves as a retreat for members by day, transforming into an exclusive event venue by night. The property will feature 25,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including ocean-view ballrooms and a convertible pool area.

The hotel will also offer a lively mix of Miami-inspired programming and innovative partnerships that authentically celebrate the city’s rich culture. Nestled in Mid-Beach along the emerging ‘Luxury Row,’ the resort offers quick and easy access to Miami’s cultural experiences, art scene and upscale shopping. Guests can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife of South Beach just moments away.

Whether it’s the culinary offerings inspired by Miami’s melting pot of flavors, wellness experiences designed for balance and rejuvenation or intimate moments spent discovering local culture, Andaz Miami Beach is an invitation to explore the heart of this iconic city.

What will the Andaz offer business travelers and businesses?

RIVERA: The Andaz Miami Beach is set to

become quite the destination for business travelers and corporate events. The hotel is thoughtfully designed to serve as a meeting point for artists, creatives, travelers and locals alike, providing a platform for Miami’s cultural pulse. The property will offer 25,000 square feet of flexible event space, both indoors and out.

The standout feature has to be the convertible pool area, which uses specialized technology to transform from a swimming pool into a solid event surface in minutes. That’s the kind of versatility that event planners dream about. The six meeting rooms have been designed with adaptability in mind, and they’ve cleverly incorporated ocean views into their ballrooms so that business gatherings can come with a view. After the meetings wrap up, teams can enjoy the property’s two pools or perhaps explore the culinary offerings from José Andrés Group.

Food is an important component of any visit to South Beach. Tell us more about the food and drink offerings at the Andaz.

RIVERA: We’re thrilled to be elevating South Beach’s dining scene through our partnership with the renowned José Andrés Group to create an unrivaled culinary destination. The Mediterranean venue is blending Miami’s vibrant energy with coastal Mediterranean flavors, incorporating local Florida ingredients and adding a fresh twist to traditional dishes. The space incorporates a clever water feature built into the ceiling that plays with natural light, and guests can choose between indoor dining or enjoying their meal on our terrace with full-service bar.

On the second floor, there’s a sophisticated cocktail bar that’ll serve both classic drinks and creative new concoctions, paired with José Andrés-inspired light bites.

With most of the seating on the exterior terrace, it’s the perfect spot to soak in those Miami Beach vibes. For those pool and beach days, the pool bar and café will keep everyone refreshed with all-day dining

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options. And of course, if you’re feeling like dining in, we offer room service from morning until late night. We’re creating a complete culinary experience—whether you’re in the mood for a casual poolside bite, a craft cocktail with a view or an unforgettable dinner.

What kind of guest rooms will be offered and what can guests expect in the way of amenities and technology?

RIVERA: At Andaz Miami Beach, we’ve designed our accommodations to be more than just a place to rest—we’re creating immersive spaces that capture the essence of Miami’s vibrant, oceanfront energy. Our collection spans 287 rooms, including 64 expansive suites, each crafted as a unique retreat that blends luxurious comfort with captivating design. Guests can expect floor-to-ceiling windows that frame either our iconic Atlantic coastline or the sparkling Miami skyline, with private outdoor terraces that invite the destination right into your personal space.

In terms of amenities, we’ve curated a collection that balances luxury and

practicality. Each room features a 65-inch flat-screen HDTV, individual climate control and a minibar. Coffee lovers will appreciate the in-room Nespresso machine, while those preparing for meetings or evenings out can rely on our clothing steamer.

We’ve also partnered with Byredo to provide luxury bath products, and each room comes with plush bathrobes and slippers.

Additional conveniences include a hair dryer,

in-room safe and the option to request a crib for traveling families.”

Is there a date for the official opening?

RIVERA: Early 2025!

You can get more information at their website: hyatt.com/andaz/miaobandaz-miami-beach.

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THE GIVEBACK

The Reluctant Hero

After a successful basketball career in Europe, Brent Wright came home to Miami and found his true purpose.

BY SUZAN McDOWELL IT’S ALWAYS INTERESTING when someone gives up their privilege. It makes you wonder. Why would a star American basketball player who calls the planet his playground and jet sets from America to Belgium, to Russia, to Sweden, give it all up for the greater good?

Especially one living in upper-crust countries like Croatia and Latvia, where a 6-foot-9-inch American basketball star is treated like a king in every room and on every court.

Meet Brent Wright, a reluctant educational activist who fell in love with his purpose—after spending years running from it.

Born in Liberty City, Wright remembers playing basketball in his front yard as a kid.

