Donald Soffer, Visionary Developer of Aventura, Dies at 92
Donald Soffer, the visionary real estate developer who transformed a stretch of North Miami-Dade swamp into what is now the thriving city of Aventura, passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in 1932 in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, Soffer attended Brandeis University on a football scholarship and began his career building shopping malls for his family’s company, Don Mark Realty. His early projects included South Hills Village, Pittsburgh’s first indoor mall, completed in 1965.
In 1967, Soffer made what would become a transformative investment: he and a group of investors purchased 785 acres of undeveloped land in South Florida for $6 million. Recognizing the potential for something extraordinary, Soffer set out to develop what would become Aventura—a name chosen because it means “adventure” in Spanish. Over the years, he oversaw the dredging, rezoning, and master planning of the area. By 1970, high-rise condo towers began to rise, and by 1977, the area boasted 4,000 residential units and a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones.
Following a split with Arlen Realty in 1977, Soffer founded Turnberry Associates and expanded his vision. Among his signature projects was the development of Aventura Mall, one of the largest and most successful shopping centers in the country. His portfolio grew to include the Turnberry Isle Resort, JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, and a variety of luxury condominium and hotel projects. Through his companies, Soffer helped redefine luxury living and shopping in South Florida.
Soffer’s legacy is also carried forward by his children. Jackie Soffer now leads Turnberry Associates, which retains ownership of Aventura Mall and several high-profile hotels, while Jeffrey Soffer runs Fontainebleau Development and is involved in major residential and resort developments. Donald Soffer was also a noted philanthropist, donating $15 million to Brandeis University in 2008—the largest gift in the school’s history at the time—and supporting numerous institutions including the University of Miami and local Jewish organizations. His name is immortalized in South Florida landmarks such as the Don Soffer Aventura Charter High School and the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center at the University of Miami.
Soffer’s vision and business acumen allowed him to buy land for as little as $5,000 an acre and sell it for millions, forever changing the landscape of Miami-Dade County. His work not only created a city but fostered a community that continues to thrive. On Monday, July 21, 2025, a memorial service celebrating Donald Soffer’s life and contributions will be held at 10:00 a.m. at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center—a fitting tribute to the man who built so much of what surrounds it.
Donald Soffer will be remembered not only for his developments, but for the community and legacy he leaves behind. His passing marks the end of an era for South Florida, but the skyline and neighborhoods he helped create will stand as a living testament to his enduring impact.
5 Supertall Skyscrapers Set to Reshape Miami’s Skyline by 2030
Miami’s skyline is reaching new heights—literally. Over the next several years, the Magic City is expected to welcome five supertall skyscrapers, each rising more than 1,000 feet into the sky. From luxury-branded residences and iconic hotels to corporate headquarters and ambitious mixed-use towers, these projects signal Miami’s emergence as a world-class vertical city.
Below, we spotlight five supertall skyscrapers set to transform the city’s skyline by 2030:
Height: 1,044 feet
Stories: 87
Location: 400 SE 2nd Ave, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2030
Part of the ambitious redevelopment of the James L. Knight Center and Hyatt Regency site, Miami Riverbridge Tower 3 will be the tallest of three towers in the mixed-use project. Designed by Arquitectonica and developed by Gencom and Hyatt, the project includes a new convention center, hotel, and over 1,500 residential units. Once complete, Tower 3 will rise to 1,044 feet, nearly hitting the FAA’s maximum height limit for downtown Miami.
Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 93
Location: 100 S Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2030
Originally approved over a decade ago, One Bayfront Plaza is Miami’s longest-standing supertall proposal. The tower will combine Class A office space, a luxury hotel, and residential units within a single, mixed-use structure. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), the tower is strategically located across from Bayfront Park and promises to be a game-changer for downtown.
