FAA Approves Height for New Brickell Tower, Clearing a Major Hurdle
In a significant development for the Brickell skyline, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a determination this morning stating that the proposed height for a new tower in the area does not present a hazard to air navigation. The determination letter from the FAA specifically noted that the Calle 8 building height of 737 feet above ground level, or 750 feet above mean sea level, is within acceptable limits.
This decision comes after the Miami-Dade Aviation Department initially objected to a greater proposed height. In April, the development team submitted the new height proposal to the FAA, following concerns raised by the county’s aviation officials. A March letter from these officials stated that an earlier proposal for a tower height of 870 feet above sea level would not comply with the airport height zoning regulations, prompting the revision.
The architectural design of Calle 8 is particularly striking, spanning 65 stories. As of this month, the project is progressing through the zoning approval process with Miami-Dade County planners. The plans for the tower include ground floor retail spaces, a performing arts venue or retail complex, and 464 residential units, alongside various amenity spaces.
Millennium Developments of Brickell, the developer behind this ambitious project, aims to contribute a significant new structure to the Brickell area. With FAA approval secured, the development is poised to proceed further, bringing this vision closer to reality.
Shaping the Future of Watson Island-Miami Voters to Decide on Watson Harbour Project
Miami residents will now be able to cast their votes on the approval of the Watson Harbour project, a new mixed-use development proposed for the south side of Watson Island. This ambitious project, set to enhance one of South Florida’s prime waterfront areas, includes plans for hotels, retail outlets, offices, residences, dining options, and expansive public spaces, all strategically located on Biscayne Bay between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.
The developers, BH3 Management and Merrimac Ventures, acquired the 10.8-acre site at 888 Macarthur Causeway in 2023. They have developed a privately funded proposal to revitalize the area, featuring:
Two luxury hotels
Retail spaces for shopping and dining
Office buildings and residential units
A 2.2-acre public promenade along Biscayne Bay
Green spaces and a maritime museum
Infrastructure and resiliency upgrades
The project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including several million dollars in additional tax revenue for Miami. It also promises a wide range of community benefits, such as:
Employment opportunities for residents from underserved communities
Retail spaces allocated for nonprofit organizations
Infrastructure improvements on City-owned properties
A $9 million contribution towards affordable housing and public infrastructure
Watson Harbour will include several sustainability measures to protect and enhance the local environment, such as:
A seawall built above base flood elevation standards
Planting of native flora and expansion of the tree canopy
Energy-efficient LED and solar-powered lighting
An on-site stormwater management system designed to prevent pollution of Biscayne Bay
Greg Freedman and Daniel Lebensohn, Co-CEOs of BH3 Management, shared their excitement: “Watson Island is poised to become a vibrant destination for all, boosting Miami’s economy and offering a new gathering spot for the community. We’re honored to bring this vision to life and integrate Watson Harbour into the city’s fabric.”
Nitin Motwani and Dev Motwani, co-Managing Partners at Merrimac Ventures, emphasized the project’s focus on public spaces: “As Downtown Miami grows, the need for additional public spaces is clear. Our waterfront promenade will provide a beautiful new area for the community to enjoy. This project offers a chance to create a valuable asset for Miami, enhancing its resilience and appeal.”
The proposal will be presented to voters during the 2024 General Election on November 5, with Early Voting starting in October. The ballot question will ask voters to approve amendments to the City Charter, including the sale of 3.2 acres of leased property at fair market value, reduction of overall development, and authorization of the project with no cost to the city.
830 Brickell Secures $565 Million Construction Loan
Miami’s skyline is set to welcome a new architectural marvel this fall as 830 Brickell, a 57-story, 640,000-square-foot Class A+ office tower, nears completion. Securing a $565 million long-term loan from TYKO Capital, this development underscores its significance as a base for many firms establishing their first Miami office, with over 90 percent of the building’s tenants being new to the market.
Designed by the renowned architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill and featuring interiors by Italian architecture and design company Iosa Ghini Associati, 830 Brickell stands out as the first stand-alone Class A+ office building in Brickell in over a decade. The tower, developed by OKO Group and Cain International, is already fully leased and is in the process of receiving its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy in phases, with tenants actively building out their spaces.