He grew into his undeniable talent at Miami Senior High School, where he earned State Championship status as a power forward— twice. He left Miami to pursue a sociology degree with a basketball scholarship at the University of Florida. He played in three consecutive NCAA Tournaments, including the Final Four, before heading to Europe, where he played in nine championship games in 14 years in seven countries. Wright has had quite a celebrated career playing professional basketball all over Europe. He

After his basketball career, Brent Wright founded the B. Wright Leadership Academy, a K-8 school focused on the arts, technology and social development, in Liberty City.

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PHOTOGRAPH OF BRENT WRIGHT PLAYING BASKETBALL COURTESY OF BRENT WRIGHT. REMAINING PHOTOGRAPHS BY B. ASHTON VISUALS

says while there, he never faced racism and formed friendships that will last a lifetime.

LIFE AFTER BASKETBALL In 2013, America drew him home. Struck by inspiration after a conversation with his uncle, Bernard Wright, a respected voice whose ideas he took to heart, Wright contemplated his next move: life after basketball. The B. Wright Leadership Academy, a private K-8 nonprofit, was born from that conversation. Focused on the arts, technology and social development, the program also offers free meals and provides student and family services—largely funded by Wright.

In the academy’s fourth year, Wright attended a business conference where a woman he didn’t know asked him about the school and his role in it. He talked candidly about his mission and vision—he even discussed his reluctance to be in the spotlight, preferring to work behind the scenes to not abuse his celebrity. Then she said something that shook him, creating a moment in time he will never forget: “This is your purpose.”

Those four words changed his life. Initially uncomfortable at the thought of leaning into it, Wright disagreed. Over time, however, he acknowledged that the academy, the kids, its modern challenges and his unique ability to solve them were his true purpose. Since then, he has leaned in and accepted his responsibility as part of the solution for the 160 Black and brown children who attend his academy.

PAYING IT FORWARD In retrospect, he believes the school was calling him from across the pond, pushing him toward the kind of work he admits is one of the best decisions of his life. Now, Wright had the chance to return to Liberty City to pay it forward and make a real impact on young children of color who face a new set of educational challenges.

Modern-day behavioral hurdles have been exacerbated by the pandemic, apathy and the biggest issue of them all: smartphones and social media.

“Kids are different today,” he says, pairing new problems, like social media, with age-old issues of peer pressure and coming-of-age growing pains.

“I know I can make an impact with a return to achieving simple, small things, person to person, that lead up to bigger and bigger goals achieved,” says Wright. “Just like basketball.”

“I really love being with the kids and playing all the roles,” Wright says. “I know I can make an impact with a return to achieving simple small things, person to person, that lead up to bigger and bigger goals achieved. Just like basketball.”

Longtime board member and Certified Public Accountant Yinka Majekodunmi says he joined the team because, “The academy solves a problem for kids in Liberty City.

It’s tapping into a way for those kids who may not fit into any other traditional private schools to have a small classroom and use the close relationship with the teachers to push forward. It’s a tight-knit relationship that the children need, based on their common circumstances of poverty and chronically traumatized environments.”

In Majekodunmi’s view, the academy goes beyond education—it’s also about building

community for kids who need it the most.

Wright could have followed the wellworn path of many athletes and celebrities.

Unlike most, however, he chose a different legacy, one focused on empowering inner-city youth in Miami and grounded in long-term change. Drawing from his global experiences and the discipline he learned from his sport, Wright is committed to inspiring the next generation to achieve educational excellence.

Wright plans to build an ambitious basketball sports program, a true alchemy of athletic excellence, to be launched in 2026.

Though he has no regrets, he still misses basketball.

To learn more about the B. Wright Leadership Academy or make a donation, visit bwrightla.com.

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WANDERLUST

Caribbean Gems There’s more than meets the eye in the beautiful Caribbean. Take a tour of some of the best, lesser-known islands in the region.

BY GERRY BARKER

Left: A beautiful restaurant patio on Saba. Above: A cruise ship tender near Saba.

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JOST VAN DYKE This island, the smallest of the British Virgin Islands, is named for a Dutch merchant—or pirate, take your choice—and is small enough that you can walk just about anywhere, although a scooter or jeep isn’t a bad option, either. Once you arrive, you’ll want to head for White Bay Beach, an idyllic retreat ringed by bars, restaurants and shops. Grab a lounger and watch the yachts and sailboats come and go, or visit the Soggy Dollar Bar, the birthplace of that famous rum drink, the Painkiller. If the spirit moves you, don a

PHOTOGRAPHS BY GERRY BARKER

YOU KNOW ABOUT the popular destinations for those seeking a tropical holiday: The Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Barbados. But there are other, lesser known, lesser traveled islands that deserve to be on your bucket list. Let us explore a few hidden gems of the Caribbean:

swimsuit and hike over to the island’s east side for the Bubbly Pool, where crashing waves form a natural hot tub. You can get here on a ferry from Tortola or St. John.

DOMINICA If you’re a nature lover, this is the place for you. Called the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean, it has 300 square miles of tropical rainforests, waterfalls, volanic activity and wildlife. The latter includes the Imperial Amazon, a parrot only found here and featured on the national flag.

Coco Loco’s, a bar on Jost Van Dyke.

SABA Hardly more than a rocky outcrop in the middle of a blue sea, this tiny special municipality of The Netherlands served as the inspiration for Skull Island in the 1933 classic, “King Kong.” With its tall, volcanic cliffs, it’s easy to see why. What it lacks in white, sandy beaches it makes up for as a premiere destination for divers. Twisting and winding by uniform white houses with red roofs, take “The Road” (its construction was deemed impossible) to the top for charming shops, boutique hotels and restaurants. Home to just over 2,000 people, it can be reached by ferry from St. Marten or via a charter flight.

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Clockwise from top: Snorkeling off of Dominica, courtesy of Discover Dominica. “The Road” on Saba. White Bay Beach on Jost Van Dyke.

A Dominica waterfall, courtesy of Discover Dominica.

Start your visit by traveling from Roseau, the capital, to the enchanting Emerald Pool, at the base of a 40-foot waterfall. Hardy hikers can peer through the steam at Morne Trois Pitons National Park to see the volcanic cauldron known as Boiling Lake—200 feet wide, depth unknown.

Prefer snorkeling? Head for Champagne Reef, home to a rainbow mix of fish and sea life (take note the volcanic bubbles rising from the sea

floor). History buffs will enjoy Fort Shirley, the British fortress where slaves revolted in 1807.

THE ÎLES DES SAINTES This group of islands is part of French Guadeloupe and offers a quiet respite for those who seek refuge from stress. The main attraction is finding one of those palm-lined beaches and just kicking back. Here you’ll also find Fort Napoléon, offering sweeping views

for that perfect selfie. Hop on the ferry and you’ll be here in no time.

In short, there’s more than you can see and do in one visit. While we came via cruise ship, you can get here on a direct flight from Miami or the neighboring islands, and there’s ferry service from Guadeloupe, Martinique or St. Lucia.

Have you discovered a Caribbean “hidden gem?” Share it with me at gerrybarker1108@yahoo.com.

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AQUA ROUGE

Beauty-ful FINDS BK Beauty Holy Grail Trio This limited edition set includes the best-selling, cult-favorite 101 Contoured Foundation, 109 Mini Contoured Foundation and A506 Concealer brushes featuring an all-new completely anodized metal handle.

The set comes with a burgundy vegan leather storage pouch and elegant packaging ($120).

Available at bkbeauty.com.

New year, new look. We found the best products available that will give you an extra touch of luxury to carry all year long.

BY AMIT BLOOM

Lisa Eldridge Rouge Experience Refillable Lipstick World-renowned makeup artist and product developer for Chanel, Shiseido and Lancôme, Lisa Eldridge has brought her expertise to her own line. This luxurious lipstick boasts a lightweight creme formula in a gorgeous gold collectible case that can be personalized with initials. Choose from eight modern, wearable shades ($59).

Available at lisaeldridge.com.

Clé de Peau Beauté City of Dreamlight Collection This beautiful collection is inspired by the landmarks of Paris and includes limited-edition products that truly invoke a dreamy vibe. Stand-outs are the eye-color quad ($110); the Luminizing Face Enhancer ($95); and the fabulous lipstick ($65). Available at Bloomingdales (bloomingdales.com; cledepeaubeaute.com).

NARS Pure Luxury Light Reflecting Face & Eye Palette This face palette offers five shades that can be used as bronzer, highlighter and blush. Choose from Light to Medium, or Medium to Deep, depending on your skin tone. The stunning gold case makes a stylish addition to your makeup bag ($60). Available at Sephora stores in South Florida. (sephora.com; narscosmetics.com)

Chantecaille Gilded Garden Collection A botanical wonderland comes to life with a glamorous spirit. Gilded gold eyeshadow compacts and lipsticks are decorated with dazzling, engraved packaging. There are three eyeshadow duets ($65 each) and two Lip Cristals to choose from ($54 each). Available at Saks Fifth Avenue. (saksfifthavenue.com; chantecaille.com).

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