Groundbreaking Announced for Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami

The Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami, which will be the highest residential structure south of New York City, is scheduled to break ground on October 27th, 2022.

The groundbreaking for the 100-story collection of 9 glass boxes in downtown Miami, is the result of an alliance between the New York and Miami-based developer PMG, the Toronto-based private equity firm Greybrook Realty Partners, and the international hospitality giant Hilton.

The 1,049-foot tower will rise at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, which will be located across from Bayfront Park at the northwest intersection of Biscayne Boulevard and Northeast Third Street.

360 individual homes will be included on the site, along with 205 bedrooms and suites in the five-star hotel.

The building will also contain 1,321 square feet of commercial and retail space, as well as parking for up to 694 cars and 350 bicycles.

The third cube, which is located towards the base of the tower, rotates in response to the pool deck, while the second cube, which is placed further to the east, forms an outdoor dining area for an expensive restaurant. The first cube rotates upward at street level to welcome locals and guests while supporting the entire tower.

Peacock Alley, a specialty restaurant, indoor/outdoor pre-function and event spaces, conference and boardrooms, a resort-style pool deck with private cabanas, a spa, and a fitness facility will all be considered signature areas.

Residences will feature the newest smart home technology with access to concierge services through a personalized mobile app. The app will have a comprehensive list of services, including the ability to make reservations for meals, 24-hour room service, spa and fitness services, house cars, access to valet service, package delivery, and dog walking.

Sales for the project began in March 2021 and sold 75% within the first 9 months. Now the project is sold out! The designer for the project is listed as BAMO.

The price of a residence begins at $1 million, and PMG Residential is in charge of sales and marketing.

Hilton Management Services will be in charge of running the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami.

Demolition has already begun on the existing asphalt as well as field site borings being completed. Deep Soil Mix permit has been issued and work was started in July 2022.

The tower is expected to be finished in 2025.

If you or anyone you know has an interest in acquiring it, contact Lucas Lechuga via email at [email protected] or by phone at 786-247-6332.

North Bay Village Approves 7.3 Million Square Foot Development Project Featuring 1,936 Residential Units

Sunbeam Properties, the proprietor of WSVN Channel 7, has a 7.3 million square foot redevelopment plan that has officially been approved by the North Bay Village Council. The special area plan for a 12.9-acre site covering 1400, 1401, 1415, 1600, and 1601 79th Street Causeway, as well as 155 and 1624 North Bay Causeway, was approved by the Village Council on a 3-2 vote early on Wednesday.

A 300-room hotel, 1,936 residential units, 200,000 square feet of office space, 670,000 square feet of retail space, 117 units of workforce housing, and around 5,000 parking spots are all included in the development plan. Additionally, there would be 84,366 square feet of public space, including a half-mile pedestrian walkway known as the “island walk” that would be surrounded by restaurants and stores. A marina would also be a part of the project.

The project’s highest structure would be 650 feet tall. To lessen the number of shadows cast upon the smaller dwellings, the structures closer to single-family homes would be smaller. Buildings north of the project would be taller and would rise 240 feet in height south of the causeway.

The offices and studios of WSVN will eventually be relocated as part of the construction. WSVN and Sunbeam Properties are owned by the multibillionaire Ansin family.

The project’s first phase, according to Ansin, would be built south of the causeway and will have 500 to 600 apartments spread across two buildings, along with a restaurant, grocery store, and other retail space that may house an urgent care facility or a daycare. Sunbeam Properties must apply for building permits for the first phase within two years in accordance with its development agreement with the village. The first renters, according to Ansin, should move in within five years.

As the Ansin family celebrates the 60th anniversary of running WSVN in North Bay Village, CEO Andy Ansin admitted that this was an emotionally charged decision for him. He has visited that studio ever since he was a youngster.

Although Ansin said the initial concept wasn’t for redevelopment, Sunbeam Properties over time purchased surrounding lands. According to Ansin, the first purchase was made to stop a strip club from being built next door. It bought a nearby office complex so the TV station would have more parking.

Ansin discovered North Bay Village had potential after having experts from the University of Miami School of Architecture do research on future renovation. However, it necessitated moving the TV studio.

