Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Receives Landmark $20 Million Gift from Ken Griffin, Sets Stage for Vizcaya Village Revitalization
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, located along Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove, has received a landmark $20 million gift from philanthropist Ken Griffin, marking a transformative moment in the museum’s history and setting the stage for the revitalization of Vizcaya Village.
A Historic Gift and Bold Vision
On November 7 2025, Vizcaya revealed the gift, which marks a defining moment in its next chapter of restoration and renewal. The funds will support the ongoing revitalization of Vizcaya’s campus and the launch of a major fundraising campaign—a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve Miami’s cultural heritage and expand public access.
According to the press release: the gift will fund the creation of a new “Center for Learning and Discovery” within Vizcaya Village—housed in the historic barns and stables—featuring educational programming for students, families, and visitors, including hands-on art-making and urban agriculture experiences.
Opening Villa Serena to the Public — After 111 Years
Perhaps most notable: the plan to relocate and open to the public the historic home Villa Serena, built in 1913 for former U.S. Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan. Until now, Villa Serena has long been inaccessible to the public. Under the proposed plan, it would be moved a few blocks to the southern portion of Vizcaya Village, placed near its original site, and become a public asset for the first time in 111 years. The relocation and opening are subject to regulatory review from Miami-Dade County, the City of Miami and other historic-preservation authorities.
In addition to the capital gift, Griffin is contributing a $5 million endowment to support the long-term care, programming and public access of Villa Serena—without reliance on taxpayers.
Why This Matters for Miami’s Cultural & Community Future
As one of South Florida’s most-visited historic house museums—drawing nearly 400,000 visitors annually—Vizcaya is uniquely positioned to expand its role. The revitalization of Vizcaya Village, and opening of Villa Serena, will reshape how Miami locals and visitors interact with the city’s history, architecture, landscapes, and community programs.
Key components of the plans include:
Restoration and enhancement of historic buildings and landscapes within the Village, as part of a phased plan developed with preservation & landscape architecture firms.
Expanded educational and community programs, including urban-agriculture experiences (for example “The Field,” a new edible garden) and other public-facing initiatives.
Reimagining Vizcaya Village as a vibrant cultural destination, blending museum functions, community gathering spaces, education, and heritage interpretation.
As noted by Joel Hoffman, Executive Director & CEO of Vizcaya: “Ken Griffin’s extraordinary $20 million gift will accelerate our vision for Vizcaya Village as a center for education, history, and community engagement.”
What’s Next & How to Stay Engaged
With the gift secured and the master plan in motion, the next steps include securing regulatory approvals for the relocation of Villa Serena, advancing restoration work at Vizcaya Village, and launching the fundraising campaign. The project is built on strong collaboration between public investment, private philanthropy and community-driven vision.
Vizcaya
For members of the public, this means: more opportunities to engage with Miami’s cultural heritage; new ways to participate in educational programs; and the chance to experience historic estates in ways previously unavailable.
If you’re interested in supporting the campaign or planning a visit, you can explore more information on Vizcaya’s website.
In Summary
This development is more than a large donation: it signals a strategic shift for Vizcaya from historic estate to dynamic cultural campus. The combination of capital investment, public access expansion (via Villa Serena), and community programming sets a new standard for how historic institutions can engage 21st-century audiences.
If you’re in Miami (or planning to visit), keep an eye on the transformation of Vizcaya Village—this is a landmark moment for the city’s cultural landscape.
Tokenizing Real Estate: Why Web3 Is Poised to Revolutionize Property Ownership
The real estate industry is on the brink of a digital revolution—and tokenization is at the heart of it. In a dynamic panel discussion held during a recent Web3 conference in Miami, real estate developer Diego Ojeda (The Rider Residences), Eric Mendelson from Avanti Way Realty, and David Saul Acosta representing E11EVEN Miami shared their bold insights on how blockchain, tokenized assets, and crypto-backed financing are reshaping the property landscape.
Now available to watch in full, this must-see video reveals what tokenization actually means, how it works in practice, and what it could mean for global investors, developers, and brokers.
