Timbaland Sells Coral Gables Mansion for $14 Million
Grammy Award-winning producer Timbaland (born Timothy Mosley) has officially sold his Coral Gables mansion at 5400 Hammock Drive for $14 million, marking a significant return on his original investment. Back in 2019, he purchased the 8,452-square-foot estate for roughly $9 million, making this sale one of the more notable real estate transactions in South Florida’s luxury market this fall.
The home, a tropical-modern masterpiece, spans 8,452 square feet and features seven bedrooms and eight and a half bathrooms. Inside, the residence includes a guest house, wine cellar, sauna, full-house generator, elevator, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a state-of-the-art smart-home system. Situated on nearly one acre in the exclusive Hammock Lakes enclave of Coral Gables, the property offers a rare blend of privacy, lush landscaping, and high-end architectural design.
Originally listed for $15.9 million, the home ultimately sold for $14 million — translating to about $1,656 per square foot. The buyers were reportedly Zeroisha and Beatrice Zapata, owners of COR Medical Centers and the 1-800-NO-FAULT network. The transaction was brokered by Diana Gutierrez of Mocca Realty and Alex Pirez also of Mocca Realty.
The sale represents a roughly 56 percent gain over Timbaland’s purchase price, highlighting continued appreciation within Coral Gables’ ultra-luxury housing market. It also underscores sustained demand for high-end properties offering space, design, and seclusion — factors that have drawn celebrities, athletes, and business leaders to the area. Recent record-breaking deals in nearby Gables Estates and Cocoplum have reinforced Coral Gables’ standing as one of Miami’s most desirable enclaves.
Timbaland, a longtime South Florida resident, has been active in the local real estate scene for years. He previously sold a Pinecrest mansion in 2019 and currently owns a double unit at Aria on the Bay in Edgewater Miami. With the Hammock Drive property now off his portfolio, this sale not only delivered a strong return but also reflects growing confidence among elite buyers in Coral Gables’ luxury market.
The Weeknd Under Contract to Purchase $55M Waterfront Mansion in Coral Gables
Credit: ONE Sotheby’s International Realty
International music superstar The Weeknd—whose real name is Abel Tesfaye—is under contract to purchase a luxury waterfront estate in Coral Gables, last asking $54.9 million, according to multiple sources including The Wall Street Journal, and Architectural Digest. Represented by ONE Sotheby’s agents Eddy Martinez and Roland Ortiz, the purchase marks the Canadian-born singer’s first foray into South Florida real estate and adds yet another high-profile name to the growing list of celebrities choosing Coral Gables as their new home base.
A Trophy Estate in Gables Estates
The property, located at 41 Arvida Parkway within the prestigious Gables Estates community, offers the ultimate in privacy and grandeur. Set on a 1.24-acre peninsula, the estate boasts an astonishing 574 feet of water frontage, providing panoramic bay views and docking space for a mega-yacht up to 200 feet long.
Spanning nearly 19,000 square feet, the mansion features eight bedrooms, nine-and-a-half baths, and a design that blends contemporary luxury with Mediterranean influences. Highlights include double-height ceilings, floating staircases, an infinity-edge pool with coral-inspired mosaics, multiple terraces overlooking Biscayne Bay, and an expansive outdoor entertainment area complete with a summer kitchen.
The property was previously owned by Steven Lempera, an investor who reportedly acquired it for $27.8 million in 2019. If the deal closes near its asking price, Lempera will realize a substantial profit—another sign of the booming high-end market in Coral Gables.
The Weeknd Joins a Growing Celebrity Migration to Coral Gables
The Weeknd’s upcoming purchase is part of a broader trend of celebrities relocating to South Florida for its year-round sunshine, tax benefits, and world-class waterfront lifestyle.
Among the most recent notable buyers is Robbie Williams, who earlier this year acquired a $40 million waterfront estate in Coral Gables’ Old Cutler Bay community. The 19,000-square-foot home sits on an acre peninsula with 435 feet of water frontage, an 18-car garage, a wine cellar, and plans for a possible guesthouse and recording studio. Williams purchased the home—along with approximately $5 million worth of furnishings—from Real Housewives of Miami cast member Dr. Nicole Martin and her husband Anthony Lopez.
