In the heart of Bay Harbor Islands, a new landmark development is rapidly emerging as a beacon of luxury and exclusivity. The Origin Residences by Artefacto, launched only six months ago, has already achieved a remarkable sales milestone, with 70% of its units sold. This impressive feat positions it as one of the fastest-selling residential buildings in the area, underscoring the enduring allure of Miami’s waterfront lifestyle.
Origin Residences is the brainchild of a unique collaboration between Chile-based VDA | Origin Miami and the internationally renowned home furnishings brand Artefacto, headed by Paulo Bacchi. VDA, led by the visionary duo Mauricio Moya and Sergio Guzmán, is a prominent development company in Chile, bringing its expertise to this ambitious project.
The development promises to elevate Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands with 27 custom finished and furnished condominiums. These luxury boutique residences range from two-to-four bedrooms, with sizes spanning from 1,300 to 2,330 square feet. Starting prices were pegged at an impressive $1.390 million, a testament to the project’s premium offerings.
Interestingly, a significant proportion of the buyers are Brazilians, reflecting South Florida’s increasing appeal to Brazilian investors. The Miami Association of Realtors highlights Brazil as the third top international homebuyer market in 2023, further emphasizing this trend.
Mauricio Moya, VDA Miami’s lead developer, attributes these remarkable milestones to the insatiable demand for authentic Miami waterfront living. He highlights the exceptional common area design by Carla Guilhem, a globally acclaimed designer handpicked by Artefacto. “Together, we have created a project that redefines luxury waterfront living in South Florida,” Moya states, emphasizing the transformative lifestyle and unique opportunities offered at Origin Residences.
The project is not just about elegant living spaces; it’s a holistic experience. The residences boast stunning waterfront views and access to a private marina with 10 boat slips. The development also features a range of top-tier amenities like a rooftop pool, summer kitchens, an Owner’s lounge, a kid’s playroom, a coworking space, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Each unit reflects Carla Guilhem’s exquisite design ethos, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, private balconies, fully equipped kitchens with high-end appliances, modern bathrooms, and ample storage space.
Complementing the project’s luxurious interiors are the architectural designs by Revuelta Architecture International, known for its sustainable and quality designs. The project’s interiors, curated by Carla Guilhem, are meticulously designed to match the dynamic lifestyles of its residents.
Origin Residences by Artefacto is not just another development; it’s a testament to visionary planning, exceptional design, and the ever-growing appeal of Miami’s waterfront luxury lifestyle. As it nears completion, it’s poised to leave an indelible mark on the Bay Harbor Islands and the broader South Florida region.
Erba and Maty’s Miami Named Esquire’s Top Restaurants of 2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of American dining, a wave of radical authenticity is making its presence felt, bringing a thrilling edge to our culinary experiences. This isn’t just about food; it’s a narrative of chefs daringly sharing their personal stories through their creations. This movement might be an unconscious reaction to the looming shadows of artificial intelligence and virtual realms, or simply a celebration of the human spirit in its purest form. Whatever the catalyst, the result is a dining scene that is raw, vulnerable, occasionally bizarre, but above all, profoundly human.
Consider the whole fish, a dish of ultimate realness that graces the menus of many establishments in the forty-first edition of Esquire’s “Best New Restaurants” guide. This year, real people like Jeff Gordinier, Joshua David Stein, and Omar Mamoon, ventured across the United States, tasting offerings from over two hundred new eateries. Their journey, fueled by passion and discerning palates, led to select fifty exceptional restaurants, each a beacon of culinary brilliance.
Erba Miami
When you step into Erba, you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of grandeur. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a realm where each evening promises an immersive experience in both luxury and warmth. The magic begins with the team led by Chef Niven Patel and his partner Mo Alkassar, whose hospitality is as heartfelt as it is impeccable.
At the core of Erba’s allure is its unique culinary approach: a fusion of Italian tradition with a distinct Florida twist. Imagine the wonders of handmade mafaldine pasta intertwined with the exotic flavors of Bahamian conch. Or consider their tiramisu, which creatively embraces a hint of tres leches, offering a delightful surprise to your taste buds.
However, what truly sets Erba apart is its crudo. Prepared with locally-sourced wahoo and garnished with freshly plucked star fruit from Rancho Patel, Chef Patel’s own farm, the dish is a testament to the restaurant’s deep respect for fresh, local ingredients.
