The Nora Hotel Breaks Ground at 1021 North Railroad Avenue in West Palm Beach’s Nora District

Construction has officially begun on The Nora Hotel, a 201-key boutique hotel set to anchor the transformative Nora District in West Palm Beach at 1021 North Railroad Avenue. Developed by BD Hotels in partnership with Wheelock Street Capital, Sean MacPherson, NDT Development, and Place Projects, the project marks BD Hotels’ first new construction outside of New York City. Completion is expected in fall 2026.

The Nora Hotel will be the district’s first vertical development, reimagining a historic railroad warehouse area into a mixed-use hub with hospitality, retail, and office spaces. Cobblestone streets and curbless sidewalks will wind through landscaped parks, creating a walkable, nature-connected environment.

Credit: Stantec.

“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,” said Richard Born of BD Hotels.

Designed by Stantec, the 215,000-square-foot hotel will rise five stories and feature 201 guest rooms and a parking garage. Gachot Studios provided the interior design to highlight Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival influences. The property will include arched walkways, intricate tilework, and lush gardens, complemented by a loggia area for relaxation. Amenities include a 5,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, a warm and elegant main room, a lobby bar, and an outdoor garden.

Credit: Stantec.

“We are creating a hotel that will make visitors feel connected to this vibrant, accessible, and luxurious community,” said Elvira Freire-Santamaria, principal at Stantec. “As an appealing destination with exclusive accommodations, Nora Hotel will help drive tourism and support the area’s growing economy.”

Dining at the Nora Hotel will be led by STARR Restaurants, featuring the debut of Pastis, a 13,000-square-foot Parisian-style brasserie with indoor and outdoor seating, a private dining room, and pre-function space for private gatherings. The rooftop will include a pool deck with two bars, a lounge area, private cabanas, and a restaurant, all curated by STARR Restaurants.

“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, praised BD Hotels’ approach. “Their ability to tailor each hotel to its neighborhood while maintaining their signature style is unparalleled,” he said.

The Nora District’s Phase I master plan, launched in June 2023, will bring over 150,000 square feet of adaptive reuse and new developments, including more than 55,000 square feet of Class-A office space. The area will feature reimagined historic railway warehouses, celebrating local art and culture. Confirmed retailers include Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, and Sana Skin Studio.

Credit: ASD | SKY.

The district’s redevelopment plan was created in collaboration with the City of West Palm Beach and urban planning firm PlusUrbia, emphasizing walkability, thoughtful design, and community engagement. With The Nora Hotel as a centerpiece, the district is poised to become a hub for dining, arts, and lifestyle offerings in Downtown West Palm Beach.

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