Lionstone Development, rooted in a rich family generational legacy, embodies a forward-thinking approach that honors heritage while pushing creative boundaries. With a focus on celebrating experiences for its guests, enhancing architecture and design, and ensuring the highest quality execution, it aims to redefine hospitality development.
Guided by the enduring vision of its leaders and fueled by a deep-rooted generational commitment to excellence, Lionstone pioneers development in world-class and unique hospitality and residential ventures and continuously enriching its thriving portfolio. Unwavering integrity and relentless dynamism have long characterized Lionstone and its affiliates across the United States and the Caribbean. This same spirit propels the family-owned Lionstone organization as it consistently delivers on properties that not only honor but also elevate the communities in which they invest, reflecting a dedication to lasting excellence and reliable advancement.
Collective wisdom, vision, and unparalleled commitment form the cornerstone of Lionstone's identity. They navigate our path, ensuring that Lionstone Development remains a trailblazer in the real estate industry, steadfast in delivering excellence and innovative solutions that redefine our legacy.
Alfredo Lowenstein has been an entrepreneur and active owner of companies in varied sectors and industries with interests in Europe, the United States and Argentina. He started his business career in Buenos Aires, Argentina with the family business, Lamar S.A. - which for decades was the largest exporter of horse meat in the world and where Mr. Lowenstein served as President until the sale of the business in 1995.
His entrepreneurial drive has resulted in many successful business ventures including the 1974 launch of the first fast food chain in South America, the development of one of the first and most prominent shopping centers in Buenos Aires, and pioneering investments in Miami Beach resort properties in the early 1970’s.
Mr. Lowenstein has over fifty years of real estate and hotel experience. As Chairman of Lionstone, he is actively involved in the procurement of new ventures and transactions, supervision of development and guidance of ongoing hotel operations.
Since 1989, Diana Lowenstein has been part of the international art scene through her roles as a gallery owner and director - first under the name Der Brücke and now as the eponymous Diana Lowenstein Gallery. Upon moving to Miami, Diana Lowenstein and her family have had businesses in Miami Beach since the early 1970s.
In conjunction with the relocation, Mrs. Lowenstein was responsible for curating the artwork on view at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. The process was one of careful study within the hotel’s overall design, its historic value and presence, as well as the desire to reach a cohesive visual balance. This occurred through the rigorous selection of artworks, many from her own private collection, which are still on view for the public who visit.
In December 2008, the EPIC Hotel and Residences in Downtown Miami opened. Mrs. Lowenstein, along with her daughter Flavia Lowenstein, curated a series of commissioned works by local and international artists that reflect the spirit of the property that is nested within the exciting and vibrant hub of the city.
The latest curatorial endeavors include the recently unveiled public art program at the Virgin Hotel in Chicago overseen by Mrs. Lowenstein, featuring artwork specifically selected and commissioned for this project. In addition, she has been dedicated to the ongoing research and planning of the restoration and renovation of the historic Medici castle owned by the family, Cafaggiolo, located on the outskirts of Florence, Italy.
Diego Lowenstein has been involved in his family’s businesses across multiple countries since 1990. He held executive roles in various sectors of the family’s companies in Argentina including real estate holdings and development, food service and restaurant business and franchising ventures. He became Board Director and CEO of Lionstone in 2003 and his active participation and expertise in the acquisition, development, repositioning and revitalization of hotels and casinos in the U.S. and the Caribbean have played a pivotal role in propelling the family entrepreneurial firm to new heights over the past two decades.
Diego is an entrepreneurial business leader with fondness for unique, market distinct and creative developments and is tactically pursuing new opportunities to diversify, grow and further transform the company.
Flavia Lowenstein served as VP of Interior Design for Lionstone Development for more than a decade, overseeing numerous developments: Ritz Carlton South Beach, Ritz Carlton Bal Harbour, Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa, and Casino, Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino and Epic Hotel and Residences. She curated the art collection throughout the properties as liaison for Diana Lowenstein Gallery and commissioned the Infinity Chain bronze sculpture from Xavery Wolski in the entrance rotunda of the Epic Hotel and Residences. She has sat on various committees within the Miami art world specifically for Art Basel and Art in Public Places. Flavia brings more than 25 years of delivering visionary experiences in media and fine arts, music, design, lifestyle, and fashion to the world.