Height: ~1,049 feet
Stories: 62
Location: 1201 Brickell Bay Dr, Brickell
Estimated Completion: 2030
Hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, founder of Citadel, announced plans to move his company’s headquarters from Chicago to Miami—and with it, construct a Foster + Partners–designed tower that will anchor Miami’s growing financial core. The tower is expected to exceed 1,000 feet in height, featuring Citadel’s HQ offices along with supporting retail and public space. The move marks a defining moment in Miami’s evolution into a global financial hub.
Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 90
Location: 888 Brickell Avenue, Brickell
Estimated Completion: 2028
Developed by JDS Development Group, 888 Brickell will become one of Miami’s most iconic branded skyscrapers. Designed in partnership with Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana, the building will include 259 luxury residences and a five-star hotel. The design features a bold, stacked architectural form and interiors curated with opulent D&G flair. With FAA approval already in place for a 1,049-foot height, 888 Brickell is on track to be among the city’s tallest and most distinctive towers.
Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 100
Location: 300 Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2027
Currently under construction, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami will be the first 100-story building in Florida. Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects in collaboration with Carlos Ott, the tower features a stacked glass-cube design that’s already become an icon in renderings. Upon completion, it will house 360 private residences and a 205-key Waldorf Astoria hotel, redefining luxury living in Miami.
Final Thoughts
As Miami continues to attract global investors, finance executives, and lifestyle-driven buyers, these five supertall towers exemplify the city’s meteoric rise—both figuratively and literally. With multiple towers already under construction or FAA-approved at 1,049 feet, Miami is solidifying its place among the world’s great vertical skylines.
Whether you’re an investor, architecture enthusiast, or future resident, these upcoming supertalls are worth watching.
Interested in buying a condo in one of Miami’s future landmark towers?
Contact us today or explore our database of preconstruction buildings on MiamiCondoInvestments.com
Zara Founder Amancio Ortega in Contract to Buy Sabadell Financial Center in Brickell for $275M
Billionaire Amancio Ortega, the founder of global fashion empire Zara, is under contract to purchase the Sabadell Financial Center in Miami’s Brickell district for approximately $275 million. The 30-story office tower, located at 1111 Brickell Avenue, spans over 524,000 square feet and sits on a 1.8-acre parcel next to the JW Marriott. Built in 2000, the building is home to a branch of Banco Sabadell and is being sold by private equity giant KKR in partnership with Parkway. If finalized, this would mark the largest office sale in South Florida so far in 2025.
Ortega built his fortune through Inditex, the Spanish multinational retail conglomerate he founded in 1975. Inditex owns Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, Bershka, and several other prominent fashion brands. Ortega still owns about 59% of Inditex, a stake that generated approximately €3.1 billion in dividends for him this year. Rather than diversify into unrelated industries, Ortega has funneled much of his earnings into real estate through his investment arm, Pontegadea. The firm targets prime properties in major urban markets across the globe, with a focus on long-term value and stable income.
In recent years, South Florida has become a major focus for Pontegadea. Ortega’s local portfolio includes the Southeast Financial Center in Downtown Miami, acquired for $500 million in 2016; the Epic Hotel & Residences; a 16-story office building at 2701 South Le Jeune Road in Coral Gables; and a large retail block on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach. More recently, Ortega bought a 312,000-square-foot cold storage facility in Hialeah for $113 million in 2023, and last month closed on the 44-story Veneto Las Olas apartment tower in Fort Lauderdale for $165 million.
The pending acquisition of the Sabadell Financial Center comes at a time when many investors remain wary of the office sector due to rising vacancy rates and hybrid work trends. Yet Ortega’s purchase signals confidence in the long-term strength of Miami’s commercial real estate market, particularly in prime neighborhoods like Brickell. As one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, Ortega continues to expand his global property empire with a strategic eye toward trophy assets that generate consistent returns.
With this acquisition, Pontegadea further cements its position as a dominant player in South Florida real estate. Ortega’s approach—leveraging fashion industry profits to build a global real estate powerhouse—has proven remarkably successful. And Miami, with its growing financial sector and international appeal, remains a key piece of that strategy.
