Okan Tower: A New Construction Icon in Downtown Miami’s Skyline
Construction continues to advance on Okan Tower, a 70-story mixed-use marvel taking shape at 555 North Miami Avenue in the heart of Downtown Miami. Designed by the esteemed Behar Font & Partners and developed by Okan Group, this 902-foot-tall, 914,124-square-foot skyscraper is set to redefine luxury living and working spaces in the city. Once completed, the tower will feature 399 luxurious residences, a 316-key hotel, 64,000 square feet of Class A office space, and a host of indoor and outdoor amenities, making it a true gem in Miami’s urban landscape.
The tower is being constructed on a 0.86-acre corner plot, strategically bordered by North Miami Avenue to the west and Northeast 6th Street to the north, ensuring it will be a standout feature in the downtown area. Witkin Hults + Partners, the landscape architect, is meticulously planning the surrounding green spaces to complement the building’s impressive architecture.
Jacob Companies, the project’s general contractor, has been actively sharing updates on the tower’s construction progress. Last week, they posted a series of photos on Instagram that provided a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing activities at the site. The images captured various stages of the building process, from the installation of rebar to the formation of concrete slabs. The pouring of columns in the site’s northeast corner is visible, alongside significant progress on the south wall.
The construction team, including Okan Construction, Moore Group, Efco Forming, and US American Concrete, is making remarkable strides in the tower’s structural phase. As the year progresses, we can expect to see Okan Tower start to make a substantial impact on the Miami skyline.
Okan Tower’s residential offerings are divided between 163 condominium units on floors 51 through 70, tailored for private residences, and 236 condo-hotel units on floors 36 to 50. These condo-hotel units are designed for short-term rentals, offering all the services and amenities of a luxury hotel. The residential units vary in size, with studios starting at 447 square feet and expansive three-bedroom residences reaching up to 2,183 square feet, catering to a wide range of lifestyle needs.
The tower’s design and amenities are poised to attract those seeking an unparalleled living experience in Miami, combining luxury, convenience, and modern design in a prime downtown location.
As construction progresses, anticipation continues to build for the completion of Okan Tower. The project is expected to be finished by 2027, at which point it will stand as a new icon in Miami’s skyline, embodying the city’s vibrant spirit and relentless growth.
Shoma Bay Elevates Miami Luxury Living with Rolls-Royce Perks and Unmatched Amenities
Miami is no stranger to luxury, but Shoma Bay, a new 24-story tower in North Bay Village set to open in 2026, is taking things to a whole new level. The latest project by Shoma Group is making waves not just for its stunning architecture or prime location off the John F. Kennedy Causeway but for an extraordinary amenity that’s sure to turn heads—a chauffeured Rolls-Royce Cullinan available to all residents. Yes, you read that right. Imagine having a Rolls-Royce at your beck and call to cruise around Miami in style. Let’s dive into what makes Shoma Bay the epitome of luxury living in the Magic City.
Shoma Bay isn’t just another high-rise; it’s a lifestyle destination designed to cater to the most discerning buyers. With 333 units ranging from one to three bedrooms, plus 10 exclusive penthouses, Shoma Bay promises to offer something for everyone looking for a luxurious place to call home. But what truly sets it apart are the unique amenities that go far beyond the typical offerings of high-end condos.
The crown jewel of Shoma Bay’s amenities is undoubtedly the Rolls-Royce Cullinan—a vehicle synonymous with elegance and sophistication. Residents will have access to this chauffeured luxury SUV for trips within a 10-mile radius, including key locations like Miami International Airport, the Bal Harbour Shops, and the Miami Design District. It’s a perk that redefines convenience and luxury, ensuring that every outing is a memorable one.
Stephanie Shojaee, one half of the power couple leading Shoma Group, explains, “We offer residents access to a bespoke Rolls-Royce to enhance the luxurious lifestyles they will experience at Shoma Bay. This kind of amenity goes beyond traditional luxurious features such as high-end appliances or premium finishes.”
Shoma Bay is all about creating an environment where residents can live their best lives. The development features a wide range of amenities that cater to various aspects of luxury living:
Pet Spa: Because your fur babies deserve the best too.
