A Historic Milestone: Baccarat Residences Miami’s Foundation Pour
This past weekend, the Miami skyline witnessed a significant milestone in luxury development with the completion of the foundation pour for the highly anticipated Baccarat Residences Miami. This event not only marked a pivotal moment for Related Group and GTIS Partners but also set a new record for both firms in terms of scale and magnitude.
The foundation pour, executed by Ceco Concrete Construction, required over 10,000 cubic yards of concrete and 1,500 tons of reinforcing steel. The 30-hour operation began at 8 p.m. on Friday and continued non-stop until 2 a.m. on Sunday, making it one of the most extensive pours in Miami’s recent history. The general contractor, John Moriarty & Associates of Florida (JMA), led the project with precision, supported by Florida Concrete Unlimited, Titan America, Gancedo Lumber, B&J Consulting Engineers, and NV5.
“It’s not every day you see a foundation pour of this scale and magnitude. It was truly a once-or-twice-in-a-lifetime event,” said Nicholas Perez, President of Related’s Condominium Division. He expressed deep gratitude for the exceptional coordination and planning required from all parties involved, noting that such a monumental undertaking is a rare achievement.
Baccarat Residences Miami: A New Icon on Brickell Avenue
Set on one of the last waterfront parcels along Brickell Avenue, where the Miami River meets Biscayne Bay, Baccarat Residences Miami is poised to become a new landmark in luxury living. The 75-story tower is a collaboration of world-renowned talents: the architecture is designed by the international firm Arquitectónica, the interiors by NYC-based Meyer Davis, and the landscape by Swiss architect Enzo Enea.
This project is particularly notable as it represents the legendary French crystal brand Baccarat’s first stand-alone residential tower, a venture managed by the hospitality titan SH Hotels & Resorts. The tower, a sister property to the record-breaking Baccarat Hotel & Residences NYC, will feature 355 residences, including eight exclusive penthouses, and is already 95 percent sold, with a few premium residences still available.
Unmatched Luxury and Five-Star Amenities
Residents of Baccarat Residences Miami will enjoy an unparalleled lifestyle, with over 75,000 square feet of luxurious amenities spread across five levels of the tower. The amenities include exquisitely appointed social spaces, a state-of-the-art health and fitness center, La Mer spa facilities, a private marina for residents’ yachts, and a curated collection of museum-quality art. Each aspect of the residence will be managed by SH Hotels & Resorts, ensuring the highest standards of service and sophistication.
A Visionary Project for Miami’s Future
The completion of this historic foundation pour is a testament to the vision and ambition behind Baccarat Residences Miami. As construction progresses, this project is set to redefine luxury living in Miami, offering residents not just a home but a lifestyle steeped in elegance and exclusivity.
As Miami continues to evolve as a global city, developments like Baccarat Residences Miami underscore the city’s growing appeal as a destination for those seeking the finest in residential living. The successful execution of the foundation pour is a strong indicator of the commitment to quality and excellence that will carry through to the completion of this extraordinary tower.
Turnberry Completes Foundation Pour for ONE ParkTower at SoLé Mia
ONE Park Tower has recently reached a significant milestone in North Miami. The 33-story ultra-luxury condominium tower located within the expansive 184-acre master-planned community of SoLé Mia, has successfully completed the foundation pour, marking a critical step forward in bringing this iconic tower to life.
Situated at 2411 Laguna Circle, ONE Park Tower will feature 292 exclusive residences that overlook a breathtaking seven-acre Crystal Lagoon® and are surrounded by lush natural landscapes. This extraordinary development is designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Arquitectonica, with interiors crafted by the renowned Meyer Davis and landscaping by DS Boca.
The tower is strategically positioned to offer its residents panoramic views of some of Miami’s most stunning natural and urban landscapes. The residences boast vistas of the Crystal Lagoon®, Oleta River State Park, Biscayne Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the dynamic Miami skyline. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, as well as penthouses that feature high ceilings, wrap-around terraces, and spacious master bedrooms with walk-in closets.
