Melo Group’s 1700 Biscayne Project in Edgewater Appears Ready to Begin Construction
Photo Credit: Zyscovich
Signage and Early Site Activity Signal Progress Nearly Four Years After Acquisition
Construction activity appears to be ramping up at 1700 Biscayne Boulevard, where Melo Group is planning one of Edgewater’s largest mixed-use developments. During a recent walk and drive around the site, Melo Group signage was visible along the entire perimeter of the block, and construction crews were on site staging materials, including large bundles of rebar, a typical precursor to foundation work.
While no official groundbreaking has been announced, the visible site preparation suggests that construction may be imminent.
Photo Credit: Google Earth
A Full City Block in the Heart of Edgewater
Melo Group acquired the entire city block in December 2021 for $105 million, assembling one of the most prominent development sites along Biscayne Boulevard.
The property is bounded by:
NE 17th Street to the south
NE 17th Terrace to the north
Biscayne Boulevard to the east
NE 2nd Avenue to the west
For many longtime Miami residents, this block is well known as the former home of the old Burger King and the seasonal Halloween stores that operated here for years — a nostalgic landmark that is now set for a complete transformation.
Project Overview: Four Towers, Nearly 2,500 Apartments
Plans call for a four-tower mixed-use development, with each tower rising approximately 60 stories. Once completed, the project is expected to deliver around 2,500 apartment units, significantly increasing residential density in Edgewater.
The development will also include ground-floor retail and commercial space, further activating this stretch of Biscayne Boulevard and strengthening the connection between Edgewater, the Arts & Entertainment District, and Downtown Miami.
The expanded scale of the project was made possible through the transfer of additional development rights, allowing Melo Group to increase allowable density without acquiring additional land.
Melo Group’s Growing Footprint in Edgewater
The 1700 Biscayne project is just one of several major developments Melo Group has planned for the immediate area. Just one block north, the firm has also proposed Biscayne 18, a twin 46-story tower development at 331 NE 18th Street.
That project is planned to deliver approximately 1,178 residential units on a 1.57-acre full city block, bounded by:
Biscayne Boulevard to the west
NE 18th Street to the south
NE 4th Avenue to the east
NE 19th Street to the north
Together, these projects underscore Melo Group’s role as one of the most active developers shaping Edgewater’s next phase of growth.
What Comes Next
While official construction timelines have not yet been released, the combination of perimeter signage, on-site crews, and staged materials suggests that vertical construction may not be far behind.
As Edgewater continues its evolution into one of Miami’s most densely developed residential corridors, the 1700 Biscayne project is poised to become a major contributor to the neighborhood’s transformation.
9900 West in Bay Harbor Islands Reaches Construction Top-Off, Delivery Set for Summer 2026
Photo Credit: 9900 West
ONE Sotheby’s International Realty has been named the exclusive sales and marketing partner for 9900 West, a boutique waterfront condominium development in Bay Harbor Islands, following the project’s official top-off milestone. Developed by The Horizon Group, the seven-story tower is anticipated to deliver in Summer 2026 and introduces a limited collection of 23 luxury residences with a private marina in one of South Florida’s most sought-after island communities. Limited residences remain available, with pricing ranging from $3.2 million to $5.1 million.
Photo Credit: 9900 West
A New Standard of Refined Island Living
Designed by Frankel Benayoun Architects, 9900 West is nearly 50% sold, with vertical construction now complete. The development blends the privacy often associated with single-family homes with the convenience and elegance of boutique condominium living. Envisioned as a serene retreat, the property is surrounded by water and natural landscapes while maintaining immediate access to Miami’s vibrant cultural and social destinations.
Daniel de la Vega, President of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, said, “9900 West delivers an exceptional waterfront living experience that fills a meaningful gap in the Bay Harbor Islands market by offering an intimate, design-forward environment in a location with rare privacy and walkability.”
Residence Features and Interior Design
Situated along the Indian Creek waterway at 9900 West Bay Harbor Drive, the development offers two- to four-bedroom residences along with a penthouse collection, all featuring fully finished interiors by Craft Studio. Residences range from 1,202 to 3,206 square feet and feature light-filled open floor plans, 9-foot ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows designed to maximize panoramic views. Glass-encased terraces overlook the water, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.