Since construction began in 2020, leasing rates at 830 Brickell have more than doubled, setting a new high standard for Miami’s office market. Initially, office space was priced between $60-$70 per square foot. Recent leases have closed above $150 per square foot, while the Brickell submarket averages around $100 per square foot. This remarkable increase highlights the tower’s premium appeal and the growing demand for high-quality office space in Miami.
TYKO Capital, a commercial real estate private equity and private credit investment management platform, is a joint venture between Adi Chugh and a Florida-based hedge fund. Established in August 2023, TYKO focuses on institutional borrowers and assets in top-tier markets, investing across the entire capital stack and all asset classes. The successful securing of favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell by TYKO Capital marks a significant milestone for the project.
Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of OKO Group, and Jonathan Goldstein, CEO of Cain International, expressed their excitement: “Our ability to secure favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell is a fitting capstone to the building’s success. 830 Brickell has acted as a catalyst for a historic wave of business migration into South Florida, positioning itself as the base for the world’s premier finance, technology, and professional services firms and propelling an office market that continues to outperform other major cities.”
830 Brickell hosts a roster of top-tier financial, technology, and professional services firms, including Microsoft, Citadel, Kirkland & Ellis, Marsh Insurance, Sidley Austin, CI Financial (Corient), Thoma Bravo, Santander Bank, and A-CAP, among others. Many of these firms are currently building out their interior spaces in anticipation of the building’s completion.
The tower’s amenities will include a top-floor restaurant and bar/private club with menus developed alongside a three-Michelin-starred chef, offering expansive views of the city and Biscayne Bay. Other features include a world-class health and wellness center, conferencing facilities, an outdoor terrace, cafés, and street-level retail. The building is conveniently located near multiple transit options, including Metrorail and Metromover, the Brightline, walking paths, cycling lanes, and bay access points. It is also close to Miami’s top residential and lifestyle neighborhoods such as the Design District, Wynwood, Edgewater, and Miami Beach.
Gale Miami Hotel & Residences Achieves Major Milestones with TCO and Rapid Sales Momentum
The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, a visionary project by hospitality entrepreneur Keith Menin and Marisa Galbut through their development firm Sixth Street Miami Partners LLC, has reached a significant milestone with the issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO). This achievement, backed by GFO Investments, signifies a pivotal moment for the development, which has seen remarkable progress since its inception. Furthermore, Gale Miami has successfully surpassed 250 closings in less than 60 days, highlighting the strong demand for short-term rental properties in Downtown Miami.
Located at 601 Northeast First Avenue in Downtown Miami, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences opened its doors in May 2024. The 51-story development offers move-in-ready and fully furnished units, with studio, 1-, and 2-bedroom layouts ranging from 410 to 910 square feet. Prices for these luxury units start in the mid $500s and go up to over $1 million. Its prime location near Miami Worldcenter and within walking distance of Downtown Miami makes Gale Miami an attractive option for residents seeking the perfect blend of hotel amenities and the flexibility of home-sharing options.
Keith Menin expressed his enthusiasm about the TCO milestone, stating, “Receiving the TCO is a major milestone for us all. Our immediate focus is now on welcoming buyers into their new homes and ensuring they fully experience all that Gale Miami has to offer. The positive reception from buyers confirms Gale Miami’s appeal and exceeds expectations in the Downtown Miami market.”
Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, along with 601 Miami, boasts a sprawling 70,000-square-foot amenity space spread across three floors. Residents and guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness facility, a tranquil yoga lounge, an inviting terrace, and spa facilities including a steam room, sauna, and hammam. The property features a 24-hour attended lobby with a comfortable lounge area and 24-hour valet parking. Culinary options are abundant, with three unique dining concepts: an Italian restaurant, an American steakhouse and lounge, and a Mediterranean-style eatery.
For business needs, the Gale Miami Conference Center, located on the 8th floor, offers over 20,000 square feet of flexible space, including multiple conference rooms, breakout areas, and a grand ballroom. Additionally, the property includes three dedicated floors of exhibition space, each spanning 40,000 square feet. As a premier conference venue in Downtown Miami, Gale Miami is a sought-after location for major events, from weddings to corporate functions. The center provides personalized concierge catering and services, ensuring every guest’s needs are met with meticulous attention to detail.
