I can’t remember the last time I had to do a double-take when I walked into a hotel lobby.

I’ve stayed in luxury hotels — you know, the ones with marble floors where you can see your reflection, minimal color, and first-class touches in the interior, hallways, lobby, and guest rooms.

The Goodtime Hotel in Miami offers a different kind of luxury. It’s no surprise that it’s a design boutique hotel, as it was created by music and fashion icon Pharrell Williams, with the help of hospitality guru and entrepreneur David Grutman, and designs by Ken Fulk. The three didn’t shy away from using color or highlighting its location to set the tone of euphoria you feel as soon as you walk into the lobby.

After all, it’s located in Miami’s Art Deco Historic District — the vibrant and architecturally superb South Beach neighborhood just steps away from the beach, known as the neighborhood where Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace made his home.

Miami’s Art Deco Historic District is renowned for its architectural style from the 1920s artistic movement, which Americans sought to lift their spirits during the Great Depression. The style is characterized by bold geometric patterns, rich colors, and glamorous details.

Fast-forward to now. Williams and the team pay homage to that style and mood, which was noticeable as soon as I walked inside the 266-room accommodation. There was an explosion of patterns and colors that left me eager to explore every nook, corner, and space.

My Favorite Spaces Inside The Goodtime Hotel

From the lobby, elevator, hallways, ceilings, and everywhere in between, every space has its own personality.

The library was my favorite. It brought back childhood nostalgia and made me think, “So this is what it would be like if I lived in the Barbie houses I used to play with.” It’s a pink and pretty space that pays homage to the Art Deco spirit found throughout the neighborhood. I often returned to this space to soak in some inspiration for my own spaces back home. It also provided a nice reprieve from the busyness of Miami.

The library is on the third floor, the hub for adventure and experiences. On the other side of the library is Strawberry Moon. Grutman and Williams created this space as a sociable concept with food and beverages. Named after spring’s last full lunar evening when the moon shines with a roseate hue, Strawberry Moon is decked out in Deco pinks, lagoon blues, and palm greens. You can dine inside (where I chose to eat to escape the humidity) or outside on the covered dining terrace. On the other side of the terrace is the outdoor pool.

Another favorite was the lobby. From the outside, it’s a design element you wouldn’t expect. Recently, I was in Como, Italy, for a work trip and toured the Teatro Sociale, an opera house with a regal interior and stunning chandelier. Strangely, the lobby inside The Goodtime Hotel gave me the same awe factor I experienced at the theater.

Let’s Get Into The Room

The room, also known as a “launch pad,” wasn’t exactly my favorite. While it had a fun and chic vibe, at 180 square feet, I found it a tad too small. It was enough for one person, but I was grateful to be solo because my 6-foot-plus partner wouldn’t have been comfortable. Luckily, there are other options for couples and families, including a two-queen room at 375 square feet, a king room at 320 square feet, and a king one-bedroom suite at 620 square feet. The grand room is the Arigato Suite, measuring 1,600 square feet.

I was fortunate to have a view of the pool, allowing me to choose when to dip in based on the day party crowds.

Day Parties and Other Amenities

Expect a pool party from Friday through Sunday from noon until sundown. Everyone has to be at least 21 years old. On weekends, there may be a live DJ set. Daily programming, such as live DJs, is included in the resort fee. Guests also get access to the Daily Goodtime Beach, beach chairs, bike rentals, and fitness programming. Daybeds, couches, and cabanas are available by reservation only.

Who Should Stay At The Goodtime Hotel?

Since the pandemic, I’ve found creative ways to get that high feeling brought on by traveling. I took advantage of hotel chains marketing staycations and day passes to escape the mundane work-from-home days. I think the Goodtime Hotel is perfect for people who need a staycation. The decor alone will shift your mindset.

It’s also great for young couples who want the best of both worlds in Miami, choosing how much they want to be on the scene or tucked away in intimate spaces to spend time together intentionally. Goodtime’s spaces allow for that.

Lastly, I can see the appeal for celebrations, including birthdays, bachelorette and bachelor parties, and graduations. It has the recipe for an unforgettable time, with fabulous furnishings and decor for iconic photos that will last a lifetime. The food and drinks were worth the money, and most importantly, the hotel activated the spirit of fellowship with friends and, dare I say, a good time.