Upon completion, residents of ONE Park Tower will have access to an array of world-class amenities. These include the Laguna Solé, a swimmable lagoon that serves as the heart of the community, a lagoon-front beach club, two private swimming pools, private pickleball courts, and a state-of-the-art wellness center. Additional lifestyle features encompass a café, co-working facilities, event rooms, a golf simulator, a children’s playroom, and a pet spa, ensuring that every resident’s needs and desires are met.
The project has garnered strong interest, with 70% of the residences already pre-sold. Turnberry has secured $172 million in construction financing, underscoring the confidence in this landmark development. Juneau Construction Company is leading the construction efforts, with the completion anticipated in Summer 2026. For those looking to become part of this exclusive community, the remaining residences are being marketed by Fortune International Realty, with prices starting at $900,000.
Conceptual Plans Unveiled for a New Brickell Supertall Tower at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive in Miami
Miami’s skyline is on the cusp of a dramatic transformation with the unveiling of conceptual plans for a new supertall skyscraper at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive. This ambitious project promises to redefine the city’s architectural landscape and elevate Brickell to new heights, both literally and figuratively.
The new tower is proposed to soar 1,032 feet above sea level, making it one of the tallest structures in the region. Standing at 54 stories, the 1201 Brickell Bay Drive project is designed to be a cornerstone of Miami’s urban future.
The first phase of the development, known as the 1201 tower, will encompass a variety of high-end uses:
Office Space: The building will offer a staggering 1,293,373 square feet of office area, catering to the demands of modern businesses and setting a new standard for workspace luxury.
Hotel Accommodations: With 212 hotel rooms, the tower will include a suite of amenities such as a health spa, fitness club, ballroom, and conference and event spaces, aiming to attract both business travelers and tourists.
Parking Facilities: Approximately 50 below-grade executive parking spaces will be provided on-site, with additional parking available across the street to accommodate the needs of tenants and visitors.
The design of this landmark project is in the capable hands of renowned architecture firms. Foster + Partners is listed as the design architect, bringing their global reputation for innovative and sustainable design to Miami. AAI Architects will serve as the architect of record, ensuring that the design vision is faithfully executed. The landscape architecture will be overseen by Field Operations, known for their work on urban spaces that seamlessly blend with their surroundings.
The 1201 Brickell Bay Drive tower is just the beginning. Subsequent phases of the development will extend across the street to 1221 Brickell Avenue and 1250-1260 Brickell Bay Drive. These phases are expected to incorporate a mix of office space, food and beverage establishments, retail and personal services, residential units, and additional parking facilities. This comprehensive approach will create a dynamic and multi-functional urban environment.
The project is reportedly owned by Citadel, a global financial institution known for its significant investments in real estate. Their involvement underscores the scale and ambition of the project, signaling a major investment in Miami’s future.
The unveiling of the 1201 Brickell Bay Drive project marks a significant milestone in Miami’s architectural evolution. As the city continues to grow and attract global attention, this new supertall will not only add to the city’s impressive skyline but also enhance its status as a hub of commerce, luxury, and innovation.
Stay tuned as more details emerge and the project progresses from conceptual plans to a tangible reality. Miami is set to experience a new era of skyscraper sophistication, and 1201 Brickell Bay Drive will undoubtedly be at the forefront of this exciting transformation.
New Edgewater Tower Receives FAA Approval for 637-Foot Height
Edgewater, one of Miami’s most rapidly developing neighborhoods, is set to welcome a striking new addition to its skyline. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially given the green light for the height of a new tower planned for the area. According to a determination letter dated August 19th, the FAA has approved the tower to rise to an impressive 637 feet above ground level, or 641 feet above sea level.
The letter was sent to Meridian TC Real Estate Group LLC, the company responsible for overseeing the project. The approved height paves the way for the construction of Edge House Miami, a luxury condominium building that will also allow for short-term rentals—a feature that is increasingly popular in the Miami real estate market.
Edge House Miami is set to be a 57-story architectural marvel, with a design crafted by the renowned architect Kobi Karp. Known for his innovative and contemporary designs, is expected to bring a modern aesthetic to Edge House Miami, further enhancing Edgewater’s reputation as a hub for luxury living.