Kitchens are custom-designed by Italkraft and outfitted with Miele appliances, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, and integrated wine refrigeration. Primary suites include spacious walk-in closets and spa-inspired bathrooms featuring oak panel detailing, double showers, and floating double vanities. Select residences also include private rooftop terraces with summer kitchens.
Photo Credit: 9900 West
Amenities Inspired by Nature and Waterfront Living
The property embraces Bay Harbor Islands’ tranquil setting with more than 5,000 square feet of tropical gardens and water features designed by Geomantic Designs. Residents also enjoy access to a 9,000-square-foot landscaped rooftop featuring a Finnish saltwater pool and spa, along with a trellis-covered lounge overlooking the property’s private ten-slip marina and Biscayne Bay.
Additional amenities include an attended lobby and concierge services, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a wellness spa with sauna and cold plunge, an entertainment suite with catering kitchen, a children’s playroom, a pet-grooming room, electric vehicle charging, and valet service.
Prime Bay Harbor Islands Location
Bay Harbor Islands continues to be one of South Florida’s most desirable residential enclaves, offering walkability, A-rated schools, pristine parks, and direct access to world-class shopping, dining, cultural institutions, houses of worship, and white-sand beaches. The community is ideally positioned just moments from Bal Harbour, Surfside, and Miami Beach.
St. Regis Residences Sunny Isles Beach Secures $418M in Construction Financing
Bank OZK Boosts Loan Commitment to $418.3 Million
The developers of St. Regis Residences Sunny Isles Beach—Fortune International Group and Château Group—have secured a major increase in construction financing after Bank OZK expanded its loan commitment—which previously totaled $219 million—to $418.3 million. This substantial boost marks one of the largest construction financing packages issued for a Sunny Isles Beach condominium development and underscores the lender’s strong confidence in the project’s scale, market positioning, and long-term viability. The development is rising on a 4.7-acre oceanfront site at 18801 Collins Avenue, featuring 435 linear feet of beachfront—one of the most significant and scarce parcels under development in the area.
Strong Sales Momentum and Multi-Billion-Dollar Sellout
Industry reports highlighted that the South Tower, which launched sales in 2022, is now about 90 percent presold. With both towers combined, the development is expected to achieve a sellout exceeding $3 billion, placing St. Regis Residences among the most significant luxury offerings in the South Florida market. The project includes two 62-story towers, with the South Tower offering 170 residences and the North Tower 150. Completion timelines currently anticipate delivery of the South Tower in Q4 2028 and the North Tower in Q4 2029. The infusion of capital comes at a pivotal moment, reinforcing construction progress and supporting the momentum generated through strong presales.
Continued Confidence in the Project
Bank OZK’s expanded commitment signals a major endorsement of the project and the branded-residence sector in Sunny Isles Beach. The financing increase positions the development for continued progress heading into 2026. Featuring architecture by Arquitectonica and interiors by Patricia Anastassiadis, St. Regis Residences Sunny Isles Beach continues to attract attention as one of the most anticipated luxury residential offerings in the region.
A Significant Milestone for a Landmark Development
With construction now strongly capitalized and sales performance surpassing industry benchmarks, the development remains firmly on track to deliver the elevated lifestyle synonymous with the St. Regis brand. The expanded financing package provides long-term stability, allowing the developers to maintain steady progress as they advance construction and move the development toward full completion. For prospective buyers, brokers, and market analysts, this financing milestone reaffirms the project’s strength and its position as a standout in South Florida’s luxury real estate landscape.
Naftali Group Secures $465M Construction Loan for JEM Private Residences at Miami Worldcenter
The Naftali Group has officially secured a substantial $465 million in construction financing for its highly anticipated JEM Private Residences, a condo tower set to rise in the heart of Miami Worldcenter. This financing milestone positions the project as one of the most significant residential developments within the vibrant, mixed-use Miami Worldcenter district.
A Major Step Forward for JEM Private Residences
The $465 million loan, arranged with Nuveen Real Estate, underscores the confidence in the Miami condo market and the project’s appeal. JEM Private Residences will feature a blend of luxury condominiums and multifamily units, adding a new layer of sophistication to the Miami Worldcenter landscape. The development is expected to include high-end amenities and stunning views, catering to discerning buyers and renters alike.