South Miami’s Sunset Place to Be Demolished and Reborn as 7-Tower Urban Village with 1,500+ Residences, Hotel & Theater
The long-time landmark known as Shops at Sunset Place—a sprawling, open-air mall that opened its doors in 1999—has officially entered its final act. After decades of dwindling foot traffic and frequent tenant turnovers, South Miami’s City Commission unanimously approved the mall’s demolition earlier this year. The aim? To clear the way for a sweeping redevelopment set to redefine the area’s urban identity.
From Mall to “Village”: Heatherwick Studio’s Vision
London-based Heatherwick Studio, led by acclaimed designer Thomas Heatherwick, has been tapped to reinvent the site as a vibrant, walkable community. The plan: dismantle the monolithic mall—and all but its parking structure—to make room for a mosaic of low-, mid-, and high-rise buildings artfully arranged around a new pedestrian-friendly street grid.
By reintroducing continuous streets that flow into the site—an urban concept Heatherwick describes as “bringing back streets”—developers hope to activate the core of the development and weave it into the larger South Miami fabric.
Credit: Heatherwick Studio
Credit: Heatherwick Studio
What to Expect: A Mixed‑Use Urban Destination
The approved master plan includes:
Residential units: 1,513 residences will bring a built-in population to enliven the streets
Retail and dining: A pedestrian-friendly “restaurant street” is envisioned, lined with boutique shops, cafés, bakeries, and restaurants—each storefront thoughtfully unique
Central public plaza: A sprawling, open-air plaza (approximately 15,000 square feet) will serve as the social heart of the project, ideal for pop-ups, markets, and nightlife
Hotel, offices, and theater: The redevelopment will include a boutique 287-key hotel, 50,892 square feet of office space, and a theater—possibly relocating the AMC cinema—which will amplify the site’s 18/7 vibrancy
Credit: Heatherwick Studio
Credit: Heatherwick Studio
Towering Heights: Gradual Density Integration
Heatherwick Studio’s design sensibility emerges in the height variations across the site:
| Zone |
Max Height |
| Sunset Drive edge |
2 stories |
| Village core |
12–15 stories |
| Central core |
Up to 25 stories |
| US‑1 gateway |
Up to 33 stories |
This scaling plan delicately transitions the neighborhood from pedestrian-level charm (near Sunset Drive) to skyline-defining towers facing U.S. 1.
Honoring the Past, Building for the Future
Sunset Place isn’t the first retail experiment at this site. It traces its roots back to the Bakery Centre (1986–1996), a similarly sized retail‑office complex that failed. That history has made architects and developers cautious—but excited to “break the cycle of soulless places” in favor of designs meant to foster place and community.
Midtown Development acquired the site in early 2021—coincidentally in the thick of the COVID downturn—and partnered with Heatherwick to reimagine what a future‑forward South Miami centerpiece could be.
A Long-Brewing Transformation Timeline
Demolition of the Shops at Sunset Place is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026, assuming approvals and site preparations stay on track. The mammoth redevelopment will unfold in multiple phases over the next 10 years. The very first phase—highlighted by newly constructed streets, a residential condo tower, and a 287‑room hotel—is expected to be delivered by 2029, according to city and developer projections.
While the full buildout will extend well beyond that, early activations such as pop-up shops, interim public plazas, and community programming may be introduced during construction to maintain momentum and vibrancy on the site. Midtown Development has emphasized its commitment to supporting local businesses and keeping the area lively throughout the transformation, ensuring that Sunset Place remains an engaging part of South Miami—even as construction progresses.
A Cultural and Urban Pivot
This isn’t just a structural overhaul—it’s a cultural shift. South Miami has committed to transforming a dormant, car-centric mall into an integrated, pedestrian-first destination. The redesign nods to European plazas with outdoor café seating while embracing modern mixed-use energy. It’s a bold move that channels global urban trends into this beloved Miami community.
