The highly anticipated Nora District in West Palm Beach marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking of The Nora Hotel, a new 201-key boutique hotel developed by BD Hotels, in collaboration with Sean MacPherson, NDT Development, Place Projects, and Wheelock Street Capital. This project represents BD Hotels’ first new construction hotel outside of New York City and is set to bring a unique blend of luxury and high-design to the area.
Richard Born of BD Hotels shared, “The Nora Hotel represents our vision of transforming West Palm Beach’s hospitality landscape with a bespoke experience that caters to today’s sophisticated travelers. We are thrilled to collaborate with the district's developers to make this a reality.”
Credit: Gachot Studios.
BD Hotels, known for iconic New York properties such as The Greenwich and The Bowery, has teamed up with Wheelock Street Capital for the second time, following the successful relaunch of Hotel Chelsea in 2023. NDT Development and Place Projects are also key partners in this endeavor. “The Nora Hotel will serve as a cornerstone for the district,” said Ned Grace, Co-Founder of NDT Development. “It aligns seamlessly with our plan to position the district as a premier lifestyle destination, offering top-tier dining, retail, and wellness experiences.”
Joe Furst, Founder of Place Projects, expressed excitement about partnering with BD Hotels. “Their ability to tailor each hotel to its neighborhood while maintaining their signature style is unparalleled,” he noted.
The design of The Nora Hotel takes inspiration from Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, an homage to Addison Mizner’s architectural legacy in Palm Beach. New York-based Gachot Studios and architectural firm Stantec are behind the hotel’s interiors and structure, featuring arched walkways, rich hues, and intricate tilework. The property will also include a tranquil loggia and garden area for guests.
Highlighting the hotel’s dining scene, Stephen Starr’s STARR Restaurants will debut Pastis, a 13,300-square-foot Parisian-style brasserie with expansive indoor and outdoor seating. STARR Restaurants will also curate offerings for the hotel’s rooftop space, which will include a pool, two bars, private cabanas, and a restaurant. Additionally, in-room dining will be available, further enhancing the guest experience.
The Nora District itself is undergoing a transformation, with Phase I of the master plan underway since June 2023. Upon its early 2025 completion, the district will feature over 150,000 square feet of both adaptive reuse projects and new developments. Historic railway warehouses are being reimagined into vibrant retail spaces, celebrating art and local talent. Phase I will also introduce over 55,000 square feet of Class-A office space.
With its dynamic blend of dining, arts, and lifestyle offerings, Nora is poised to become a cultural and commercial hub in Downtown West Palm Beach. Confirmed retailers include Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, Sana Skin Studio, and more, creating an inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The district’s master plan was developed in partnership with the City of West Palm Beach and urban planning firm PlusUrbia, aiming to revitalize the area with thoughtful, community-oriented design.