Development Context and Market Impact
Located within the sprawling Miami Worldcenter—a 27-acre mixed-use development that’s been a focal point of Miami’s urban revitalization—JEM Private Residences is poised to attract both local and international attention. The project’s financing success signals strong demand and investor confidence in Miami’s luxury condo sector, even amid broader economic fluctuations.
Conclusion
In summary, the Naftali Group’s successful securing of $465 million in construction financing is a pivotal moment for the JEM Private Residences and the Miami Worldcenter at large. As construction progresses, this development is set to become a standout addition to Miami’s skyline and a beacon of luxury living in one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
VITA at Grove Isle Receives TCO; Closings Begin Next Week
VITA at Grove Isle—the highly anticipated private-island luxury development in Coconut Grove—has officially received its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO), marking a major milestone for both buyers and the Miami development community. With TCO in hand, closings are now scheduled to begin next week, bringing the project’s seven-year journey from concept to completion into its final phase.
Developed by CMC Group and led by renowned Miami developer Ugo Colombo, VITA at Grove Isle is one of the rare newly completed waterfront luxury buildings on a private island. With only 65 total residences—each directly on the water—the building offers an exceptionally private, low-density living experience.
To give buyers and followers a true behind-the-scenes look, I recently filmed an exclusive walkthrough of the property with Chris Suarez of CMC Group, touring the amenities, members club, and an exquisitely finished residence. You can watch that full video tour below.
A Major Milestone: TCO Issued and Closings Underway
Securing the TCO signals that construction is substantially complete and the building has passed all required safety inspections. For buyers who have been following VITA’s progress over the past two years of construction, this milestone means:
Final walkthroughs are beginning
Closings start next week
Buyers can now begin planning move-ins
The property is officially transitioning from construction site to fully operational luxury building
Given Miami’s competitive pre-construction landscape—where many projects take 3–4+ years to deliver—VITA’s completion represents a rare opportunity for buyers seeking move-in-ready waterfront luxury in Coconut Grove.
A True Waterfront Lifestyle on a Private Island
Located on the 20-acre private enclave of Grove Isle, VITA is the fourth and final residential building on the island. Unlike most Coconut Grove developments—which sit across the street from parks or marinas—every residence at VITA is directly on the water.
Other highlights of VITA’s private-island setting include:
Unobstructed sunrise and sunset views thanks to the building’s sweeping half-moon curvature
Nearly one mile of waterfront walking paths around Grove Isle
Brand-new roads, landscaping, security gatehouse, and renovated tennis and pickleball facilities
The project fully restores and modernizes the island, reintroducing Grove Isle as one of Miami’s most peaceful and exclusive residential locations.
Luxury Residences with Exceptional Finishes
True to Ugo Colombo’s reputation for quality, VITA’s residences deliver an elevated standard rarely seen in today’s new developments. Highlights include:
11-foot flush ceilings throughout
Mudded-in linear AC diffusers
Frameless interior doors
Custom Molteni kitchens in light or dark finishes
Full Miele appliance packages and wine coolers
Book-matched marble primary bathrooms with dual vanities
Steam-equipped showers with electrochromic privacy glass
Private garages available for select residences with direct-entry private elevators
The smallest residences start at approx. 2,500 square feet—underscoring the project’s focus on spacious, home-like layouts.
Amenities and Members Club Offerings
VITA offers a robust yet intimate amenity program designed around island living, wellness, and privacy. Amenities include:
Two waterfront pools (one for residents, one for club members)
Members-only club room with lounge spaces, bar, and billiards
Full spa with sauna, steam rooms, massage rooms, and cold plunges
Technogym-equipped fitness center with water views
Yoga studio
Access to nine renovated tennis and pickleball courts
A new 60-seat restaurant, open to the public and operated by the owners of Daniel’s
These amenities complement the peaceful tone of the island, offering residents a resort-caliber lifestyle just minutes from city conveniences.
Remaining Availability
As of this week, only 10 residences remain, including:
One 3-bedroom residence (approx. 2,500 SF) at $6.5M
Several 4-bedroom residences (approx. 3,700–3,800 SF) priced from $8.5M to $10.3M
Two duplex penthouses (approx. 7,000 SF each) with private pools, priced at $22M
This limited supply makes VITA one of the most exclusive new luxury offerings in all of Coconut Grove.