Carla Lowenstein joined the Lionstone team carrying on the family's legacy in 2001 following her graduation from Parsons School of Design in New York City where she obtained a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts with Honors in Communications Design. Since then Carla has been instructive in the brand development for Lionstone, handling the different corporate branding needs as well as individual property graphics. During the development of Epic Hotel and Residences, working alongside a partner and design agency, Carla oversaw the creative direction of the project. In 2016 amid the celebration of Lionstone’s 50th anniversary, Carla spearheaded the company’s rebranding, contributing to the re-developed forward-thinking, creative mission of the company. As the current Creative Manager at Lionstone, Carla contributes to the majority of the creative direction for previous and current projects working with Lionstone’s affiliates.
Alfredo Lowenstein has been an entrepreneur and active owner of companies in varied sectors and industries with interests in Europe, the United States and Argentina. He started his business career in Buenos Aires, Argentina with the family business, Lamar S.A. - which for decades was the largest exporter of horse meat in the world and where Mr. Lowenstein served as President until the sale of the business in 1995.
His entrepreneurial drive has resulted in many successful business ventures including the 1974 launch of the first fast food chain in South America, the development of one of the first and most prominent shopping centers in Buenos Aires, and pioneering investments in Miami Beach resort properties in the early 1970’s.
Mr. Lowenstein has over fifty years of real estate and hotel experience. As Chairman of Lionstone, he is actively involved in the procurement of new ventures and transactions, supervision of development and guidance of ongoing hotel operations.
Since 1989, Diana Lowenstein has been part of the international art scene through her roles as a gallery owner and director - first under the name Der Brücke and now as the eponymous Diana Lowenstein Gallery. Upon moving to Miami, Diana Lowenstein and her family have had businesses in Miami Beach since the early 1970s.
In conjunction with the relocation, Mrs. Lowenstein was responsible for curating the artwork on view at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. The process was one of careful study within the hotel’s overall design, its historic value and presence, as well as the desire to reach a cohesive visual balance. This occurred through the rigorous selection of artworks, many from her own private collection, which are still on view for the public who visit.
In December 2008, the EPIC Hotel and Residences in Downtown Miami opened. Mrs. Lowenstein, along with her daughter Flavia Lowenstein, curated a series of commissioned works by local and international artists that reflect the spirit of the property that is nested within the exciting and vibrant hub of the city.
The latest curatorial endeavors include the recently unveiled public art program at the Virgin Hotel in Chicago overseen by Mrs. Lowenstein, featuring artwork specifically selected and commissioned for this project. In addition, she has been dedicated to the ongoing research and planning of the restoration and renovation of the historic Medici castle owned by the family, Cafaggiolo, located on the outskirts of Florence, Italy.
Diego Lowenstein has been involved in his family’s businesses across multiple countries since 1990. He held executive roles in various sectors of the family’s companies in Argentina including real estate holdings and development, food service and restaurant business and franchising ventures. He became Board Director and CEO of Lionstone in 2003 and his active participation and expertise in the acquisition, development, repositioning and revitalization of hotels and casinos in the U.S. and the Caribbean have played a pivotal role in propelling the family entrepreneurial firm to new heights over the past two decades.
Diego is an entrepreneurial business leader with fondness for unique, market distinct and creative developments and is tactically pursuing new opportunities to diversify, grow and further transform the company.
Flavia Lowenstein served as VP of Interior Design for Lionstone Development for more than a decade, overseeing numerous developments: Ritz Carlton South Beach, Ritz Carlton Bal Harbour, Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa, and Casino, Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino and Epic Hotel and Residences. She curated the art collection throughout the properties as liaison for Diana Lowenstein Gallery and commissioned the Infinity Chain bronze sculpture from Xavery Wolski in the entrance rotunda of the Epic Hotel and Residences. She has sat on various committees within the Miami art world specifically for Art Basel and Art in Public Places. Flavia brings more than 25 years of delivering visionary experiences in media and fine arts, music, design, lifestyle, and fashion to the world.
