Whether unwinding in a newly redesigned ocean view suite or indulging in craft martinis and natural wines at the hotel’s Spanish tapas restaurant, Mareva1939, guests are immersed in a sensory celebration of both past and present. It’s the quintessential backdrop for a Miami Beach escape—and the perfect setting for a candid, deep-dive conversation with Stephane Mercier, Managing Director at The National Hotel Miami Beach, who shares insight into what makes the National Hotel such a standout destination.

MK: The National Hotel is known for its strong commitment to art. Can you describe the philosophy behind incorporating artwork into the guest experience—both in the copious common spaces and guestrooms and suites?

SM: The National’s philosophy behind incorporating artwork into the guest experience is deeply rooted in its iconic Miami Beach Art Deco hotel identity. We want guests to feel immersed in a unique, sophisticated revival of a golden age of Miami Beach, while enjoying contemporary hospitality. Designed by renowned architect Roy France, credited with creating the Miami Beach skyline with his string of Art Deco and streamlined towers, the hotel remains a testament to his visionary work. Though renovated to offer the modern, yet sophisticated, classic look and feel experienced by guests today, the hotel continues to stay true to France’s philosophy and artful design. Signature architectural elements, including corner windows, original terrazzo floors, chrome wall sconces and era-inspired details, preserve the National Hotel’s timeless elegance, seamlessly blending classic style with contemporary luxury.

MK: What about the property gives it overarching appeal in the luxury travel sector?

SM: The National Hotel is one of the few South Beach properties that remains true to the iconic Art Deco era, preserving its timeless elegance and charm, and is the only beachfront, adults-only hotel in the destination, promising an elevated experience for a discerning set of travelers. Guests can be assured that the amenities and atmosphere onsite cater to adults that value culture, history and curated experiences. Since its opening in the 1940s, Bar 1939 has embodied the hotel’s rich history, capturing the glamour and sophistication of the period. This luxurious open space features suede lounge chairs, copper cobras emerging from side tables, flooring embedded with hundreds of shiny coins and a grand piano. Guests and locals alike can enjoy our vibrant cultural happenings onsite, including live music on Saturdays, seasonal highlights—including holiday celebrations and New Year’s—and musical collaborations like the Musimelange chamber music series, occurring now through May 19. Solidifying the vintage feel of the Art Deco era is the show-stopping bar, a monumental slab of ornately carved hardwood flanked by elaborate stools.

While design throughout the hotel pays homage to the property’s history, the exclusive Artist Collection Suite embodies the uniqueness found at the National Hotel Miami Beach. Designed by world-renowned artist Elizabeth Fatone, the accommodation features one-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals and Art Deco-inspired furnishings, celebrating the artistic spirit and distinctive character that define the unique experience at the hotel.

MK: How do the art pieces showcased at the hotel enhance the overall ambiance and storytelling of the property?

SM: The hotel’s carefully curated pieces do more than enhance décor, they immerse guests in the timeless elegance of the Art Deco era. From the grand Bar 1939, with its carved hardwood bar and vintage-inspired furnishings, to the Artist Collection Suites featuring the aforementioned Elizabeth Fatone and Renoma Suite, every detail tells a story. Upon arrival, guests can find a sculpture by Carole Feuerman at the property’s entrance, colorful murals by the pool and revolving art present across the hotel throughout the year. Each artistic touch reinforces the hotel’s rich history, ensuring a seamless blend of past and present.

MK: How does the property’s distinctive style, both in architecture and décor, influence the guest experience?

SM: The National Hotel’s Art Deco architecture and décor offer a modernized tribute to the classic Miami Beach style. Miami Beach holds the appeal of having an artful combination of heritage and modernity. Art Deco hotels sprung forth from this intrigue and the National Hotel Miami Beach has solidified its place in the region’s history by achieving, and long maintaining, a sense of artful timelessness with modern appeal. On a year-round rotating basis, local and famed artist showcases or classics can be found in the hotel’s lobby, restaurants and additional common spaces. The hotel also works with local art and design communities to support and be included in Art Deco history tours. This seamless fusion of history, artistry and elegance not only enhances the ambiance, but also invites guests to become part of the hotel’s timeless legacy.

MK: Can you describe the unique features and amenities of the ocean-view and other premium-level suites at the National Hotel?

SM: Ranging from the city view rooms to our penthouse suite, guests can find roomy accommodations and relaxed luxe amenities with stunning views of the blue ocean and our infinity pool. Favorite features in our upper room categories include radios, slippers and a robe beginning in our cabana rooms and suites; balconies in our Cabana rooms; bold, fun murals in our Artist Collection Suites designed by Elizabeth Fatone; and the tri-level space of our Penthouse Suite.

MK: The property’s Mareva1939 on-site restaurant has become a standout feature of the National Hotel. What inspired its culinary concept and name?

SM: Mareva1939, the National Hotel’s signature, award-winning Spanish tapas-style restaurant, was inspired by the year the hotel began welcoming guests. The restaurant’s culinary concept was designed to take guests through a gastronomic journey to Spain, offering a curated menu that blends traditional dishes with a modern, locally driven Miami Beach twist. The family-style menu encourages a convivial atmosphere, keeping the Spanish culture alive by inviting guests to connect around the table. To elevate the meal, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of organic, natural wines and handcrafted cocktails, thoughtfully paired to enhance the flavors of each dish. The creative culinary team ensures that dining remains exciting year-round with seasonal menus for holidays, local events and the hotel’s participation in Miami’s celebrated Miami Spice program. As an extension of Mareva1939, the Martini Bar takes guests back to the hotel’s opening era with original 1939 design elements, a specialty cocktail menu and live music over the weekends, offering an intimate and elevated space for unwinding.

MK: How do you see the hotel’s role in the Miami Beach hospitality scene developing in the coming years?

SM: As an original Art Deco hotel and mainstay of the city’s cultural landscape, The National will continue to embody the classic Miami Beach experience merged with an independent approach, adults-only atmosphere and arts-focused cultural calendar. Guests know to expect an intimate hospitality experience marked by authentic, historic features not found in newer developments.

As Mercier reminds us, the magic of the National Hotel Miami Beach lies in its ability to blend nostalgia and novelty, creating a stay that’s both storied and stylish. Whether it’s lounging by the shimmering infinity pool, savoring curated culinary experiences, or exploring the pulse of South Beach just steps away, every element is designed to transport guests to a timeless version of Miami. For travelers seeking both serenity and sophistication in the heart of the city’s most iconic neighborhood, the National remains an unforgettable destination—elegantly redefined.

This Article Was Written By Merilee Kern, MBA