Watch the Full First-Look Video Tour
Below is my exclusive walkthrough with Chris Suarez, offering the very first on-camera look inside VITA at Grove Isle. The video includes a full residence tour, the amenities, members club, and insights into what makes this development stand out.
Interested in a Private Showing?
For pricing, availability, or to schedule an in-person tour of VITA at Grove Isle, contact me directly:
Bay Harbor Towers to Celebrate Topping-Off Milestone Tomorrow, November 18th
Bay Harbor Islands, FL — Bay Harbor Towers, the boutique luxury waterfront condominium rising on the Indian Creek waterway, has officially reached a major construction milestone: topping-off. To celebrate the achievement, the development team will host an exclusive onsite event tomorrow, Tuesday, November 18th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, complete with live music and a celebratory gathering for project partners, brokers, and invited guests.
Developed by PPG Development, designed by award-winning architect Kobi Karp, and featuring interiors by Interiors by Steven G., Bay Harbor Towers is an eight-story, ultra-luxury residential offering on Bay Harbor Islands with just 44 private flow-through residences. The project has been crafted to deliver a highly curated island-lifestyle experience, blending modern coastal architecture with boutique privacy at one of Miami’s most sought-after waterfront addresses. With construction progressing on schedule, the community is projected for completion and delivery in Q1 2027.
As a limited-edition collection, Bay Harbor Towers features spacious two- to four-bedroom + den floor plans, select penthouses and bayhouse residences with private pools, fully finished interiors, floor-to-ceiling glass, expansive terraces, and chef-caliber kitchens with Sub-Zero® and Wolf® appliance packages. The development also delivers a world-class amenity collection, including a rooftop infinity-edge pool, sunset jacuzzi, cabanas, wellness lounge, indoor saltwater lap pool, sauna and steam rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center with Paragon® equipment, and a private marina with 13 slips.
The topping-off ceremony marks one of the most symbolic milestones in real-estate development — signaling the completion of the building’s structural framework and the transition into finishing, detailing, and interior work. For future residents and market observers, it serves as a strong indicator that Bay Harbor Towers remains on track, well-capitalized, and steadily advancing toward its vision of delivering an elevated level of waterfront condo living.
For more information on pricing, floor plans, availability, or private presentations, contact me directly or visit my full building profile page to explore details, finishes, amenities, and renderings.
Surf Row Residences Officially Breaks Ground in Surfside
Construction is officially underway at Surf Row Residences, a boutique condominium development in Surfside created by LD&D in partnership with ONE Capital and JV partner IGEQ. Marked by an intimate groundbreaking ceremony at 8800 Collins Avenue, the milestone welcomed Surfside city officials, project partners, and community members. The event underscored the development’s contribution to the town’s ongoing revitalization and its commitment to thoughtful, design-driven coastal living.
Strong Buyer Demand and Architectural Distinction
Surf Row Residences has generated remarkable pre-construction momentum, drawing interest from buyers throughout South Florida, the U.S., and international markets. According to ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, the project’s exclusive sales and marketing partner, demand has been exceptionally strong among those seeking privacy, walkability, and proximity to both the ocean and Bal Harbour Shops. With just 24 bespoke homes, the project presents a rare opportunity to own a residence with a distinct architectural identity in one of South Florida’s most coveted beachside communities.
Sculptural Design Inspired by Surfside’s Coastal Character
Designed by Alfonso Jurado Architecture and Boris Pena Architects, with The Rinaldi Group serving as general contractor, Surf Row Residences introduces an architectural language inspired by Miami’s cultural heritage and natural shoreline. The 75,000-square-foot development emphasizes organic forms, layered glass facades, and lush landscaping, evoking the movement of waves, bird wings, and wind-swept sand. Residences feature fluid layouts extending to private terraces and skylit interiors, with one- to three-bedroom floor plans ranging from 894 to 2,195 square feet and starting from $1.4 million. Select homes also offer private rooftop terraces, plunge pools, and summer kitchens.