What Is Tokenized Real Estate?
Tokenization refers to dividing real estate ownership into digital tokens on a blockchain, allowing for fractional ownership, borderless transactions, and far greater liquidity. The panel kicked off by exploring what tokenizing a property really means—”freedom,” “democratization,” and “access” were common themes echoed by all speakers.
How The Rider Residences Became a Crypto Trailblazer
Developer Diego Ojeda discussed how his project, The Rider Residences in Wynwood, has become a poster child for crypto-integrated sales. Following a viral crypto transaction that was even tweeted by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, the project has embraced digital assets through strategic partnerships with fintech companies like Milo, allowing buyers to collateralize Bitcoin without liquidating.
Crypto’s Impact on Capital Raising and Ownership Structures
The panel explored how Web3 is changing how developers raise capital. Diego shared how tokenization—like his prior $16M raise via crowdfunding at Mohawk at Wynwood—unlocks entirely new buyer pools globally. By offering white-glove rental management and fully furnished units with no rental restrictions, The Rider is positioned as a prime candidate for tokenized ownership.
Why the U.S. Market May Lag Behind Internationally
Eric Mendelson from Avanti Way Realty highlighted how other regions, such as Dubai and Colombia, are already embracing tokenized platforms due to limited access to mortgage financing. In the U.S., he believes tokenization will gain traction slowly—but with the right education and strategic partnerships, it’s only a matter of time.
E11EVEN Hotel & Residences: A Web3 Case Study in Hospitality & Lifestyle Real Estate
David Saul Acosta spoke about 11 Hotel & Residences, one of the first major developments in Miami to accept crypto for deposits and purchases. With over $1B in sales, the success of E11EVEN’s integration of Web3 principles shows the power of aligning brand, audience, and technology. Their partnership with PMG and emphasis on understanding the crypto-native buyer was key to their success.
Misconceptions and Education: The Broker’s Role
Eric noted that despite growing crypto adoption, 99% of real estate agents in Miami still don’t know how to handle crypto transactions. Through his crypto real estate division at Avanti Way, he’s training agents to understand compliance, capital gains strategies, and how to leverage crypto—not just convert it.
Final Thoughts: Web3 in Real Estate Is Here to Stay
The panel concluded with a clear message: developers who embrace Web3 early—through tokenization, strategic partnerships, and authentic engagement with the crypto community—will be ahead of the curve. The Rider Residences, E11EVEN Hotel & Residences, and Avanti Way are living proof that real estate and blockchain are no longer separate worlds.
Dezer Development Secures $630 Million Construction Loan for Bentley Residences in Sunny Isles Beach
Dezer Development has officially closed a $630 million construction loan from Madison Realty Capital to finance the highly anticipated Bentley Residences in Sunny Isles Beach. The deal, announced on November 5, 2025, represents one of the largest construction loans in South Florida this year and underscores continued confidence in the region’s ultra-luxury condo market. Located at 18401 Collins Avenue, the 63-story tower will be the world’s first Bentley-branded residential building and is already over 50 percent pre-sold.
A Landmark Deal in South Florida’s Luxury Market
The $630 million loan marks a major milestone for the project, ensuring that construction moves forward at full speed. The financing reflects strong lender confidence in both Dezer Development and the luxury-branded residence segment, which has thrived in recent years despite broader market uncertainty.
Design, Amenities, and the “Dezervator”
Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects, Bentley Residences will rise 63 stories and feature 216 oceanfront residences, each combining elegant automotive-inspired design with sophisticated coastal living. Every unit will include private terraces—some with pools—along with Gaggenau kitchens, Italian cabinetry, and spa-style bathrooms. Among its standout amenities will be a cigar lounge, whiskey bar, private restaurant by chef Todd English, wellness spa, and a 20,000-square-foot oceanfront pool deck.
A signature feature of the project will be Dezer’s patented “Dezervator” car elevator system, allowing residents to drive directly into their private sky garages. This amenity, first introduced at the Porsche Design Tower, has become a hallmark of Dezer’s developments, marrying engineering innovation with luxury convenience.