Golf Simulator: Perfect for channeling your inner Tiger Woods without leaving the building.
Zen Garden: A peaceful retreat where you can relax and unwind.
Wine Club: Elevate your happy hours with curated selections and exclusive tastings.
And if that’s not enough, Shoma Bay is also set to include what might be the most luxurious Publix in Florida, along with a rooftop lounge offering stunning views and a place to socialize with neighbors.
The integration of high-end brands like Rolls-Royce into real estate developments is a growing trend, especially in markets like Miami, where affluent buyers are looking for more than just a place to live—they’re looking for a complete lifestyle experience. As the first Latina U.S. ambassador for Rolls-Royce, Stephanie Shojaee sees this collaboration as a natural extension of Shoma Group’s commitment to luxury.
While the Rolls-Royce Cullinan might seem like the ultimate amenity, Shoma Group has hinted that more surprises are in store. One highly anticipated feature is a distinguished high-end restaurant, though the name remains under wraps for now. This, combined with the development’s other luxurious offerings, ensures that Shoma Bay will be a landmark of opulence in Miami.
With units starting at $750,000, Shoma Bay is positioning itself as one of Miami’s most desirable addresses. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of having a Rolls-Royce at your disposal, the array of exclusive amenities, or simply the chance to be part of a community that celebrates luxury, Shoma Bay offers an unparalleled living experience.
830 Brickell Secures $565 Million Construction Loan
Miami’s skyline is set to welcome a new architectural marvel this fall as 830 Brickell, a 57-story, 640,000-square-foot Class A+ office tower, nears completion. Securing a $565 million long-term loan from TYKO Capital, this development underscores its significance as a base for many firms establishing their first Miami office, with over 90 percent of the building’s tenants being new to the market.
Designed by the renowned architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill and featuring interiors by Italian architecture and design company Iosa Ghini Associati, 830 Brickell stands out as the first stand-alone Class A+ office building in Brickell in over a decade. The tower, developed by OKO Group and Cain International, is already fully leased and is in the process of receiving its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy in phases, with tenants actively building out their spaces.
Since construction began in 2020, leasing rates at 830 Brickell have more than doubled, setting a new high standard for Miami’s office market. Initially, office space was priced between $60-$70 per square foot. Recent leases have closed above $150 per square foot, while the Brickell submarket averages around $100 per square foot. This remarkable increase highlights the tower’s premium appeal and the growing demand for high-quality office space in Miami.
TYKO Capital, a commercial real estate private equity and private credit investment management platform, is a joint venture between Adi Chugh and a Florida-based hedge fund. Established in August 2023, TYKO focuses on institutional borrowers and assets in top-tier markets, investing across the entire capital stack and all asset classes. The successful securing of favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell by TYKO Capital marks a significant milestone for the project.
Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of OKO Group, and Jonathan Goldstein, CEO of Cain International, expressed their excitement: “Our ability to secure favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell is a fitting capstone to the building’s success. 830 Brickell has acted as a catalyst for a historic wave of business migration into South Florida, positioning itself as the base for the world’s premier finance, technology, and professional services firms and propelling an office market that continues to outperform other major cities.”
830 Brickell hosts a roster of top-tier financial, technology, and professional services firms, including Microsoft, Citadel, Kirkland & Ellis, Marsh Insurance, Sidley Austin, CI Financial (Corient), Thoma Bravo, Santander Bank, and A-CAP, among others. Many of these firms are currently building out their interior spaces in anticipation of the building’s completion.
The tower’s amenities will include a top-floor restaurant and bar/private club with menus developed alongside a three-Michelin-starred chef, offering expansive views of the city and Biscayne Bay. Other features include a world-class health and wellness center, conferencing facilities, an outdoor terrace, cafés, and street-level retail. The building is conveniently located near multiple transit options, including Metrorail and Metromover, the Brightline, walking paths, cycling lanes, and bay access points. It is also close to Miami’s top residential and lifestyle neighborhoods such as the Design District, Wynwood, Edgewater, and Miami Beach.
