Throwback: Brickell Condos Construction Update (October 2014)
Step back in time to 2014 — an era when Miami’s Brickell neighborhood was buzzing with cranes, concrete, and the promise of a new skyline. In this throwback video, filmed on October 22, 2014, I drove through Brickell with a GoPro camera mounted to my car’s hood, capturing the incredible transformation that was just beginning to take shape.
What makes this video special is the rare perspective — seeing Brickell before the dust settled. You’ll notice empty lots that are now luxury high-rises, cranes that have long since disappeared, and streets that were just starting to buzz with new life.
Watch the full Brickell Condos Construction Update video above to see just how far the neighborhood has come. For anyone who remembers the excitement of Miami’s condo boom in the mid-2010s, this video is a nostalgic glimpse back at the moment it all began.
Bayfront Park Chosen as Official FIFA Fan Festival Site for 2026 World Cup
In a major announcement, City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and the Miami Host Committee confirmed that Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami will serve as the official FIFA Fan Festival™ site for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 32-acre waterfront park will transform into the epicenter of celebration and community for local residents and visitors from around the world as Miami takes its place on the global soccer stage.
What to Expect at the Fan Festival
The FIFA Fan Festival™ will be a free, family-friendly celebration open to all ages, designed to capture the excitement of the World Cup. Fans can expect:
Live match screenings on massive LED screens showing all seven matches hosted in Miami at Hard Rock Stadium.
Concerts and DJ performances featuring top international and local artists throughout the tournament.
Food and beverage activations highlighting Miami’s diverse culinary scene.
Cultural exhibits and interactive experiences celebrating the spirit of the game and the city’s multicultural identity.
Merchandise zones and partner activations from global and local brands.
The Fan Festival is expected to run for approximately three weeks, coinciding with the World Cup tournament dates in June and July 2026. Specific schedules, performer lineups, and event hours will be announced in the coming months.
Why Bayfront Park Was Selected
Bayfront Park was chosen for its central location, stunning waterfront views, and proven track record hosting major events. Situated in the heart of Downtown Miami, the park is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it the ideal site for welcoming thousands of fans each day.
The park’s layout — including its open green spaces and amphitheater — provides a natural setting for large-scale gatherings while maintaining easy access to public transportation such as the Metromover and Metrorail. Its location along Biscayne Bay also ensures that visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the water and skyline, further enhancing the festival experience.
Miami’s Role in FIFA World Cup 2026
Matches at Hard Rock Stadium
Miami is set to host seven FIFA World Cup matches at Hard Rock Stadium, including four group-stage games, a Round of 32 match, a quarterfinal, and the prestigious third-place playoff. These matches will attract soccer fans from every continent, positioning Miami as one of the marquee host cities of the tournament.
Government and Private-Sector Collaboration
Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami have committed significant financial and logistical support to ensure the success of both the tournament and the Fan Festival. Miami-Dade County officials have pledged cash support not to exceed $10.5 million, along with substantial in-kind services for public safety, permitting, and transportation support.
In total, the public commitment — including contributions from surrounding municipalities — is estimated to reach roughly $46 million, supplemented by an additional $100 million in private fundraising through the Miami Host Committee. These funds will not only support event operations but also finance legacy projects aimed at improving infrastructure and community facilities long after the tournament ends.
Economic Impact on Miami-Dade County
Hosting the FIFA World Cup is expected to deliver an unprecedented economic windfall for Miami-Dade County, with early projections estimating between $1.3 billion and $1.5 billion in total impact. This includes direct and indirect spending on tourism, hospitality, retail, entertainment, and transportation.
The event is expected to attract 700,000 to 1 million visitors to the region, filling hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues during what is typically Miami’s slower summer season. Local businesses across the hospitality and service sectors will see a significant boost, while temporary job creation will help fuel local employment.