The Vision Behind Bentley Residences
Gil Dezer, president of Dezer Development, continues to redefine luxury living in Sunny Isles Beach through partnerships with global brands like Porsche and Bentley. By integrating automotive design principles into architecture, Dezer aims to offer residents an experience that embodies precision, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. The project reflects Bentley Motors’ design ethos, from its diamond-patterned façade to its meticulously curated interiors that evoke the feel of a handcrafted Bentley vehicle.
The success of Bentley Residences’ pre-sales—priced from approximately $5.8 million to $37.5 million for penthouse residences—demonstrates the strength of demand for branded residences that blend lifestyle, design, and prestige. With more than half of the units already sold, Bentley Residences has quickly become one of the most desirable developments in South Florida’s luxury real estate market.
Construction Timeline and Market Impact
Construction at the Bentley Residences site is already underway, with foundation work nearing completion and vertical construction expected to accelerate following the loan closing. The project is scheduled for completion in 2028, bringing another global luxury brand to the Sunny Isles skyline.
For the broader market, this milestone signals continued confidence from both lenders and buyers in the high-end sector. The transaction also sets a new benchmark for financing in South Florida, reinforcing the region’s position as a hub for branded luxury living. Developers, brokers, and investors alike will be watching closely as Bentley Residences takes shape—its progress will likely influence future financing and branding strategies across Miami’s evolving skyline.
A Defining Project for Sunny Isles Beach
The Bentley Residences joins a roster of elite branded developments transforming Sunny Isles Beach, a submarket already known for projects like Porsche Design Tower and Residences by Armani Casa. Yet Bentley’s debut promises to take the concept even further, combining automotive innovation with world-class amenities and design.
As one of the tallest oceanfront residential towers in the U.S., Bentley Residences will stand as both an architectural icon and a testament to Miami’s luxury real estate evolution. Backed by substantial financing and global brand power, the project reaffirms Sunny Isles Beach’s status as one of the most desirable ultra-luxury destinations in the world.
Delano Hotel South Beach to Reopen in Early 2026 Following Landmark Renovation
The legendary Delano Hotel in South Beach—a symbol of Miami’s glamorous Art Deco era—is undergoing an extensive transformation and is now officially slated to reopen on March 9 2026, according to a recent announcement from Ennismore and Cain International. While earlier reports had pointed to a late-2025 debut, the developers confirmed a revised timeline that ensures every detail of this landmark restoration meets the highest standards of design and hospitality excellence.
A Storied Legacy on the Shores of South Beach
Originally opened in 1947, the Delano Hotel was designed by architect Robert Swartburg and built by Rob & Rose Schwartz, featuring a striking white façade that embodied the post-war optimism and sleek minimalism of Miami’s emerging Art Deco movement. Over the decades, the property evolved from a classic beachside retreat into a cultural icon. Its rebirth in the 1990s—led by hotelier Ian Schrager and designer Philippe Starck—marked the beginning of the modern “boutique hotel” era, blending art, design, and nightlife in ways that forever changed the hospitality landscape. For years, the Delano’s soaring lobby, all-white interiors, and poolside scene became synonymous with South Beach sophistication.
After decades at the top of Miami’s social and cultural scene, the hotel closed in March 2020 for what was described as a “comprehensive renovation.” The plan: to preserve its timeless character while reimagining it for a new generation of travelers.
A Reimagined Icon
The upcoming relaunch of the Delano South Beach represents one of the most anticipated reopenings in the hospitality world. The property will feature 171 guestrooms and suites, including signature Poolside Bungalows and Penthouse Suites, offering views of both the Miami skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Design work is being led by Elastic Architects, in collaboration with Ennismore’s in-house team, ensuring that the renovation honors the building’s historic architecture while delivering modern comfort and artistry.
Inside, the transformation emphasizes fluid, organic forms and natural textures inspired by Miami’s coastal setting. Guestrooms will showcase bespoke furnishings, soft lighting, and a neutral palette designed to evoke calm and understated luxury. The new interiors will strike a balance between heritage and innovation, blending Starck’s original vision with contemporary elegance.
