Arlen House
Located in the beautiful Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, Arlen House is a well-known condominium complex that has been a staple in the community for decades. With its prime location and luxurious amenities, it's no wonder that Arlen House has become a sought-after residence for many. But what is the history behind this iconic building? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the origins of Arlen House and how it has evolved over the years.
The Early Years
The Vision of David Brant
The story of Arlen House begins with the vision of David Brant, a prominent real estate developer in the 1960s. Brant saw the potential of Sunny Isles Beach, a small barrier island located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, and decided to develop a luxury condominium complex that would cater to the affluent residents of Miami.
Brant's vision was to create a community that offered the best of both worlds - the tranquility of a beachfront lifestyle and the convenience of city living. He named the complex "Arlen House" after his wife, Arlene, and began construction in 1968.
The First Arlen House
The first Arlen House building, known as Arlen House East, was completed in 1969. It was a 22-story building with 312 units, making it one of the largest condominiums in Sunny Isles Beach at the time. The building featured a unique design with a circular shape, allowing for unobstructed views of the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Arlen House East quickly became a popular residence for celebrities and wealthy individuals, with its luxurious amenities and prime location. It also became known for its iconic neon sign, which could be seen from miles away and became a symbol of the building.
The Expansion of Arlen House
In the 1970s, Brant continued to expand his vision for Arlen House. He built two more buildings, Arlen House West and Arlen House South, which were completed in 1972 and 1975, respectively. These buildings added an additional 500 units to the complex, making it one of the largest condominium complexes in South Florida.
With its prime location and luxurious amenities, Arlen House quickly became a popular destination for tourists and snowbirds looking for a winter getaway. It also attracted many permanent residents who were drawn to the vibrant community and the convenience of living in Sunny Isles Beach.
The Evolution of Arlen House
The 1980s and 1990s
In the 1980s and 1990s, Arlen House underwent several renovations and updates to keep up with the changing times. The buildings were modernized, and new amenities were added, including a fitness center, tennis courts, and a pool. The complex also became a gated community, providing residents with an added sense of security.
During this time, Arlen House also became a popular destination for retirees, with its peaceful atmosphere and close proximity to the beach. Many residents who had been living in the complex since its early days chose to retire there, creating a strong sense of community and camaraderie among the residents
The 2000s and Beyond
In the early 2000s, Arlen House underwent a major renovation, with all three buildings receiving a facelift. The buildings were modernized, and new amenities were added, including a spa, a business center, and a children's playroom. The complex also became pet-friendly, allowing residents to bring their furry friends with them.
In recent years, Arlen House has continued to evolve, with the addition of new technology and services to enhance the living experience for its residents. The complex now offers high-speed internet, digital cable, and concierge services, making it a truly modern and luxurious place to live.
The Arlen House Condominium Association
The Arlen House Condominium Association was established in 1972 to manage the operations and maintenance of the complex. The association is responsible for ensuring that the buildings and amenities are well-maintained and that the needs of the residents are met.
The association is also responsible for organizing community events and activities, such as holiday parties, movie nights, and fitness classes. These events help foster a sense of community among the residents and make Arlen House a welcoming and vibrant place to live.
The Future of Arlen House
Today, Arlen House continues to be a sought-after residence for many, with its prime location, luxurious amenities, and strong sense of community. The complex is currently undergoing a major renovation, with plans to modernize the buildings and add new amenities, such as a rooftop pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
The future of Arlen House looks bright, and it's clear that this iconic building will continue to be a staple in the Sunny Isles Beach community for many years to come.
Conclusion
Arlen House has come a long way since its early days in the late 1960s. From a vision of a real estate developer to a thriving community, this iconic building has stood the test of time and continues to evolve to meet the needs of its residents. With its rich history and promising future, Arlen House is more than just a condominium complex - it's a symbol of the vibrant and luxurious lifestyle that Sunny Isles Beach has to offer.