The philosophy of honoring simple ingredients is also vividly reflected in their other venture, Ghee—an Indian restaurant where Patel and Alkassar serve a steamed green millet that transforms a modest ingredient into something utterly sublime.
Erba isn’t just about serving Italian cuisine; it’s about elevating it through simplicity and a profound respect for the ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of Italian food or just someone who appreciates culinary excellence, Erba promises an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. It’s not just a place to dine; it’s a destination to become a regular, where every visit feels like a new journey into the heart of flavor and hospitality.
Maty’s Miami
In the world of upscale dining, small plates featuring raw fish, such as crudos, have become a staple. These dishes, while delightful, often blend into the background of many high-end menus, serving more as an elegant accessory than a standout feature. However, this culinary narrative takes a dramatic turn at Maty’s, where Chef Valerie Chang transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
At Maty’s, the ceviches and tiraditos – a Peruvian specialty where fish is sliced in the style of sashimi and paired with vivid sauces – offer an experience akin to jumping from a 3D movie into a 4D spectacle. Here, the dining becomes an immersive journey, with each flavor and texture creating a vivid, multi-sensory adventure.
Take, for instance, the ocean trout, which embarks on a tropical escapade with the addition of passion fruit, each morsel crowned with thinly sliced gooseberries. Or consider the kanpachi, elegantly arranged with layers of kohlrabi, kiwi berry, and a bright, zesty aji dulce sauce. These dishes don’t just tantalize the taste buds; they transport you to another realm of culinary delight.
While it’s tempting to indulge solely in these aquatic delights, overlooking other menu items would be a misstep. The choclo, a concoction of sweet corn, pecorino, and a spicy Huancaína cheese sauce, rivals the comfort and addiction of the finest mac and cheese. It’s a dish that marries simplicity with sophistication in a way that’s both comforting and novel.
And then there’s the Wagyu oxtail saltado – a dish that redefines luxury. The contrast of crisp potatoes with the rich, buttery oxtail creates a symphony of textures and flavors, elevating the dish to a surreal level of deliciousness.
Maty’s isn’t just about dining; it’s about experiencing a culinary world where every dish is a star, and every bite is a journey. Chef Valerie Chang’s menu invites you not just to taste, but to explore a universe of flavors that are as enchanting as they are exquisite.
True innovation in the kitchen is a gamble, but when it pays off, it’s transformative, filling not just our stomachs but our souls with an indescribable spark. It’s a rare gem, this combination of fulfillment and delight, but it’s a pursuit worth every effort. Let this be your map to a culinary adventure that celebrates not just food, but the essence of what it means to be authentically, wonderfully human.
Construction Update for Bentley Residences Sunny Isles Beach
A major development in the Bentley Residences Sunny Isles Beach project has been achieved. The project has secured a critical agreement for connecting to the county’s water and sewer utilities, as recorded on December 11. This progress is a significant indicator of the project’s forward momentum.
Bentley Residences is set to offer 216 high-end residential units, promising a blend of luxury and exclusivity. An attractive feature for investors is the minimal utility connection charge of only $47,376, significantly reduced due to a credit for 180 former hotel rooms on the site. This reflects a smart cost-saving approach in the project’s development.
Spearheaded by acclaimed developer Gil Dezer, the project is gearing up for a groundbreaking event which would mark the commencement of construction. The anticipated completion date is set for 2026, offering a strategic investment timeline.
As of November, the project is already 40% pre-sold, indicating a robust market response and high investor confidence. The sale rate of four to six contracts per month, highlights the strong and consistent interest in the project.
Bentley Residences’ strategic Sunny Isles Beach location, coupled with luxurious features and a strong pre-sale performance, positions it as a potentially lucrative investment with a promising return.
The Rise of Mandarin Oriental Towers in Miami’s Exclusive Brickell Key
The Mandarin Oriental Towers project in Miami’s prestigious Brickell Key represents a significant investment opportunity. Currently in the advanced stages of permitting, with applications already submitted to Miami’s Building Department, this development is progressing rapidly towards construction, ahead of its planned condo sales launch in early 2024.