Preserving Art Deco Heritage
The restoration will also celebrate the hotel’s Art Deco roots, preserving many of its most beloved details. The terrazzo flooring, hexagonal columns, and vertical paint bands that once defined the property will be carefully restored. The mezzanine bridge overlooking the iconic lobby will be redesigned to enhance sightlines to the gardens and the pool area, while the hotel’s original logo and design motifs will be reintroduced in subtle yet meaningful ways. This careful attention to preservation ensures that the Delano remains true to its DNA while evolving for the modern era.
New Dining, Wellness, and Lifestyle Offerings
When the hotel reopens, guests can expect a complete culinary and wellness transformation. Plans call for four distinct restaurant and bar concepts, including a modern reimagining of the beloved Rose Bar, once the heart of South Beach’s nightlife scene. The legendary pool deck—famed for its ethereal, all-white cabanas and minimalist aesthetic—will return with refreshed landscaping, new furnishings, and a second rooftop pool offering panoramic ocean views.
A full-service spa and wellness center will debut alongside a state-of-the-art fitness studio, curated retail experiences, and flexible meeting and event spaces. Together, these new features will position the Delano as not just a hotel, but a destination for art, design, and well-being.
Why the Updated Timeline Matters
While several outlets previously reported that the Delano would reopen by late 2025, the most recent press release issued in October 2025 confirms an early 2026 reopening target. This adjustment reflects the scale and complexity of the renovation—one that aims to deliver a true revival rather than a mere refresh. For travelers, event planners, and local hospitality insiders, the new timeline provides clarity and sets expectations for one of Miami’s most significant luxury reopenings in recent years.
A New Chapter for South Beach
The return of the Delano marks a major milestone in Miami Beach’s ongoing evolution as a world-class destination for design and hospitality. Its reopening will not only revive a cherished landmark but also strengthen South Beach’s identity as a nexus of art, architecture, and luxury living. For Miami’s hotel scene, the Delano’s comeback signals renewed confidence in the market—and for locals and visitors alike, it promises the reemergence of a timeless icon reimagined for the modern age.
Pagani Residences Debuts Record-Setting Penthouses and the Exclusive Pagani Utopia Miami Edition
Today, Miami witnessed the next evolution of branded luxury living with the official debut of Pagani Residences’ two crown jewel penthouses. Designed by renowned Italo-Argentine automaker Horacio Pagani, the world’s first Pagani-branded residential project continues to push the limits of artistry, innovation, and craftsmanship. Located at 7940 West Drive in North Bay Village, the newly unveiled duplex penthouses—priced at $30 million and $28.5 million—set record-breaking price points for the three-island city, further establishing the project’s position as a landmark in Miami’s ultra-luxury market.
A New Benchmark in Design and Architecture
Crowning the 28th and 29th floors, the two penthouses at Pagani Residences epitomize the project’s commitment to architectural beauty and automotive precision. Penthouse 01 spans 12,200 square feet—7,000 interior and 5,200 outdoor, with five bedrooms and six bathrooms—while Penthouse 02 offers 10,700 square feet—6,100 interior and 4,600 outdoor, with four bedrooms and five bathrooms. Each residence rises across two dramatic levels with soaring 13-foot ceilings, private elevator access, and expansive terraces framing panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline.
Personally curated by Horacio Pagani and the Pagani Arte team, every finish and fixture within the penthouses reflects the brand’s signature fusion of performance engineering and sculptural design. Interiors feature light oak flooring arranged in Pagani’s chevron parquet pattern with intricate metal inlays, complemented by travertine stone on the second level. A swirling travertine staircase with oak and white lacquered metal details serves as a functional centerpiece, recalling the craftsmanship seen in Pagani’s legendary hypercars. The kitchens, created by Schiffini Magistretti and outfitted with penthouse-exclusive Gaggenau appliances, come in luxurious combinations of Carrara marble and Argento Veneziano aluminum or Portoro marble and Nero Lipari aluminum. Bathrooms continue the bespoke approach with honed travertine, Pagani’s 1000 line detailing, and Gessi Cesello fixtures.