Resort-Style Amenities in an Intimate Setting
Uncommon for a community of this size, Surf Row Residences offers more than 6,400 square feet of amenities. These include a rooftop pool deck with sweeping ocean views, a Zen spa featuring a cold plunge and sauna, a fitness studio, co-working lounge, and beach butler service. Through a collaboration with RH, all shared spaces will be furnished with the luxury brand’s curated collections, while optional RH-designed turnkey residences are available for buyers seeking a seamless move-in experience.
Situated in the Heart of Surfside’s Revitalization
Located just north of Miami Beach, Surf Row Residences stands at the center of Surfside’s ongoing evolution, surrounded by celebrated destinations such as The Surf Club and emerging investments in public spaces. Its design and scale align with the town’s broader vision of fostering long-term community vitality while preserving Surfside’s distinctive coastal charm. Completion of Surf Row Residences is anticipated in 2027.
Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove Breaks Ground in Miami
Developers Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group and Nadim Ashi’s Fort Partners have recently broken ground on Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove, marking a major milestone for Miami’s luxury condo landscape. The project represents Florida’s first-ever standalone Four Seasons-branded residential tower, offering a purely residential experience without an attached hotel — a rarity in the global Four Seasons portfolio.
Located on a prime 1.16-acre waterfront parcel at 2699 S. Bayshore Drive, the 20-story development is already over 50% pre-sold, with prices starting just under $6 million. Early buyers include a significant number of local residents downsizing from single-family homes or upgrading from other condominiums in search of elevated Four Seasons service.
A Landmark Moment for Coconut Grove
With the groundbreaking taking place in early November, Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove is set to become one of the most prestigious addresses in Miami. Coconut Grove’s lush waterfront setting, walkable village center, and refined lifestyle continue to attract buyers from across South Florida and beyond.
For the Four Seasons brand, this project signals growing demand for hotel-level services delivered in a private residential-only environment — a model that appeals to affluent buyers seeking exclusivity, security, and high-touch service without the constant activity of a hospitality component.
Design, Development & Team
The project brings together two of the most respected teams in luxury real estate:
Developer: CMC Group (Ugo Colombo)
Co-Developer: Fort Partners (Nadim Ashi)
Architecture: Revuelta Architecture International
Interiors: Michele Bönan of Florence
Landscape: Lush, Grove-inspired tropical design
Together, they are creating a sculptural, curved tower designed to maximize Biscayne Bay views while blending naturally into Coconut Grove’s signature canopy of banyan and gumbo limbo trees.
Residences & Private Home Features
Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove will feature:
70 ultra-luxury residences across 20 stories
Private elevator foyers for every home
11-foot ceilings with floor-to-ceiling glass
Custom-designed Molteni kitchens
Premium Sub-Zero and Wolf appliance packages
Italian marble baths
Deep terraces framing unobstructed bayfront views
A limited collection of penthouse and upper-level residences will offer expansive layouts approaching 10,000 square feet.
World-Class Amenities & Four Seasons Services
As the first standalone Four Seasons residential tower in Florida, the property will deliver an elevated lifestyle built around privacy, personalization, and wellness. Planned amenities include:
Resort-style bayfront pool deck and cabanas
Resident-only restaurant and lounge
Wellness spa with sauna, cold plunge, and therapy offerings
State-of-the-art fitness center with private training spaces
Library, children’s room, and multipurpose event areas
Full suite of Four Seasons services, including valet, concierge, housekeeping options, and personalized in-residence services
The building will be staffed and operated to Four Seasons’ global hospitality standards, bringing five-star luxury to everyday living.
Unbeatable Coconut Grove Location
Positioned along 2699 S Bayshore Drive in Coconut Grove, the luxury tower sits directly across from Biscayne Bay and the waterfront parks. Residents will enjoy immediate access to:
CocoWalk and the Grove’s dining and retail
Marinas, yacht clubs, and bayfront green spaces
Top-tier private schools including Ransom Everglades
Coral Gables, Brickell, downtown Miami, and MIA
It’s an exceptional location offering walkability, serenity, and prestige — all within one of Miami’s most historic neighborhoods.
A Strong Year for CMC Group in the Grove
This recent groundbreaking comes as CMC Group approaches the delivery of Vita at Grove Isle, another highly anticipated luxury project expected to welcome residents by year’s end. Combined, these developments reinforce Coconut Grove’s position as one of Miami’s most sought-after enclaves for high-end waterfront living.
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.