This ambitious project, exempted from UDRB review as confirmed earlier this year, comprises two distinct towers. The first tower is an architectural marvel, soaring to 65 stories and housing 228 luxurious condominium units. Standing at an impressive 826 feet, the construction of this tower involves a hard construction cost of approximately $237 million, inclusive of $663,600 in initial permitting fees.
The second tower offers a diverse mix of residential and hospitality options. It includes five levels of parking, eight levels of high-end lodging with 121 rooms, four levels of a condo-hotel featuring 28 units, and ten floors dedicated to 66 condominium units. This tower entails a hard construction cost of around $226 million, with $632,800 required for upfront permitting fees.
Moss & Associates, renowned for their construction expertise, are the appointed contractors for both towers. The project is spearheaded by Hong Kong-based Swire Properties, a name synonymous with high-quality developments. Kohn Pedersen Fox, a globally acclaimed architectural firm, is responsible for the design of these towers.
For investors seeking to capitalize on a premium real estate opportunity, the Mandarin Oriental Towers in Miami present a compelling proposition. With its strategic location, distinguished design, and robust development plan, this project is poised to redefine luxury living in Miami.
Rosewood Hotel and Residences Reveals $150 Million Penthouse in South Beach
Rosewood Residences, a 17-story luxury condo tower in the heart of Miami’s South Beach, designed by renowned architect Peter Marino. This project includes a record-setting penthouse, poised to be Miami Beach’s most valuable property, with a valuation exceeding $150 million. Scheduled for completion in 2026, this asset represents a rare opportunity in one of the world’s most desirable real estate markets.
The development, a fusion of high-end hotel, restaurant, and residential spaces, spans three acres on 18th Street and Collins Avenue, incorporating the historic Raleigh Hotel. Managed by the prestigious Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, this project is designed to redefine luxury living, offering unparalleled amenities and exclusive experiences.
At $10 million for a three-bedroom residence, with larger and more exclusive units available, the condominium promises substantial returns. The project’s pricing strategy aligns with luxury real estate trends in major cities like New York. The unique location and high-end offerings of this development present a compelling value proposition for discerning investors.
In 2019, developer Michael Shvo, in partnership with Deutsche Finance Group, acquired and envisioned a transformative project for the iconic Raleigh Hotel and adjacent properties. Shvo’s vision, endorsed by Miami Beach’s mayor, combines historic preservation with modern luxury, creating a unique investment proposition.
Peter Marino’s design emphasizes simplicity, elegance, and unobstructed ocean views, offering a refreshing contrast to typical Miami architecture. The building’s design is a testament to innovation, with units featuring high ceilings and premium materials, curated for an elite clientele.
Managed by Rosewood, the Residences promise a lifestyle of unrivaled luxury. Residents will enjoy hotel-style services, including the US outpost of the famed Milanese restaurant Langosteria. This holistic approach to luxury living makes the Rosewood Residences a standout investment in Miami’s property market.
Michael Shvo’s commitment to creating an unmatched product in Florida’s luxury real estate landscape is evident.
Crafting Elegance Above the Clouds-Unveiling the 56-Story Edition Residences in Edgewater
A significant opportunity has emerged in the real estate sector with the recent submission of a construction permit application for the Edition Residences in Edgewater, a project poised for remarkable returns. This 56-story development represents a strategic investment opportunity.
On December 5th, a comprehensive vertical construction permit application was finalized, following an earlier submission in May which had expired. The latest submission outlines a plan for 187 high-end residential units, coupled with a 13-level parking facility and 3,500 square feet of prime office space.
The project’s scale is impressive, with total new construction covering 1,206,774 square feet. The estimated hard construction cost stands at a substantial $215,750,000, indicating the project’s premium nature and potential for high-value returns.
Coastal Construction, a reputable firm, is on board as the contractor, ensuring quality and reliability in execution. The architectural design of this 649-foot glass tower is being spearheaded by the renowned Arquitectonica, promising a blend of luxury and innovative design.
Moreover, the project is advancing with separate applications already in process for a total demolition permit of an existing older condo building on the site, as well as a seawall permit, paving the way for this new landmark development.
This project presents an exceptional investment opportunity, combining luxury, innovation, and strategic location, making it an ideal addition to any high-yield real estate investment portfolio.