“Pagani Residences represents the pinnacle of living and design, and the penthouses are its most exceptional expression,” said Mikael Hamaoui, founder and CEO of Riviera Horizons. “From bespoke materials to private pools, to the rarest of automotive works of art, these homes elevate luxury into legend.”
The Pagani Utopia Miami Edition
In a move that redefines branded living, each penthouse purchase includes the opportunity to acquire a “Miami Edition” Pagani Utopia Roadster—a hypercar personally designed by Horacio Pagani. Inspired by Miami’s endless sea and sky, the Utopia Miami Edition features a bespoke blue finish, merging high performance with coastal artistry. Beyond the vehicle itself, each penthouse buyer will be invited to Italy for an immersive experience that includes a private tour of the Horacio Pagani Museo, an Atelier visit, and a personal meeting with Horacio Pagani and the Pagani Arte team.
During the trip, owners will collaborate directly with Pagani’s craftsmen to personalize both their hypercar and their residence, ensuring a cohesive expression of art, engineering, and individuality. The development also offers the option to purchase a private garage suite within the tower—designed with the same obsessive attention to detail that defines Pagani’s automotive interiors—giving each Utopia Roadster a fitting home beneath its owner’s penthouse.
“At Pagani, every creation begins with a dialogue,” said Horacio Pagani, founder and CEO of Pagani Automobili. “Just as we design a hypercar hand-in-hand with its owner, Pagani Residences, in collaboration with Pagani Arte, invites each resident into the adventure of shaping their home. Whether it’s a penthouse or a one-bedroom, the true pleasure is in crafting something unique and personal, infused with the same spirit of artistry and joy that defines our cars.”
Lifestyle, Amenities, and Setting
The penthouses come with private access to Pagani Residences’ signature wellness and social amenities. These include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a waterfront spa and restorative lounge on the 29th floor, and a rooftop pool deck with cabanas and thermal plunges. Interiors throughout the tower are designed by Pagani Arte and A++, distinguished by penthouse-exclusive chandeliers and Pagani’s signature ellipses—an iconic design motif drawn from the automaker’s supercars. Residents enjoy white-glove services and seamless lifestyle management, allowing each home to operate as both a personal retreat and a showcase of craftsmanship.
Set within North Bay Village, a tranquil enclave positioned in the center of Biscayne Bay, Pagani Residences offers effortless access to Miami’s premier destinations—including Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, Fisher Island, and the Design District—along with proximity to both Miami International and private airports. With just 70 residences in total, including four Sky Residences and two penthouses, exclusivity remains the project’s defining principle. Residences are priced starting at $3.7 million.
The Future of Branded Luxury Living
Pagani Residences represents a bold step forward for branded developments, merging the artistry of automotive design with the architectural language of luxury real estate. The project’s record-setting penthouse pricing not only cements its place in North Bay Village history but also signals Miami’s continued rise as a global hub for design-driven living. By offering an integrated lifestyle that includes a hypercar, a handcrafted residence, and a direct relationship with one of the world’s most revered designers, Pagani Residences transcends traditional notions of homeownership.
As Mikael Hamaoui summarized, these homes “elevate luxury into legend.” And as Horacio Pagani described, each residence is “a canvas for imagination, collaboration, and signature style.” Together, they have redefined what it means to live— and drive—at the highest level of artistry.
Download the Official Pagani Residences Penthouse Brochure
Discover detailed renderings, floor plans, and the design story behind the world’s first Pagani-branded residential tower.
HQ Residences Miami Launches: A New Era of Branded Condo Living in Edgewater
Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood is set to welcome a bold new addition to its skyline with the launch of HQ Residences Miami. The project represents the first-ever residential development by the lifestyle brand behind HQ Hotels & Residences, led by hospitality visionary Sam Nazarian alongside entertainment icon Marc Anthony. Developed in partnership with Black Salmon, The Boschetti Group, and Constellation Group, the 35-story tower at 422 NE 29th Street introduces 229 branded condominium homes to one of Miami’s most dynamic districts.
Location & Unit Mix Tailored for Modern Urban Living
Situated at the crossroads of the Design District, Wynwood, and the burgeoning Midtown corridor, HQ Residences Miami will place residents within minutes of retail, dining, waterfront parks, and Miami International Airport. The residences range from one- to three-bedroom layouts spanning 721 to 2,074 square feet and culminate in eight exclusive penthouses. Pricing starts at approximately $850,000, with higher-floor and penthouse residences offering panoramic bay and skyline views. With this price point, HQ Residences Miami will fill a gap between the mid-tier and ultra-luxury condo towers in Edgewater.
Hospitality-Driven Design & Iconic Architecture
Externally, HQ Residences Miami features a sculptural diagrid façade that creates a distinctive addition to Edgewater’s skyline. Internally, the design marries warm materials, floor-to-ceiling glazing and expansive terraces framing Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Interiors are curated by DesignAgency and Craft while the architecture is handled by the internationally-acclaimed firm Arquitectonica.
Elevated Amenities Built Around Lifestyle Pillars
The amenity offering at HQ Residences Miami spans 15,756 square feet across two floors and is anchored around four core pillars of contemporary living: Wellness, Entertainment, Community and Art.
On Level 34, a dedicated wellness floor designed in collaboration with THE WELL founder Kane Sarhan features contrast-therapy circuits, hammam, sauna, steam and plunge pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an open-air training terrace. On the floor above, entertainment takes centre stage with a podcast studio, chef’s kitchen including TOMA Gourmet by Sofia Vergara and her son Manolo, and Jack’s NYC Coffee arriving in Miami for the first time. At night, “Marc’s” – a speakeasy curated by Marc Anthony – offers vinyl collections and skyline views, while the HQ Social Club connects residents to curated experiences city-wide.
Brand DNA Meets Residential Performance
While HQ Hotels & Residences has previously focused on hospitality, this Miami development marks its first residential tower. Through this branded-residence model, the building infuses hotel-style services and lifestyle programming into a full condominium offering. Nazarian explains that living spaces are designed to foster connectivity, creativity and belonging—core traits of the brand’s DNA.
Bringing Hospitality Home
As HQ Residences Miami begins sales, anticipation continues to build around the brand’s first-ever residential tower. The project represents a pivotal step in the evolution of Edgewater, bringing hospitality-level experiences and curated lifestyle programming into a full-ownership setting. By merging design, wellness, and community under one roof, the development introduces a new benchmark for branded living in Miami.
Whether you’re seeking a home that blends five-star amenities with the privacy of condominium ownership—or a design-forward residence in one of Miami’s fastest-growing neighborhoods—HQ Residences Miami is poised to redefine what it means to live in Edgewater.
Nobu Hospitality and Foster + Partners Reveal 619 Brickell — Luxury Tower Rising Just South of Icon Brickell
Nobu Hospitality and world-renowned architecture firm Foster + Partners have officially announced 619 Brickell, a 74-story luxury residential tower set to rise in the heart of Miami’s Brickell district. The project marks Nobu’s first branded residence in Miami and a major milestone for the city’s ever-evolving skyline. Designed by Foster + Partners in collaboration with Sieger Suarez Architects, 619 Brickell will bring together the artistry of Japanese minimalism with the contemporary sophistication that defines Miami’s urban core. The development will be located immediately south of Icon Brickell, placing it along one of Brickell’s most desirable waterfront stretches with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay.
According to the official announcement, 619 Brickell will include approximately 300 luxury residences paired with 90,000 square feet of private amenities. The amenity offerings are expected to rival the city’s top luxury developments, featuring a full-service spa and wellness retreat, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a poolside café, and dedicated residents’ lounges. In true Nobu fashion, the building will also introduce Miami’s second Nobu restaurant, which will occupy the ground level and feature a distinctive circular design overlooking Biscayne Bay. The integration of the restaurant directly into the tower’s design underscores the development’s focus on merging hospitality and home living—offering residents the seamless Nobu lifestyle experience that has made the brand a global symbol of luxury.
