Latest news with #ProperHospitality
Forbes
27-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
A Revived Montauk Yacht Club Goes Extra Dog Friendly
Newly renovated, the Montauk Yacht Club has been a Hamptons staple for nearly a century. Dogs, like us, are quirky characters and come with all variety of tastes and habits. Your wonderful dog may or may not hanker to break routine and go on holiday. Your dog typically may not enjoy swimming either, nor even appreciate an oceanside get away. But your highly-adaptable dog can change their spots, and definitely will get a kick out of your stay together at the Montauk Yacht Club in the far reaches of the Hamptons. In this new world of super dog friendly establishments, you couldn't ask for a more happy romping ground than these 16 acres that front Lake Montauk and the Hamptons' largest marina, all of which under a handsome lighthouse belong to this newly-revitalized historic hotel on the eastern tip of Long Island. Officially an artificial embayment now, the estuarine Lake Montauk hasn't been a lake, in fact, since developer Carl Fisher in his late-1920s quest to make Montauk into a sport fishing Mecca and the Miami of the North broke through to Block Island Sound and Atlantic waters. There was a short time when the likes of names like Ford, Morgan, Vanderbilt and Astor made a retreat here, while Lindbergh often landed a seaplane onto the 'lake.' The Ocean Club Montauk restaurant & bar is a completely new element to the Montauk Yacht Club. The Proper Hospitality group has managed the Montauk Yacht Club (or MYC) since Safe Harbor Marinas' $149 million purchase of the property in 2023, a Hamptons record price for those keeping count. Following a soft opening last summer, the 107 guest room MYC has just reopened for this coming summer season. The MYC's modest lobby nicely doesn't scream hotel, and staff wear no corporate-looking name tags. Hotel hall and corridor walls are lined with vintage black and white photos of fishermen, early-century pilots and beach scenes, all provided courtesy of the Montauk Library archives. Reached via a split level, the main building's upper and lower rooms are bathed in light with white plank paneling and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to balconies. Some private cabana-like patio rooms lead right out to the small beach or face the piers. The all-white linens feature simple marine piping and bathrooms carry the Australian Aēsop line of body care products. As super friendly as MYC staff are to dog guests, you might think they were hired on that basis. And dogs will make plenty of other canine friends, whether around the fire pit with its Adirondack chairs under the property's signature lighthouse, or walking down one of the piers as they check out multimillion-dollar vessels docked in 232 slips. Romping the property's Great Lawn with its summer pool may well become your dog's favorite game. The Montauk Yacht Club and Sisley Paris have partnered for summer on the spa cabanas. Beyond that Great Lawn stand a cluster of somewhat Dutch-looking 1928 cottages that made up the original Ziegfeld that Ziegfeld. Currently, some of the structures—all of which are on the National Register of Historic Places—are being converted from a hodgepodge of rooms into suites. You are on Star Island here, which since Mr. Fisher's lake dredging and landfill is actually a peninsula. You're also next to a fine 1950s Coast Guard Station that sits before a plethora of fishing vessels. It's all further territory that makes for fun dog walking. South African-born Culinary Director Jarad McCarroll was instrumental in the design of the handsome open kitchen Ocean Club Montauk which has especially fine marina views from four-top banquettes among the marble table settings. A nautical aesthetic is further enhanced through flooring that resembles decking and navy raffia wall decor. Chef McCarroll can draw upon some of the best fisheries on the East Coast. A new seasonal menu with just-caught seafood and local produce features the wood-fired braai grilling technique from the chef's homeland. A sea bass tartare starter is built around an emulsion of horseradish, dill, lemon and caviar. A main dish of halibut is served with kale, a yoghurt emulsion and shallot, while raw bar options alone fill a third of the menu page. Even a simple round loaf of bread served with dipping oil is a hit. The Chef's Table for custom McCarroll menus faces the kitchen, while the Ocean Club's bright and cheery bar and lounge, as well as the Pool Bar have all-day menus. The light and bright newly renovated Montauk Yacht Club rooms reflect their marine setting. Guests at MYC enjoy paddle boarding, two outdoor and one heated indoor pools, padel courts