Downtown 6th Begins Vertical Ascent in the Heart of Miami
Melo Group is making significant strides in Downtown Miami as vertical construction is now underway on its latest residential project, Downtown 6th. Rising at 46 NE 6th Street and 530 and 550 NE First Avenue, the 58-story tower will bring a bold new presence to the city skyline, ultimately topping out at 574 feet above ground (587 feet above sea level).
Designed by Melo Architecture and G3AEC, with structural engineering by De Los Reyes Engineering Inc, the high-rise will span more than 1 million square feet, delivering 824 residential apartments, approximately 2,500 square feet of ground-floor retail, and 640 parking spaces tucked within a concealed garage. Residents will also enjoy a pool deck on the 9th floor, all just steps away from the College North Metromover Station and adjacent to the historic Christ Fellowship Church.
The tower is being brought to life by Melo Contractors Corp as general contractor, with L&R Structural handling the shell work. Recent images from the construction site reveal rapid progress, with vertical formwork now rising above street level and the podium structure actively taking shape—especially at the southwest corner of the site. This area sits adjacent to the twin-tower Downtown 5th and the under-construction Okan Tower, also part of Miami’s dynamic development boom.
The 0.82-acre site is now a hive of activity: reinforcing steel, formwork for concrete pours, shear walls, and structural columns are all rising floor by floor. Scaffolding and temporary supports indicate ongoing work within the garage levels, while two towering yellow Morrow cranes dominate the skyline, surrounded by construction materials, equipment, and staging containers.
Progress has been swift—in late February, crews completed a massive 2,400-cubic-yard concrete pour, laying the foundation for what’s to come.
The area surrounding Downtown 6th continues to thrive, with nearby developments including Okan Tower, 501 First, 600 Miami Worldcenter, and The Crosby. The location is well-connected, with easy access to the Metromover, Metrorail, and the Brightline high-speed rail station.
Construction permits list JC & A Electrical Contractors Inc. as the electrical contractor, A & P Air Conditioning Corporation for HVAC, and Professional Plumbing Corporation for plumbing.
Downtown 6th is slated for completion in Q1 2027, and as the structure rises, it marks yet another milestone in Melo Group’s ambitious vision for reshaping Downtown Miami’s urban core.
Modera Riverside Nears Completion in Downtown Miami
Finishing touches are underway at Modera Riverside, a striking 36-story residential tower developed by Mill Creek Residential and Adler Development in the heart of Downtown Miami. Located at 300 Southwest 2nd Avenue, this impressive project rises just east of the Miami River, nestled between the scenic riverwalk and the intersection of SW 2nd Avenue and SW 3rd Street.
Designed by Nichols Architects, Modera Riverside reaches a height of 410 feet and delivers 428 market-rate rental units, complete with modern amenities and ground-floor retail. With a sleek, rectangular massing and vertical regularity, the tower culminates in a mechanical crown that punctuates the Miami skyline.
Recent aerial photos by Oscar Nunez reveal the building in its nearly completed state. The exterior showcases a muted yet elegant palette of gray and white tones, interspersed with bands of blue-tinted floor-to-ceiling windows and inset balconies. These elements provide depth, texture, and a sense of lightness to the streamlined structure. Select portions of the façade feature textured cladding and framing details, adding a layer of sophistication to the design.
On the ground level, construction fences have been removed, and final touches are being made to the outdoor plaza fronting SW 2nd Avenue. The space will soon feature planters, street trees, and a bold architectural expression marked by robust diagonal columns. Interior buildouts for the residential units and amenity spaces are also nearing completion, signaling an opening date on the horizon.
Millcreek Construction is leading the project as the general contractor, with a team of key subcontractors contributing to its realization:
Tekton Construction – Shell construction
C&C Concrete Pumping – Concrete contracting
Cemex – Concrete materials
JC & A Electrical Contractors Inc. – Electrical systems
Cailis Mechanical Corp. – Mechanical systems
Aurora Plumbing Corporation – Plumbing services
As Modera Riverside wraps up construction, it joins a wave of high-rise developments transforming Downtown Miami’s western waterfront. This project not only adds valuable new rental housing to the urban core but also reinforces the city’s momentum as a growing, vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
Introducing The James Hotel & Residences Downtown Miami
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation has officially announced plans to bring an extraordinary new landmark to Downtown Miami—The James Hotel & Residences. This ambitious project, executed in partnership with Mint Developers and AD1 Hospitality, will reshape Miami’s skyline with an awe-inspiring 82-story supertall tower, boasting an estimated development cost of $850 million.