Foundation Pour Completed for Mercedes Benz Places Miami
The foundation pour for the impressive 67-story Mercedes Benz Places Miami has been successfully completed, as announced by the developer on their social media account. This significant achievement sets the stage for the vertical construction, which is scheduled to commence in July.
The foundation pour took place in the last week, involving a colossal effort with over 10,000 cubic yards of concrete being transported to the site. This marks one of the largest concrete pours in the region, highlighting the scale and ambition of the project.
Mercedes Benz Places is not just another building; it is one of the largest developments currently under construction in Florida. The project spans an impressive 2.5 million square feet, making it a significant addition to the state’s skyline.
Upon completion, Mercedes Benz Places will feature 791 residential units, providing luxurious living spaces in the heart of the city. In addition to the residential units, the development will include office spaces, a hotel, retail outlets, and various amenity spaces, offering a comprehensive and vibrant community for its residents and visitors.
With the foundation pour now completed, all eyes are on the upcoming vertical construction phase set to begin in July. As the tower begins to rise, it will not only transform the skyline but also set new standards for mixed-use developments in the region.
Boasting 791 residences ranging from studios to three-bedroom condominiums, each unit offers panoramic views of Miami, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond its residential offerings, the tower will feature 130,000 square feet of amenities and hospitality space, 200,000 square feet of office space, a 174-key hotel, retail outlets, and ample on-site parking.
What sets Mercedes-Benz Places apart is its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The project incorporates cutting-edge mobility solutions, including EV charging stations, valet parking, and bike-sharing programs, ensuring residents embrace a seamless urban lifestyle. Moreover, sustainability lies at the core of its design, with initiatives such as energy-efficient production and water conservation contributing to a greener, more eco-conscious community.
Introducing First & Fifth: A New Icon in Downtown Miami’s Skyline
Oak Row Equities has made a bold move in the heart of Downtown Miami with its recent acquisition of 49 Northwest 5th Street, heralding the dawn of First & Fifth, a visionary 45-story multifamily tower. This off-market purchase, secured for $38.5 million with seller financing, marks a significant step in the company’s commitment to shaping South Florida’s urban landscape.
Designed by ODP Architecture & Design, First & Fifth draws inspiration from Miami’s rich Venetian architecture of the early 20th century, blending historical charm with contemporary flair. The design features prominent arches reminiscent of the Doge Palace in Venice, creating a unique silhouette against Miami’s skyline.
The 700,000-square-foot tower will host 500 multifamily units, each offering high-end finishes and sweeping city views. Bright, airy spaces emphasize the open feel of urban living, tailored to meet the demands of modern residents seeking both luxury and convenience.
Situated strategically across from MiamiCentral Station, First & Fifth enjoys unparalleled connectivity as the central nexus for South Florida’s major train systems: Brightline, Metrorail, Tri-Rail, and Metromover. This prime location places residents within walking distance of Miami’s dynamic urban core, including Miami Dade College’s Wolfson Campus, the federal courthouse, and the Miami Heat’s arena.
Erik Rutter, Managing Partner at Oak Row Equities, articulates the project’s vision: “First & Fifth exemplifies our belief that proximity to transportation hubs is pivotal in shaping urban living choices in South Florida.” This sentiment is echoed by David Weitz, Managing Partner, who emphasizes the project’s culmination of foresight and collaboration.
First & Fifth not only enhances the skyline but also reflects Oak Row Equities’ dedication to transit-oriented development. This approach is central to their portfolio, which includes notable projects like The Oasis, Wynwood Plaza, and others strategically positioned near transit nodes to maximize connectivity across the region.
As Oak Row Equities prepares to introduce First & Fifth to the capital markets and prospective tenants, anticipation mounts for a new chapter in Miami’s urban evolution. With its blend of historical inspiration, modern design, and strategic location, First & Fifth promises to redefine urban living in Miami, offering a vibrant lifestyle where convenience meets luxury.
Stay tuned as First & Fifth rises to prominence, a testament to Miami’s growth and Oak Row Equities’ commitment to innovation in urban development.
Tower Near Arsht Center to Soar Higher Than Initially Planned
Miami’s skyline is about to undergo another transformation as plans for a new tower near the Arsht Center have been formally filed, revealing an increase in height beyond initial expectations. This development signals not only the city’s continued growth but also the adaptability and evolution of urban architectural projects.