and bicycles borrowed through the concierge office. An INEOS house car is available, while a 45-minute X-Shore electric boat ride can be booked. In a partnership through Labor Day, Sisley Paris has turned the upper decks of the property's spa cabanas that are docked at the marina into lounges for relaxing before and after treatments. Sisley Paris treatment items can be purchased directly from the spa and at MYC's on-site boutique. Also available through Labor Day, the Michael Kors x Montauk Yacht Club Jet Set package includes a Bedford Travel Signature Logo Stripe Weekender Bag from Michael Kors. Chef McCarroll will also prepare a custom meal at the Ocean Club restaurant, and guests also enjoy a 60-minute massage at the spa cabanas and a sunset cruise aboard an X Shore boat. Along with its classic yacht club labeled sweatshirts, the property's boutique will display a Kors corner of apparel and items. Just below its still-functioning lantern room, the MYC lighthouse's lounge with coffee table books and chessboard is comfortable and large enough to make for an enviable city apartment. You'll be inspired to drive later the few miles further east to one of America's great historic lighthouses. The Montauk Point Lighthouse, commissioned by none other than Washington himself, has had its lens recently restored and undergone a huge erosion relief program of its shore. The fine museum doesn't allow your pooch unfortunately, but you both can walk nearby Camp Hero, a vast former military site of overgrown ruins. Directly across Lake Montauk, the double decker Inlet Seafood Restaurant comes with stunning sunsets. The enormous and casual establishment started nearly two decades ago by six local fisherman takes no reservations, but is well worth the wait for fish as fresh as it comes. For in town breakfast or brunch, the Bird on the Roof café is another popular off-property option. And once back at the Montauk Yacht Club, Fido will be more than ready to conk out on their own bed that comes courtesy of their stay. The Montauk Yacht Club pet fee is $100 per day.
Time Out
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Aperitivo Hour Launch at The Shelborne by Proper
Looking for a solid excuse to scope out the newly remodeled and rebranded Shelborne by Proper? The Art Deco gem on South Beach just unveiled a well-deserved facelift by the laidback-luxury Proper Hospitality hotel group, and now its daily Aperitivo Hours provide the perfect reason to stop in and hang a while. Dubbed The Bar, the hotel's lobby lounge is serving a curated selection of coastal favorites in a relaxed, sunlit space that shifts seamlessly from day to night. From 5 to 7pm, partake in half-off select menu items, like a half-dozen fresh oysters with champagne mignonette and chives, Royal Ossetra caviar served with guac and tostadas, and signature cocktails like the avocado oil–washed Shelborne Martini and a tropical-ish espresso martini with reposado tequila and coconut.
Los Angeles Times
19-05-2025
- Los Angeles Times
Stay in Style: The Shelborne By Proper Invites You to Miami's Renovated Art Deco Gem
When you think of Miami Beach, what comes to mind? Beyond the surf, sand and beautiful turquoise waters, your vision might conjure beautiful streets lined with Art Deco architectural masterpieces, all clad in stunning white with pops of turquoise and pink neon accents. If you've ever dreamed of making your way there and actually staying in one of those iconic places, you're in luck: The Shelborne By Proper, a legendary Collins Ave. hotel built in 1940, is inviting a whole new generation to experience its magic. But beyond the history and the $100 million renovation, The Shelborne By Proper is an experience created by its beachfront location and a curated list of luxurious amenities. The Shelborne has 251 rooms, suites and villas, many with Atlantic or Miami skyline views. Each room is an oasis, with a warm, earthy color palette playing off of the natural beauty just beyond the picture windows. Custom details abound – ceramic sconces, handwoven wall coverings, bespoke furniture and handmade ceramics – all speak to attention to detail. 'We are proud to introduce Proper Hospitality's signature blend of luxury and design-forward hospitality to the heart of Miami Beach this spring,' said Brian De Lowe, co-founder and president of Proper Hospitality. 