According to a press release from AD1 Hospitality, The James Hotel & Residences will claim the title of the tallest building in Miami, offering unparalleled views of the vibrant cityscape and the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay. This architectural marvel will not only redefine Miami’s skyline but also set new standards in luxury living and hospitality.
The James Hotel & Residences will feature approximately 336 fully furnished and exquisitely decorated residences, reflecting the sophistication and energy synonymous with Miami. Sales for these premier units are slated to begin in Q2 2025, offering future residents a chance to secure their place in one of the city’s most prestigious addresses.
Designed to cater to the most discerning tastes, the development will include a four-story private club, an oasis of exclusivity and luxury. Among the standout amenities are innovative snow and rain rooms, providing unique, immersive wellness experiences rarely found in residential developments.
For culinary enthusiasts and socialites, The James will also be home to the highest elevation luxury bar and restaurant in the Americas, offering breathtaking panoramic views and an unparalleled dining atmosphere.
Groundbreaking for The James Hotel & Residences is scheduled for Q1 2026, with an anticipated grand opening in January 2028.
Daniel Berman of Mint Developers expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with Sonesta on The James Hotel & Residences Downtown Miami, a development that embodies the vibrancy and sophistication of Miami.”
Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for the St. Regis Residences in Downtown Miami
This morning, the highly anticipated groundbreaking ceremony for the St. Regis Residences Miami, Miami took place, marking a significant milestone for one of South Florida’s most prestigious luxury developments. The 50-story residential tower, spearheaded by developers Related Group and Integra Investments, recently secured $527 million in financing, setting the stage for construction to officially begin.
The St. Regis Residences promises to redefine opulence in the heart of Miami, bringing the iconic St. Regis brand’s legacy of sophistication and service to one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
“The groundbreaking for The St. Regis Residences, Miami marks a pivotal step in bringing an unparalleled luxury experience to one of South Florida’s most dynamic urban neighborhoods,” said Nick Pérez, President of Related Group’s Condominium Division. “With each milestone, we’re transforming the Downtown Miami skyline, introducing a level of sophistication and service that only the St. Regis brand can deliver.”
The tower, which will rise 630 feet above ground and 639 feet above sea level, is being crafted by world-renowned Robert A.M. Stern Architects, with interiors designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group. The design seamlessly combines the elegance of golden-age ocean liners with the sleek modernity of contemporary skyscrapers, creating a unique and timeless aesthetic.
The St. Regis Residences will feature 152 exclusive condominiums, offering residents an unmatched lifestyle of luxury, complemented by the iconic St. Regis service. Coastal Construction has been tapped to oversee the project, with completion expected in 2027.
This groundbreaking event symbolizes the next chapter in Downtown Miami’s transformation, as the city continues to attract world-class developments and global attention. The St. Regis Residences is poised to set a new standard for luxury living in the region.
Exciting New Retail and Restaurant Concepts Coming to Miami Worldcenter
Miami Worldcenter, the $6 billion, 27-acre mixed-use development that’s transforming Downtown Miami, is set to welcome three exciting new tenants by early 2025. The latest additions to the vibrant project include Go Greek Yogurt, HŸP, and SkinSpirit, all of which promise to bring unique experiences to the growing retail and dining scene.
Developed by Miami Worldcenter Associates, under the leadership of Managing Partners Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani in partnership with CIM Group, Miami Worldcenter stands as one of Florida’s largest privately owned urban real estate projects. Spanning 10 city blocks, the development offers a blend of residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, complemented by 300,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment venues.