Ansin stated that he is still looking for a new studio for WSVN. He emphasized that it would require plenty of parking, hurricane-resistant construction, and backup power generation.

PlusUrbana, a firm based in Miami, is the project’s architect. Attorney Ian DeMello, who is headquartered in Miami, is the developer’s representative.

MILA Miami Beach Expands Restaurant Space Unveiling a Member’s Only Club, Omakese, and Luxury Lounge

The Mediterranean and Japanese infused restaurant MILA Miami, is expanding its space with a second level at 7,900 square feet. The 2nd floor expansion will include the MM Club, MILA Omakase, and the MILA Lounge with other experiences that will be unveiled soon.

In the heart of Miami Beach, MILA is a magnificent space that perfectly combines an upgraded eating experience with cuisines that aim to take guests on a culinary journey through the shores of the Mediterranean and Japan while creating a creative expression of flavorful MediterrAsian cuisine. It is inspired by Asian and Mediterranean eating practices, both healthy and tasty, and embraces the importance of enjoying life.

Living by the motto “EUDAIMONIA,” which translates to “the contented, cheerful feeling you feel when you travel,” MILA symbolizes a multi-sensory gastronomic experience with unique Balearic music blends, delectable food, and a fun atmosphere to party the night away.

According to the CEO and Founder of Riviera Dining Group, Greg Galy, “We are thrilled to be expanding MILA, adding multiple new venues to our immersive and innovative space. The additional concepts provide the opportunity to lead the luxury and lifestyle industry in South Florida.”

For the select few who participate in Riviera Dining Group’s program, the ultra-private, members-only club known as The MM Club will offer a personal experience. Members will be welcomed into a dimly lit area that adds a luxurious touch to the traditional speakeasy and gives privacy to guests who want absolute discretion. Expertly prepared cocktails will be served at a sophisticated bar that is covered in warm, rust-colored carved marble.

Visitors at MILA Omakase will go on an unexpected culinary adventure. When visitors enter the confined space with the stunning omakase countertop and 10 seats, time stands still. French pipe organ maker and Guinness Book Award winner Matthieu Garnier constructed the countertop from a 300-year-old Red Camphor tree. In order to enhance the sensory experience, Garnier also constructed a 500-year-old hinoki wood cutting board (Japanese Cypress) for the area.

MILA is a part of the the Riviera Dining Group which was founded in 2021 with the original MILA South Beach location. Their main goal is to bring customers a innovative dining and gathering experience. This year, they have also opened AVA MediterrAegean in Winter Park, Florida and Casa Neos which is anticipated to open in this fall in Brickell.

Evenings continue at the MILA Lounge, where visitors can indulge in a luxurious and private nightlife experience. Light appetizers, creative mixology, and bottle service will be available to those eager to make an impression as they mingle and dance to music from leading industry DJs.

Riviera Dining Group is seeking 50–70 additional front- and back-of-house employees as it gets ready to open the restaurant’s expansion.

Miami International Auto Show Returns to Miami October 15-23, 2022

One of the biggest car shows in the country, the Miami International Auto Show, has revealed the dates for its nine-day event this year: October 15–23, 2022 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

At this year’s auto show, more than 500 of the best cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles will be on display. Over 700,000 guests from all over the world are anticipated for this year’s event.

The South Florida Automobile Dealers Association has been the show’s sponsor since it debuted in 1971. Over the course of its 50-year run, the program has donated over $7 million to regional causes, with the most recent $400,000 going to a longtime partner, the Ronald McDonald House.

The past event included around 300,000 people in attendance, in addition to automakers, historic vehicle groups, and automotive enthusiasts from around the world. Acura, Alfa Romeo, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, Ram, Subaru, Toyota, and Volkswagon are among the exhibitors this year.

The convention center offers $30 for a limited amount of valet parking, which is accessible on a first come, first served basis. Across 17th St. is a municipal garage that charges $2 per hour with a $20 daily maximum. You can view a complete map of convention center parking before you arrive through the shows website. Miami Beach also offers additional public lots and garages close by.

