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.
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.
Milestone Achieved: Foundation Pour Completed for The Residences at 1428 Brickell
The skyline of Miami’s Brickell district just took another leap forward. Last week, developer Ytech and contractor Coastal Construction completed the foundation pour for The Residences at 1428 Brickell, a 70-story luxury condominium tower that is poised to become a new icon in the city’s high-rise landscape.
A Historic Pour: Size, Scale, and Logistics
The continuous pour began on September 26 and lasted 33 uninterrupted hours, marking what is likely the largest mat foundation pour ever executed in Brickell.
Over 13,000 cubic yards of concrete were placed.
To maintain the flow, more than 1,300 concrete truck deliveries cycled between the site and the plant, while five placing booms managed the concrete distribution on-site.
The foundation also incorporated 2,700 tons of reinforcing steel to anchor the future superstructure.
This kind of logistical orchestration—coordinating trucks, concrete mixing, boom placement, and continuous pour operations—is a feat of engineering and project management. It signals that the development team is confident in moving forward quickly into vertical construction.
Design, Sustainability & Residences
Here’s what we know so far about the design, residential layouts, and sustainability features:
Developer & design team: Ytech (led by CEO Yamal Yidios) is behind the project. Arquitectonica is the architect, ACPV ARCHITECTS (Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel) is handling interiors, and ArquitectonicaGEO is in charge of landscape architecture.
Height & units: The tower will rise to 861 feet and will house 189 residences, with unit sizes ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 square feet, all facing east toward Biscayne Bay.
Facade & sustainability: The building features a flowing, wind-inspired façade and includes a “Solar Backbone”—approximately 500 photovoltaic-integrated windows spanning nearly 20,000 square feet along the west façade.
This solar system is projected to generate 175,000 kWh annually, offsetting around 4,700 tons of CO₂ and saving the equivalent of 3,000 barrels of oil each year.
Amenities: A 80,000-square-foot wellness club is planned to support resident health and relaxation.
Why This Pour Matters
This foundation pour is more than a construction milestone—it sets the stage for the rest of the build. Successfully completing a massive mat pour demonstrates:
Technical competence and risk mitigation — the project team (developer, contractor, engineers) have shown they can coordinate a large, continuous operation without delay or major disruption.
Investor / buyer confidence — big foundational milestones often serve as a signal to the market that the project is well underway and viable.
Momentum for the Miami skyline expansion — in a market where height, luxury amenities, and sustainability are key differentiators, this project stakes a claim early.
Shoma Bay Secures Building Permit, Vertical Construction Now Underway
Shoma Bay, the highly anticipated mixed-use development in North Bay Village, has reached a major milestone: the project has officially received its building permit. This achievement marks the transition from pre-construction into full construction, setting the stage for vertical progress on one of the most significant developments planned for the area.
A New Chapter for North Bay Village
Located at 1850 John F. Kennedy Causeway, Shoma Bay is designed as a modern mixed-use destination that will combine 333 luxury condominiums, a 35,000-square-foot Publix market, 10,564 square feet of retail, and a 10,564-square-foot restaurant space. The project is poised to bring new life and energy to North Bay Village, strategically connecting Miami Beach and mainland Miami.
With the construction permit now approved, the development moves beyond the site work phase—already completed last month—and into the vertical construction stage, a pivotal moment that brings the vision closer to reality.
Project Timeline and Delivery
The development team has confirmed that Shoma Bay is on track for delivery in 2027. Over the coming months, residents and passersby will begin to see the tower rise, reinforcing the progress made since groundwork began earlier this year.
Why This Milestone Matters
The issuance of a building permit is a critical step for any large-scale development. For Shoma Bay, it validates years of planning, design, and approvals while providing certainty to future residents and investors. The project will not only transform North Bay Village’s skyline but also deliver much-needed residential and retail opportunities to one of Miami’s most centrally located waterfront communities.
About Shoma Bay
Developed by Shoma Group, Shoma Bay is set to redefine luxury waterfront living with its modern residences, curated retail, and everyday conveniences anchored by a new Publix. The project’s design emphasizes resort-style amenities, walkability, and seamless integration with the surrounding neighborhood.
Faena Residences Miami: A $700 Million Project with a Landmark Design by Rafael Viñoly
A significant new addition to Miami’s skyline is on the horizon with the unveiling of the expected construction timeline for the twin 60-story Faena Residences Miami towers. Construction of these architectural marvels is anticipated to begin in late 2025, with a projected completion timeframe of approximately three years.