Another global music icon, Pharrell Williams, also owns a lavish waterfront property in Coral Gables, which he purchased a few years ago for approximately $30 million. Interestingly, The Weeknd and Pharrell have collaborated musically in the past—now, they may soon share the same zip code.
These acquisitions reflect Coral Gables’ emergence as one of South Florida’s most coveted enclaves for high-profile residents, rivaling longtime celebrity strongholds like Miami Beach’s North Bay Road and Indian Creek Island.
What This Means for the Coral Gables Market
The Weeknd’s pending purchase is poised to set a new benchmark for Coral Gables’ ultra-luxury real estate market. While $50 million–plus deals were once rare outside Miami Beach, recent closings and contracts show increasing demand for trophy waterfront properties offering privacy, acreage, and deep-water dockage.
Industry experts say the trend is being fueled by:
Tax advantages — Florida’s lack of state income tax continues to attract wealthy buyers relocating from California, New York, and abroad.
Unmatched waterfront lifestyle — Coral Gables’ canals and bayfront estates offer direct ocean access with the ability to dock superyachts, a rarity even in South Florida.
Rising prestige — As more celebrities and executives move into Gables Estates and Old Cutler Bay, the area’s profile continues to climb.
With The Weeknd joining the neighborhood’s growing roster of A-listers, Coral Gables is fast cementing its reputation as the new luxury epicenter of Miami’s residential scene.
Introducing The Aurelian: A Luxury Multifamily Landmark Coming to Coral Gables
Empira Group has officially announced details of its latest venture—The Aurelian, a sophisticated 12‑story luxury multifamily development set to grace Coral Gables’ storied landscape. Anchored at 912–921 East Ponce de Leon Boulevard, this project signals Empira’s commitment to elevating upscale urban living in South Florida.
Prime Location & Strategic Vision
Situated on a substantial 1.2‑acre site nestled within a lush, leafy neighborhood, The Aurelian offers sweeping skyline views of Downtown Coral Gables and Brickell—making it a standout in one of Miami-Dade’s most sought-after locales.
Refined Architecture Meets Timeless Elegance
Designed by renowned local firm Behar Font, the design weaves Mediterranean-inspired charm with modern luxury—offering spacious unit layouts, high-end finishes, and sweeping private balconies that harmonize with Coral Gables’ historic and aesthetic values.
Luxe Interiors & Thoughtful Amenities
With 161 luxury residential units, The Aurelian is sculpted to deliver an elevated living experience. Expect:
A serene pool and outdoor lounge amidst landscaped trellises
A state-of-the-art fitness center paired with a private yoga studio
A 5,000 square foot public park space with a children’s play area to foster community connection
A private parking garage with room for 248 vehicles, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
Public Art as a Statement
Art meets architecture at The Aurelian’s entrance, featuring an evocative bronze sculpture by Michele Oka Doner—renowned for her immersive public works. The piece, designed to emit a golden glow, draws inspiration from Coral Gables’ abundant natural beauty.
Key Development Timeline & Context
Site acquisition price: $18 million
Groundbreaking: expected early 2026, aligning with Empira’s expanding South Florida pipeline, including other developments like Enso and Perrin
What’s Next?
Empira Group is poised to break ground in early 2026, with completion expected in 2028, according to CoStar. This timeline ensures deliberate attention to design, construction quality, and community integration—hallmarks that will define The Aurelian’s prestige.
MIKA Unveils Stunning New Interiors at The Plaza Coral Gables, Elevating Miami’s Dining Scene
MIKA by six Michelin-starred chef Michael White has unveiled its lavish new interiors at The Plaza Coral Gables, a masterpiece designed by the acclaimed Bishop Design. As White’s first standalone venture in Miami, MIKA is the result of his collaboration with Alex Pirez and Matt Safchik, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience. The restaurant highlights White’s signature take on coastal flavors, blending the best of Italy, France, and beyond with South Florida’s rich seafood and fresh produce.