The thrills happen at the Miami Beach Convention Center from October 15–23, 2022. Children under 12 are admitted for $6; adults must pay $15.

The Residences at 1428 Brickell by Antonio Citterio: Renderings, Floor Plans, and Pricing

Introducing The Residences at 1428 Brickell by Antonio Citterio – the next generation of ultra-luxury living in Miami. If the name Antonio Citterio rings a bell, that’s because he’s the architect who designed the record-price-breaking Arte in Surfside. He’s also responsible for designing all Bulgari hotels worldwide.

Rising 70 stories high, The Residences at 1428 Brickell will have just 189 residential units, comprised of two- to four-bedroom-plus-den floor plans ranging in size from 1,800 to 4,000 interior square feet plus a Penthouse Collection with residences ranging in size from 4,000 to 10,000 interior square feet, including two behemoth penthouse with astonishing 30-foot-high ceilings. 25 percent of the building will be comprised of two-story residences, like the one shown in the rendering below, and all residences will be delivered FULLY finished, including flooring, closets, lighting, and window treatments.

The Residences at 1428 Brickell will be the FIRST residential tower in the world to be powered by solar energy. Over 500 photovoltaic-integrated glass panels along the west façade will create a “Solar Backbone” that comprises more than 20,000 square feet of energy-producing glass, providing residents up to 170,000 kilowatts of clean energy per year. Additionally, the building will feature an unprecedented 80,000 square feet of amenities, including a two-story rooftop observatory with a rooftop pool and rooftop lounge bar (Level 70), a two-story Owners Club (Level 67), a 10,000 square foot spa and fitness center (Level 66), and much, much more.

Price Ranges

• 2 Bedroom + Den from $2.38M
• 2 Bedrooms (Duplexes) from $2.91M
• 3 Bedrooms + Den from $3.72M
• 4 Bedrooms + Den from $5.52M
• Penthouse Pricing: TBA

Deposit Schedule

• 5% due at Reservation (now)
• 5% due at Contract (approximately 3 weeks)
• 10% due 90 Days after Contract
• 10% due at Groundbreaking (estimated for Q1 2023)
• 10% due at Top-off
• Balance at Closing (estimated for Q4 2026)

I’ve been selling real estate since 2005 and never have I seen a new construction development feature finishes of this caliber. Without a doubt, The Residences at 1428 Brickell will usher in a new era of luxury living in Miami. See the renderings below to judge for yourself. Contact me if you have an interest in reserving a residence. Sales launched this morning with a limited number of units released at Tier 1 pricing.

Miami Bar Ranked No. 21 for 50 Best Bars in the World

One of the top bars in the world is once again located in Miami. The cocktail bar, restaurant, and music venue known as Café La Trova in Little Havana has climbed the list of The World’s 50 Best Bars for 2022 for the third year in a row!

Café La Trova was ranked No. 21 in the yearly list of 50 Best Bars in the World with a ranking of No. 6 for Best Bars in the United States.

This old-world Cuban bar in Little Havana was founded by Michelin-starred chef Michelle Bernstein, her husband David Martnez, and cocktail guru Julio Cabrera.

Cabrera’s father owned a bar in Cuba before Castro was in power. His father taught him everything he knows which he showcases through Café La Trova’s nightly mixing shows. Along with the shows, it’s very common for Cabrera to dance among the patrons.

Café La Trova’s menu includes classic daiquiris and cervacas but their award-winning drink is the Buenavista cocktail. This drink includes Bombay Sapphire gin, cucumber, mint, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and sugar.

Café La Trova also features a dinner menu with classics like handout steak empanadas, jamon Serrano croquetas, arroz con pollo, and vaca fritz sliders.

Café La Trova is located at 971 SW 8th Street in Miami.

New Renderings Released and Plans Updated for 888 Brickell Tower

For the new construction tower 888 Brickell, located in the heart of Brickell, JDS Development Group has submitted updated blueprints to the Miami-Dade County review committee.

The tower will still be built to a supertall height of precisely 1,049 feet or 82 stories, which is the highest height allowed in Brickell.