According to recent filings submitted on June 6th to Miami-Dade officials for zoning approval, the tower is now slated to rise 30 stories above ground, reaching an impressive height of 353 feet. This significant increase surpasses the earlier projection of 27 stories, standing at 319 feet, as detailed in an April filing by the developer during a pre-application meeting request. The adjustment in height underscores the dynamic nature of construction projects and the iterative process of urban development.
Despite the upward revision in height, one aspect remains constant: the number of dwelling units. The tower is still planned to accommodate 283 units, maintaining its residential capacity as previously envisioned. This continuity ensures that the project retains its intended scale and functionality, providing housing options within the burgeoning cityscape.
Behind this ambitious venture is a dedicated team of professionals committed to bringing the vision to life. 14th Street Miami Investments, LLC spearheads the development, while RSP Architects of Miami lends their expertise as the architect responsible for crafting the tower’s design. The project’s engineering aspects, both civil and traffic, are entrusted to Kimley-Horn, ensuring the structural integrity and seamless integration with the surrounding urban infrastructure. Urban Robot contributes its landscape architectural prowess to enhance the green spaces surrounding the tower, while legal matters and land use intricacies are expertly navigated by Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin + Tapanes. This collaborative effort underscores the interdisciplinary nature of modern urban development, where diverse skill sets converge to realize ambitious projects.
As plans for the tower near the Arsht Center take shape and surpass initial expectations in height, Miami’s skyline prepares for another striking addition. This development not only reflects the city’s ongoing evolution but also exemplifies the collaborative spirit driving urban innovation. With a dedicated team and meticulous planning, the tower is poised to become a prominent feature in Miami’s ever-changing landscape, contributing to its vibrant urban tapestry for generations to come.
Summit Brickell Development Secures FAA Approval, Moves Forward with Updated Plans
The highly anticipated mixed-use development, Summit Brickell is set to redefine the skyline of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. Located at 1015 Southwest 1st Avenue, this ambitious project recently achieved a significant milestone by securing approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). With this approval, the development is poised to rise 765 feet above ground, reaching a total height of 769 feet above sea level at its highest point. Designed by Corwil Architects and developed by Lore Development Group—a joint venture between Brazilian billionaire Daniel Dantas’ Opportunity investment firm and Leste Group—Summit Brickell promises to bring a dynamic blend of residential and commercial spaces to the heart of Miami.
Filed on April 5 and swiftly approved on May 21, Summit Brickell is planned as a 60-story structure with a total floor area ratio (FAR) of 717,740 square feet. The updated plans for the tower to include:
500 residential units
1,583 square feet of commercial space
500 parking spaces
Documents recently filed with Miami-Dade County in April provided updated renderings and plans for Summit Brickell. One of the notable changes is the reduction of the proposed structure from 69 to 60 stories. The updated plans also indicate the elevator bulkhead will now rise to 750 feet, significantly lower than the initially planned 843 feet, falling well within the heights approved by the FAA.
Summit Brickell is currently under review by Miami-Dade County planners as part of its Rapid Transit zoning plan, allowing it to bypass city review. However, a construction permit for the project has not yet been filed with the county.
The project’s material board highlights the variety of architectural features and elements that contribute to the overall design and aesthetic of the structure. Key features include:
Fine sand stucco/textured finish used throughout the elevations
Horizontal concrete pours/sculpted to exterior walls
Impact-resistant guardrail systems
Sliding glass doors with impact-resistant aluminum frame and glass
Fixed-lite, clear safety glass and impact-resistant guardrail system on balcony rails
Additionally, the building will feature:
Impact-resistant glass doors
Storm-resistant mesh screens
Parking garage breezeway
Perforated aluminum garage system panels
Decorative metal claddings
Aluminum sunshade systems
Summit Brickell will offer various unit types from the 14th through the 58th floor, including studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom floor plans ranging from 500 to 1,418 square feet. The penthouse units on the 59th floor will range from 1,288 to 2,618 square feet. Residents will enjoy amenities on both the 13th floor and the 60th-floor rooftop. The parking garage is designed to occupy floors 2 through 12, ensuring ample space for residents and visitors.