The developer behind this ambitious project is Peru’s Grupo T&C, a company with a growing portfolio of high-end developments. Their decision to invest in Edgewater reflects the area’s burgeoning appeal, particularly among those seeking upscale residential options with flexible rental opportunities.
As Edge House Miami begins to take shape, it promises to be a significant landmark in Edgewater, contributing to the neighborhood’s evolving identity as one of Miami’s premier residential districts. The project’s approval by the FAA marks a crucial step forward, setting the stage for what will undoubtedly be one of Edgewater’s most anticipated developments.
Brickell’s Dolce&Gabbana Tower to Fund Transportation Upgrades
In a significant development for Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, the developer behind the highly anticipated 90-story Dolce&Gabbana supertall condo hotel has reached an agreement to fund crucial transit and transportation upgrades in the area. This agreement is a pivotal step in the ongoing review process as the project progresses under Miami-Dade’s Rapid Transit zoning plan.
The Dolce&Gabbana tower, a striking addition to the Miami skyline, is currently under scrutiny by Miami-Dade’s review process, which falls under the Rapid Transit zoning plan. This zoning plan is designed to ensure that new developments contribute to the public good, particularly in areas like transportation and transit infrastructure. The approval of developments within this zone is often contingent upon providing significant public benefits, which in this case, includes a substantial financial commitment from the developers.
On August 13th, a Declaration of Restrictions was officially recorded with Miami-Dade County, outlining the public benefits that will accompany the approval of the Dolce&Gabbana tower. One of the key components of this declaration is a commitment to a $1.5 million contribution from the developer. This one-time payment will be allocated to a series of much-needed upgrades and improvements in the Brickell area.
Traffic Signal Installation: A new traffic signal will be installed at the intersection of South Miami Avenue and SW 10 Street. This upgrade is expected to enhance safety and traffic flow in one of Brickell’s busiest areas.
Metromover Station Enhancements: The Tenth Street Metromover Station and its surrounding vicinity will receive repairs and upgrades. These improvements will include updates to mechanical systems, restrooms, painting, signage, accessibility features, streetscape improvements, and wayfinding support.
Additional Commitments: The $1.5 million contribution will be in addition to any permitting or impact fees that are already due to the County as part of the development process. However, if the County Director determines that any portion of the contribution is duplicative of impact fees, the developer may be eligible for an offset equivalent to the value of those fees.
The agreement was signed by Michael Stern, representing the developing entity. This commitment to improving the infrastructure around the Dolce&Gabbana tower underscores the developer’s dedication to enhancing the community and addressing the needs of Brickell’s growing population.
As the Dolce&Gabbana supertall condo hotel moves closer to realization, this agreement marks a significant milestone in ensuring that the development not only adds luxury and architectural grandeur to Miami’s skyline but also contributes meaningfully to the city’s infrastructure. The upcoming transit and transportation upgrades funded by the developer will play a vital role in supporting the continued growth and vibrancy of the Brickell neighborhood.
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.
Ocean House: A New Benchmark in Ultra-Luxury Living by Multiplan REAM
Multiplan Real Estate Asset Management (REAM), the visionary developer behind the renowned 57 Ocean, has announced the official launch of sales for Ocean House, a meticulously crafted boutique condominium development in the prestigious Surfside enclave. With just 25 ultra-luxurious residences, Ocean House promises an unrivaled living experience, blending the exclusivity and grandeur of a private high-end residence with the conveniences of modern condominium living. Unit prices starting at $5 million.
Located at 9317 Collins Avenue, Ocean House is set to epitomize the Surfside lifestyle with residences ranging from two to five bedrooms. Renowned architecture firm Arquitectonica, along with its landscape division ArquitectonicaGEO, is leading the architectural and landscape design. The vision for Ocean House includes expansive east, south, and west views, meticulously crafted by the celebrated architect Bernardo Fort-Brescia. The interiors, curated by designer Carla Guilhem—known for her work in both yachts and homes—offer sophisticated spaces that seamlessly integrate with the oceanfront setting.