New Tenants Coming Soon
Go Greek Yogurt: This Beverly Hills-based yogurt bar and café will open its first Florida location at Miami Worldcenter in late 2024. Spanning nearly 1,300 square feet on the Paseo Promenade, Go Greek Yogurt will offer authentic fresh and frozen Greek yogurt with ingredients imported directly from Europe, promising a healthy and flavorful dining option.
HŸP: Known for its curated selection of top-tier streetwear brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Chrome Hearts, HŸP will also debut in late 2024. The 1,300-square-foot sneaker and streetwear retailer will add another layer of fashion-forward appeal to the Paseo Promenade.
SkinSpirit: Arriving in early 2025, SkinSpirit’s 1,700-square-foot medical aesthetics spa will mark the company’s first foray into South Florida. With a national reputation for top-tier services like Botox and dermal fillers, SkinSpirit’s arrival will enhance Miami Worldcenter’s wellness offerings.
Expanding Retail and Dining Scene
These new tenants will join an impressive roster of businesses already open at Miami Worldcenter. Notable venues include Sixty Vines wine-on-tap restaurant, Chef Michael Beltran’s Brasserie Laurel, Chug’s Express, and El Vecino Cigar & Cocktail Bar. Popular retailers like lululemon, Sephora, Ray-Ban, and Free People are also part of the development, alongside entertainment options such as Lucky Strike bowling, the Museum of Ice Cream, and a Lucid Motors showroom.
Additionally, more high-profile names are set to open soon, including Juvia, Villa One Tequila Gardens, Chicago’s Maple & Ash, and Serafina, along with Club Studio and The Spot Barbershop.
A Destination for the Future
Miami Worldcenter is not just a place to shop and dine; it’s a cultural and residential hub that enhances Miami’s urban experience. The project includes completed developments such as the 351-room citizenM hotel, the luxury Paramount Miami Worldcenter condominium, and market-rate apartments Flow and Bezel Miami. Under construction are major projects like Miami World Tower 1 and The Crosby, while future residential towers by leading developers are also planned.
In addition to its retail and residential elements, Miami Worldcenter will feature World Square, a 20,000-square-foot outdoor public plaza, and a $5 million public art initiative that will transform the space into a permanent outdoor museum with works curated by Jeffrey Deitch and PRIMARY.
Its strategic location places it within walking distance of cultural landmarks like the Pérez Art Museum, Adrienne Arsht Center, and the Brightline MiamiCentral station, making Miami Worldcenter one of Florida’s most well-connected and transit-oriented developments.
Shaping the Future of Watson Island-Miami Voters to Decide on Watson Harbour Project
Miami residents will now be able to cast their votes on the approval of the Watson Harbour project, a new mixed-use development proposed for the south side of Watson Island. This ambitious project, set to enhance one of South Florida’s prime waterfront areas, includes plans for hotels, retail outlets, offices, residences, dining options, and expansive public spaces, all strategically located on Biscayne Bay between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.
The developers, BH3 Management and Merrimac Ventures, acquired the 10.8-acre site at 888 Macarthur Causeway in 2023. They have developed a privately funded proposal to revitalize the area, featuring:
Two luxury hotels
Retail spaces for shopping and dining
Office buildings and residential units
A 2.2-acre public promenade along Biscayne Bay
Green spaces and a maritime museum
Infrastructure and resiliency upgrades
The project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including several million dollars in additional tax revenue for Miami. It also promises a wide range of community benefits, such as:
Employment opportunities for residents from underserved communities
Retail spaces allocated for nonprofit organizations
Infrastructure improvements on City-owned properties
A $9 million contribution towards affordable housing and public infrastructure
Watson Harbour will include several sustainability measures to protect and enhance the local environment, such as:
A seawall built above base flood elevation standards
Planting of native flora and expansion of the tree canopy
Energy-efficient LED and solar-powered lighting
An on-site stormwater management system designed to prevent pollution of Biscayne Bay
Greg Freedman and Daniel Lebensohn, Co-CEOs of BH3 Management, shared their excitement: “Watson Island is poised to become a vibrant destination for all, boosting Miami’s economy and offering a new gathering spot for the community. We’re honored to bring this vision to life and integrate Watson Harbour into the city’s fabric.”
