Summary
Introducing Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale
The brand’s fifth Florida property opened on March 3, marking a significant addition to luxury accommodations in the area.
Historical Significance of Bonnet House
People who love Fort Lauderdale really love Fort Lauderdale. Take Evelyn Fortune Bartlett, the acclaimed painter and socialite known as the city’s grande dame. After her divorce from pharmaceutical heir Eli Lilly, she married Chicago artist Frederic Clay Bartlett in 1931. The couple often visited their property in then-rural Fort Lauderdale, where Evelyn infused her eclectic aesthetic into the Caribbean-inspired residence known as the Bonnet House. She was also passionate about maintaining its expansive tropical gardens, incorporating plants from her extensive travels, and even adopting a troop of monkeys. Mrs. Bartlett protectively wintered at her estate into old age, ultimately preserving it from developers as Fort Lauderdale developed around her, marking her death in 1997 as the end of an era.
Design and Architecture of the Property
“She really was the lady of Fort Lauderdale,” noted Mazen Saleh, the general manager of the new Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale. He emphasized that the hotel’s signature cocktail, the “Bonnet House,” pays homage to the nearby historic estate. Saleh explained that many involved in the hotel’s development visited the museum and botanical garden to understand the local history better. They even sought out Evelyn’s daiquiri recipe, as she was known for making it by the pitcher with Rangpur limes grown on the grounds.
The new Four Seasons Hotel and Residences is situated on Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, significantly enhancing the hospitality landscape. Saleh remarked, “It’s been a while since the last luxury property opened here,” adding that the hotel strives to harmoniously blend with the essence of Fort Lauderdale. “It’s been heartwarming to see the welcome we’ve gotten from locals. The city’s ready for it.”
The bright-white building was designed by Miami architect Kobi Karp, showcasing 22 stories of curved lines and wraparound terraces, mimicking the elegant yachts that define this boating capital.
Dining Experience at Evelyn’s
The hotel features a dining establishment led by chef Brandon Salomon, a graduate of Mauro Colagreco’s Four Seasons Palm Beach restaurant. Salomon’s seafood-focused menu draws inspiration from Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, offering dishes such as steaming pita with classic mezze and whole branzino stuffed with citrus and herbs. The restaurant is named Evelyn’s, reinforcing the connection to Fort Lauderdale’s rich history.
Wellness and Amenities Offered
The wellness center designed by Tara Bernerd & Partners boasts a serene spa and ocean-view gym equipped with a “fitness wall” for individual workouts. The hotel’s third-level main deck features two pools and ample lounge space, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying unbroken views of the Atlantic.
In terms of culinary offerings, the hotel’s Honey Fitz lounge transitions seamlessly from serving morning espresso and pastries to providing a cozy evening atmosphere for fine wines and Champagnes, solidifying its role as a local gathering spot.
For extended stays, travelers can enjoy apartment-style accommodations through Four Seasons’ rental program, delivering a home-like experience in a luxurious setting.
Consequently, Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale emerges as a prime destination for those seeking refined hospitality, local history, and culinary excellence on Florida’s southern coast.
For more information, visit fourseasons.com/fortlauderdale.