Designed by Arquitectonica, in collaboration with Urban Robot for interior design and landscape architecture, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences embodies a vibrant, walkable urban oasis in Downtown Miami. With breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, the design seamlessly integrates urban sophistication with luxurious resort-style amenities, establishing a new benchmark for city living.
The announcement of Gale Miami’s TCO and rapid sales success coincides with the launch of their latest development, 14 ROC, in Downtown Miami on July 10. This new venture continues the trend of innovative, high-demand properties that cater to the evolving needs of Miami’s residents and visitors alike.
Billionaire Ken Griffin Moves Forward with $1 Billion Mixed-Use Tower in Miami’s Brickell Financial District
Ken Griffin, the billionaire founder and CEO of Citadel and owner of Citadel Securities, is pushing ahead with ambitious plans to develop a $1 billion-plus mixed-use tower in Miami’s vibrant Brickell Financial District. This significant development marks a new chapter for both Citadel and the rapidly evolving Miami skyline.
This week, Griffin’s attorney, Neisen Kasdin, submitted a pre-application for three prominent sites located at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive, 1221 Brickell Avenue, and 1250-1260 Brickell Bay Drive. These sites will collectively host the new headquarters for Citadel and Citadel Securities, reflecting Griffin’s commitment to establishing a substantial presence in Miami.
The proposed tower at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive will feature a mix of office spaces, a luxury hotel, retail outlets, food and beverage venues, and ample parking. This development will be constructed under Miami-Dade County’s rapid transit zoning regulations, a testament to the city’s forward-thinking urban planning. The sites fall within a Metromover subzone added in recent years, enhancing their accessibility and appeal.
In addition to the new tower, preliminary site plans suggest that residential units may be integrated into the existing office building at 1221 Brickell Bay Drive. This blend of commercial and residential spaces is designed to create a dynamic, multi-functional environment in the heart of Brickell.
Griffin has enlisted the expertise of Norman Foster’s renowned London-based architecture firm, Foster + Partners, to bring this vision to life. Philadelphia-based Gattuso Development Partners, led by office developer John Gattuso, is also collaborating on the project.
The Brickell assemblage, spanning approximately 4.2 acres, was acquired by companies linked to Griffin and Citadel for nearly $670 million in 2022. The most notable transaction was the $363 million purchase of the 2.5-acre bayfront lot at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive from the Hollo family’s Florida East Coast Realty. This deal set a record price for the development site.
While the project’s future height will be restricted by Federal Aviation Administration regulations, capping buildings in Miami at 1,049 feet, the development is poised to make a significant impact on the city’s skyline.
Citadel has been steadily expanding its footprint in Miami. Recently, it increased its space at 830 Brickell to a total of approximately 130,000 square feet. Additionally, Citadel and Citadel Securities maintain a presence at the Southeast Financial Center in downtown Miami.
Ken Griffin has also been investing heavily in South Florida’s residential real estate market. He owns several waterfront properties in Miami, Miami Beach, and Palm Beach. The Daytona Beach native’s relocation from Chicago to South Florida includes plans to sell some of his residential properties in Chicago, where he originally built his business empire.
Aston Martin Residences Miami Update
In less than three months, over 100 deeds have been recorded at Aston Martin Residences, showcasing the rapid pace at which these exclusive units are being claimed. The developer, G&G Business Developments, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new building on April 30, celebrating the completion of this architectural marvel.
The Aston Martin Residences tower boasts a total of 391 luxury condos, each designed to offer an unparalleled living experience. With sleek, modern designs and top-of-the-line amenities, these residences are tailored for those seeking the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The demand for these units was evident long before the building’s completion, with the developer reporting that 99% of the units were sold prior to the official opening. This pre-sale success highlights the desirability and prestige associated with the Aston Martin brand.
Interestingly, more than 50 of the new residents also own an Aston Martin car, further emphasizing the connection between the lifestyle offered by the residences and the luxury automotive brand. This unique synergy between high-end real estate and luxury automobiles sets Aston Martin Residences apart in the Miami market.