Officials have likened the impact to hosting seven Super Bowls back-to-back, underscoring the scale of the opportunity for South Florida’s economy. The long-term benefits are also expected to include increased global visibility, enhanced tourism infrastructure, and stronger positioning for future international events.
Beyond the Tournament: Lasting Legacy for Miami
The World Cup presents Miami with a rare opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that extends well beyond the tournament. As part of the hosting agreement, Miami-Dade County is investing millions into community-focused legacy projects, ensuring that the improvements made in preparation for the event benefit residents for years to come.
The FIFA Fan Festival™ at Bayfront Park will showcase the city’s culture, energy, and global influence — uniting locals and visitors in celebration of sport, music, and diversity. Beyond the immediate economic impact, the festival will help further establish Miami as a world-class destination for international events and a city that thrives at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and sport.
What Fans and Residents Can Expect
Free admission to all FIFA Fan Festival™ events at Bayfront Park.
Daily entertainment including live matches, music performances, and interactive activities.
Enhanced transportation options, including extended Metromover and Metrorail service, along with dedicated event shuttles.
Increased security and street closures around downtown during the festival period.
Local business participation, providing food, drinks, and cultural showcases throughout the park.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark a defining moment for Miami — one that highlights its global reach, vibrant culture, and ability to host world-class events on an unprecedented scale. From the high-energy matches at Hard Rock Stadium to the unforgettable experiences at Bayfront Park’s Fan Festival, the world will once again have its eyes on Miami.
Uni Brings Attainable Luxury Living to Miami’s Arts + Entertainment District
In the heart of Miami’s rapidly growing Arts + Entertainment District, a new residential tower called Uni is redefining what affordable housing can look like. The 28-story development blends contemporary design, upscale amenities, and income-restricted pricing to deliver a rare mix of luxury and attainability. With a mission rooted in accessibility, Uni was built to serve working professionals and essential community members who want to live close to Downtown Miami without paying market-rate rents.
Uni offers 252 residences across a mix of studio and one-bedroom layouts, each designed with modern finishes and efficient use of space. The building’s units are available exclusively to residents who meet specific income thresholds based on the Area Median Income (AMI) for Miami-Dade County. Renters earning between 60% and 140% of the AMI—which currently equates to household incomes between approximately $47,000 and $111,000 annually—are eligible to apply. This includes teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, and other professionals who are often priced out of newer apartment towers in Miami’s urban core.
Unit Floor Plans and Pricing
Uni’s residences are compact, thoughtfully designed, and competitively priced for their location. Studios start at $2,1700 per month, while one-bedroom apartments begin near $2,323 per month. Floor plans range from approximately 483 to 733 square feet, with select corner layouts offering city or bay views. Each apartment comes equipped with modern kitchens, energy-efficient appliances, in-unit washer and dryer, and floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light.
Building Amenities
Despite its affordability model, Uni doesn’t compromise on lifestyle or amenities. Residents enjoy access to a full suite of community spaces designed around health, convenience, and social connection. The building includes a fitness center, yoga and wellness room, resort-style pool deck, club lounge, coworking area, and event space. Outdoor terraces feature lush landscaping and lounge seating, while a ground-floor retail component activates the street level. Secure parking, bicycle storage, and high-speed elevators round out the building’s offerings, creating a complete urban living experience.
A Location That Connects Everything
Positioned at 1642 NE 1st Avenue near Canvas and Parc Lofts, Uni sits at the crossroads of several of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The building’s location places residents within walking distance of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Museum Park, and Biscayne Bay. Downtown Miami, Edgewater, and Wynwood are just minutes away, while major transportation options—including the Metromover, Brightline, and I-95—are easily accessible. This central location makes Uni particularly appealing to those who work in or near the city’s urban core but seek a more attainable rent structure.
Who Qualifies
Because Uni is part of Miami’s workforce housing program, eligibility is based on household income relative to the county’s AMI. Applicants earning no less than 60% and no more than 140% of the AMI can qualify, depending on household size and unit type. This tiered approach allows the building to accommodate a wide range of residents, from entry-level professionals to mid-career earners. Applicants are required to provide income verification, complete a background check, and meet standard leasing requirements.
