Tavistock Senior VP of Improvement Chris Gandolfo gamely fields our questions on every part from his off-hours pursuits to what makes the reimagined Pier 66 well worth the wait.
What ought to we be excited to find concerning the reimagined Pier 66?
Pier Sixty-Six has remodeled right into a world-class luxurious vacation spot that fantastically balances its storied legacy with a forward-looking imaginative and prescient for Fort Lauderdale. It’s not only a resort—it’s a vibrant hub for the group, with premier retail, numerous eating and leisure, and ultra-luxury residences with personal membership facilities, all anchored by the enduring marina. Pier Sixty-Six is a gateway for locals, guests and world vacationers, combining timeless appeal with trendy innovation.
Why has Pier 66 endured as a trademark of Fort Lauderdale after so many a long time?
Since 1966, Pier Sixty-Six has been a landmark in Fort Lauderdale because of its distinctive structure, an iconic marina and a wealthy historical past of internet hosting celebrities and group occasions. It’s the place generations have come collectively to have a good time, join and make lasting reminiscences. We’re excited to be constructing on that legacy with this reimagined imaginative and prescient.
What are a few of your favourite improvements that you simply’ve been in a position to do thrilling issues with on the work entrance?
At Pier Sixty-Six, we’ve embraced innovation to honor its legacy whereas shaping its future. From the general public marina promenade that fosters group connection to superior View Glass that enhances consolation and sustainability, each element is thoughtfully designed. The Zenova Spa & Wellness units a brand new normal with the Southeast’s first ceremonial sauna, a snow room, and a vitality pool. We’re thrilled to introduce Fort Lauderdale’s first personal heated plunge swimming pools on choose expansive terraces. The restored rotating Pier High Lounge pays tribute to its iconic previous with breathtaking views. And the superyacht marina accommodates vessels as much as 400 ft.
What’s your favourite off-hours approach to get pleasure from Fort Lauderdale?
I get pleasure from a night stroll with my household and our canine alongside Las Olas Boulevard or the seashore—it’s the right method to absorb the town’s power and the shoreline’s pure magnificence. Weekend bike rides down A1A are one other favourite.
What’s the one factor you’ve all the time meant to attempt or do within the metropolis that you simply nonetheless haven’t gotten round to?
Daily, I move the Worldwide Swimming Corridor of Fame and its hanging diving platform sculpture. It’s such a novel a part of our metropolis’s historical past, and I look ahead to exploring it.
Title your go-to restaurant within the metropolis for a formidable enterprise lunch.
Timpano on Las Olas Boulevard is my best choice. The Italian delicacies is persistently distinctive, and the mussels are a standout. A excellent selection for a enterprise lunch.
What native causes do you champion or strongly assist?
Giving again is a precedence for us. My spouse, Lisa, and I are proud to assist Florida Foster Care, Habitat for Humanity in Miami and the City Land Institute, dedicating time and assets to creating alternatives for others.
Favourite trip spot and why?
Telluride, Colorado, is a magical place. Set in a surprising field canyon, it provides world-class snowboarding and countless summer time actions.
What’s the following huge challenge in your agenda?
With the completion of Pier Sixty-Six’s $1 billion first part, we’re waiting for the following chapter of improvement. We’re centered on constructing momentum and creating much more areas that improve Fort Lauderdale’s world profile.
Share your all-time favourite mottos for enterprise and for all times usually.
In enterprise: “Good improvement is sweet for each the developer and the group.”
In life: “Good communication is the important thing to success.”
