By zestybuzz 
Tavistock Senior VP of Growth Chris Gandolfo gamely fields our questions on all the pieces from his off-hours pursuits to what makes the reimagined Pier 66 well worth the wait.
What ought to we be excited to find in regards to the reimagined Pier 66?
Pier Sixty-Six has reworked right into a world-class luxurious vacation spot that superbly 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, various eating and leisure, and ultra-luxury residences with non-public membership facilities, all anchored by the long-lasting 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 an indicator of Fort Lauderdale after so many many years?
Since 1966, Pier Sixty-Six has been a landmark in Fort Lauderdale due to 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 rejoice, 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 non-public 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 toes.
What’s your favourite off-hours technique 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 seaside—it’s the proper manner to soak up 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 at all times meant to strive or do within the metropolis that you simply nonetheless haven’t gotten round to?
Each day, I cross the Worldwide Swimming Corridor of Fame and its hanging diving platform sculpture. It’s such a singular a part of our metropolis’s historical past, and I sit up for exploring it.
Identify your go-to restaurant within the metropolis for a powerful enterprise lunch.
Timpano on Las Olas Boulevard is my best choice. The Italian delicacies is constantly distinctive, and the mussels are a standout. A excellent selection for a enterprise lunch.
What native causes do you champion or strongly help?
Giving again is a precedence for us. My spouse, Lisa, and I are proud to help 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 gives world-class snowboarding and countless summer season actions.
What’s the following massive mission in your agenda?
With the completion of Pier Sixty-Six’s $1 billion first section, we’re looking forward to 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 generally.
In enterprise: “Good improvement is sweet for each the developer and the group.”
In life: “Good communication is the important thing to success.”