'With The Shelborne By Proper, we're breathing fresh life into a Miami icon, pairing timeless design with a contemporary spirit that builds community through art, dining and wellness.' It's easy to picture yourself on the outdoor terrace of the 1,700-square-foot two-bedroom terrace suite, gazing out on the Atlantic. Inside, a curated mix of vintage and contemporary sculptural pieces creates a refined-yet-eclectic chic. Down by the pool – with its famed sculptural diving board – there are two-bedroom pool villas available offering kitchenettes, lounges and private terraces. But the Shelborne's Collins Avenue location isn't just about the view – it's about being in the heart of Miami Beach. Just steps from the sand, guests can move from poolside to oceanfront at their leisure. The hotel offers a thoughtful wellness program that rejuvenates body and mind. And of course, the Shelborne is located right in the heart of Miami Beach's dining and nightlife. But you could also just dine in – the Shelborne's restaurant options are delights all their own. Michelin-starred chef and Florida Keys native Abram Bissell and global beverage innovator Christopher Lowder are creating a vibrant and immersive culinary experience. Their signature restaurant, Pauline, offers a taste of the flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean combined with Miami's energy. And for an intimate moment, cocktail lounge Little Torch, the hotel's cocktail lounge, offers seasonal punches and rare spirits poured tableside from a custom cocktail cart. From the Shelborne, you're within striking distance to explore Miami and South Beach, including the Art Deco architecture laden Ocean Drive, the South Pointe Park Pier, and the famed tropical Miami Beach Botanical Gardens – a getaway within your getaway.
Forbes
14-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The First Luxury Hotel Group In The World To Become Seed Oil Free
The co-founder and president of Proper Hospitality takes a giant leap and transitions to seed oil free kitchens across its flagship brands. The new Shelborne by Proper Lobby Bar in Miami, part of the first hotel group to go seed oil free ... More across the brand. 'I'm obsessed with all things wellness and longevity,' says Brian de Loewe, co-founder and president of Proper Hospitality, a hip luxury hotel group with 13 design-forward properties offering state-of-the-art modern wellness from San Francisco to Austin to Miami, with three new destinations on the way. Wellness at the Proper Hotels is built around five pillars: movement, recovery, nourishment, rest and connection, along with substantive cutting-edge technologies that support them. The Santa Monica Proper features a Recovery Suite with next-gen bio-optimization technology such as multi-wave-length pulsed electromagnetic fields, molecular hydrogen therapy, light and sound therapy, oxygen therapy. The Austin Proper offers hot/cold plunge, red light therapy, dry sauna. Each of the Proper hotels is equipped with a pool, spa and fitness center, and accoladed restaurants that serve organic produce, grass-fed meats, wild-caught seafood, and regenerative grains. 'It's all inspired by how I live at home,' he says. The Ammortal Chamber in the Recovery Suite at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel. De Loewe recently had what he calls 'an AHA moment." "We invested so much in wellness, but we were using seed oils in our fryers,' he says. De Loewe, who has himself been seed-oil free for years, gathered his chefs together. They agreed to make a shift and transition all of the kitchens across the flagship brands, Proper Hotels and By Proper, to become seed oil free, making The Proper the first seed oil free national hotel brand in the world. Proper, in partnership with Zero Acre Farms, switched to Zero Acre Oil, a rainwater-fed fermentation-derived sugarcane oil that offers a high smoke point and low environmental impact. According to Jeff Nobbs, co-founder & CEO, Zero Acre Farms, 'Our production method uses 99 percent less water than olive oil and 87 percent less land than canola oil.' And, says De Loewe, it tastes great. The seed-oil free movement has been gaining a lot of publicity of late, with RFK, Jr. vociferously claiming that seed oils are harmful to human health. But there are plenty of people who eschewed seed oils well before MAHA, including de Loewe, who says that for him, 'It's not a political or marketing statement. It just felt right for our guests.' Known by detractors as 'the hateful eight,' the seed oils that have come under fire include canola oil (a.k.a. rapeseed oil), corn oil, grapeseed oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, rice bran oil and peanut oil. These are commonly used in restaurant cooking, baking and deep frying because they have a high smoke point and they are cheap, which is why they are also ubiquitous in processed and ultra-processed foods. Seeds themselves are high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and they are a healthy source of fiber. But seed oils are put through a process where they are pressed, bleached, heated, processed