The menu is a celebration of culinary artistry, featuring delicate crudos, house-made pastas, and expertly grilled proteins. Guests can pair their meals with classic cocktails and selections from an extensive wine list, housed in a stunning 1,700-bottle cellar. Devotees of Chef White’s cuisine will recognize iconic dishes like lobster burrata and fusilli with bone marrow, while also delighting in new offerings designed to capture Miami’s essence—such as spaghetti with blue crab and caviar.
MIKA’s philosophy is all about balancing high-quality ingredients with uncomplicated elegance. As White describes it, MIKA is “truffles in blue jeans,” where refined flavors meet effortless sophistication, all infused with the warmth of genuine hospitality.
The restaurant’s interior design reflects a timeless Mediterranean aesthetic, with natural stone elements, warm textures, and handcrafted lighting that create an inviting and luxurious ambiance. MIKA aspires to become a neighborhood favorite, offering the perfect setting for everything from intimate dinners to business meetings and chic evenings out.
With its exquisite cuisine, impeccable design, and welcoming atmosphere, MIKA is set to redefine Miami’s dining scene, bringing an unparalleled level of sophistication to The Plaza Coral Gables.
Alhambra Parc: Redefining Luxury Living in Coral Gables
Miami-based real estate development firm MG Developer, in partnership with Vertical Developments, has officially launched sales for Alhambra Parc, an eagerly awaited mixed-use development in the heart of Coral Gables. Situated at 33 Alhambra Circle, this sophisticated project blends contemporary design, premium amenities, and urban elegance, further enriching the architectural heritage of the City Beautiful.
Alhambra Parc presents an unparalleled opportunity for discerning buyers seeking an exclusive lifestyle in one of South Florida’s most prestigious neighborhoods. With prices starting at $1.1 million, the development caters to those who appreciate Coral Gables’ rich cultural legacy, walkability, and proximity to world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. ONE Sotheby’s International Realty serves as the exclusive broker, handling marketing and sales for the project.
Designed by Bellin & Pratt Architects, the eight-story, 170,000-square-foot development will feature:
78 luxury residences
13,000 square feet of office space
Nearly 18,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space
Residences range from 860 to 2,800 square feet and offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, each boasting expansive terraces for seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Alhambra Parc is meticulously designed to offer residents a selection of carefully curated amenities that enhance comfort and convenience, including:
Two rooftop decks featuring a pool, spa, and outdoor kitchens
Paraiso Garden and yoga garden for relaxation and mindfulness
Several serene green spaces on the top floor
A dedicated children’s playroom
A state-of-the-art fitness center
A business center with coworking spaces
A residents’ lounge for social gatherings
Located just steps from Downtown Coral Gables and the renowned Miracle Mile, Alhambra Parc places residents at the center of a vibrant neighborhood known for its cultural scene, fine dining, and upscale shopping. The project embraces the timeless elegance of Coral Gables while integrating modern luxury.
With its strategic location, sophisticated design, and unparalleled amenities, Alhambra Parc is poised to redefine luxury living in Coral Gables. As sales commence, prospective buyers have an exclusive opportunity to secure a residence in one of Miami’s most distinguished communities.
A New Era in Coconut Grove: Crema Gourmet Opens at Lulu’s Former Spot
Miami’s newest Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar quietly debuted late last month, taking over the location where Lulu had served brunch to Grove regulars for over a decade.
For 13 years, Lulu in the Grove held a special place at 3105 Commodore Plaza. While it may not have attracted the long lines of its across-the-street neighbor Greenstreet Café, Lulu carved out its niche with crowd favorites like Brussels sprouts and goat cheese croquetas and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for leisurely brunches and afternoon bites. The closure marks the end of an era for the Grove’s dining scene.
Crema Gourmet’s new location brings its signature minimalist aesthetic to the space, featuring white brick walls and seating options both indoors and outdoors. This opening marks the South Florida coffee chain’s 18th location, further solidifying its presence in the region.