Credit: Heatherwick Studio
Credit: Heatherwick Studio
Looking Ahead: A Bold New Vision for South Miami
Surpassing its legacy as a fading suburban mall, Sunset Place is poised to become a reinhabited, reactivated slice of South Miami. With Heatherwick Studio’s forward-thinking architecture, 1,513 new residences, lively streetscapes, and dynamic public spaces, what replaces it has the potential to become a transformative anchor for the region. For residents, developers, and visitors, this long-awaited change is more than construction—it’s the start of a more connected, walkable, and animated downtown South Miami.
Stay tuned as the cranes arrive, the streets return, and Sunset Place reboots—this time, as an urban village crafted for communities more than car trips.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Coming to Mary Brickell Village This Winter
Calling all South Florida ice cream lovers—there’s a new scoop on the way! Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, the beloved NYC-born, artisanal ice cream brand, is opening its second South Florida outpost this winter at Mary Brickell Village, located in Miami at 901 South Miami Avenue. This marks an exciting next step for Van Leeuwen following their debut in Miami Beach this past March.
A Cold Treat Rooted in Goodness
Van Leeuwen’s story began in 2008 with a bright yellow ice cream truck cruising the streets of New York City. Founded by brothers Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen alongside Laura O’Neill, the brand aimed to redefine indulgence with a mantra: “good‑good, not good‑bad.” They committed to using only simple, high-quality ingredients—like Sicilian pistachios and Ceylon cinnamon—eschewing anything unpronounceable or processed.
From that humble truck, Van Leeuwen grew into a cult phenomenon. They opened their first storefront in Brooklyn in 2010 and expanded their reach with a Greenpoint factory. Today, they boast over 70 scoop shops nationwide—and even one in Singapore.
Flavors That Captivate Hearts (and Palates)
Van Leeuwen is cherished for its delicious balance of classic elegance and bold innovation:
- Classics like Vanilla Bean—hailed as “Best Vanilla Ice Cream” by the New York Times’ Wirecutter—Honeycomb, Sicilian Pistachio, Marionberry Cheesecake, and Earl Grey Tea capture timeless tastes
- Vegan varieties such as Vegan Churros & Fudge and Vegan Chocolate Cookie Dough Honeycomb ensure everyone can indulge
- Daring limited-editions like Hidden Valley Ranch and Kraft Mac & Cheese grabbed headlines in 2021 when their Mac & Cheese flavor sold out in just an hour
- Celebrity and collaboration creations—including specialty scoops like Sabrina Carpenter’s espresso blend, Keith Haring raspberry, and Jean‑Georges’ Sour Cherry Creamsicle—continue to keep fans buzzing
Why Van Leeuwen’s Maryland Brickell Village Location Matters
Kimco Realty, the owners of Mary Brickell Village—a dynamic mixed-use center in the heart of
Brickell—are curating a refined food and lifestyle experience, and Van Leeuwen isn’t just another scoop shop—it represents a fast-growing specialty brand known for premium ingredients, responsible sourcing, and fearless flavor experiments. Its Miami location will have 1,190 square feet and will be located directly next to
Uchibā, the Japanese izakaya from James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole, slated to open spring 2026. Kimco Realty also recently announced the addition of Rivian and Playa Bowls as tenants.
⸻
Final Scoop
This winter, keep your spoons at the ready: Van Leeuwen is scooping in Brickell. Whether you’re craving the classic charm of Honeycomb or a daring dip into Hidden Valley Ranch, Mary Brickell Village will soon be the one-stop destination for feel-good ice cream—and soon after, equally feel-good Japanese eats at Uchibā. It’s a story of growth, flavor, and community—and we’re sure you’ll love every delicious moment.
Curious to know which flavor will steal the spotlight first? Stay tuned—Brickell’s ice cream scene is heating (er, icing?) up!