The swift sales and high demand for units at Aston Martin Residences reflect a broader trend in Miami’s real estate market, where luxury developments continue to attract affluent buyers from around the world. As more residents move in and begin to enjoy their new homes, the Aston Martin Residences tower stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of luxury living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Villa Residences Miami Selects Moss Construction in Waterfront Development
Moss Construction has been selected to oversee the construction of Villa Miami, a groundbreaking luxury waterfront development in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood. Set to break ground in the summer of 2024, Villa Miami marks the first-ever collaboration between Major Food Group, David Martin’s Terra, and One Thousand Group. Situated at 710 NE 29 St., Villa Miami will stand as a 56-story, 650-foot-tall architectural marvel. Envisioned by ODP Architects under the leadership of rising star Kurt Dannwolf, its distinctive copper color-cladded exoskeletal design is set to make Villa Miami an iconic tower on Miami’s Edgewater skyline.
David Martin, CEO of Terra, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to work with Moss Construction on another landmark project. Villa Miami meets the demand for a luxury condominium tower with full and half-floor vertical residences in a boutique environment. Terra has a proven history of enriching neighborhoods across South Florida and Villa will do the same for Edgewater.”
Ed Baro, Executive Vice President of Moss, echoed this excitement, saying, “Villa Miami is an elegantly stunning concept, and Moss is thrilled to be part of the Terra team once again. We eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking and the realization of this unparalleled residential experience which will change Miami’s skyline.”
The project’s interior design is led by Vicky Charles of Charles & Co., known for her work as the former design director at Soho House and for commissions for the likes of Sony Music, Goop, George and Amal Clooney, Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, as well as David and Victoria Beckham. Renowned landscape architect Enzo Enea is at the forefront of Villa Miami’s green design, incorporating native plants seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Moss Construction, under the guidance of Brett Atkinson, brings its wealth of experience, particularly in luxury high-rise developments, having successfully collaborated with David Martin’s Terra on recent projects like the topped-out Five Park Miami Beach set to deliver this year. Global structural design firm DeSimone—whose more than 10,000 building designs include the most recognizable high-rises in New York and Miami—will engineer the impressive structure.
Villa Miami will offer 72 exclusive full and half-floor residences, epitomizing vertical estate-style living with 360-degree water views. Residents will enjoy a plethora of amenities including Major Domo estate manager service, a rooftop helipad, poolside service, spa and wellness facilities, access to a branded beach club, and a fully serviced elevated pool deck. Additionally, the tower will boast an on-site MFG restaurant with private lounge spaces, offering residents preferred reservations, provisioning, and access to at-home MFG chef services.
Sant Ambroeus to Open First Miami Location in Late 2025
The luxurious Italian restaurant and coffee bar, Sant Ambroeus, is set to open its first Miami location at the Fifth Miami Beach in late 2025. Known for its contemporary take on Milanese cuisine, the restaurant will occupy over 7,000 square feet at the base of the new Class A+ office building in the South of Fifth neighborhood.
Founded in Milan in 1936, Sant Ambroeus has built a reputation for excellence, growing to half a dozen locations across the United States. These include popular spots in New York City, Southampton, East Hampton, Palm Beach, and Aspen. The restaurant’s menu is celebrated for an array of exquisite dishes such as Linguine alle Vongole (linguine with Manila clams), Eggplant Parmigiana, and Tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce.
The Miami location of Sant Ambroeus will be designed by Giampiero Tagliaferri, renowned for his work with Oliver Peoples, Brunello Cucinelli, and Minotti. Tagliaferri’s design will bring a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere to the restaurant, which will be situated at the base of the Fifth Miami Beach. This new commercial office building, the first in Miami’s South of Fifth neighborhood in 22 years, is a collaborative project by developers Sumaida + Khurana and Bizzi + Bilgili.
The Fifth Miami Beach, featuring architecture by Alberto Campo Baeza and interiors by Gabellini Sheppard Associates, promises a nature-inspired design with 14-foot office ceilings, wraparound terraces, a marble lobby, and a rooftop with stunning ocean views. This 7,000-square-foot restaurant and coffee bar will be a central feature of this elegant space, adding to the allure of the building.
Sant Ambroeus is slated to open in the latter part of 2025 at 950 5th Street in Miami Beach. As excitement builds for this new addition to the South of Fifth neighborhood, Miami residents and visitors can look forward to experiencing the refined Milanese cuisine and luxurious dining atmosphere that Sant Ambroeus is renowned for.
