Genting Group Sells A+E District Site for $20.9M in Major Opportunity Zone Deal
In a headline-making move that underscores the momentum of Miami’s urban transformation, a key 0.8-acre assemblage in Downtown Miami’s Arts & Entertainment District has changed hands in a $20.9 million transaction. The site — comprising six contiguous parcels — was sold by Genting Americas, Inc. to A&E District Holding Company, LLC, a subsidiary of SF QOZ Fund I, LLC. This landmark acquisition paves the way for a luxury, mixed-use development that will rise at the gateway to the city’s most ambitious public infrastructure projects: the Signature Bridge and the 33-acre Underdeck Greenway.
“This isn’t just a development site – it’s an opportunity to redefine urban living in one of Miami’s fastest-growing neighborhoods,” said Liam Krahe, Co-Managing Principal of SF QOZ Fund I. “We believe these parcels are situated in one of the most strategic, urban-core locations left in Miami.”
The newly acquired site, which spans 35,544 square feet, includes the addresses 1525 and 1515 NE Miami Place, 75 NE 15th Street, and 1502–1516 NE 1st Avenue. It sits within a federally designated Qualified Opportunity Zone — a distinction that not only enhances its investment appeal but also offers developers and investors significant tax incentives, including the potential to defer or even eliminate capital gains tax on qualifying investments. These zones have become hotbeds for smart development, especially in fast-growing metro areas like Miami-Dade County.
“With billions in public infrastructure, improved connectivity, and massive demand for multifamily rental housing, this is one of the rarest and most exciting real estate development opportunities in a Miami Qualified Opportunity Zone,” added David Cohen, Co-Managing Principal of SF QOZ Fund I.
The timing could not be better. The site is positioned at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and mobility — just steps from Biscayne Bay, Miami Worldcenter, the Adrienne Arsht Center, the Kaseya Center, and the future Underdeck Greenway. The Underdeck, inspired by iconic projects like NYC’s High Line and Atlanta’s BeltLine, will transform a 33-acre corridor beneath the Signature Bridge into a lush, pedestrian-friendly park, uniting neighborhoods and injecting a new layer of connectivity into Downtown Miami’s urban core.
Construction on the mixed-use tower is expected to begin in early 2026. The development will include luxury multifamily apartments and ground-floor retail — a blend that speaks to the area’s demand for upscale, live-work-play environments. Spearheading the project is a joint venture between McCaffery Interests and Grandview Development Co., both of whom bring national reputations for executing high-quality, transit-oriented developments.
As Miami continues to evolve into a global capital for finance, lifestyle, and innovation, this project stands as a bold investment in the city’s future — one that blends architectural ambition with economic opportunity, and urban revitalization with long-term value.
Celebrate 100 Years of Bayfront Park at Miami’s Premier 4th of July Festival
Get ready for a star-spangled celebration like no other as Bayfront Park turns 100! Friday, July 4th, from 4 PM to 10 PM, head to Downtown Miami for a one-of-a-kind Independence Day bash honoring a century of memories on the shores of Biscayne Bay.
Presented by Bayfront Park Management Trust, the Downtown Neighbors Alliance, and Breakwater Hospitality Group, this year’s Fourth of July Festival brings together patriotism, entertainment, and local pride for a night to remember.
Event highlights include:
Fireworks extravaganza over Biscayne Bay
Live performances by Orlando Mendez, The U.S. Navy Band, Higher Ground, and DJ M-DOT
Military Vehicle & Classic Car Showcase honoring American heritage
City Official Dunk Tank – watch your favorite Miami leaders take the plunge
Food vendors serving festive bites and 4th of July favorites
Cocktails & refreshments throughout the park
Roaming entertainers and themed activations to surprise and delight
Free American flag at check-in with RSVP
This free event is family-friendly, community-centered, and deeply rooted in Miami’s history. Whether you’re coming for the fireworks, the music, or the classic Americana vibes, you’ll be celebrating something bigger: freedom, unity, and 100 years of Bayfront Park.