Nitin Motwani and Dev Motwani, co-Managing Partners at Merrimac Ventures, emphasized the project’s focus on public spaces: “As Downtown Miami grows, the need for additional public spaces is clear. Our waterfront promenade will provide a beautiful new area for the community to enjoy. This project offers a chance to create a valuable asset for Miami, enhancing its resilience and appeal.”
The proposal will be presented to voters during the 2024 General Election on November 5, with Early Voting starting in October. The ballot question will ask voters to approve amendments to the City Charter, including the sale of 3.2 acres of leased property at fair market value, reduction of overall development, and authorization of the project with no cost to the city.
848 Brickell: A New Landmark in Miami’s Financial District
Developers for 848 Brickell have taken a significant step towards reshaping Miami’s skyline with their latest project. Key International and Sterling Bay filed for FAA permits on June 27, 2024, for this 51-story Class A office and retail tower in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. Designed by the renowned Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the structure is set to reach an impressive height of 764 feet above ground, or 775 feet above mean sea level. As of now, the permit status is “work in progress.”
848 Brickell promises to be a major addition to Miami’s Financial District, providing over 750,000 square feet of premium office space and 7,500 square feet of ground-floor retail. Additionally, it will include on-site parking facilities for more than 1,000 vehicles. Catering to modern business needs, the tower will feature tech-enabled conference facilities, a luxury fitness center, an expansive outdoor terrace, padel tennis courts, and private open-air lounges.
Strategically located at 848 Brickell Avenue, the tower will offer stunning views of the ocean and Brickell Avenue. Its prime location ensures quick access to top dining, retail, and entertainment spots, making it a premier business hub in Miami.
Key International, under the leadership of Diego and Inigo Ardid, chose Sterling Bay for its expertise in developing world-class office spaces. Sterling Bay’s impressive portfolio includes creative office spaces for major corporations like Google and McDonald’s. This collaboration aims to create a next-generation workspace that meets the evolving needs of modern businesses and professionals in South Florida.
The FAA permit applications signify a major milestone for 848 Brickell, underscoring ongoing efforts to transform downtown Miami with new residential, commercial, and office projects. This development is poised to play a crucial role in the continued growth and modernization of the area.
FAA Approves Permits For 57-Story ‘M-Tower’ At 56 SW 1st Street In Downtown Miami
Plans for M-Tower permits has been officially been approved but The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in Downtown Miami. The permits allow for the structure to rise 605 feet above ground or 615 feet above mean sea level. This approval, granted on July 2, 2024, is valid until January 1, 2026.
M-Tower is being developed by Lions Group NYC and Fortis Design + Build under the Downtown 1st St LLC banner. The 57-story building will be located at 56 Southwest 1st Street, near Miami’s Government Center. The project, designed by Nichols Architects with landscape architecture by Naturalficial and civil engineering by Kimley-Horn, will include 675 residential units, a public parking garage with 694 spaces, and 10,531 square feet of ground-floor commercial space.
The residential units will be a mix of studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, totaling 507,070 square feet. The ninth floor will feature amenities such as a landscaped outdoor deck with two pools. The project aims to enhance the streetscape with aluminum-framed window wall systems and integrated art murals selected by the Miami Parking Authority for the eight-story parking garage.
Total demolition permits have already been approved and issued for both sites at 56 and 70 Southwest 1st Street. The BG Group LLC is listed as the contractor for the demolition, estimated at a combined $505,000 worth of work. The site previously housed a 56-year-old municipal parking garage, which will be demolished to make way for the new development.
This development is part of a broader revitalization effort in downtown Miami, which includes multiple new residential, commercial, and office projects. The completion of M-Tower will further contribute to the area’s transformation, offering modern living spaces and commercial opportunities in the city’s heart.
Welcome to Gale Miami Hotel & Residences: A New Chapter in Downtown Miami’s Hospitality
Downtown Miami is set to elevate its hospitality scene with the grand opening of the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences on June 1st. This eagerly awaited development promises to enrich Miami’s dynamic urban landscape by offering a blend of luxury accommodations and top-tier amenities.