The menu caters to all-day dining, offering breakfast staples like sandwiches on brioche and croissants, along with refreshing açaí bowls topped with fresh fruit. For lunch and dinner, diners can enjoy hearty quinoa bowls, penne pasta dishes, and sandwiches filled with prosciutto or chicken. Alongside Illy coffee drinks and fresh-pressed juices, Crema also serves wine and craft beer into the evening, making it a versatile spot for every time of day.
The arrival of Crema Gourmet coincides with a broader transformation of Coconut Grove’s dining scene. In 2011, the strip was defined by Lulu and Greenstreet Café, while CocoWalk stood half-empty. Today, the Grove buzzes with new energy as more establishments breathe life into this iconic neighborhood.
While Lulu’s closure has left a void for its longtime fans, Crema Gourmet’s arrival signals a fresh chapter for 3105 Commodore Plaza. As the Grove continues to evolve, it’s clear this corner remains at the heart of the neighborhood’s vibrant dining culture.
CMC Group Secures $69.9 Million Loan for 4000 Ponce/The Collection in Coral Gables
CMC Group has obtained a significant $69.9 million loan from City National Bank of Florida (CNB) for the refinancing of 4000 Ponce/The Collection. This nine-story, Class-A mixed-use office and retail development, situated in the heart of Coral Gables, was developed by CMC Group Founder Ugo Colombo in 2002. The Mediterranean-style building is not only an architectural marvel but also a hub for luxury and business, featuring The Collection, a high-end car dealership showcasing brands such as Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Porsche.
Located at the intersection of Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Bird Road, 4000 Ponce/The Collection encompasses 150,000 square feet of Class A office space and 32,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. The property boasts over 90% occupancy, with prestigious tenants including Steinway & Sons, Coldwell Banker, and Hemisphere Media Group.
“Our ability to secure this refinancing for 4000 Ponce is a testament to the building’s enduring value and strategic significance in the Coral Gables market,” said Ugo Colombo. “As the anchor of Coral Gables’ Southern Business District, 4000 Ponce not only boasts a premier walkable setting adjacent to The Shops at Merrick Park, but also a top-tier tenant roster including The Collection’s flagship location, which has called the building home for more than 20 years. With this refinancing, 4000 Ponce continues to set the standard for being one of the most prestigious business addresses in Miami, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone of sophistication and quality in the market.”
The refinancing process was facilitated by JLL Capital Markets, with a team led by Senior Managing Director Paul Stasaitis, Associate Paul Adams, and Analyst Nicole Barba. Legal representation was provided by Jim Shindell and Hannah Lidicker of Bilzin Sumberg. The five-year, floating-rate senior loan secured through City National Bank of Florida underscores the building’s robust market presence and the sponsor’s proven track record.
Gary Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President and Real Estate Banking Executive at City National Bank of Florida, added, “CMC Group has been one of Florida’s most prolific real estate firms for more than 30 years, and 4000 Ponce has been a centerpiece of commercial activity in Coral Gables since its development. Our decision to finance the asset aligned closely with our dual focus on relationship banking and providing capital to clients that are fueling Florida’s real estate market, which is among the nation’s strongest.”
Built in 2002, 4000 Ponce features a grand lobby adorned with marble, Venetian stucco, cherry millwork, and bronze accents, embodying Mediterranean-style architecture. Each office floor offers approximately 30,000 rentable square feet with flexible floor plans. The building is equipped with advanced broadband communications, high-speed internet, data network services, and ample on-site parking.
The strategic location of 4000 Ponce/The Collection offers tenants easy access to executive housing, The Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables trolley service, a nearby MetroRail station, and proximity to US-1 and Miami International Airport.
Ponce Park Residences Update in Coral Gables
Under the leadership of Allen and Spencer Morris, the Allen Morris Company has received commission approval for an exciting new project: Ponce Park Residences. This luxury condo development is set to become a significant addition to the heart of Coral Gables. Situated at the prestigious intersection of Ponce De Leon Boulevard and University Drive, Ponce Park Residences is poised to become an iconic building in “The City Beautiful.”