RSVP now to secure your complimentary flag and be a part of this historic milestone: Event Link
Let freedom ring in downtown Miami—see you at Bayfront!
Florida-based Insurers Turn First Underwriting Profit Since 2015
After nearly a decade of financial turbulence, Florida’s property insurance market is showing signs of stabilization. In 2024, the state’s personal property insurers reported a collective underwriting profit of $206.7 million — the first since 2015 — marking a significant turnaround for an industry that has faced years of losses due to hurricanes, litigation, and escalating costs.
This positive shift is largely attributed to legislative reforms enacted in 2022, which curtailed excessive litigation and attracted new insurers to the market. The resulting increase in competition and capacity has begun to moderate premium hikes, offering a more stable environment for homeowners and investors alike.
For the Miami real estate market, these developments are encouraging. Stabilizing insurance costs can enhance buyer confidence and affordability, potentially revitalizing demand in a market that has been challenged by high premiums. As the insurance landscape continues to improve, Miami’s real estate sector stands to benefit from increased activity and investment.
While challenges remain, including the ongoing risk of severe weather events, the recent profitability of Florida’s insurers suggests a more resilient market moving forward. This newfound stability could herald a period of growth and opportunity for Miami’s real estate industry.
LIVWRK Unveils Visionary High-Rise Community in Wynwood Arts District
A bold new chapter is on the horizon for Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. LIVWRK, a Brooklyn-based developer known for forward-thinking urban projects, has submitted plans for a massive mixed-use development that will bring the area’s first high-rise towers to life. Designed by MKDA, the proposal—dubbed LIVWRK Wynwood—calls for three striking 45-story towers reaching 465 feet in height.
Located at 2400–2418 North Miami Avenue, the project spans an impressive 1.81 million square feet. It replaces a previously approved mid-rise plan and utilizes Florida’s Live Local Act to surpass local zoning height limits, enabling increased residential density in exchange for much-needed workforce housing.
In total, LIVWRK Wynwood will introduce 1,363 new residential units to the neighborhood. Notably, 529 units—representing 40% of the total—are earmarked as workforce housing. This includes all 494 studios and 35 one-bedroom units, which are expected to rent for approximately $2,800 per month. Residences will range from 453 to 1,306 square feet and offer a range of floor plans from studios to three-bedroom layouts.
At the base of the towers, an expansive parking and amenity podium will house 912 parking spaces and over 88,000 square feet of retail and shared amenities. Each tower will feature dedicated amenity decks on the ninth floor, along with lounge spaces on the 29th floor, offering elevated city views and recreational experiences.
The architecture, according to MKDA, embraces Wynwood’s artistic roots and industrial texture. The façade will feature raw materials like exposed concrete, perforated metal, and loft-style window frames, blended with lush green elements and art-driven details. A landscaped paseo will slice through the site, prioritizing pedestrian movement and linking NW 24th Street, NW 25th Street, and North Miami Avenue.
Carefully planned for walkability and community engagement, the ground level will be activated with retail, art installations, and widened sidewalks. Entry points will be recessed to create inviting alcoves, and murals will bring the street frontage to life. Meanwhile, the parking garage will be fully wrapped by occupied space on the lower floors to ensure an attractive and seamless pedestrian experience.
Balconies will vary in openness and rhythm, especially at higher floors, to allow natural light and airflow throughout the towers. The podium and upper levels will serve as platforms for large-scale sculptures, bringing a curated, gallery-like dimension to daily life for residents and visitors alike.
As one of the most significant proposals filed under the Live Local Act, LIVWRK Wynwood not only seeks to redefine the district’s skyline but also to create an inclusive, vertically integrated neighborhood that reflects Miami’s evolving urban identity.
Ella Miami Beach Breaks Ground, Marking a New Era for North Beach
Ella Miami Beach has officially commenced construction, according to an announcement on the development’s social media account. This milestone marks a significant step forward for the highly anticipated residential project set to redefine luxury living in North Beach.