The Faena Residences Miami represents a $700 million investment, with a total of 440 condos planned across the two towers. This ambitious project not only underscores Miami’s ever-growing luxury real estate market but also highlights the city’s attraction as a hub for high-end residential developments. One of the notable aspects of Faena Residences Miami is that its developers strategically initiated the approval and permitting processes well in advance of the project’s announcement. This foresight is expected to streamline construction and allow for a timely completion by the end of the decade.
Adding to the allure of this development is its architectural pedigree. The late Rafael Viñoly, a visionary architect recognized for his striking and innovative designs, was commissioned for this project. The Faena Residences towers stand as one of his final masterpieces, infusing a legacy of sophistication and style into Miami’s evolving architectural landscape.
With the planned groundbreaking just a year away, Faena Residences Miami promises to be a major focal point, offering future residents both luxury and a piece of architectural history.
Miami World Tower 1 Receives Initial TCO, Marking Milestone for Miami Worldcenter Development
Miami World Tower 1 has reached a significant milestone, officially receiving its initial Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) from Coastal Construction. This TCO, identified as TCO #1, signals that the 56-story residential tower has met the preliminary standards to begin occupancy, paving the way for residents to soon move into one of Miami’s newest luxury developments.
Rising 56 stories above the vibrant Miami skyline, Miami World Tower 1 brings a blend of luxury living and lifestyle amenities to the Miami Worldcenter. The tower includes 565 apartment units, providing high-end residences with sweeping views and sophisticated design. Alongside residential offerings, the building features a 3,000-square-foot full-service restaurant and provides 401 parking spaces, offering convenience for residents and visitors alike.
Construction at the Miami World Tower site kicked off in late 2021, with the first crane installation in April 2022. By June 2022, the foundation was poured, and the tower’s skeleton began to rise, marking steady progress through the development timeline. The receipt of the initial TCO is the latest accomplishment, signifying that essential building systems are operational and meet safety standards required to welcome occupants.
Behind this ambitious project is developer Lalezarian, who has long-term plans for the Miami World Tower site. In addition to Tower 1, Lalezarian has filed plans to develop three additional towers, potentially adding 2,043 multifamily residential units to the area. This multi-tower vision aligns with the larger objectives of the Miami Worldcenter development, which aims to transform downtown Miami into a dynamic, mixed-use destination featuring residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces.
Miami World Tower 1 is just one component of the expansive Miami Worldcenter project, a master-planned development reshaping the city’s urban core. This transformative project aims to create a walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment enriched by art, culture, and green spaces. The additional towers proposed by Lalezarian will only further contribute to the vibrancy and allure of Miami Worldcenter, supporting its role as a landmark destination in downtown Miami.
With its initial TCO in hand, Miami World Tower 1 stands ready to welcome its first residents. This achievement underscores the commitment of Coastal Construction and Lalezarian to bringing a vision of modern, urban living to life in the heart of Miami. As Miami Worldcenter continues to grow, the addition of Miami World Tower 1 sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the city’s skyline and urban lifestyle.
Millennium Developments Signs Covenant for New 70-Story Brickell Tower-Calle 8
Millennium Developments is moving forward with plans for an impressive new 70-story tower in Brickell, Calle 8. In a significant step toward realizing this ambitious project, the developer has signed a covenant with Miami-Dade County. The agreement, officially recorded on November 4th, states that the tower will connect to the county’s water and sewer systems, which is required as a condition of the building permit.
The proposed tower is set to become one of Brickell’s tallest buildings, rising to 750 feet. The design envisions 464 residential units, offering a mix of luxury residences with stunning views of Miami’s skyline. Additionally, the project includes 75,736 square feet dedicated to either performing arts spaces or retail, bringing a blend of culture, commerce, and community to the heart of Brickell. The building will also provide ample parking, with 653 planned spaces, along with various amenities to enhance the lifestyle of future residents.
In August, Millennium Developments submitted an updated version of the proposal to Miami-Dade County as part of the ongoing zoning approval process. This proposal includes preliminary plans and renderings, shared for reference in the zoning phase, with a formal submission to follow as part of the site plan review.
BMA Architects is the architectural team behind the vision for this 70-story tower, adding their expertise to shape what is anticipated to be an iconic addition to the Miami skyline.
Millennium Developments’ latest project reflects Brickell’s growth as a hub for luxury living, arts, and entertainment. As zoning approval progresses, more details on the tower’s features and design will be revealed, shaping an exciting future for this high-rise in Brickell.