The Gale Hospitality Group, celebrated for its iconic Gale South Beach, brings this new property to life with a commitment to celebrating Miami’s rich history and bright future. The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences honors the city’s past, with nods to landmarks like The Freedom Tower. Throughout the property, guests will find photography from the Miami History Museum, paying homage to the original Gale location and inviting exploration of Miami’s captivating history.
The hotel boasts a range of accommodation options, from studios to one- and two-bedroom units, catering to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Many units are outfitted with full kitchens and washer-dryers, ensuring all the comforts of home are at your fingertips.
Keith Menin of Gale Hospitality Group shared his excitement for the new property, stating, “With Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, we aim to redefine the benchmark for hospitality within Miami’s urban landscape. We are excited to offer an unmatched guest experience that combines the energetic ambiance of Downtown Miami with carefully curated amenities and services.”
Spanning three floors and covering 70,000 square feet, Gale Miami offers breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Guests can indulge in the Gale Wellness program, which includes a co-ed hammam, steam room, sauna, fitness facility, yoga lounge, and spa services. High-speed internet access, a 24-hour attended lobby, valet parking, and several dining options further enhance the guest experience. Notably, Gale Miami is one of the few downtown hotels to offer exclusive beach club access to its guests.
Dining at Gale Miami is a notable experience, featuring 9,000 square feet of restaurant space on the ground floor, including an outdoor garden, an Italian concept, and a street-front restaurant. The 9th floor offers an American steakhouse and lounge, alongside a Mediterranean-style restaurant with a retractable roof and outdoor terrace.
For event planners, the Gale Miami Conference Center on the 8th floor provides over 20,000 square feet of space, including conference rooms, breakout rooms, and a grand ballroom. Additionally, three floors of exhibition space make it one of Downtown Miami’s largest conference venues.
Situated just steps from the Kaseya Center, Port of Miami, and the Brightline station, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s hospitality and residential sectors.
Introducing Clear Residences in Downtown Miami
Toronto-based Blutrich Holdings, spearheaded by real estate mogul Gil Blutrich, is set to transform Downtown Miami’s skyline with their latest venture, Clear Residences. This ambitious project proposes a 60-story mixed-use building situated at 130 Southeast 1st Street, a prime location in the heart of the Central Business District.
Clear Residences is designed to be a nearly 690-foot-tall architectural marvel, encompassing approximately 666,432 square feet. The structure is planned by Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design, with landscape architecture by KEITH. The project aims to offer 549 residential units alongside 3,622 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. Furthermore, residents will enjoy nearly 40,000 square feet of amenities and a parking garage designed to hold 157 vehicles. The Miami Urban Development Review Board is expected to review the project proposal on May 15.
Currently, the site operates as a surface parking lot, covering about 23,750 square feet or 0.55 acres, bordered by SE 1st Street and SE 2nd Street, with SE 1st Avenue and SE 2nd Avenue flanking its sides.
The design of Clear Residences aims to blend seamlessly with the urban fabric of Downtown Miami while standing out with its modern architectural elements. The building is characterized by sleek, curved corners and a striking glass façade. A unique feature of the design is the building’s rooftop, which includes landscaped terraces that provide a stunning contrast to its linear structure, enhancing the visual appeal and reducing the massiveness of the tower.
The tower’s position within the city allows it to capture breathtaking views from Biscayne Bay towards the west, emphasizing its prominence in the city’s landscape. The architectural renderings reveal a structure that honors the area’s vibrancy while contributing to the skyline’s dynamic evolution.
Several detailed renderings showcase the building’s intricate fenestration and façade, which includes vertical columns wrapped in golden metal, wrap-around frameless glass guardrails, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The bronze aluminum cladding panels add a touch of elegance and modernity to the overall design.
Blutrich Holdings has requested several waivers to facilitate this project, including increased lot coverage and adjustments to building setbacks and frontage access. These requests are aligned with recent amendments to local zoning codes, aiming to accommodate the unique design and structural requirements of Clear Residences.
Clear Residences is poised to be a significant addition to Miami’s downtown area, offering luxury living combined with breathtaking designs and state-of-the-art amenities. As the review date approaches, all eyes will be on how this project will further shape the future of Miami’s urban landscape.