While it remains unclear when the developer plans to break ground on the project, it is still navigating through the approval process, and no permits have been submitted as of May. Initially, groundbreaking for the project was tentatively scheduled for June 2024, with completion expected by summer 2027. However, given the current status, a groundbreaking towards the end of the year seems more likely, with completion potentially extending into late 2027.
Alta Developers Announces New Short-Term Rental-Friendly Condo Project in Coral Gables
Alta Developers, a prominent Miami-based real estate firm, has officially launched sales for its latest venture, a short-term rental-friendly condominium known as Cassia, located in the vibrant heart of Coral Gables. This announcement marks a significant shift from the company’s initial plans of developing an apartment complex at 4011 Salzedo Avenue.
Originally intended as a multifamily apartment building, the project’s direction shifted about six months to a year ago, amidst challenging market conditions. “The multifamily market is pretty tough today. With interest rates and costs, it’s very difficult to launch a multifamily project,” explained Raimundo Onetto, CEO of Alta Developers. He further noted the sustained demand in the condo market, which influenced the strategic redirection towards developing Cassia as a condo project suitable for short-term rentals.
Cassia is set to rise as a 12-story building offering 174 residential units, with sizes ranging from 662 to 1,439 square feet. The units, which will include options from one to three bedrooms, are priced starting in the $700,000s, stretching up to about $1.8 million. Each condo will be delivered fully finished and furnished, featuring elegant interiors by RH (formerly Restoration Hardware), ensuring a premium living experience.
The development is designed to attract a diverse group of buyers, including foreign investors and families with children attending the University of Miami, as well as medical professionals working at nearby hospitals. “People can use it when they’re here, and when they’re not here they can put it into a management program that allows them cash flow. … This is a great way to start your real estate portfolio,” said Jesse Ottley, President of Development Sales, highlighting the project’s flexibility.
Set to open a sales center this month at 4201 South LeJeune Road, Cassia is strategically located near top shopping destinations like the Shops at Merrick Park and luxury automotive dealer The Collection. The project promises a rich array of amenities including a café, gym, multiple pools, and a landscaped garden on the fifth floor, not to mention a striking $1 million tree sculpture within a serene paseo.
With plans to break ground by year-end, Alta Developers aims to secure construction financing by selling approximately 40% to 45% of the units—roughly 70 units in total. The anticipated loan amount is around $60 million, with construction expected to last about 18 to 20 months.
Alta Developers purchased the 1.5-acre site for $17.5 million in late 2020 from Baptist Health South Florida. The site’s history includes a previous development plan by Ugo Colombo and Masoud Shojaee, which was later sold to Baptist in the wake of a legal dispute.
Cassia represents a significant addition to Coral Gables and South Florida’s growing portfolio of short-term rental-friendly developments, joining other noteworthy projects like 600 Miami Worldcenter and Natiivo Fort Lauderdale. As Alta Developers embarks on this exciting project, Cassia is poised to become a cornerstone of flexible urban living in Coral Gables.
Revving Up Luxury Living: Aston Martin Residences in Downtown Miami
When dreams meet determination, the impossible becomes achievable. Amidst the glittering skyline of downtown Miami, the Aston Martin Residences stand tall as a testament to visionary thinking and unwavering perseverance. Despite initial doubts, this architectural marvel has not only come to fruition but has also exceeded expectations.
Developer G&G Business Developments defied skeptics as they held a triumphant ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 30, coinciding with Miami’s electrifying race week. The event, graced by the presence of Aston Martin executives and esteemed Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, marked the culmination of years of meticulous planning and dedicated effort.
The allure of the Aston Martin Residences lies not only in its striking design but also in its unparalleled exclusivity. Of the 391 luxury condos nestled within its sleek façade, an astounding 99% were snapped up by eager buyers even before the doors swung open. What’s more, over 50 of these new residents are proud owners of Aston Martin automobiles, further cementing their allegiance to the brand’s legacy of luxury and innovation.
