EUROPEAN CHARM MEETS MiMO CHIC
In 2008, a Swedish entrepreneur visited Fort Lauderdale and fell in love. The object of his affection was a neglected little neighborhood tucked in the most perfect location between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean just north of Riomar Street. A little more than a decade and $100 million later, the neighborhood that captured Pär Sandå’s heart has been transformed under his visionary guidance into one of Fort Lauderdale’s most engaging places to visit – North Beach Village.
After purchasing more than 35 buildings in the area – primarily mid-century modern hotels and resorts in varying states of disrepair – Par Sandå restored a number of them into individually distinctive boutique hotels. The restorations celebrate South Florida’s iconic MiMo (Mid-century modern) architecture while incorporating sleek contemporary interiors. In an innovative approach to hospitality, the hotels are operated collectively as North Beach Village Resort while retaining their unique characteristics. Guests of any of the hotels have access to shared amenities, including a spa, bike rentals, and special events.
North Beach Village is for more than just tourists though. In addition to the Village Café inside the North Beach Hotel, Sandå is behind two other independent dining spots in the neighborhood, Plaza Bistro and Wine Garden. His long-term vision is to continue bringing interesting destinations to the neighborhood, such as cafés, art galleries, and shops. It’s all part of creating a European-style coziness steps from the beach.