with solvents and highly refined, which can strip them of their nutritional value. It is not the seeds that are inherently bad; the processing is what can be controversial. Seed oil free light bites at the newly opened Shelborne by Proper in Miami. Popular alternatives are extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil (which also has a high smoke point) and algae oil, the new kid on the block, which requires less water and land to cultivate than seed oils, and has a similar neutral flavor. Those looking to lessen their exposure to seed oils while dining out can order grilled, roasted, or steamed dishes, which are less likely to be cooked with those oils. Ask the server what types of oils are used in the dish you plan to order. Sometimes the chef can substitute a seed oil-free alternative. Look for a restaurant that touts itself as 'seed-oil free.' Consult a third-party certifier or database, such as The Seed Free Alliance or Seed Oil Scout (which grew from 100,000 users to 1.5 million last year) as a reference. The pool deck at The Santa Monica Proper A wellness innovator across the board, De Loewe created the first Proper Hotel in San Francisco in 2017 (designed by Kelly Wearstler), because he felt there was a hole in the marketplace. 'Boutique hotels had good programming and cultural ties,' he says. 'Luxury hotels had great service and amenities. But there weren't hotels that had both.' The Proper, he says, is for guests who can afford to stay at five-star hotels 'but want a great vibe with a cultural connection.' The Proper Club, a wellness membership club recently launched in the Austin and Santa Monica hotels, was created to provide those local communities with access to the hotels' wellness facilities, wellness classes, movement studios, recovery suites, live bands, speakers, cultural events, nutrition programs and more. 'Luxury travel is changing,' says De Loewe. 'It's no longer about access. It's about how you feel when you walk out the door.' He says he is constantly asking himself, 'How do we make it so that people who live a wellness lifestyle at home don't have to downgrade at Proper?' Downgrade? Not a chance.
%2C%2520Patrick%2520Michael%2520Chin.JPG&w=3840&q=100)
Condé Nast Traveler
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Condé Nast Traveler
Shelborne by Proper
Why book? Miami Beach's midcentury Art Deco scene may have cemented its place in design history, but today a new, grown-up iteration can be found in the form of The Shelborne By Proper. After a $100 million renovation, the hotel is leading the wave of change on Collins Avenue's popular six-block strip of hotels and boutiques, an area that is set to fully transform by 2027. Set the scene Usually it's easy to spot the tourists from the locals in Miami, but places like The Shelborne have blurred the lines. It's like everyone knew the assignment when it comes to styling themselves for a stay here. The crowd here is, including the friendly front desk staff member dressed in a tan double-breasted jacket and coral-orange top. A mom and dad visiting with their young toddler are easily the coolest parents I've met, with their circular-rimmed sunglasses and designer sandals, and overall vibe that screams Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz. Despite the high-end, curated style that oozes from every corner, a warmth also exudes. Staff members walk by with an easy smile and greeting, and you are always made to feel like you belong. The backstory Originally opened in 1940 as simply The Shelborne, the property starred as one of Miami Beach's primary spots for Art Deco glam and tropical modernism, regularly hosting legendary guests like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and The Beatles. The hotel eventually began showing the marks of time, and was bought by California-based Proper Hospitality in an effort to reimagine the hotel to modern-day standards. After a $100 million renovation, The Shelborne By Proper emerged, making it one of several hotels on the famed Collins Avenue, including The Raleigh and Delano, that is getting a major face-lift. The rooms Guest rooms are reflective of the entire property's mood: elevated yet easy. My room on the sixth floor featured a partial ocean view, just enough of a glimpse of that turquoise blue water to whet my palate. The room's design feels calm and grounded, which I owe to the soft earthy tones and warm, natural textiles. It's a nice counterbalance to the energetic vibe that Miami Beach naturally offers, a true retreat that feels intentionally devoid of flashy artwork and instead focuses on curved, architectural furnishings that are low-profile and slim. Also noteworthy is that the design is nowhere near that stereotypical