Collaboration breeds excellence, and nowhere is this more evident than in the partnership between Aston Martin’s design team and the visionary architect Rodolfo Miani of Bodas Mian Anger. Together, they have crafted a striking sail-shaped glass tower that stands as an ode to sophistication and modernity, redefining the skyline of downtown Miami.
Step into the realm of luxury living, where every amenity is crafted to indulge and inspire. Spread across levels 52 through 55, residents are treated to a plethora of indulgences. From an exquisite art gallery to state-of-the-art movie theaters, a golf simulator to a bustling business center, every need and desire finds fulfillment within these walls. For families, a dedicated kids’ playroom ensures that little ones are equally catered to, while a full-service spa, beauty salon, and barber shop beckon residents to unwind and rejuvenate in style.
Ascend to level 55, where the true epitome of luxury awaits. The pool deck, with its inviting jacuzzis and private cabanas, offers a sanctuary amidst the bustling city below. Here, residents can bask in the warm embrace of the Miami sun or mingle in the opulent surroundings of the chef’s kitchen, ballroom, and private dining areas, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline and the azure waters beyond.
In the heart of downtown Miami, where innovation meets elegance, the Aston Martin Residences stand not just as a symbol of luxury living but as a testament to the power of ambition and ingenuity. As residents settle into their new abodes, they do so knowing that they are not just homeowners but custodians of a legacy—a legacy built on the belief that with passion and perseverance, even the loftiest dreams can become reality.
ChatGPT Transforming Miami Beach: The Proposed 5-Story Office Building at 1100 5th Street
Miami Beach is poised for an exciting transformation with the proposal of a new 5-story commercial office building at 1100 5th Street, in the vibrant South of Fifth neighborhood. Designed by the renowned Eduardo Souta de Moura and Zyscovich Architects, and developed by Sumaida + Khurana in collaboration with property owners Roslyn and Norton Nesis and Robert and Miriam Weiss of Weiss Properties, this project promises to be a landmark addition to the area.
The planned building stands approximately 80 feet tall and encompasses a total construction area of about 101,424 square feet. The design incorporates a Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) of 65,274 square feet, which includes 43,797 square feet dedicated to office space. It also features 7,142 square feet of both indoor and outdoor amenities and 7,204 square feet allocated for a ground floor restaurant. Moreover, the design plans to provide 105 parking spaces to accommodate both tenants and visitors.
Situated on an “L” shaped parcel that stretches over approximately 0.75 acres, the site currently hosts two commercial structures. One is a former Pier One retail store, and the other a Burger King restaurant, both of which will be replaced by the new development. This location, at the intersection of Fifth Street, Alton Road, and Lenox Avenue, extending to 4th Street, is pivotal for enhancing the connectivity and aesthetic of the neighborhood.
The ground floor of the new building will house the main office lobby, a restaurant, and essential back-of-house facilities, along with a publicly accessible open court/patio. To align with the city’s resiliency policies aimed at reducing traffic, the project will also include a Mobility Hub, featuring long-term bicycle racks, lockers, a repair workshop, and showers for commuting cyclists.
The second level is designed for parking, including ADA-compliant spaces and VIP self-parking for office tenants. The upper floors, from the third to the fifth, will accommodate additional office spaces, promoting a modern, light-filled workspace with extensive balconies and glazing.
One of the project’s striking features is its architectural design, which transitions smoothly from the bustling commercial environment of Fifth Street to the quieter residential zones to the south and east. The building steps down in mass and height towards the south, integrating decorative columns that taper with each ascending floor, thus providing a harmonious transition to adjacent areas.
The development seeks a waiver to modify the sidewalk elevation along Fifth Street to better integrate with the existing landscaped areas and pedestrian pathways. Additionally, two variances are requested. One is for the design of an open court space, which, although larger than required, needs adjustment due to its integration with bus and pedestrian traffic. The second variance seeks a slight increase in the maximum building height to enhance the structure’s resilience to sea level rise.
The Miami Beach Design Review Board is set to review this application on June 6th. If approved, this project will not only provide much-needed office space but also boost local amenities and improve urban connectivity, making it a significant enhancement to the South of Fifth neighborhood. This development represents a thoughtful blend of modern design with practical functionality, aiming to set new standards for commercial office buildings in Miami Beach.