What sets Ocean House apart is its dedication to privacy and tranquility, offering an extensive range of wellness-focused amenities across three thoughtfully designed floors. Residents will find spaces beautifully infused with beach-inspired hues, wooden accents, and natural stone flooring. The development features a rejuvenating spa complete with a treatment room, salon, steam room, and an expansive rooftop pool deck. Additionally, the vitality pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, reflecting ponds, floating cabanas, and intimate lounges, all set within a lush tropical landscape, further enhance the sense of well-being and exclusivity.
Marcelo Kingston, Managing Partner at Multiplan REAM, emphasizes this unique approach: “Unlike the impersonal high-rise developments prevalent in South Florida, Ocean House offers an intimate, exclusive experience. It is a harmonious blend of privacy, architectural brilliance, and unparalleled amenities, designed with the sophisticated buyer in mind. With breathtaking waterfront views, lavish interiors, and a limited collection of residences, Ocean House is a truly exceptional offering within Surfside’s coveted coastline and Miami’s burgeoning luxury real estate market.”
The residences at Ocean House, ranging from 2,093 to 6,279 square feet, boast expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, grand living rooms with natural stone flooring, and open-concept kitchens centered around custom-designed Silestone islands with waterfall edges. Each home is complemented by private terraces offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The interiors feature elegant finishes, including custom European cabinetry, Gaggenau kitchen appliances, and spa-like bathrooms with double-sink vanities, glass-enclosed rainfall showers, and freestanding tubs that evoke a serene, retreat-like atmosphere.
Phil Gutman underscores the project’s unique market position: “Surfside has become the most sought-after market to live in South Florida, the scarcity of either available land or new projects in this area makes Ocean House a true gem in the strong Miami condo luxury market. Our project stands out in this community as a true luxury, boutique development offering buyers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a villa in the sky on the ocean.”
Multiplan REAM has already commenced the demolition of the old Regent Palace Condominium to clear the site in anticipation of groundbreaking, slated for the first quarter of 2025. Ocean House is expected to be delivered in 2027, bringing with it a new standard in luxury living.
“Our go-to-market strategy will be highly selective and focused. By self-financing projects, Multiplan gains the flexibility to initiate construction immediately while patiently pursuing high-caliber buyers who share our vision for Ocean House as Miami’s most exclusive beachfront condo community,” concludes Kingston.
With its visionary design, unparalleled amenities, and prime location, Ocean House is set to redefine luxury living in Miami, offering a rare opportunity for discerning buyers to own a piece of Surfside’s coveted coastline.
Loews Corporation Secures $305 Million Refinancing for Miami Beach Resort
Loews Corporation is poised to receive a $305 million refinancing package for its premier oceanfront Miami Beach resort. The financing, which backs the 5-acre, 790-key hotel located at 1601 Collins Avenue, is being originated by Wells Fargo, National Association, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as reported by Fitch Ratings. The transaction is expected to close on September 10th.
The 10-year, fixed-rate, interest-only loan will serve to refinance the existing $300 million debt and cover approximately $5 million in closing costs. Despite multiple inquiries, a spokesperson for Loews has not provided any comments on the matter.
Loews, which is led by the billionaire Tisch family, has a long-standing history with the property, having acquired it in 1998. The resort encompasses two towers, including the historic St. Moritz building and a 17-story tower. The property boasts approximately 46,000 square feet of meeting space, six food and beverage outlets, retail spaces, a pool, and cabanas. Among its dining options is the renowned Rao’s restaurant, which has become a key attraction for guests.
Fitch Ratings has valued the property at just over $400 million, translating to about $507,000 per key. With a loan-to-value ratio of 74 percent, the new financing will strengthen the resort’s financial foundation while ensuring its continued operation as a luxury destination in Miami Beach.