Amazon Eyeing Wynwood for Major Office Space in Miami’s Hottest New Development
Amazon, the latest tech giant considering Miami for a significant expansion, is reportedly in talks to lease between 60,000 and 80,000 square feet at Wynwood Plaza. With negotiations centering on approximately 75,000 square feet, Amazon could soon occupy a substantial portion of the state-of-the-art development currently under construction in Wynwood.
This potential move marks another major step in Amazon’s increasing interest in Miami, coming just a year after founder Jeff Bezos announced his own relocation to the Magic City. The arrival of Amazon would be a game-changer for the Wynwood area, further cementing Miami’s reputation as a burgeoning tech and business hub.
Wynwood Plaza is poised to be a revolutionary development in Miami’s iconic arts district, featuring a mix of commercial, residential, and retail spaces designed to cater to the evolving needs of a modern city. Key features include:
Class AAA Office Tower: Spanning 266,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art building, designed by architectural firm Gensler, promises cutting-edge office spaces tailored to top-tier businesses.
High-End Apartments: With 509 luxury rental apartments, Wynwood Plaza will offer a premium residential option in the heart of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhood.
Retail & Dining Spaces: The development will feature 32,000 square feet of retail space, including 6,600 square feet of outdoor dining, contributing to Wynwood’s lively atmosphere.
Half-Acre Outdoor Plaza: Designed by James Corner Field Operations, this large, open-air plaza will be the largest of its kind in the Wynwood Arts District and one of the largest in Miami. It’s set to become a communal space where art, culture, and leisure converge, enhancing the neighborhood’s walkability and appeal.
Developed by L&L Holding Company and Oak Row Equities, alongside partners Shorenstein Properties and co-investor Claure Group, Wynwood Plaza is not just another development but a bold statement about Miami’s future. The Claure Group, which will establish its headquarters within Wynwood Plaza’s office tower, adds a local anchor to the project, fostering a collaborative environment for local and global businesses alike.
With the office towers already topped off, Wynwood Plaza is on track for a 2025 opening, promising to redefine the landscape of Wynwood and draw further interest from influential brands and businesses.
If finalized, Amazon’s presence would accelerate Wynwood’s transformation into a premier destination for innovation and business. As a brand synonymous with forward-thinking technology and global reach, Amazon would bring an influx of talent, new opportunities, and perhaps inspire other tech giants to follow suit. For Wynwood and Miami at large, Amazon’s investment would amplify the city’s standing as an attractive base for technology and corporate growth.
With Amazon potentially leading the charge, Wynwood Plaza’s cutting-edge design, vibrant community spaces, and strategic location set it up as a beacon for what Miami’s business future could hold. For now, all eyes are on Wynwood as it awaits the official announcement.
Santander Tower Set to Rise in Brickell – New Utility Agreement Finalized with Miami-Dade County
Santander Bank’s affiliate has taken a significant step forward with plans for its new development on Brickell Avenue. A recently finalized agreement with Miami-Dade County, dated October 11th, grants the bank the necessary utilities to power its ambitious tower project, dubbed Santander Tower. This high-rise is set to become a major addition to the Miami skyline, bringing a mixed-use tower with ample amenities and office spaces to the heart of Brickell.
According to documents, Santander Tower is designed as a high-rise complex that will stand 41 stories tall and reach a height of 765 feet. It will be designed by acclaimed architectural firms Handel Architects and Bernardi & Peschard Arquitectura, merging innovative design with functionality to create a seamless addition to Brickell’s ever-growing skyline.
Here’s what the building is set to include:
Office Space: A substantial 635,000 square feet of premium office space.
Retail: 60,000 square feet dedicated to retail establishments, making the tower a central shopping hub.
Dining: A 50,000-square-foot full-service restaurant area to cater to professionals, residents, and visitors.
Fitness Center/Gym: 20,000 square feet allocated for a state-of-the-art fitness center, providing wellness amenities for office tenants and residents alike.
A demolition permit for the site has already been issued, paving the way for initial preparations. The tower is set to bring 1,496 parking spaces, per an earlier filing with the City of Miami, which should alleviate some of the parking demands in the area.
Santander Tower is expected to offer a blend of work, retail, dining, and wellness spaces, catering to the needs of both local professionals and residents. Brickell Avenue remains one of Miami’s most sought-after locations, and this project will add substantial value to the area’s urban landscape, supporting continued growth and development in Miami’s financial district.