Florida Appeals Court Upholds Holdout Owners’ Rights at Biscayne 21, Setting Major Precedent for Condo Terminations
In a major win for Florida condo owners, the state’s Third District Court of Appeal ruled in favor of a group of unit owners at Biscayne 21, a 13-story, 192-unit condominium complex in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood. The court upheld a previous decision that invalidated a developer-led amendment to the condo’s governing documents, which had attempted to lower the required vote to terminate the condominium from 100% to just 80%. On July 10, 2025, the court denied a motion for rehearing, affirming that the original declaration of condominium required unanimous approval to terminate the association and could not be modified unilaterally.
The case, brought by eight unit owners represented by attorney Glen Waldman, challenged the termination plan led by Two Roads Development and its affiliate, Empira Group. The developer had acquired 86% of the units in a $150 million bulk buyout and sought to redevelop the property into a luxury condo project—Edition Residences Edgewater. After several owners refused to sell, the developer-controlled board amended the termination clause, a move the court ruled violated the contractual rights of the remaining owners.
The appellate court’s decision not only preserves the rights of the Biscayne 21 holdouts but also establishes a significant precedent with potential statewide implications. According to legal experts, the ruling confirms that developers cannot retroactively change essential voting rights in a declaration—particularly when it involves something as consequential as terminating a condominium association. The decision is expected to complicate bulk buyout efforts across Florida, especially in cases where the original governing documents require unanimous consent for termination.
For developers, this decision adds a new layer of legal risk when pursuing aging condo properties for redevelopment. Florida has seen a wave of such efforts in recent years, especially following the collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, which raised concerns about aging buildings and spurred legislative changes. However, this ruling signals that even amid redevelopment pressures, courts are willing to protect owners’ contractual rights and block attempts to dilute those protections.
Two Roads Development has stated its intention to appeal the decision to the Florida Supreme Court. However, until or unless the state’s highest court overturns the appellate ruling, the current decision stands as binding precedent. The outcome strengthens the position of holdout owners and may force developers to offer more favorable terms—or abandon termination plans altogether.
Ultimately, this case underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the original terms set forth in a condominium’s declaration. Boards and developers alike must tread carefully when altering foundational governance provisions. As Miami’s real estate market continues to evolve, the Biscayne 21 ruling will likely influence how future terminations are approached—not just in Edgewater, but throughout the state.
The Alley: A Boutique Preconstruction Opportunity in Miami’s Booming Little River
Miami’s Little River neighborhood is experiencing a renaissance—and The Alley is at the forefront of it. This boutique, 5-story condo development is the first lodging building in Little River to be offered for individual ownership, giving early investors the chance to claim a stake in one of the city’s most exciting up-and-coming districts.
Developed by Saxum International—an experienced and visionary team known for reshaping Little River’s residential landscape—The Alley offers 50 fully finished junior studios starting from just $315,000. Designed for maximum flexibility and rental potential, each residence is optimized for short-term stays with thoughtful layouts, clean modern finishes, and optional division for added guest privacy. Residences range from 358 to 382 square feet, with east and west-facing views and a payment structure tailored to ease: 20% at contract, 20% at groundbreaking, 10% at the third floor, and 50% at delivery in Q3 2026.
The building is rich in features that appeal to today’s traveler and digital nomad. Highlights include a rooftop coworking lounge, high-speed WiFi throughout, 24/7 parking for residents and guests, and vending machines for added convenience. HOA dues are a modest $1.37 per square foot and include reserves, making The Alley a hassle-free income-producing asset.
What makes The Alley truly special, however, is its location. Nestled at 183 NE 78th Street, residents will enjoy seamless access to the creative pulse of the city. The buzzing Wynwood Arts District is just 7 minutes away, the high-fashion Design District in 8, and Midtown Miami in 10. Even Downtown, Brickell, and Miami International Airport are within a 20-minute drive. And with a future Tri-Rail station planned as part of Swerdlow Group’s massive 7,500-unit development, Little River’s connectivity is only going to get better.