The Future of Attainable Urban Living
Uni represents a growing movement toward attainable housing in urban Miami—projects that combine the design quality and amenities of market-rate towers with rent structures that better reflect local wages. As demand for centrally located apartments continues to surge, Uni’s success could inspire similar developments across the city, offering a blueprint for sustainable, community-driven growth in the years ahead.
Miami Slice Expands to Coconut Grove, Taking Over Former Harry’s Pizza Space
Miami’s acclaimed pizza hotspot Miami Slice is expanding to Coconut Grove, taking over the former Harry’s Pizza space at 2996 McFarlane Road. Known for its cult following and long lines at its original downtown location, Miami Slice has become synonymous with high-quality, New York-style slices crafted with precision and passion. The new Coconut Grove location marks a significant milestone for the brand as it continues to grow beyond its flagship in Downtown Miami.
The move into Coconut Grove represents a major win for the neighborhood’s ever-evolving dining scene. Once a quiet pocket of casual eateries, the Grove has transformed into one of Miami’s most dynamic culinary destinations, blending local charm with upscale, chef-driven concepts. Miami Slice’s arrival will fill a notable void left by Harry’s Pizza while introducing its signature approach—tight menus, elevated ingredients, and a modern aesthetic—to a community that values both quality and neighborhood spirit.
Unlike many pizzerias that aim to offer everything to everyone, Miami Slice has always thrived on simplicity and craftsmanship. Its dough undergoes an extended fermentation process before being double-baked to achieve a light, crisp texture with just the right amount of chew. The menu is expected to remain focused and intentional, featuring fan favorites such as the Margherita de la Casa, Pepperoni Proper, Leeks on Bacon, and Mushroom Truffle, alongside its famous house-made dips and sauces. The minimalistic menu has always been part of the brand’s charm—five core slices, one dessert, and a short but well-curated list of drinks—ensuring that every item is perfected.
The new space at McFarlane Road is considerably larger than Miami Slice’s compact downtown counter, which means fans can likely expect more seating, shorter wait times, and possibly even a few new surprises. Renovations are already underway to convert the former restaurant into a space that captures Miami Slice’s signature urban vibe—modern, high-energy, and unapologetically cool. While an official opening date has not yet been announced, the Coconut Grove outpost is projected to debut in 2026.
This expansion underscores Miami Slice’s growing influence and its ability to bridge Miami’s diverse culinary neighborhoods. Coconut Grove offers the perfect balance of foot traffic, local clientele, and a vibrant social scene—making it an ideal next chapter for the brand. For Grove residents and pizza enthusiasts alike, the arrival of Miami Slice promises not just another great place to eat, but a destination that continues to redefine what pizza can be in Miami’s ever-rising food culture.
Timbaland Sells Coral Gables Mansion for $14 Million
Grammy Award-winning producer Timbaland (born Timothy Mosley) has officially sold his Coral Gables mansion at 5400 Hammock Drive for $14 million, marking a significant return on his original investment. Back in 2019, he purchased the 8,452-square-foot estate for roughly $9 million, making this sale one of the more notable real estate transactions in South Florida’s luxury market this fall.
The home, a tropical-modern masterpiece, spans 8,452 square feet and features seven bedrooms and eight and a half bathrooms. Inside, the residence includes a guest house, wine cellar, sauna, full-house generator, elevator, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a state-of-the-art smart-home system. Situated on nearly one acre in the exclusive Hammock Lakes enclave of Coral Gables, the property offers a rare blend of privacy, lush landscaping, and high-end architectural design.
Originally listed for $15.9 million, the home ultimately sold for $14 million — translating to about $1,656 per square foot. The buyers were reportedly Zeroisha and Beatrice Zapata, owners of COR Medical Centers and the 1-800-NO-FAULT network. The transaction was brokered by Diana Gutierrez of Mocca Realty and Alex Pirez also of Mocca Realty.