Art Basel 2023 is Officially Underway in Miami Beach
Miami Art Week commenced on Tuesday with a series of VIP openings, attracting a sophisticated crowd of collectors and art aficionados. Following a successful season of art auctions in November, the excitement was palpable as attendees navigated the array of prestigious events across the city. Highlights included UNTITLED, Design Miami/, NADA, and the renowned Art Miami and CONTEXT fairs.
The pre-event buzz was justified by impressive advance ticket sales for both Art Basel Miami Beach and Art Miami, signaling a strong market. Nick Korniloff, the director of Art Miami, CONTEXT, and Aqua Art, reported a remarkable surge in demand, with sales doubling from the previous year.
The economic impact of Art Week is substantial, estimated at around $500 million, encompassing various sectors like hospitality, real estate, and transportation. This presents a unique opportunity for investors to explore the diverse economic benefits of the art world.
The early part of the week is reserved for VIPs, offering an exclusive glimpse into the art world’s finest offerings. Art Miami and CONTEXT, in particular, are known for showcasing secondary-market art, presenting a chance for investors to acquire valuable pieces. This year’s highlight includes works by the late Colombian artist Fernand Botero, among other notable names.
Investors should note the trend of celebrities like Pierce Brosnan and Johnny Depp venturing into the art scene, showcasing their works at the fairs. This crossover between art and popular culture can often signify emerging market trends, offering unique investment opportunities.
NADA focuses on emerging artists, a sector that often signals upcoming trends in the art market. High demand and pricing at the fair suggest a strong market for new talents. The presence of artists at the fair provides an invaluable chance for direct engagement, offering insights into their works and potential growth.
Design Miami, celebrating its 19th year, blends art with design, showcasing works from over 40 galleries worldwide. This convergence offers a unique perspective for investors interested in the intersection of art, design, and culture.
From economic impact to exclusive VIP experiences and the potential of emerging artists, the event is a testament to the robustness and diversity of the art market.
4241 Aurora Ushers in New Era of Upscale Living in Coral Gables
The recent approval of 4241 Aurora, a new project by Miami’s renowned real estate developers Constellation Group and The Boschetti Group, presents a unique investment opportunity. This Mediterranean-style mixed-use development, masterfully designed by the globally acclaimed Arquitectonica, is strategically positioned at 4241 Aurora Street in Coral Gables’ innovative Design and Innovation District. This development not only signifies a successful navigation through a stringent approval process but also introduces an upscale, mixed-use residential and commercial hub in the thriving heart of Merrick Park, Coral Gables’ prime shopping and entertainment zone.
Eduardo Otaola, Managing Principal of Constellation Group, emphasizes that 4241 Aurora is set to become a vital asset in Merrick Park, enhancing the district’s growing allure as a global destination with high-end amenities including premier restaurants, educational institutions, parks, and international business hubs.
Jose Boschetti from The Boschetti Group highlights the project’s commitment to creating a dynamic environment that fuses luxury living with substantial business and community growth opportunities. This development is poised to be a significant addition to Coral Gables, contributing to the city’s legacy of excellence.
4241 Aurora offers an enticing composition of eight floors of luxury residential condos, coupled with three levels dedicated to parking, retail, and office spaces. The development, standing at 137.5 feet, will feature a 5,000 square-foot park with verdant landscaping, public art, and ground-floor retail overlooking Merrick Park.
The residential segment provides a range of condominiums from two-bedroom units of 1,016 sq. ft. to larger three-bedroom residences with dens of 1,860 sq. ft. Exclusive amenities include a grand lobby, a rooftop lounge for residents, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a swimming pool, a pickleball court, commercial retail spaces, and outdoor dining areas with grilling stations.
Projected to break ground in the second quarter of 2024, 4241 Aurora is a prominent addition to Constellation Group’s portfolio in South Florida. The firm’s current projects include a luxury boutique office building in Merrick Park, Ella Miami Beach – a 10-story boutique condominium in North Beach, and SeaGlass Cove – a luxury private enclave of 14 oceanfront single-family homes in the Florida Keys. These developments represent substantial investment opportunities in some of South Florida’s most desirable locations.