Carla Lowenstein joined the Lionstone team carrying on the family's legacy in 2001 following her graduation from Parsons School of Design in New York City where she obtained a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts with Honors in Communications Design. Since then Carla has been instructive in the brand development for Lionstone, handling the different corporate branding needs as well as individual property graphics. During the development of Epic Hotel and Residences, working alongside a partner and design agency, Carla oversaw the creative direction of the project. In 2016 amid the celebration of Lionstone’s 50th anniversary, Carla spearheaded the company’s rebranding, contributing to the re-developed forward-thinking, creative mission of the company. As the current Creative Manager at Lionstone, Carla contributes to the majority of the creative direction for previous and current projects working with Lionstone’s affiliates.
Lionstone Development seeks team members with genuine industry expertise, valuing their significant contributions to every facet of the company. The team actively engages in idea generation, contributes to the creative process, drives development initiatives, and advances development and performance in its properties. The synergy among team members creates a dynamic and challenging yet harmonious family environment where Lionstone’s many new developments are gestated.
Diego Lowenstein has served as Chief Executive Officer of Lionstone since 2003. Among various responsibilities, he leads the Lionstone executive team, overseeing asset management, financing, marketing, and design development and construction. He directs the company’s acquisition and deal structuring, capital raising, generation and coordination of joint venture partnerships and hospitality company selection.
In partnership with hospitality service-industry leaders including The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Kimpton Hotels, Hilton Hotels, Hyatt-AM Resorts, InterContinental Hotel Group and Virgin Hotels, Diego has fulfilled developments in markets including Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, Chicago, and several destinations in the Caribbean. In the past decade alone, Lionstone has entitled, converted and developed over 2,500 rooms and over 3 million square feet of real estate projects amounting in a robust pipeline of active development projects in the Americas.
Javier is the company’s Corporate Counsel and as such, provides legal advice to the Lionstone team with respect to current projects, future developments, and strategic planning. Prior to joining Lionstone, Javier was with Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price and Axelrod, LLP where he represented clients in a variety of matters involving real estate including acquisitions, financings, leasing, joint ventures, and sales. Javier also assisted clients with the purchase, day to day management and disposition of large pools of distressed loans and REO.Javier obtained a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida in 2001, with a major in finance and double minors in Spanish and economics. Javier obtained a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 2004. While at Harvard Law School, Javier served as the Executive Editor of the Harvard Latino Law Review.
Rajesh Nair is responsible for overseeing the financial and accounting functions at Lionstone Development. He plays an active role in feasibility assessments, deal negotiations, financing, and the monitoring of construction projects. Additionally, he partners with asset management to ensure that our portfolio's investment objectives are met. Before joining Lionstone, Raj had a successful 22-year career with Marriott International, where he held various financial and operating roles. He holds a master's degree in accounting from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and an MBA from Chapman School of Business at FIU.
A veteran hotelier with over 40 years of experience, Rolf Sprecher has been with Lionstone for the past 24 years serving as Senior Vice President of Operations since 2004 previously holding the position as Director of Operations and Managing Director in Curaçao and Aruba. Rolf is responsible for all operational aspects and asset management for the group. Trained in Switzerland at the prestigious Professional Hotel School in Lucerne, he earned a Bachelor of Hospitality management followed by a MBA VD, Mr. Sprecher brings the highly valued traditions of Swiss hotel management to all of the projects. Prior to joining the company in 1998 he held various management posts from General Manager to Management Trainer throughout the world. Rolf Sprecher has served as President and member on the board of various hotel associations in Europe and in the Caribbean, and he is a member of the Hospitality Asset Managers Association in the United States.
Ozzie is a hands-on leader who takes personal accountability and pride in our company’s performance within project development and construction. With over 38 years of experience within the building industry, and his certification as a general contracter by the state of Florida, his integrated architectural, design and landscaping background provides a multi-faceted, forward-thinking approach to our many diverse project types and our development and asset management team. Ozzie oversees the development and construction management of Lionstone’s Florida & Caribbean projects dedicated to our commitment in creating world-class facilities. His deep passion for history and knowledge of the local community is an asset in our company’s collaboration with local and industry leaders. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in History from the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida.
