Perroquet Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Mid-Century Florida Reimagined with European Precision
Why DNA Hotels Loves It
● A beautifully restored 1950s motel transformed by Belgian architect Bernard Dubois into one of Florida’s most distinctive boutique hotels.
● Classic American motel architecture reinterpreted through refined European minimalism, lush landscaping, and custom-designed interiors.
● A refreshing reminder that authentic design and atmosphere matter more than conventional luxury.
A Classic Motel, Reinvented
Tucked between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, Perroquet proves that some of Florida’s most compelling hotels begin with the simplest of buildings. Originally a modest 1950s roadside motel, the property has been thoughtfully reinvented by Belgian architect Bernard Dubois for The Lane Organization. Rather than replacing the original architecture, Dubois embraced its classic U-shaped layout centered around a courtyard—a timeless piece of Florida hospitality that still works beautifully today. His intervention is subtle but transformative.
Modernism in Shades of Green
The first thing you’ll notice is the palette. Soft off-white walls are paired with deep forest green railings, ceilings, awnings, and architectural details, referencing Florida’s post-war country clubs, tennis courts, and vintage motels. Red brick pathways, white balustrades, green canvas, and custom outdoor furniture create a composition that feels both nostalgic and remarkably fresh. Nothing feels decorative for its own sake. Every color and material reinforces the building’s architectural rhythm.
A Tropical Courtyard
Landscape architect Nathan Browning turned the central courtyard into the hotel’s defining feature. Dense tropical planting screens the property from the surrounding streets, attracting birds while creating the feeling of a secluded urban oasis. Towering palms and mature greenery envelop the swimming pool, making the motel almost disappear into its own landscape. Instead of looking onto parking lots or roads, nearly every room enjoys leafy garden views. It’s Florida motel culture elevated through landscape design.
Rooms with Character
The hotel’s 37 guestrooms span nine categories, each following Dubois’ carefully composed design language. Linoleum floors, sheer curtains, lacquered wood, polished chrome, leather upholstery, and a rich green palette create interiors that feel quietly sophisticated without becoming precious. Dubois designed much of the furniture himself, drawing inspiration from 1970s and 1980s European seating, Miami Art Deco geometry, 1990s chrome detailing, and vintage rug patterns. The result balances boutique refinement with the playful eccentricity that defines great roadside motels.
Art as Part of the Stay
Rather than relying solely on interior design, Perroquet introduces museum-quality contemporary art throughout the hotel. Curated by Valerio Polimeno and Whitney Lane, the collection includes works by Jean Cocteau, Lucio Fontana, Giorgio Griffa, Jean Tinguely, Roberto Matta, Salvatore Emblema, Alekos Fassianos, and Jeff Koons. Individual pieces appear throughout guestrooms and public spaces, giving every stay its own distinct visual experience. The art feels integrated rather than displayed.
Simple Hospitality
Luxury here is intentionally understated. Guests enjoy Sferra linens, Byredo bath products, complimentary self-service breakfast, beach chairs for nearby Atlantic beaches, and an easygoing arrival experience designed to encourage independence rather than formality. The focus remains on architecture, atmosphere, and the simple pleasure of slowing down.
Why It Works
Perroquet demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can completely transform a familiar building type. Bernard Dubois respects the optimism of the classic Florida motel while refining every element through a distinctly European lens. Rich landscaping, custom interiors, exceptional art, and carefully restrained hospitality create a hotel that feels both nostalgic and entirely contemporary. It’s one of those rare places where less luxury actually results in a richer experience.