This is more than just a smart investment—it’s a front-row seat to transformation. With over $3 billion in approved development, Little River is evolving into Miami’s next cultural and investment hub. Projects from heavyweights like AJ Capital Partners, B Developments, and CEDARst Companies are bringing thousands of new residences, retail destinations, and creative spaces to the area. Property values here are appreciating faster than in more saturated markets like Brickell or Miami Beach.
If you’re looking for a high-yield opportunity in a neighborhood poised for explosive growth, The Alley delivers. With limited inventory, rising demand for short-term rentals, and a future-proof location, this is your chance to get in early on Miami’s next big thing.
Contact us today at [email protected] to schedule a presentation or to reserve your unit at The Alley.
Central Fare to Open June 17 at Brightline’s MiamiCentral Station
Downtown Miami is about to get a major culinary upgrade with the grand opening of Central Fare, a dynamic new food hall located inside Brightline’s MiamiCentral station. Set to officially launch on June 17, 2025, Central Fare will feature 12 chef-driven concepts, offering everything from grab-and-go bites to fast-casual and full-service dining experiences .
A Culinary Hub in the Heart of Miami
Central Fare is designed as a “culinary incubator” and community gathering space, spotlighting Miami’s diverse and innovative food scene. The food hall will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to commuters, office workers, residents, and tourists alike. Beyond dining, the venue boasts approximately 12,000 square feet of private event space, making it an ideal location for special events and functions .
Rosetta Bakery: A Taste of Italy Now Open
While the full lineup of eateries will debut on June 17, Rosetta Bakery has already opened its doors at Central Fare. Known for its artisanal Italian pastries, breads, and desserts, Rosetta Bakery offers a delightful selection of freshly baked goods, including buttery croissants and signature focaccia . Located at 550 NW 1st Ave, Suite 240-C15, Miami, FL 33136, it’s a perfect spot for a quick coffee or a leisurely treat.
Easy Access for All
Situated within the MiamiCentral transit hub, Central Fare is easily accessible via multiple transportation options, including Brightline, Metrorail, Metromover, and Tri-Rail. The main entrance is at the corner of NW 5th Street and 1st Avenue, with additional access through Brightline’s main station entrance on NW 6th Street . Whether you’re commuting or exploring downtown, Central Fare is conveniently located to serve your culinary cravings.
A New Chapter in Downtown Dining
Central Fare is more than just a food hall; it’s a celebration of Miami’s vibrant culinary landscape and a testament to the city’s ongoing growth. With its diverse dining options and community-focused design, Central Fare is poised to become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Mark your calendars for June 17, 2025, and be among the first to experience the flavors and ambiance of Central Fare. In the meantime, satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Rosetta Bakery and get a sneak peek of what’s to come.
For more information and updates, visit Brightline’s Central Fare page
First Glass Installed at Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami
A major milestone has recently been reached at Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami — the first glass panels have officially been installed, marking a visually striking chapter in the rise of Miami’s most iconic residential skyscraper.
Currently under construction at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, this architectural marvel is being developed by PMG (Property Markets Group) in collaboration with Greybrook Realty Partners, and designed by world-renowned architect Carlos Ott in partnership with Seiger Suarez Architects. The project broke ground in late 2022.
What makes the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami unlike anything else is its bold and imaginative design. The tower is comprised of nine stacked and staggered cubes. As of now, construction has reached the third cube, which is where the dramatic staggering begins — making it one of the most visually captivating structures taking shape on the Miami skyline.
Set to be completed in Q1 2028, the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami will redefine the city’s skyline and history. Upon completion, it will become Miami’s first supertall skyscraper and the tallest residential tower south of New York, rising to an astonishing 1,049 feet.
Demand for this once-in-a-generation property has been unprecedented — 93% of the building is already sold. Remaining availability includes:
- One-Bedroom Residences from $3.1 Million
- Two-Bedroom Residences from $3.3 Million
- Three-Bedroom Residences from $4.5 Million
- Four-Bedroom Residences from $7.5 Million
If you’re interested in owning a piece of this architectural icon, contact Lucas Lechuga at [email protected] for available inventory and private presentations.