Villa Miami Reveals New Amenity Renderings
Nestled in the heart of Edgewater Miami, a new era of luxury living is on the horizon with the pre-construction project, Villa Miami. This bayfront development isn’t just another high-rise—it’s a collaboration of world-class minds and talents. Spearheaded by Terra Development, One Thousand Group, and Major Food Group, and graced with the architectural genius of Pritzker-Prize laureates like Bjarke Ingels, Rem Koolhaas, and Arquitectonica, Villa Miami is poised to redefine luxury living.
Imagine living in a 58-story crystalline tower, soaring 650 feet into the Miami skyline. The copper-colored, exoskeletal design of Villa Miami isn’t just striking; it’s exclusive. This architectural masterpiece is a sanctuary for just 50 families, offering unprecedented levels of privacy and luxury.
Each residence in Villa Miami is a testament to opulence and state-of-the-art living. From expansive full-floor and half-floor units to magnificent 2-story penthouses, every home offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. The residences boast spacious floor plans, stainless steel appliances, smart home technology, minimalist kitchens, and complete control over in-residence applications.
The amenities at Villa Miami are equally impressive. Residents will enjoy an elegant lobby, a luxurious pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, high-speed elevators, round-the-clock concierge service, ample parking with 193 spaces, and over 16,000 square feet of commercial and retail space. A rooftop helipad and a public baywalk add to the allure of this exceptional development.
Location is everything, and Villa Miami doesn’t disappoint. Situated at 710 NE 29th Street in Miami’s vibrant Edgewater neighborhood, it’s within walking distance of cultural hotspots like Margaret Pace Park, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, and Midtown Miami. Whether it’s shopping in the Miami Design District, exploring the artistic Wynwood Miami, or a quick drive to Brickell, South Beach, or the Miami International Airport, Villa Miami is at the center of it all.
Villa Miami is not just a residence; it’s a lifestyle choice for those who seek the extraordinary. With its blend of visionary design, exclusive living, and a prime location, it’s set to become one of the most coveted addresses in the world. As construction progresses, Villa Miami is not just building homes; it’s crafting a legacy.
Introducing Continuum Club & Residences in Miami’s North Bay Village
We are thrilled to announce the official launch of sales for Continuum Club & Residences, a groundbreaking luxury condominium in Miami’s exclusive North Bay Village. This project heralds the advent of Continuum 2.0 – the second-ever Continuum branded residence. It’s a testament to the visionary prowess of developer Ian Bruce Eichner, who has transformed Miami’s South of Fifth neighborhood into a prestigious community.
This remarkable venture is a collaborative effort between Continuum Company and Aksoy Holdings, the Turkish developer behind The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Bodrum. Their partnership has resulted in the creation of a residential marvel that is set to redefine luxury living in Miami.
Continuum Club & Residences is a splendid addition to Miami’s real estate portfolio, slated to break ground in the winter of 2024. This project will stand as a curvaceous 32-story beacon, featuring 198 residences ranging from one to four bedrooms, including lavish penthouses. With prices starting just under $1,000,000, these homes range from 800 to 4,000 SF, offering unrivaled views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, Indian Creek, and Downtown Miami.
Ian Bruce Eichner, the Chairman and CEO of Continuum Company, sees North Bay Village as the next South of Fifth – ripe with growth potential. His dedication to pioneering neighborhood evolutions makes this project an exciting opportunity for investors.
The project is a blend of exquisite design and architecture by Arquitectonica, with interiors by Durukan Design and landscaping by Martha Schwartz Partners (MSP). Each residence boasts private terraces, Subzero/Wolf appliances, and luxurious primary baths. Over 50,000 SF of amenities include a waterfront resort pool, marina, indoor fitness studio, resident spa, and much more.
Residents will enjoy a destination waterfront restaurant, private dining room, outdoor dining pavilion, and exclusive Continuum 24/7 Marketplace and Minibar. The development also includes a Continuum Resident’s App, E/V Charging Stations, and Tesla House car for unmatched convenience.
The development caters to all ages with an arcade, virtual lounge, children’s playroom, and outdoor splash pad. For adults, there are workspaces with WiFi, a waterfront boardroom, and an executive lounge. Pet amenities include an outdoor dog park and indoor dog wash and spa.
Continuum Club & Residences is not just a residence; it’s a lifestyle. It’s an opportunity to be part of a community that redefines luxury and convenience.
