Spanish Colonial charm meets contemporary luxury in one of Florida’s most iconic resorts.
From Addison Mizner’s historic Cloister Inn to modern Tower Suites, design takes center stage.
Nestled along Florida’s southeastern coast, the Boca Raton Resort & Club stands as a striking testament to architectural evolution and timeless elegance. Originally designed by the legendary Addison Mizner, the resort fuses historical charm with modern innovation, offering a masterclass in hospitality design. With its recent $133 million reinvention—including the unveiling of the Tower Collection Suites—the property reaffirms its position not only as a luxury destination, but also as a living showcase of architectural heritage.
Preserving the Past: Addison Mizner’s Enduring Legacy
The heart of the resort remains rooted in Mizner’s original 1920s vision. Known as the Cloister Inn, the original structure was one of Mizner’s most influential projects, shaping the architectural identity of Palm Beach and beyond. The Spanish Colonial Revival style—distinguished by its barrel tile roofs, stucco walls, wrought iron details, and columned arcades—continues to define the resort’s aesthetic.
Mizner’s design philosophy emphasized harmony between structure and nature. The resort’s open floor plans and shaded walkways were designed to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, creating fluid movement and a sense of natural flow throughout the property. Courtyards, fountains, and lush gardens punctuate the architecture, each space revealing new perspectives and reinforcing a connection to the outdoors.
A New Chapter: The Tower Collection Suites
The recent addition of the Tower Collection Suites marks a bold yet thoughtful expansion of the resort’s architectural story. Rising above the historic estate, the reimagined tower introduces a vertical experience while maintaining a dialogue with its surroundings. The suites offer panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Hillsboro River, and the surrounding landscape, all framed by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.
Inside, the design is contemporary and refined. Tall ceilings, rich dark wood accents, and polished green marble surfaces lend a sense of grandeur. Intelligent lighting systems allow guests to shift the ambiance with a touch—pre-programmed settings such as “Relax” or “Wake Up” enhance comfort through design. The layout of each suite mirrors that of a private apartment, with generous living areas, dining nooks, and spa-style bathrooms. Every detail, from the textures to the color palette, has been meticulously curated to balance style with serenity.
Elevated Luxury: The Top of the Tower
Perched at the summit of the tower is the Top of the Tower, a rooftop venue that offers 360-degree views of the resort and Florida coastline. Designed for guests seeking a tranquil start to their day, the space is minimalist yet warm, with soft furnishings, natural materials, and an abundance of light. It’s a moment of peace above the treetops—an architectural expression of calm and elevation.
A Spa Inspired by the Alhambra
The Spa Palmera, occupying 50,000 square feet, transports visitors far from Florida to the ambiance of Moorish Spain. Inspired by the intricate beauty of the Alhambra Palace, the spa is a labyrinth of tiled fountains, arched colonnades, and intimate alcoves. The architecture relies on warm earthy tones, mosaic detailing, and a central courtyard to foster a sense of retreat and sanctuary.
Guests pass through a series of experiences—from Turkish baths to quiet lounges beside roaring fireplaces—each defined by thoughtful design. The layout fosters mindfulness, while material choices enhance tactile comfort. Even the dining experience within the spa, featuring Mediterranean-inspired small plates, echoes the overall theme of sensory indulgence through design.
Culinary Architecture: Restaurants with a Point of View
Throughout the resort, dining venues are carefully crafted to reflect both cultural inspiration and architectural intent. Sadelle’s, known for its iconic bagels and French toast, features Art Deco elements combined with Parisian bistro aesthetics. Marisol, located along Lake Boca Raton, embraces a breezy, open-air design that celebrates Florida’s climate while keeping the focus on its elegant seafood presentations.
The resort’s Japanese restaurant offers a contrasting environment—moody, minimal, and immersive—with an open bar and natural materials creating a deeply atmospheric space. Meanwhile, the newly introduced Onda, located at the recently reimagined Beach Club Hotel, showcases contemporary lines, ocean views, and a rotating cast of renowned guest chefs, launching with Adriano Venturini of Eden Roc Cap Cana.
Each restaurant offers more than food—it offers a spatial experience. Architecture becomes part of the meal, enhancing atmosphere and memory with every visit.
A Living Dialogue Between Eras
The architectural brilliance of Boca Raton Resort & Club lies in its ability to honor its past while embracing the future. The original Cloister Inn remains the soul of the property, while new elements such as the Tower Suites and reimagined dining and spa experiences provide fresh interpretations of luxury design.
What emerges is a dialogue between eras—between Mizner’s romanticism and the resort’s modern architectural fluency. It’s an evolving masterpiece, where every corridor, courtyard, and suite tells part of a continuing story.
For architects, designers, and lovers of thoughtful spaces, Boca Raton Resort & Club offers not just a place to stay—but a destination to study, admire, and return to.