The boutique development will feature 103 residential units, offering short-term rental flexibility to cater to modern buyers seeking both investment opportunities and a sophisticated coastal lifestyle. Rising 10 stories, Ella Miami Beach is designed by the renowned architecture firm Arquitectonica, known for their visionary approach to contemporary urban design.
Previously, the developer described Ella’s architectural concept as a seamless blend of classic Art Deco curves with sleek, modern 21st-century lines. This unique aesthetic is expected to pay homage to Miami Beach’s iconic heritage while infusing the neighborhood with a fresh, cutting-edge design.
Located in North Beach, a vibrant and rapidly evolving district, Ella Miami Beach is set to contribute to the area’s resurgence as a sought-after destination. With its groundbreaking now complete, anticipation continues to build as the project progresses toward completion.
The Reserve Cup Returns to Miami: Padel’s Premier Event Expands in 2025
The highly anticipated Reserve Cup, a flagship event by Reserve Padel, is set to return to Miami from January 23–25, 2025. Building on the success of its inaugural tournament in 2024, the event will launch the newly expanded Reserve Cup Series, featuring three weeks of elite padel competition across three major cities. This evolution cements the series as a premier showcase of the world’s top padel players, competing for record-breaking prize money exceeding $1.7 million.
Led by Reserve Padel Founder and CEO Wayne Boich, alongside Honorary Chairman and Co-Captain Jimmy Butler, the Reserve Cup has gained acclaim for its intense matches, star-studded lineups, and exclusive entertainment experiences. For 2025, the expanded series aims to bring its unique fusion of sport and luxury to an even broader audience, beginning at Reserve Miami Seaplane.
“Part of our goal at Reserve has always been to showcase padel at the highest level,” said Wayne Boich. “Following the success of the inaugural event in 2024—and the overwhelming excitement from the players—we knew we had to take it further.”
A Star-Studded Experience
The Reserve Cup Miami promises three days of exhilarating matches featuring two elite teams of top-ranked players led by star captains. This year’s captains are:
Derek Jeter – 5x World Series Champion and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer.
Andrew Schulz – Famed comedian and passionate padel enthusiast.
Beyond the action on the court, attendees can expect exclusive parties, live entertainment, and premium culinary experiences. Highlights include:
Access to the Reserve Club, a private space with unparalleled court views and a VIP culinary experience curated by Major Food Group.
Dining options from local favorites such as Pura Vida Miami, Jimmy Butler’s Big Face Coffee, and Spicy Hospitality’s The Joyce.
World-Class Competition
The 2025 Reserve Cup Series will feature 16 of the world’s top-ranked padel players, including:
Arturo Coello
Agustin Tapia
Alejandro Galan
Federico Chingotto
Players will compete in three distinct tournaments throughout the year, with performance-based rankings adding an exciting competitive edge.
The Reserve Cup Series represents a significant leap forward for padel, combining world-class competition with unmatched luxury and entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event in Miami this January. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or new to the sport, the Reserve Cup promises an unforgettable experience.
Brickell’s Skyline Set to Evolve with New 39-Story Residential Tower
The transformation of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood continues as plans for a new 39-story residential tower move forward. Located just a block from Brickell City Centre, this development promises to bring both luxury and community enhancements to the area.
The developer, working on the site of the recently demolished Starlite Motel, has officially signed a public benefits agreement to secure the project’s approval. Recorded on December 10, the agreement paves the way for development under Miami-Dade’s Rapid Transit Zoning plan.
As part of the agreement, the developer has committed to a series of public benefits:
$500,000 Contribution: A payment to Miami-Dade County, earmarked for repairs or upgrades to the Brickell Metrorail or Metromover stations.
Workforce Housing: Five percent of the tower’s residential units will be income-restricted for workforce renters, addressing the need for affordable housing options in the area.
Tree Planting Initiative: The developer will plant 40 trees at least 20 feet high either on the property or within the surrounding right-of-way, in addition to the required landscaping.
Pedestrian Connectivity: A cross-block passage will provide pedestrian access between SW 7th Street and SW 8th Street, enhancing walkability.