Stay tuned for more updates as the opening date approaches and prepare to indulge in an exceptional culinary experience at Sant Ambroeus Miami.
Exciting New Development in Overtown: One West Twelve Residences
The skyline of Overtown is set to change dramatically with the announcement of a new 22-story development: One West Twelve Residences. This ambitious project is the collaborative effort of PMG, Lion Development Group, and LNDMRK, with architectural design by Cube 3.
One West Twelve Residences promises to bring 372 residential units to the heart of Overtown. Each unit will be delivered finished and furnished, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a move-in-ready home. Additionally, the development will allow short-term rentals, catering to both long-term residents and short-term visitors. This flexibility is expected to attract a diverse mix of inhabitants, contributing to the vibrant community atmosphere.
The development is a collaboration between three prominent entities in the real estate industry:
PMG (Property Markets Group): Known for their innovative approach and high-quality developments, PMG has a long history of successful projects that blend modern design with functionality.
Lion Development Group: With a reputation for creating impactful urban spaces, Lion Development Group brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to enhancing the living experience in the communities they serve.
LNDMRK: This firm is recognized for its forward-thinking projects that prioritize sustainability and community integration. Their involvement in One West Twelve Residences ensures a focus on eco-friendly practices and community-centric design.
The architectural firm Cube 3 has been tasked with bringing the vision of One West Twelve Residences to life. Known for their cutting-edge designs and attention to detail, Cube 3 is expected to deliver a building that not only enhances the Overtown skyline but also provides a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living environment for its residents.
The introduction of One West Twelve Residences is more than just a new building; it represents a significant step in the ongoing revitalization of Overtown. The development is expected to boost the local economy, create new jobs, and attract new businesses to the area. It also aligns with the broader efforts to transform Overtown into a thriving, modern neighborhood that respects its historical roots while looking towards the future.
One West Twelve Residences is poised to become a landmark development in Overtown, offering modern, flexible living options in a vibrant community setting. With the combined expertise of PMG, Lion Development Group, LNDMRK, and Cube 3, this project is set to redefine urban living in Overtown, making it an exciting time for current and future residents of the area. Stay tuned for more updates as this project progresses!
1 Southside Park Brickell- Revised Plans Unveiled
The skyline of Brickell is set to receive a significant addition with the ongoing construction of the 1 Southside Park project. The developer behind this massive undertaking has recently submitted revised plans and renderings to the county, showcasing a range of adjustments aimed at enhancing the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
1 Southside Park is a mixed-use development that promises to redefine urban living in Brickell. Among its many components is the residential segment known as Mercedes Benz Places, which is already making strides with a recent foundation pour marking the progress of its first phase.
The revised plans introduce several notable changes:
Increase in Open Space: The updated design incorporates more open space, providing residents and visitors with ample areas to enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.
Increase in Lot Coverage: There is a slight increase in lot coverage by 6%, optimizing the use of available land.
Reduction in Residential Units: The number of residential units has been reduced by 185, bringing the total to 1,010 units, a 15% decrease.
Reduction in Office Space: The office area has been trimmed down by 11,930 square feet, resulting in a 7% decrease.
Increase in Commercial Space: Commercial space has seen a significant boost, with an addition of 26,129 square feet, representing a 23% increase.
Larger Fire Station: The project now includes a larger fire station to better serve the community.
Overall Reduction in Floor Area: The total floor area has been reduced by 43,453 square feet, making the design more efficient and streamlined.
The newly revised plans outline a structure that will rise to an impressive 61 stories, with a total of 64 levels and a roof height of 780 feet above sea level. Here are the detailed specifications:
Hotel Units: 200 units (no change in unit count, but a reduction in square footage)
Commercial Space: 142,129 square feet (+23%)
Office Space: 153,070 square feet (-7%)
Residential Units: 1,010 units (-15%)
Parking Spaces: 881 spaces (-12%)
Governmental Space: 38,582 square feet (+21%)
The ambitious 1 Southside Park project is being developed by JDS Development Group, a company known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. The architectural brilliance of the project is being spearheaded by ODP Architects, who serve as the architect of record.