On May 21, the Coral Gables commission unanimously voted 5-0 in favor of Ponce Park Residences. Designed by the esteemed architect John Cunningham, the project pays homage to the Mediterranean influences that define Coral Gables. Cunningham, renowned for his design of the timeless Alhambra Towers—another landmark owned and developed by The Allen Morris Company—brings his expertise to create a structure that blends seamlessly into a new city park. The project also features landscape design by Naturalficial, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Ponce Park Residences will feature approximately 20,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, including two world-renowned restaurants and a top-tier wellness spa. The tower will house 57 ultra-luxury condo units designed by Meyer Davis. Each unit will boast the finest Italian kitchens and countertops, 12-foot deep balconies equipped with summer kitchens, and clear ceiling heights of 11 to 12 feet. The rooftop deck will offer 30,000 square feet of amenities, including multiple pools, a cold plunge, a hot tub, and a fully staffed private rooftop bar with stunning views of South Gables and Biscayne Bay.
Residents will enjoy a boutique urban lifestyle with access to over 100 shops and restaurants located at the $1 billion mixed-use development, The Plaza Coral Gables, directly across the street. Additionally, the Miracle Mile corridor, known for its vibrant shopping and dining options, is just a short walk away.
The Allen Morris Company is committed to enhancing the community. They will contribute $2 million in public improvements and take on the responsibility for the redesign of Ponce Circle Park, the city’s central park. The total investment in park improvements will exceed $9 million, ensuring a beautiful and functional space for all residents to enjoy.
Sales for Ponce Park Residences are set to launch in the summer of 2024.
Coral Gables’ 4225 Ponce Development, a Class A+ Commercial and Retail Opportunity
Constellation Group, a distinguished commercial real estate investment and development firm based in Miami, in collaboration with The Boschetti Group, has successfully secured a substantial $33 million construction loan from Miami’s Banesco USA and Abanca. This funding is a strategic investment in the development of a Class A+ boutique office and retail complex at 4225 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, located in the heart of Coral Gables, South Florida’s City Beautiful and Merrick Park district. Renowned for its upscale shopping and entertainment, this area is a hub for economic growth and opportunity.
Eduardo Otaola, the Managing Principal at Constellation Group, highlighted the significance of this partnership and the potential of 4225 Ponce to introduce a unique, boutique-style Class A office environment to Coral Gables. This development is strategically positioned in a market that is currently experiencing limited supply, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
The project involves an eight-story building, spanning approximately 85,000 square feet between 4225 and 4311 Ponce de Leon. This venture is distinguished by its innovative design from the internationally acclaimed architectural firm, Arquitectonica. The luxury boutique-style Class A Office will feature 5,900 square feet of ground floor retail space, extensive parking facilities, 70,000 square feet of premium office space, and a rooftop food and beverage venue of 7,000 square feet, offering panoramic city views.
Amelia Rodriguez, Senior Vice President of Banesco USA, expressed optimism about the sustained economic growth in South Florida and the role of 4225 Ponce in enriching Coral Gables’ status as a prime business and cultural hub. This project aligns with Banesco USA’s vision of investing in innovative and dynamic projects, indicating a strong future for similar endeavors.
Monica Vasquez, General Manager at Abanca, emphasized the transformative nature of this collaboration, aimed at enhancing the urban, cultural, and economic landscape of Coral Gables. This development is a testament to Abanca’s commitment to supporting visionary and impactful projects.
Set to break ground in Q4 2023 and slated for completion in 2025, this project signifies a major revitalization initiative around Coral Gables’ Merrick Park district. It aims to elevate the business and consumer landscape of the area. Interior Architects, Inc. and Naturalificial will play crucial roles in designing the interior and landscape, ensuring a harmonious blend of nature and modernity.
Investors should note the project’s unique features, including four stories of Class A+ office space, a rooftop restaurant with city views, outdoor terraces, ground-floor retail spaces, and a 1,500-square-foot lounge. The addition of a covered pedestrian plaza and paseo with valet parking service is expected to enhance the appeal and functionality of the development, making it a lucrative investment opportunity in a thriving economic zone.
Miami’s newest Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar quietly debuted late last month, taking over the location where Lulu had served brunch to Grove regulars for over a decade.