Ilana carries the proud legacy of Lionstone’s family business as its fourth generation torchbearer. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design. During her academic pursuits, she concentrated on sustainable design, a field that resonates with her commitment to crafting architectural masterpieces that are not just beautiful, but environmentally conscious. Prior to joining Lionstone, Ilana worked as a Project Manager for Plaza Construction in New York City. She navigated multi-faceted projects ranging from non-profit, residential, and commercial sectors. Ilana’s commitment to sustainable development extends beyond her professional role; as a board member of the Greater Miami Sustainability Council, she is at the forefront of initiatives that are shaping a greener, more sustainable Miami, with significant contributions to the hospitality sector, As Lionstone’s Design and Development Manager, she utilizes her extensive experience in design, construction, and sustainability to lead projects towards a brighter, more eco-conscious future.
Diego Lowenstein has served as Chief Executive Officer of Lionstone since 2003. Among various responsibilities, he leads the Lionstone executive team, overseeing asset management, financing, marketing, and design development and construction. He directs the company’s acquisition and deal structuring, capital raising, generation and coordination of joint venture partnerships and hospitality company selection.
In partnership with hospitality service-industry leaders including The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Kimpton Hotels, Hilton Hotels, Hyatt-AM Resorts, InterContinental Hotel Group and Virgin Hotels, Diego has fulfilled developments in markets including Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, Chicago, and several destinations in the Caribbean. In the past decade alone, Lionstone has entitled, converted and developed over 2,500 rooms and over 3 million square feet of real estate projects amounting in a robust pipeline of active development projects in the Americas.
Javier is the company’s Corporate Counsel and as such, provides legal advice to the Lionstone team with respect to current projects, future developments, and strategic planning. Prior to joining Lionstone, Javier was with Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price and Axelrod, LLP where he represented clients in a variety of matters involving real estate including acquisitions, financings, leasing, joint ventures, and sales. Javier also assisted clients with the purchase, day to day management and disposition of large pools of distressed loans and REO.Javier obtained a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida in 2001, with a major in finance and double minors in Spanish and economics. Javier obtained a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 2004. While at Harvard Law School, Javier served as the Executive Editor of the Harvard Latino Law Review.
Rajesh Nair is responsible for overseeing the financial and accounting functions at Lionstone Development. He plays an active role in feasibility assessments, deal negotiations, financing, and the monitoring of construction projects. Additionally, he partners with asset management to ensure that our portfolio's investment objectives are met. Before joining Lionstone, Raj had a successful 22-year career with Marriott International, where he held various financial and operating roles. He holds a master's degree in accounting from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and an MBA from Chapman School of Business at FIU.
A veteran hotelier with over 40 years of experience, Rolf Sprecher has been with Lionstone for the past 24 years serving as Senior Vice President of Operations since 2004 previously holding the position as Director of Operations and Managing Director in Curaçao and Aruba. Rolf is responsible for all operational aspects and asset management for the group. Trained in Switzerland at the prestigious Professional Hotel School in Lucerne, he earned a Bachelor of Hospitality management followed by a MBA VD, Mr. Sprecher brings the highly valued traditions of Swiss hotel management to all of the projects. Prior to joining the company in 1998 he held various management posts from General Manager to Management Trainer throughout the world. Rolf Sprecher has served as President and member on the board of various hotel associations in Europe and in the Caribbean, and he is a member of the Hospitality Asset Managers Association in the United States.
Ozzie is a hands-on leader who takes personal accountability and pride in our company’s performance within project development and construction. With over 38 years of experience within the building industry, and his certification as a general contracter by the state of Florida, his integrated architectural, design and landscaping background provides a multi-faceted, forward-thinking approach to our many diverse project types and our development and asset management team. Ozzie oversees the development and construction management of Lionstone’s Florida & Caribbean projects dedicated to our commitment in creating world-class facilities. His deep passion for history and knowledge of the local community is an asset in our company’s collaboration with local and industry leaders. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in History from the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida.
Ilana carries the proud legacy of Lionstone’s family business as its fourth generation torchbearer. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design. During her academic pursuits, she concentrated on sustainable design, a field that resonates with her commitment to crafting architectural masterpieces that are not just beautiful, but environmentally conscious. Prior to joining Lionstone, Ilana worked as a Project Manager for Plaza Construction in New York City. She navigated multi-faceted projects ranging from non-profit, residential, and commercial sectors. Ilana’s commitment to sustainable development extends beyond her professional role; as a board member of the Greater Miami Sustainability Council, she is at the forefront of initiatives that are shaping a greener, more sustainable Miami, with significant contributions to the hospitality sector, As Lionstone’s Design and Development Manager, she utilizes her extensive experience in design, construction, and sustainability to lead projects towards a brighter, more eco-conscious future.
