The topping-off ceremony took place on January 16, 2026, led by development partners Newgard Group and Two Roads Development, alongside general contractor G.T. McDonald. The traditional celebration included the raising of an American flag and the placement of a palm tree atop the LOFTY Brickell tower—symbolizing progress, resilience, and momentum. “This milestone reflects the collective effort of an extraordinary team and the strong collaboration between Newgard and Two Roads,” said Harvey Hernandez, CEO of Newgard Group. “Reaching the top of both towers ahead of schedule is a testament to the commitment of our construction partner, G.T. McDonald, and everyone involved in bringing this project to life.”
Kenny Tharrington, Javier Cuadros, Frank Rodriguez, Harvey Hernandez, Harvey Hernandez Jr., Carlos Gallardo, Jay Joglekar, Kate Sanko, and Stephanie Adames of Newgard Group
A Major Brickell Milestone Reached Ahead of Schedule
Located at 99 SW 7th Street, directly across from Brickell City Centre, One Brickell Riverfront is a master-planned, dual-tower riverfront development designed by Arquitectonica.
The Standard Residences Brickell
• 46 stories
• 422 residences
Construction remains months ahead of schedule, with delivery anticipated for August 2027—a notable achievement given the scale and complexity of the project. “Brickell continues to set the pace for urban living in Miami, and One Brickell Riverfront represents one of the neighborhood’s most significant riverfront developments,” said Brad Meltzer, Partner and President of Two Roads Development. “It is the collaborative spirit of all those involved that has allowed us to achieve this key milestone, and we are excited for many more to come.”
Backed by $513 Million in Construction Financing
The topping-off milestone follows the joint venture’s closing of $513 million in construction financing in late 2025—one of the largest residential construction loans in South Florida. The financing supported the project’s continued vertical construction and reinforced strong lender confidence in Brickell’s long-term residential demand.
LOFTY Brickell: Flexible Ownership Meets Five-Star Living
LOFTY Brickell offers studios, one- and two-bedroom residences, and penthouses furnished by INC. The tower is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a five-star lifestyle with added flexibility.
Key highlights include:
40,000 square feet of amenities
Private marina along the Miami River
Resort-style pool deck
Spa, fitness center, cigar lounge, and co-working spaces
Ground-floor waterfront restaurant by AVRA Estiatorio, the acclaimed New York City brand
A limited number of penthouses remain available, with pricing ranging from $2.4M to $3.5M. The project has drawn strong interest due to its flexible ownership model, allowing owners to rent their residences on their own terms.
The Standard Residences Brickell: Hospitality-Driven Urban Living
The Standard Residences Brickell brings the brand’s signature hospitality ethos into a full-service residential tower. Interiors are designed by GOODRICH, with residences ranging from studios to two-bedroom layouts. Pricing begins in the mid-$600,000s.
Amenities span multiple levels and include:
Rooftop pool with towel and beverage service
The Standard Club Lounge & Café
Co-working spaces
10th-floor spa with Hammam, saunas, and cold plunge
Fitness center, bowling alley, screening room, and pet spa
Signature dining on the ninth floor and a riverfront restaurant at street level
Sales have remained consistently strong since launch, reflecting buyer enthusiasm for design-forward living paired with personalized service.
A Strategic Partnership with a Proven Track Record
The collaboration between Newgard Group and Two Roads Development was formed in November 2024, bringing together two firms with extensive experience delivering iconic, design-led residential projects across South Florida.
As Brickell continues to evolve into one of the most dynamic urban cores in the country, One Brickell Riverfront stands out as a transformational riverfront development that blends architecture, hospitality, and flexible ownership in a prime location.
With both towers now topped off and delivery targeted for 2027, this milestone reinforces Brickell’s momentum—and signals what’s next for Miami’s luxury residential skyline.
THE WELL Coconut Grove Breaks Ground with $410M Loan, Bringing Wellness Living to Miami
Record-Breaking Financing Fuels Construction
THE WELL Coconut Grove, a joint venture between Terra and AB Asset Management, has broken ground backed by a $410 million construction loan from Tyko Capital—the largest ever in Coconut Grove’s history. David Martin, CEO of Terra, stated, “This construction financing and groundbreaking marks significant milestones for both Terra and THE WELL as we expand our wellness-focused residential and hospitality footprint in one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods.”
