With a sharp eye for hospitality trends and a background steeped in the travel and tourism industry, Katarina Railko has become a key voice in analyzing the future of guest experiences. Today, we delve into one of the most anticipated projects on the horizon: the new Treehouse Hotel in Miami Beach. This interview explores the intricate design process of blending historic architecture with modern luxury, the challenge of translating a whimsical brand identity into a tangible resort experience, and the strategic vision behind bringing this unique concept to the vibrant Florida market.
Blending two historic 1940s buildings with a new tower is a significant architectural challenge. Could you walk us through Rottet Studio’s specific design approach for unifying these structures while weaving in influences from Art Deco, Streamline Moderne, and Miami Modern architecture?
It’s a delicate and fascinating architectural dance. Rottet Studio isn’t just plopping a new building next to two old ones; they are orchestrating a conversation between eras. The core idea is to honor the DNA of the original 1940s structures, the Haddon Hall and Campton Apartments, which are steeped in that classic Art Deco glamour. They are layering in elements from Streamline Moderne and even Spanish Mediterranean Regionalism to create a narrative that feels authentic to the site’s history. The new ocean-view tower will then echo these themes, not by mimicking them, but by reinterpreting them through a Miami Modern lens. This approach ensures the entire property feels like a single, cohesive story that has evolved organically over time, rather than a disjointed collection of buildings.
The Treehouse brand identity is built on nostalgia and carefree adventure. Beyond the physical design, what specific guest programming, amenities, or service details will bring this unique spirit to life and help visitors reconnect with their “carefree spirit” at the Miami Beach location?
This is where the magic of the Treehouse brand truly comes alive. It’s about tapping into that feeling of being a kid again, where discovery is around every corner. You’ll see this reflected in the very bones of the hotel, with its use of natural materials and hand-crafted details that invite touch and exploration. I envision programming that encourages playful interaction—perhaps spontaneous poolside games, DIY craft cocktail stations, or even hidden nooks with vintage board games. The service will be less about rigid formality and more about genuine connection, with staff acting as friendly guides to adventure. The goal is to create an environment where guests feel free to simply relax, laugh, and let go of their adult responsibilities, fully embracing that sense of wonder.
As the brand’s first resort and its initial foray into Florida, this project marks a major milestone. What specific opportunities does the Miami market present for a resort concept, and how will the brand adapt its city-hotel model from London and Manchester for this new environment?
Moving from dense urban centers like London to the sun-drenched shores of Miami Beach is a brilliant strategic evolution for the brand. Miami offers a canvas for a much more expansive, leisure-focused experience. Unlike a city hotel where guests are often out exploring, a resort becomes the destination itself. This allows Treehouse to fully immerse guests in its world, utilizing elements like tropical landscaping and a central courtyard pool to create a self-contained oasis. The spacious suites with ocean views are a key differentiator from their urban counterparts. It’s a chance to take the brand’s core ethos of fun and creativity and scale it up, offering a playground for relaxation and connection that a city-centric model simply can’t accommodate in the same way.
The property will feature both a central courtyard pool and a rooftop pool. Can you elaborate on the distinct atmosphere and experience you are creating for each of these spaces, and how they will fit into the overall guest journey throughout the hotel?
The dual-pool concept is a fantastic way to offer guests varied experiences throughout their stay. The central courtyard pool will be the heart of the resort—a lush, tropical sanctuary nestled between the historic buildings. I imagine it as a more tranquil, intimate space for daytime lounging, surrounded by greenery, where you can escape the heat and feel a sense of privacy. In contrast, the rooftop pool will be the property’s vibrant social hub. With its panoramic views over Miami Beach, this is where the energy will be. It’s the perfect spot for sunset cocktails, lively music, and soaking in the electric atmosphere of the city. This design allows a guest to curate their own day, moving from serene relaxation to high-energy socializing without ever leaving the hotel.
What is your forecast for the luxury hospitality market in Miami Beach leading up to your 2029 opening?
By the time Treehouse opens its doors in 2029, I believe the luxury market in Miami Beach will have an even stronger appetite for properties that offer a distinct personality and an authentic story. We’re moving past the era of generic, white-box luxury. Travelers, especially at the high end, are seeking genuine connection and memorable experiences. Projects like this, which masterfully blend historic preservation with bold, forward-thinking design, will be exactly what the market demands. The emphasis on nostalgia, community, and playful fun is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in what people value. Treehouse is positioning itself perfectly to capture that zeitgeist, offering a soulful, design-driven escape that will feel both timeless and incredibly of the moment.