In the hospitality industry, comprehending the market and its key players is paramount. Lionstone boasts a rich history of collaboration with diverse hotel management companies, granting us profound insights into hospitality markets. Leveraging our expertise, resources, and capabilities, we adeptly navigate our clients through the critical brand selection phase, a pivotal but often mishandled aspect of development. Additionally, we provide invaluable support in negotiating management contracts, ensuring our clients sidestep potential challenges, and achieve enduring success.
A consistent trait of successful developers is the ability to accurately understand, assess and manage the risks of potential projects. Since venturing into the hospitality sector in the 1960s, Lionstone has become known for its thorough feasibility studies and investment analyses. These vehicles enable Lionstone to gain in-depth insights into projects and avoid the pitfalls that have hindered other developers.
In today’s economic landscape, securing the right balance between debt and equity remains a challenge for many companies. Leveraging our profound expertise in the capital markets, Lionstone can aid in securing the ideal mix of debt and equity for your projects. We have the capability to source funding from various channels including banks, institutional investors, mezzanine lenders, and private equity, ensuring a tailored financial solution for your development.
We take pride in ensuring peace of mind for our clients by consistently executing our responsibilities punctually and with utmost precision. This commitment to accuracy is especially critical in construction, where even minor errors can lead to significant long-term consequences. Lionstone offers a proven system that has enabled us to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget, providing a reliable and efficient approach to construction management.
Our experienced team of hotel management professionals recognizes the importance of maximizing profits for our clients by ensuring efficient and effective management of hotel assets. Lionstone brings substantial expertise in Hospitality Management, having successfully managed its own properties and overseen properties operated by leading names in the hotel industry, all aimed at optimizing returns for our clients.
Drawing from our extensive experience, Lionstone comprehends the critical significance of effective property management, whether it’s commercial or residential. With this expertise, we are well-equipped to guide other organizations in adopting the same successful practices that have driven Lionstone’s achievements in its projects. Our customized property management agreements are designed to suit the unique requirements of each asset, with a primary focus on retail shopping centers, office condominiums and office buildings.
In the hospitality industry, comprehending the market and its key players is paramount. Lionstone boasts a rich history of collaboration with diverse hotel management companies, granting us profound insights into hospitality markets. Leveraging our expertise, resources, and capabilities, we adeptly navigate our clients through the critical brand selection phase, a pivotal but often mishandled aspect of development. Additionally, we provide invaluable support in negotiating management contracts, ensuring our clients sidestep potential challenges, and achieve enduring success.
A consistent trait of successful developers is the ability to accurately understand, assess and manage the risks of potential projects. Since venturing into the hospitality sector in the 1960s, Lionstone has become known for its thorough feasibility studies and investment analyses. These vehicles enable Lionstone to gain in-depth insights into projects and avoid the pitfalls that have hindered other developers.
In today’s economic landscape, securing the right balance between debt and equity remains a challenge for many companies. Leveraging our profound expertise in the capital markets, Lionstone can aid in securing the ideal mix of debt and equity for your projects. We have the capability to source funding from various channels including banks, institutional investors, mezzanine lenders, and private equity, ensuring a tailored financial solution for your development.
We take pride in ensuring peace of mind for our clients by consistently executing our responsibilities punctually and with utmost precision. This commitment to accuracy is especially critical in construction, where even minor errors can lead to significant long-term consequences. Lionstone offers a proven system that has enabled us to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget, providing a reliable and efficient approach to construction management.
Our experienced team of hotel management professionals recognizes the importance of maximizing profits for our clients by ensuring efficient and effective management of hotel assets. Lionstone brings substantial expertise in Hospitality Management, having successfully managed its own properties and overseen properties operated by leading names in the hotel industry, all aimed at optimizing returns for our clients.
Drawing from our extensive experience, Lionstone comprehends the critical significance of effective property management, whether it’s commercial or residential. With this expertise, we are well-equipped to guide other organizations in adopting the same successful practices that have driven Lionstone’s achievements in its projects. Our customized property management agreements are designed to suit the unique requirements of each asset, with a primary focus on retail shopping centers, office condominiums and office buildings.