The sale represents a roughly 56 percent gain over Timbaland’s purchase price, highlighting continued appreciation within Coral Gables’ ultra-luxury housing market. It also underscores sustained demand for high-end properties offering space, design, and seclusion — factors that have drawn celebrities, athletes, and business leaders to the area. Recent record-breaking deals in nearby Gables Estates and Cocoplum have reinforced Coral Gables’ standing as one of Miami’s most desirable enclaves.
Timbaland, a longtime South Florida resident, has been active in the local real estate scene for years. He previously sold a Pinecrest mansion in 2019 and currently owns a double unit at Aria on the Bay in Edgewater Miami. With the Hammock Drive property now off his portfolio, this sale not only delivered a strong return but also reflects growing confidence among elite buyers in Coral Gables’ luxury market.
Kerzner International Announces SIRO Brickell — a Wellness-Focused Landmark Coming to the Heart of Brickell
Brickell’s evolution into a world-class urban destination continues with the announcement of SIRO Brickell, the first U.S. outpost of Kerzner International’s wellness-driven hospitality brand. Following the $45 million acquisition of a prime site previously owned by Swire Properties, Kerzner has now revealed plans for a transformative mixed-use project that will blend fitness, recovery, and luxury living in the heart of Miami’s Financial District.
A New Kind of Urban Retreat
Scheduled to open in 2030, SIRO Brickell will feature 180 hotel rooms, 350 branded residences, and state-of-the-art fitness and recovery amenities. The project marks the fourth in SIRO’s expanding global pipeline—joining upcoming destinations in Los Cabos, Riyadh, and Tokyo—and will serve as a showcase for the brand’s mission to redefine hospitality through wellbeing, performance, and purpose-driven living.
According to Kerzner International CEO Philippe Zuber, “SIRO is our disruptor brand; designed to meet the evolving demands of a new generation of travelers who prioritize wellbeing, performance and purpose.” Miami, he added, offers the perfect stage for the brand’s U.S. debut.
Local Expertise, Global Vision
To bring the project to life, Kerzner has partnered with Miami-based 13th Floor Investments and Forse Holdings as local development partners. Both firms bring extensive experience shaping high-impact destinations across South Florida. 13th Floor, led by Managing Principal Arnaud Karsenti, has developed several transformative projects including Link at Douglas and Casa Cipriani Miami. “Brickell has become one of the world’s leading global destinations,” said Karsenti. “This makes it the ideal location to launch SIRO’s flagship project in the U.S.”
A Catalyst for Brickell’s Next Chapter
SIRO Brickell will rise at a time when Brickell is rapidly redefining itself as more than just a financial center. The neighborhood—home to some of Miami’s tallest towers, most exclusive residences, and a growing roster of world-class dining and retail—continues to attract global attention. The addition of a wellness-focused brand like SIRO further diversifies Brickell’s lifestyle offerings, catering to travelers and residents who value balance, health, and design-led living.
The Miami debut of SIRO comes amid a wave of U.S. expansion for Kerzner International, whose other flagship brands include Atlantis, One&Only, and Rare Finds. Later this year, Kerzner will unveil One&Only Moonlight Basin Resort and Private Homes in Montana, followed by a new property in New York’s Hudson Valley—further cementing its reputation for redefining luxury and lifestyle experiences around the world.
Club Studio Opens Flagship Fitness Destination at Miami Worldcenter
Downtown Miami just got a major boost in wellness and walkability. Fitness International, LLC has officially opened its flagship Club Studio® location at Miami Worldcenter, marking the brand’s first Florida location and the 15th in the nation. The 38,000-square-foot facility debuts at the high-visibility corner of NE 2nd Avenue and 9th Street, introducing a cutting-edge fitness experience to the heart of Downtown Miami’s Park West neighborhood.