Foster + Partners’ vision for 619 Brickell embraces a blend of natural materials, open spaces, and organic textures to reflect Nobu’s timeless design ethos. The architecture is expected to complement Miami’s skyline while introducing a refined new silhouette to a stretch of Brickell defined by commercial and residential towers. Developers 13th Floor Investments and Key International described the project as “the perfect convergence of design, service, and lifestyle,” emphasizing their goal of elevating Miami’s standard for branded residential living.
For the Miami real estate market, 619 Brickell represents a major moment in the ongoing evolution of branded residences. Nobu’s expansion into Miami reflects a growing global trend of hospitality brands entering the luxury condominium sector, offering not just architectural prestige but also curated service and lifestyle experiences. The collaboration with Foster + Partners adds architectural weight to the project, ensuring 619 Brickell will stand out in both design and stature.
Beyond the brand name, 619 Brickell’s location immediately south of Icon Brickell positions it among Miami’s most valuable parcels of waterfront land. Its proximity to Brickell Key, Brickell City Centre, and the city’s financial center gives it unparalleled access to both business and leisure. With 90,000 square feet of amenities and a waterfront Nobu restaurant, the development is poised to redefine luxury living in Brickell, fusing culinary excellence with world-class residential design.
As details surrounding unit mix, pricing, and delivery timelines begin to surface, 619 Brickell is expected to draw strong interest from investors, brokers, and buyers seeking a new level of branded sophistication in Miami. For those tracking Miami’s luxury condo landscape, the announcement further underscores the city’s continued rise as one of the world’s premier destinations for design-driven, lifestyle-oriented real estate.
Ytech Secures $565M Construction Loan for The Residences at 1428 Brickell
On November 3, 2025, JLL’s Capital Markets team announced the arrangement of approximately $565.35 million in construction financing for The Residences at 1428 Brickell, a 70-story ultra-luxury condominium tower being developed by Ytech in Miami’s Brickell Financial District. The floating-rate loan has a term of approximately 4.25 years and is provided by senior lender JPMorgan Chase and junior lender Sculptor Real Estate. This financing marks one of the largest construction loans closed for a condo development in South Florida in 2025, signaling strong institutional confidence in Ytech’s project and the Brickell luxury condo market more broadly.
Project Overview and Unique Features
The Residences at 1428 Brickell will comprise 195 luxury homes spanning two- to four-bedroom plus den configurations, with unit sizes ranging from approximately 1,800 to 8,900 square feet. Designed by renowned architecture firms ACPV Architects (led by Antonio Citterio) and Arquitectonica, the tower will feature an innovative “solar backbone” on its west façade that incorporates more than 500 photovoltaic-integrated glass panels (nearly 20,000 square feet) to partially power the building. Additionally, the development will offer roughly 80,000 square feet of resident-only amenities—such as resort-level pools, a two-story Owners Club, wellness facilities and a rooftop observatory—reinforcing the ultra-luxury positioning of the building. Groundbreaking took place in November 2024 and the largest mat foundation pour ever executed in Brickell was completed in September 2025. 1428 Brickell is slated for delivery in Q4 2028.
Sales Momentum and Market Implications
As of October 2025, the project had achieved approximately 57% presold status, demonstrating meaningful early demand despite a broader macro environment of rising costs and shifting condo market dynamics in South Florida. International buyers, particularly from Latin America and Europe, as well as domestic buyers from cities like New York, Chicago and San Francisco, are reportedly participating in the sales.
The successful financing underscores the market’s confidence in high-end condo developments in Brickell—especially those that offer differentiated features like sustainability integration, large-format units, and full-service amenities. The scale of the loan also suggests that lenders continue to deploy significant capital into luxury residential product even as some sectors of real estate face headwinds.
