MIAMI BEACH, FL -- (June 5, 2002) -- Eden Roc Renaissance Resort & Spa, has begun a $14 million renovation program that will include a re-design of the resort�s meeting space, fine dining and casual dining restaurants, and pool areas. The renovation, which is slated for completion by December 2002, is under the direction of Spillis Candela DMJM, the architectural firm that collaborated with Morris Lapidus in 1999 to restore his vision of this legendary property.

Meeting planners will appreciate the changes in Eden Roc�s meeting space, which include new soft goods in the Cotillion and Mona Lisa ballrooms (The Grand Ballroom was redone in 1999), reconfiguration of the lower conference center level meeting space creating five new meeting rooms, group office, and several new seating areas for pre- or post-meeting networking or relaxing.  The resort will continue to offer a full-service business center and on-site car rental center.

The main pool area will receive a dramatic facelift, including new pool decking, two new oceanfront Jacuzzis, and upgraded event space in the Topiary Courtyard and Spa Garden. New landscaping including stately rows of Canary Date Palms framing each side of the resort�s Olympic-size pool will be accented by a specially designed lighting system that changes the look of the pool from day to night.  A new sound system and T-1 phone lines will enable groups to host exciting events at poolside with full multi-media support.

The resort�s new beachside restaurant will offer a casual lunch menu consisting of salads, soup, sandwiches and regional specialties, with the addition of steak and seafood dishes on the dinner menu.  Guests may choose to dine alfresco overlooking �One of the World�s Top 10 Beaches� or eat in air-conditioned comfort enjoying a view of the restaurant�s new swimming pool through large glass �peek-a-boo� windows. The upstairs pool will be redone with new tile and decking, and accented with potted plants.

�In 1999, our owners committed the resources to restore this legendary property to its former glory knowing that it would take years to complete,� said Randy Griffin, Eden Roc�s director of marketing.  �We now have the pleasure of seeing the second phase of our renovation underway, a vital element of our commitment to maintain our position as one of Miami Beach�s premier resorts for both business and leisure travelers alike.� 

Eden Roc was originally designed and built in 1956 by famed architect Morris Lapidus. Its design and architecture reflect the flamboyance of the 1950�s and 1960�s glory days of Miami Beach. During that time, the resort hosted numerous celebrities including Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Frank Sinatra, and Nat King Cole. 

Today, Eden Roc is part of the Renaissance Hotels, Resorts & Suites brand owned by Marriott International.  With its timeless design, sophisticated ambience and award-winning cuisine, it remains one of the most popular and sought-after destinations for celebrities, captains of industry, and anyone seeking a taste of yesterday�s glamour with all of today�s service and amenities.

Eden Roc Renaissance Resort & Spa is situated on Millionaire's Row in Miami Beach, at 4525 Collins Avenue.