A Next-Level Fitness Experience
Designed for the modern fitness enthusiast, Club Studio Miami Worldcenter blends five boutique studio concepts—Strength, Box, Ride, Hot Yoga, and Pilates—under one roof. Each studio features premium equipment, expert instruction, and immersive lighting and sound environments that elevate every workout. Members also have access to a Cryotherapy and Recovery zone, massage beds, compression therapy, and Kalologie® Medspa services for full-body rejuvenation.
To refuel post-workout, guests can visit Beaming, a healthy marketplace offering nutritious meals, snacks, and drinks. A retail section rounds out the space, featuring apparel and essentials designed to complement an active lifestyle.
“Our corner location at Miami Worldcenter brings our full concept to life, giving members the complete experience,” said Nick Roberts, Chief Real Estate Officer at Fitness International. “With over 30 years of operating history in Miami, launching our first Florida Club Studio here feels both natural and exciting.”
A Game-Changer for Downtown Miami
Club Studio’s arrival signals more than just another gym opening—it represents a major step forward in making Miami Worldcenter and the surrounding Park West area more vibrant and walkable. The high-traffic location will draw residents, office workers, and visitors to the district’s expanding mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options.
“Club Studio’s arrival at Miami Worldcenter marks an important milestone for our development and for Downtown Miami as a whole,” said Nitin Motwani, Managing Partner of Miami Worldcenter Associates. “This is the type of forward-thinking concept that elevates our neighborhood and underscores why Miami Worldcenter is redefining the way people live, work, and play in the heart of the city.”
About Miami Worldcenter
Spanning 27 acres across 10 city blocks, Miami Worldcenter is one of the largest and most transformative mixed-use developments in the United States, valued at over $6 billion. The development combines luxury residences, retail, hospitality, entertainment, and public spaces—creating a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly urban destination that anchors Downtown Miami’s cultural core.
The project was developed by Miami Worldcenter Associates, led by Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani, in partnership with Los Angeles-based CIM Group.
Visit Club Studio Miami Worldcenter
Club Studio Miami Worldcenter is located at 850 NE 2nd Ave, Space 121, Miami, FL 33132. To learn more or to explore membership options, visit clubstudiofitness.com
or follow @clubstudiofitness on Instagram.
An Exclusive Look at Casa Bella Residences: New Construction in the Heart of Miami
As Miami’s skyline continues to evolve, Casa Bella Residences by B&B Italia is quickly emerging as one of the most compelling new construction opportunities in the city. Set in the heart of the Arts & Entertainment District, Casa Bella Residences is being developed by Related Group and Alta Developers, two names synonymous with excellence in Miami real estate. The 56‑story tower was envisioned by Arquitectonica and features interiors curated by Piero Lissoni in partnership with B&B Italia, blending timeless Italian design with Miami’s contemporary skyline.
Casa Bella will be home to 317 meticulously designed residences, all positioned to capture sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Delivery is projected for June 2026, making it one of the few new construction projects in Greater Downtown Miami with a near-term completion date — an ideal fit for buyers who don’t want to wait several years to move in.
Recently, I had the opportunity to tour the project during construction and capture exclusive footage from the 44th floor, offering a rare preview of the sweeping views residents will enjoy. In the video below, I’m joined by VP of Sales Daniela Gutierrez, who shares insights into the building’s layout, floor plan design, ceiling heights, and deposit structure. Notably, all standard residences feature 10-foot-high ceilings, with 11-foot-high ceilings in the Cielo Collection, and 24-foot double-height ceilings in the upper penthouses.
Pricing for remaining inventory:
1-bedrooms from $1.25M
2-bedrooms from $1.55M
3-bedrooms from $1.75M
Penthouses from $4.6M
Casa Bella requires a 30% deposit with the balance due at closing (estimated June 2026). With limited inventory remaining and high buyer interest expected as we approach the busy winter season, now is an opportune time to explore this exceptional offering in Miami’s luxury condo market.