Exclusive Amenities for a Balanced Lifestyle
THE WELL Coconut Grove offers a 40,000-square-foot rooftop wellness oasis with a private pool, hot and cold plunges, cabanas, and a pickleball court. The 13,000-square-foot state-of-the-art wellness center includes a communal bathhouse, crystal cave lounges, hyperbaric chambers, and vitality lounges. Residents can enjoy unique social spaces like an aperitif bar, a tea garden, and the Conservatory for coworking or IV therapy, plus personalized wellness services like bi-annual health coaching and access to the latest wellness technologies.
Wellness-Focused Luxury Living
Set to open in Q4 2028, THE WELL Coconut Grove will feature 194 residences across 8 stories. Residences range from one to four bedrooms, spanning 960 to 4,200 square feet, with prices starting at $1.5 million. Interiors include Italkraft cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, Kraus Kore sinks, and quartzite countertops. Many units offer dedicated Wellness Dens for meditation and in-home wellness packages curated by THE WELL.
A New Milestone for Cassia Residences at Coral Gables
Cassia Residences at Coral Gables has officially topped off, signaling the completion of its main structural construction and marking a major milestone for one of Coral Gables’ most anticipated new residential developments. The topping-off ceremony confirms that the project remains on schedule as it moves into its final phases of development.
What Does a Topping-Off Mean for Buyers?
A topping-off milestone represents the moment when a building’s structural framework is complete. For buyers and future residents, this is an important sign of progress—moving the project beyond construction and closer to completion, interior finishes, and eventual move-in. At Cassia, this milestone reflects not only construction momentum but also the craftsmanship and planning behind the project.
Prime Coral Gables Location Near Merrick Park
Located just steps from Merrick Park, Cassia Residences places future residents in the heart of Coral Gables’ most desirable lifestyle corridor. From luxury shopping and fine dining to walkable streets and tree-lined avenues, the neighborhood continues to attract both end-users and investors seeking long-term value in a supply-constrained market.
What’s Next for Cassia Residences?
As the building structure is now complete, attention turns to the interior details that will define daily life at Cassia. From refined architectural finishes to thoughtfully designed residences, the project aims to deliver a boutique living experience that blends elegance, comfort, and convenience—hallmarks of Coral Gables luxury real estate.
A New Record-Setting Tower Proposed for Sunny Isles Beach
A transformative new luxury condo tower is moving forward in Sunny Isles Beach, with plans unveiled for what would become the tallest skyscraper ever built in the city. The project is proposed for 19051 Collins Avenue and is being developed by a joint venture between Related Group, Dezer Development, and BH Group.
Recently released renderings show a sleek, ultra-tall residential tower designed to redefine the Sunny Isles skyline and set a new benchmark for oceanfront luxury development in South Florida.
Project Size, Height, and Scale
According to submitted plans, the proposed tower would rise approximately 820 feet above ground (roughly 828 feet above sea level) and span 62 stories, making it not only the tallest building in Sunny Isles Beach, but one of the tallest residential towers along the Atlantic coastline.
The building is planned to include 145 luxury condominium residences, a relatively low unit count given the tower’s height—suggesting large floor plans and a highly exclusive residential experience.
Estimated Cost and Development Timeline
The project carries an estimated construction cost of approximately $294 million, reflecting both its scale and its premium oceanfront location.
Developers have outlined a long-term timeline that includes:
Up to five years for approvals and permitting
An additional five years for construction
If approvals proceed as expected, the tower is currently projected to be completed around 2031.
Prime Oceanfront Site on Collins Avenue
The development site was assembled through the acquisition of the former Miami Beach Club property for approximately $131.8 million, underscoring the significance of the location. Positioned directly on Collins Avenue, the tower would offer unobstructed ocean views and immediate access to the heart of Sunny Isles Beach.
What This Means for Sunny Isles Beach
If approved and built as planned, this tower would represent a major milestone for Sunny Isles Beach—both symbolically and architecturally. The project reflects the continued demand for ultra-luxury, high-rise living and signals confidence from some of South Florida’s most active and well-capitalized developers.
As the approval process moves forward, this proposed skyscraper is poised to become one of the most closely watched developments in the Sunny Isles Beach real estate market.
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:
