It is one of the most identifiable, iconic and elegant locations in Miami Beach, a city with a plethora of both. However, unlike many more recently developed sites, it also has a history that is intertwined with that of Miami Beach, ensuring its relevance for future generations. It’s The Villa, Casa Casuarina (formerly Gianni Versace’s Mansion), today a lavish 10-suite luxury boutique hotel owned and operated by Victor Hotels. The historic nature of The Villa, its luxurious setting and the opening of its new elegant restaurant component make it utterly unique in Miami Beach, a modern take on the good life in all its glory. As Gianni Versace once said, "Comfort is very important to me. I think people live better in big houses and in big clothes."
The former Versace Mansion, Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by a man named Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman, was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a large amount...