Watch the full video above for an exclusive look inside Casa Bella Residences.
Interested in Casa Bella Residences?
For up-to-date availability, pricing, and floor plans, contact me directly.
Ciprés and Rilea Group Land $90 Million Construction Loan from Banco Inbursa for The Rider Residences in Wynwood
A new wave of energy is coming to Miami’s Wynwood-Midtown corridor, where Rilea Group and Ciprés have secured a $90 million construction loan from Mexico’s Banco Inbursa to fund development of The Rider Residences, a 12-story, 146-unit luxury condominium slated for completion in 2027.
The financing, arranged by Javier Herrera of Franklin Street, signals strong international confidence in Miami’s boutique luxury condo market — particularly for projects that fuse design, culture, and technology.
A Boutique Vision Rooted in Art and Urban Culture
Following a February 2025 groundbreaking, vertical construction is set to begin later this year at 94 NE 29th Street, a site located steps from Whole Foods and across from Amazon’s upcoming Miami headquarters. Designed by Deforma Studio with interiors by RADYCA, The Rider draws inspiration from 1970s music, fashion, and film, pairing SoHo-style industrial architecture with Miami’s contemporary art-driven aesthetic.
“The Rider represents a new benchmark for design-driven living in Miami, blending architecture, art, and culture in a way that feels both distinctive and timeless,” said Diego Ojeda, Founder of Ciprés and President of Rilea Group. “Partnering with Banco Inbursa, one of the most respected names in international development finance, underscores the strength of this vision. Their confidence in The Rider reflects the project’s unique appeal, and our collaboration has been instrumental in bringing it to life.”
Residences at The Rider will be delivered fully furnished, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units (386 to 1,612 square feet) with pricing from the $500,000s to over $2.5 million. Buyers are responding to The Rider’s bold, art-driven lifestyle, with strong pre-sales activity fueled by demand from European, South American, and New York buyers. The project’s distinctive design, prime location, and flexible ownership model have helped generate significant early momentum in Miami’s competitive luxury condo market.
Design Details: Where Retro Meets Refined
Inside, RADYCA — known for its superyacht and high-end residential work — layers bold textures, mid-century furnishings, and a $1 million fine-art photography collection from Morrison Hotel Gallery and Iconic Images Gallery. Residences feature Bertazzoni appliances, Italkraft cabinetry, Cosentino Dekton countertops, and Porcelanosa bath fixtures, complemented by smart home technology and impact-resistant windows.
The building’s amenities are designed as an urban resort: a rooftop pool with skyline views, restaurant and speakeasy accessible via private elevator, pet spa, wellness center with cold plunges, infrared saunas, IV therapy, and a traditional Hammam/Turkish bath. Other highlights include private office suites, a hi-fi vinyl listening room, and a fleet of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Vespas, and e-bikes available to residents.
Forward-Thinking Development Backed by Global Capital
The Rider marks one of the few Miami condo developments to accept cryptocurrency transactions, part of a growing push toward tech-integrated living. Its location — at the intersection of Wynwood, Midtown, Edgewater, and the Design District — places it at the epicenter of Miami’s creative and economic renaissance.
Banco Inbursa, part of Grupo Financiero Inbursa and majority-owned by billionaire Carlos Slim, has expanded its Miami footprint since 2008, financing several high-profile developments. The bank cited The Rider’s “distinctive design and visionary team” as key factors in its decision to back the project.
A Legacy of Miami Innovation
Rilea Group, founded in 1981, has developed over 10 million square feet of real estate in South Florida, including 1450 Brickell, The Bond on Brickell, and One Broadway. The Rider marks the first residential project under its Ciprés brand — a concept founded by Ojeda to blend European elegance with Miami’s contemporary creative energy.
Construction is being led by Beauchamp Construction, one of the region’s most experienced general contractors.
