By The Friis Team
The Palm Beaches are entering a new chapter, and 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year. From West Palm Beach’s downtown core to the coastal corridors stretching north and south, change here is intentional and carefully planned.
We’re seeing investment that builds on what already works (waterfront access, cultural depth, and established neighborhoods) rather than trying to reinvent the area. When clients ask us what’s next, the answer is layered. New development is coming, but so are refinements to infrastructure, public spaces, and lifestyle amenities that affect daily living in real ways.
Key Takeaways
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Restored Mediterranean Revival grandeur and modern spa amenities at The Gulfstream Hotel.
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Tech-forward academic energy and professional-grade research facilities at the new Vanderbilt University campus.
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Oceanfront views at the District’s newest branded residential towers.
The Restoration of Heritage: The Gulfstream Hotel
The 2026 reopening of The Gulfstream Hotel involves a full restoration that has brought a 1925 landmark back to its Mediterranean Revival glory. This establishment represents the pinnacle of new features in the area, balancing the low-profile charm of Old Florida with the high-performance amenities expected of the modern executive.
Why the Gulfstream Restoration Defines the 2026 Standard
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The Historic Restoration Project has meticulously preserved the original architectural integrity of the six-story building while introducing 90 thoughtfully redesigned guest rooms.
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Top-Tier Wellness Facilities include a brand-new signature spa and a resort-style swimming pool, offering a quiet retreat for those who seek a meditative escape from the urban center.
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Rooftop Social Sanctuaries provide a high-energy venue for evening resets, featuring panoramic views of the Lake Worth Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.
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Strategic Meeting Spaces totaling over 3,000 square feet offer professional-grade environments for board meetings and intimate social galas in a storied setting.
The Mediterranean Revival aesthetics create a sense of place and permanence that mirrors the heritage of the area's most storied residential enclaves.
The Academic and Economic Shift: Vanderbilt in West Palm
Vanderbilt University's formal commitment to build a graduate campus in the heart of the city has triggered a series of high-stakes architectural designs and infrastructure improvements.
The Hallmark Features of the Vanderbilt Expansion
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Graduate Research Hubs will focus on high-performance sectors like finance, management, and space technology, attracting a new generation of industry leaders to the region.
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The Seven-Acre Urban Campus east of Tamarind Avenue will integrate seamlessly into the downtown fabric, fostering a walkable, connected environment for residents and students.
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The Related Ross Partnership ensures that the campus is supported by the same high-standard development team behind CityPlace and the city's premier office towers.
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Architectural Innovation in the new campus designs mirrors the contemporary standards of our newest residential estates, utilizing solid drainage and structural hardening.
We make sure our clients recognize that this $500 million investment is more than just a school; it is a vital artery of Palm Beaches real estate that will support a world-class, multi-cultural social and professional life.
The Branded Lifestyle: High-Rise Sanctuaries and Urban Amenities
The "branded residence" boom has reached a fever pitch this year, with buildings like the Ritz-Carlton Residences and South Flagler House reshaping the skyline along Flagler Drive.
The Next Generation of Local Residential Art
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Mr. C Hotel & Residences brings the refined elegance of the Italian Riviera to a 25-story tower on Lakeview Avenue, featuring a signature Bellini restaurant and a rooftop pool deck.
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South Flagler House stands as Florida’s first luxury high-rise designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, offering 108 residences inspired by the classic limestone architecture of the island.
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The Belgrove West Palm Beach offers a modern oasis of laid-back luxury, providing residents with polished elegance and an unprecedented suite of waterfront amenities.
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Equinox-Curated Wellness Programs at the newest developments provide on-site group fitness, personal training, and spa services for a high-performance healthy start.
These projects represent the peak of Palm Beaches real estate innovation, where five-star hospitality standards are built directly into the floor plans of our most exclusive private towers.
FAQs
What makes the new Vanderbilt campus a driver for Palm Beaches real estate?
The Vanderbilt campus sustains steady interest in modern buildings and walkable locations, making the urban core one of the most active parts of the county for consistent real estate demand.
Are there any new wellness-centric resorts opening in 2026?
The Gulfstream Hotel is the primary debut for 2026, offering a complete restoration with modern spa and wellness amenities. Additionally, recent expansions at the Amrit Ocean Resort have introduced unique spa rituals that further elevate the wellness experience for residents and guests.
How does the 2026 market compare to previous years in terms of inventory?
Most forecasts point to a more balanced market in 2026, where inventory and buyer power are slowly returning as mortgage rates become more realistic. While supply remains tight near the coast, new construction projects offer the best value, with builder incentives and modern, climate-ready features.
Reach Out to The Friis Team Today
If you’re curious about how upcoming changes could affect where and how you live, let’s talk through it thoughtfully. With the proper perspective, Palm Beaches real estate becomes less about timing the market and more about choosing the right place within it.
Reach out to us at The Friis Team, and we’ll map out how the 2026 landscape aligns with your goals, whether that’s a primary residence, a strategic purchase, or a future move.
Reach out to us at The Friis Team, and we’ll map out how the 2026 landscape aligns with your goals, whether that’s a primary residence, a strategic purchase, or a future move.