This refinancing follows a similar move earlier this month by BDT & MSD, a merchant bank created through the merger of Trott’s BDT & Company and MSD Partners, the private investment arm of Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell. The firm secured a $1 billion refinancing for the Boca Raton Resort & Club, a 1,047-key luxury hotel located at 501 East Camino Real in Boca Raton. Citi Real Estate Funding provided the two-year, floating-rate interest-only loan for that transaction.
The Miami Beach resort refinancing marks yet another significant investment in South Florida’s luxury hotel market, reflecting the region’s robust real estate and hospitality sectors. As Loews continues to enhance its premier properties, the future looks bright for this iconic oceanfront destination.
A Glimpse Into Miami’s Newest Architectural Marvel: The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami
Miami’s skyline is about to welcome a new icon as The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, taking shape on Brickell Key. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox and developed by Swire Properties, this 66-story tower is set to redefine luxury living in one of Miami’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Recently, a new rendering has been unveiled, offering a breathtaking perspective that highlights the building’s stunning architectural features and its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, is more than just a building—they are a work of art. The tower’s design features undulating slabs on each floor, creating a dynamic and fluid appearance that evokes a sense of movement and flow. These undulating floors, paired with expansive glass terraces, give the building a distinctive profile that stands out in the Miami skyline. The glass railings extend seamlessly along the edges of the terraces, while the smooth, meticulously finished soffits below blend harmoniously with the curved design of the slabs. This combination of elements results in a sleek and transparent aesthetic that is as functional as it is visually striking.
The entrance to The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, is nothing short of grand. A prominent canopy with a textured underside greets residents and visitors alike, adding a touch of artistry and elegance. Supported by robust yet refined vertical columns, the canopy integrates seamlessly into the building’s overall design while enhancing its monumental presence. The ground level reveals an interior space adorned with stone finishes visible through the glass façade, adding an element of refinement and durability to the entry experience.
Rising 66 stories above Brickell Key, the tower’s subtly convex profile accentuates its height and elegance, creating a slender, towering silhouette that is visually striking from the ground level. The landscaping around the base of the tower is lush and organic, softening the transition between the natural environment and the built structure. This thoughtful integration of nature and architecture reinforces the building’s connection to its surroundings, making it a harmonious addition to the Miami skyline.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, have already made significant strides in both sales and construction. In just 30 days, Swire Properties USA and Fortune International Group successfully converted sale contracts valued at $150 million with close to $1 billion inn reservations—a testament to the strong demand for these luxury residences, even in what is traditionally a slow season for Miami real estate. The available units include a variety of 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes, catering to a diverse range of buyers. With the soft opening of the sales gallery, interested buyers have the opportunity to convert their purchases to contracts immediately, further solidifying the project’s momentum.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, will feature 228 residences, each with interiors designed by acclaimed Parisian designer Tristan Auer. These homes will offer panoramic vistas of Biscayne Bay and the surrounding cityscape, providing residents with breathtaking views that are matched only by the building’s luxurious amenities. True to the Mandarin Oriental brand, residents will enjoy legendary service and a wide array of world-class amenities, ensuring a lifestyle of unparalleled comfort and convenience.
Significant progress is also being made behind the scenes. An application for a new construction permit was filed in December 2023 and is currently under review by Pacifica Engineering. The permit outlines a structure that will yield 1,351,367 square feet of space, reach a height of 826 feet, and have an estimated total cost of $237 million. Moss & Associates LLC is listed as the general contractor, ensuring that this ambitious project is in experienced hands.
Although the project is being marketed as 500 Brickell Key Drive, the permit lists 750 Claughton Island Drive as the official address. This location encompasses the southernmost tip of the island, a 2.42-acre site where Brickell Key Park is currently situated. Additionally, another permit is under review for the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel at 500 Brickell Key Drive, which will rise 339 feet across 27 stories and include a variety of lodging units, condo-hotel units, and multi-family units, along with a multi-story parking garage.
As construction progresses and sales continue to surge, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, are poised to become one of the city’s most coveted addresses. With its striking design, luxurious interiors, and world-class amenities, this tower represents a new chapter in Miami’s ever-evolving architectural narrative—a chapter that promises to set new standards for luxury living in the Magic City.