888 Brickell will still feature 259 luxury units but some of the changes include 52,144 square feet of fitness areas, 38,727 square feet of restaurant space, and over 250 parking spaces.

ODP is listed as the official architect, with Studio Sofield still named as the building’s designer.

JDS Development originally partnered with Major Food Group on the project but Major is no longer involved in the partnership. According to the announcement about the updated plans, JDS plans to reveal a potential new partner in the coming months.

New renderings have also been released and prices are expected to range from $1.6 to $11 million.

Former NY Yankees Player A-Rod Just Purchased a Star Island Home for $18.5 Million

For $18.5 million, a company run by former New York Yankees player Alex Rodriguez just purchased a mega-mansion on Miami’s infamous Star Island in Miami Beach.

Casa La Bonita, located at 14 Star Island Drive features 0.9 acres with over 100 feet of water frontage directly on Biscayne Bay. The estate was built by renowned Mexican developer, Carlos Gosselin.

The property boasts imported entrance gates that welcome guests to the gorgeous Mediterranean-style estate opening to arched hallways and courtyards. Throughout the home, it is evident the custom-made Hindu doors, a movie theater, a poolside gazebo, an elevator, high-impact windows, a pool, and a boat dock.

Rodriguez is the manager of Star Island 14 LLC, which is the name of the purchaser of the home. The former MLB All-Star Rodriguez’s addresses in Miami and Woodland Hills, California, were included in the $20 million mortgage from First Republic Bank.

The off-market transaction cost $463 per square foot. In 2020, the house last sold for $24 million.

Rodriguez has purchased on Star Island before. In 2020, Rodriguez and singer/actor Jennifer Lopez bought the home next door, 13 Star Island Drive. Rodriguez and Lopez are no longer together and it is unclear if 13 Star Island will be sold or if either will take sole possession.

New Development Announced in Wynwood-The Rider

The Rider, a new project in Wynwood, has just had its designs submitted to the Wynwood Design Committee. The Rider will be a mixed-use upscale rental development that will rise 12 stories tall.

Spanning over 131 luxury units with a total leasable area of 104,625 square feet for the units and 6,000 square feet for ground-floor retail. The Rider will also include 146 garage spaces.

The Rider is situated at the intersection of Miami’s hip and developing Wynwood and Midtown neighborhoods, at 94 NE 29th Street, Miami, Florida on 0.56 acres. Residents will be able to scooter to their preferred locations, such as the Wynwood Walls, trendy shops and restaurants with a variety of flavors, and the shops at Midtown Mall, as well as a stroll to a prospective train station that may be only 85 yards away.

The Rider will have excellent access because it is about a 5-minute drive from the Miami Design District’s world-class shopping and from Interstate 195.

Tower Features

• Rooftop Pool
• Pool deck
• Dog Park
• Private hangout area
• Resident’s lounge
• Cutting-edge gym
• Art and Photography by Morrison Hotel Gallery
• Rooftop food service establishment that will be open to the public and be serviced by separate elevators

The developer is listed as the Rilea Group with Wynwood Deforma Studio listed as the architect.

On October 12, there will be a hearing before the Wynwood Design Review Committee to continue discussions about the new development.

Related Group and Two Roads Propose New 24 Story Tower-The Residences of Bal Harbour

The Related Group and Two Roads Development are partnering to create a new condominium project in Bal Harbour, The Residences of Bal Harbour.

The developers paid $135.2 million for an existing 88-unit condo tower and land located at 10245 Collins Avenue.

The proposed tower is expected to rise 24 stories tall featuring 61 luxury residences and 160 parking spaces which will be located in the basement of the tower.

Residence Features:

• Waterviews from each residence
• Wraparound balconies of each residence
• 3 to 5 bedroom floor plan options
• 3,258 to 4,754 square feet
• High-impact floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding glass doors

Tower Features:

• Separate ground floor, state-of-the-art fitness center
• Ground-floor restaurant
• Rooftop pool
• Rooftop bar
• Groundfloor pool
• Private beach access

CFE is listed as the architect for the project with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill as the designer.

The Architectural Review Board is scheduled for October 6 to review an updated proposal for The Residences of Bal Harbour.