To wander Miami Beach is to see decades of architecture written, overwritten, translated and revisited. Between the playful lines of MiMo Art Deco and gleaming steel towers, one occasionally discovers a lush, romantic representation of the Spanish Colonial Revival: Enter The Beach House.

On the grounds of Andaz Miami Beach just steps from the hotel’s lobby, pools, and lounges, the Beach House stands as a rare convergence of heritage and design. Reborn as Olazul, the 1930s masterpiece is now home to the members-only A — Z Club. Its story is shaped by decades of stewardship, preservation, and a defining chapter guided by philanthropist and visionary Ron Ansin.

A Masterpiece of Spanish Colonial Revival
Constructed in the early 1930s, the Beach House reflects the Spanish Colonial Revival style that defined much of South Florida’s architectural identity. White stucco façades, terracotta rooflines, arched openings, and wrought iron details create a composition that is both expressive and grounded.

A central courtyard, anchored by a fountain, references the haciendas of old Spain—spaces designed for pause, shade, and shared moments. Originally located at 228 40th Street, just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, the home was conceived in close dialogue with its coastal setting.

Preservation at a Crossroads
Over time, the Beach House passed through the hands of several families, remaining a cherished private residence. In 2005, its future was placed in jeopardy when the property was purchased with for demolition to accommodate a parking facility. The Miami-Dade Preservation Society intervened, recognizing the home’s architectural and cultural significance.

Ron Ansin’s Vision
What followed was not simply an effort to save a structure, but to safeguard a piece of Miami Beach’s evolving identity. Philanthropist Ron Ansin emerged as a central advocate for the Beach House’s preservation. Known for his deep commitment to Miami Beach and its architectural heritage, Ansin supported a solution rooted in innovation rather than erasure: relocation.

The home was carefully lifted from its foundation and transported across Collins Avenue to a site approximately 100 yards from the beach. The operation was precise, complex, and symbolic—a demonstration of what becomes possible when preservation and progress align.

A House in Motion
In 2013, the Beach House was relocated once again following the sale of the property to Thompson Miami Beach, whose development plans included an additional pool. The structure moved 50 yards north along 41st Street, where it took on multiple identities over the next decade—functioning as a sushi restaurant, fitness center, and event venue.

In 2017, Hyatt reintroduced the hotel as The Confidante, where the Beach House remained an integral component of the guest experience. In 2024, a $100 million transformation ushered in Andaz Miami Beach. As part of this evolution, the Beach House completed its final move, returning to its original location, once again close to the ocean.

The Legacy Today
The Beach House now stands as a living expression of continuity and care. Home to Olazul, it offers a setting where history and contemporary hospitality coexist with ease. By day, it serves as a relaxed coastal retreat; by night, an atmospheric venue for curated member gatherings. At every hour, it reflects the layered character of Miami Beach—past and present in conversation.

A Continuing Story
Olazul is not preserved as an artifact, but as an active participant in the life of Andaz Miami Beach. Its journey, defined by movement, adaptation, and vision, underscores a larger truth: meaningful design is not static. It evolves, it endures, and it remains rooted in place.

As members pass through its doors, they enter more than a beautiful space. They step into a story shaped by intention, preservation, and the belief that heritage, when honored, becomes a foundation for what’s next.