Florida coastal-chic image with wooden floors and shiplapped walls. Instead, the rooms are elevated with marble flooring that are warmed up with a textured off-white rug. Food and drink Of the five food and beverage outlets, I frequented The Bar the most. (To be fair, the signature restaurant, Pauline, and the cocktail lounge, Little Torch, had not opened yet.) But if The Bar's menu is any indication of the level of cuisine found in the yet-to-open places, then we're in for delicious moments. The Bar is The Shelborne's hub, a central location to grab a drink at the 32-foot-long bar and lounge. It has a fashion-forward atmosphere of vintage pink and soft beige furnishings and greenhouse-worth of potted flora. The small-plates menu was created by Florida Keys native Abram Bissell, whose background includes Michelin-starred kitchens, like Eleven Madison Park. I especially enjoyed the ceviche and Cuban sandwich, each with their own twist that veered slightly from the traditional. The coconut-aged Manhattan is not to be missed, as well as the late evening, vibey beats spun by a local DJ. Breakfast was at The Terrace, which faces the pool deck. There, I had my go-to meal—avocado toast—that included unexpected zatar flavors and nice jammy hard-boiled egg. The spa There is no dedicated spa here, though in-room amenities feature the luxurious bath and body brand Aesop. The neighborhood/area If I could live anywhere in Greater Miami, it would be Miami Beach. An energy exists in this neighborhood—be it from the nearby ocean and breathtaking sunrises, the artsy elements, or a nonstop series of events that take place year round—that is hard to extinguish. No two days are the same here, and there's something to be said about that. It wraps Greater Miami up in a nutshell: swaying palm trees around every corner, a world-class contemporary art museum in the Bass as a major landmark, and the hum of a Lamborghini always in the background on Collins Avenue. This area has no shortage of hotels, but The Shelborne by Proper seems to be a strong contender for bridging glamour with an intentionally slow vacation lifestyle. Yes, there's a noticeable focus on swanky design elements that wow locals and visitors, but there is also a desire to take a step back and appreciate keeping things low-key and giving it a sense of place. Miami can be overwhelming, but it's comforting to know that places like The Shelborne can help reset your day. Get a change of scenery by walking outside the hotel's back doors, where the adjacent Miami Beach Boardwalk is full of runners, walkers, and bikers who are decompressing with an alfresco moment. Or, walk a few steps further to hit the actual beach, which is pretty much a remedy for most of life's troubles. The service Genuine, familial, and heartfelt. Staff passing by the halls or at the pool deck would regularly smile hello or nod a non-intrusive greeting. Despite my years working as a travel journalist, I oftentimes forget to pack an essential item on any given trip. On this stay, it was toothpaste. Not a problem, though. A quick phone call to the front desk had a housekeeping staff discreetly bring me a dental kit, presently beautifully on a tray, in the late-night hours. As we were wrapping up a lunch, our family of four began to rush, nervous we would be late to catch a local soccer match. Seeing our haste, Food and Operations Manager Guido presented our kids with a thoughtful to-go box of fruit to munch while on the road. If that's not enough, as we were waiting for our car to arrive at the outdoor valet stand after we checked out, the pool manager (with whom we had struck up several conversations) walked all the way outside to see us off. He mentioned that he hoped to see us again—and you know what? I believe he actually meant it. For families It's always tricky arriving at a beautiful hotel with two elementary-aged kids in tow. You never know how fellow travelers and staff will react: Will it be with a 'oh, how cute' or more of a 'Yikes, kids are here'? Thankfully, it was more so the former. Early evening hours included a family a Family Sunset Hour at the pool cafe, where games like tic-tac-toe were laid out, and non-alcoholic, fruity beverages were accessible for the kids. Accessibility The front entrance includes a ramp, and there are elevators for the 16-story building. I also spotted a lift at the pool. Anything left to mention? The hotel has a long-term partnership with apparel and lifestyle brand Alo Yoga, which has outfitted the property's yoga studio (located inside the 24-hour fitness room) with Alo mats and equipment. The hotel also hosts regular community events alongside Alo, like the Sunday beachside yoga class I attended, led by an Alo instructor.
