The Argentine hospitality brand Urbanica opened its first U.S. hotel, the Meridian, in Miami's South of Fifth neighborhood. The 71-room boutique hotel opened Jan. 15 and is the first of two Urbanica properties planned for the South Beach market. The second, Sofi, is expected to open later this year.
The style is urban, contemporary and artsy, drawing from local craftsmanship and creativity. For instance, an expansive wooden bar and coffee tables are made from railroad ties. The welcome desk is a sculpture piece using vintage luggage. A prominent mural by street artist AholSniffsGlue offers a nod to the city's Wynwood Art District and leads guests to their rooms through a succession of the artist's signature eyelids painted on the walls.
The Meridian's lobby features a welcome desk crafted out of old luggage and a mural by local street artist AholSniffsGlue.
There are five room categories, ranging in size from 180 to 360 square feet. Club Rooms overlook the rooftop pool and its adjacent Chill Out Room, a climate-controlled, oversize cabana to relax in after a day at the beach or pool. Complimentary bikes are also provided for guests to use.
Rates start at $179.