Why This Deal Matters for Miami Real Estate
Capital markets validation: A $565 million loan demonstrates that financial institutions are willing to back large-scale luxury condo projects in Miami, even amid rising interest rates and construction cost pressures.
Sustainability and innovation: The solar-integrated façade sets a new benchmark for ultra-luxury residential product by combining high-design with energy-producing glass—an attribute that may help differentiate in a competitive market.
Luxury product demand: The presale performance (57%+ sold) highlights strong buyer demand for larger, premium residences—averaging over 1,800 square feet—in Brickell, a neighborhood traditionally known for smaller, investor-oriented units.
Construction momentum: With the mat pour already completed and delivery scheduled for 2028, the project is now entering a phase of execution with secured financing, which often de-risks the proposition for buyers and lenders.
In summary, by securing a landmark financing package and progressing into construction, The Residences at 1428 Brickell is poised to become a standout entry in Miami’s ultra-luxury condo segment. For developers, lenders, buyers and market watchers alike, this deal reflects both the elevated expectations of luxury real estate today and the evolving standards for design, sustainability and amenities.
Ritz-Carlton Residences Planned for North Bay Village by Related Group and Macklowe Properties
The North Bay Village skyline is set to welcome a new luxury landmark. According to The Real Deal, Related Group and Macklowe Properties are partnering to develop a two-tower waterfront condominium project on Harbor Island that will carry the prestigious Ritz-Carlton brand. The development marks a significant step in the transformation of North Bay Village and represents Macklowe’s first major project in South Florida.
A Landmark Development on Harbor Island
Located at 8000 and 7946 East Drive, the site has been approved for two 43-story towers rising 500 feet, with plans calling for a total of 364 luxury residences. Designed by renowned Miami-based architecture firm Arquitectonica, the twin-tower project will combine elegant design, top-tier amenities, and Ritz-Carlton’s globally recognized standard of hospitality and service. The development will also feature approximately 800 parking spaces—nearly two per unit—providing an unusually high ratio for a luxury waterfront property.
Lifestyle Amenities and Waterfront Appeal
Beyond its impressive scale, the Ritz-Carlton Residences in North Bay Village will offer a lifestyle tailored to the city’s growing base of high-end buyers. Plans include a 42-slip private marina, allowing residents direct access to Biscayne Bay, as well as a 9,000-square-foot public park designed to enhance the pedestrian experience along the waterfront. Together, these features underscore the developers’ commitment to blending exclusivity with community access—an increasingly important factor in today’s urban luxury developments.
The Power of the Ritz-Carlton Brand
The Ritz-Carlton name continues to be one of the most powerful in luxury real estate, often commanding a premium in markets around the world. Miami is no exception, with existing Ritz-Carlton branded residences in Miami Beach and Coconut Grove setting a high bar for service, architecture, and resale value. The North Bay Village project builds on that legacy while introducing the brand to an emerging waterfront neighborhood positioned between Miami and Miami Beach. For both domestic and international buyers, the combination of the Ritz-Carlton name, waterfront location, and Related’s development pedigree makes this one of the most anticipated launches in Miami’s preconstruction pipeline.
Confidence in North Bay Village’s Transformation
Once a quiet island community, North Bay Village has been undergoing a gradual renaissance, attracting major developers eager to capitalize on its waterfront potential and proximity to key business and entertainment districts. The arrival of a Ritz-Carlton-branded project signals a new chapter for the area—one that aligns it with Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods. For Related Group, the project continues its expansion of branded luxury residences, while for Macklowe Properties, it represents a major entry point into the South Florida market.
What Comes Next
Details on pricing, floor plans, and delivery timelines have not yet been released, but the scale and brand positioning suggest that pricing will be competitive with other Ritz-Carlton-branded residences in Miami, where per-square-foot prices often exceed $1,500. Buyers can expect the full range of five-star amenities and services synonymous with the brand, from concierge and valet to spa, wellness, and waterfront leisure offerings. As the project moves forward, it will be one to watch—both for investors seeking premium branded residences and for those tracking North Bay Village’s emergence as Miami’s next luxury waterfront enclave.