Utility Line Upgrades: Telecom wires on the property will be buried at the developer’s expense, improving the aesthetic and infrastructure.
The planned development includes:
517 Apartments: Offering a range of residential options to accommodate Brickell’s growing population.
Restaurant Space: 9,700 square feet dedicated to dining establishments.
Parking Facilities: A six-level garage with 506 parking spaces.
A construction permit for the tower was filed in August, with Suffolk Construction serving as the contractor. The estimated construction value stands at $190 million, highlighting the significant investment in the project. Chicago-based Focus is leading the development, with the world-renowned architectural firm Gensler at the helm of the design.
As approval for the project hinges on the fulfillment of public benefit commitments, the developer’s proactive approach signals a win-win for both the community and investors. This 39-story tower is set to redefine the local skyline while contributing to the enhancement of Brickell’s urban environment.
New Residential Development to Brickell: The Perrin by Empira Group
Empira Group, a renowned real estate investment manager, has announced exciting new details about its upcoming residential development in Brickell, Miami. The 26-story tower, originally named Empire Brickell, will now be called The Perrin.
Set to break ground in early Q1 2025, this upscale development promises to elevate the Miami skyline with its sleek design and luxurious amenities. Upon completion in 2027, The Perrin will house 310 exclusive residences, ranging from efficient studios to expansive 3-bedroom units, catering to a variety of lifestyles.
Residents and guests will enjoy a host of high-end amenities designed to provide a resort-style experience. Among the standout features are:
Rooftop Zen Garden and Tea Room: A serene space perfect for relaxation.
Resort-style Pool with Cabanas and Grilling Stations: An ideal spot for unwinding or hosting gatherings.
Fitness Center with Dedicated Yoga Room: State-of-the-art fitness facilities to keep residents active and healthy.
Co-working and Entertaining Spaces: Designed with modern professionals in mind.
2,500 square feet of Ground Floor Retail: Adding convenience and vibrancy to the neighborhood.
Situated just a few blocks from the Brickell City Centre, residents will be within walking distance of world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, ensuring that everything you need is at your fingertips.
With a planned opening date in 2027, The Perrin promises to be a prime address for those seeking luxury living in the heart of Miami’s thriving Brickell district.
Stay tuned for more updates as construction progresses, and keep an eye on Empira Group’s website for the latest information on this highly anticipated development.
Miami Beach Welcomes Its Tallest Tower: Five Park
Miami Beach has a new architectural crown jewel! Five Park, a 48-story luxury condominium tower standing at an impressive 519 feet, has officially taken the title of the tallest building in the city. The developers announced the tower’s receipt of its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO), signaling its readiness to welcome residents into a new era of upscale coastal living.
While Miami Beach celebrates this milestone, it’s worth noting that much taller skyscrapers grace the skyline across the causeway in the City of Miami. However, Five Park’s achievement represents a significant moment for Miami Beach, showcasing the city’s evolving architectural landscape.
Five Park offers a range of residences from one to four bedrooms, with prices starting at $1.5 million. The original plans called for 280 condominiums, each meticulously designed to exude sophistication and comfort. Complementing the residential spaces is an expansive 50,000 square feet of amenity spaces, ensuring residents enjoy a lifestyle of luxury and convenience.
A defining feature of the development is its integration with the adjacent three-acre Canopy Park, which opened in 2022. This lush green space was a crucial condition for the project’s approval, balancing urban development with community and environmental needs. Designed to enhance the outdoor lifestyle, the park has already become a beloved feature of the neighborhood.
Adding to the connectivity, the Daniel Buren-designed Canopy Bridge will soon break ground. This architectural marvel will link Canopy Park with the South of Fifth Baywalk, further enriching the area’s pedestrian-friendly appeal.
The realization of Five Park was a collaborative effort of some of the industry’s most visionary minds:
Arquitectonica: Led the architectural design, creating a structure that’s as functional as it is iconic.
Anda Andrei: Directed the design vision, ensuring cohesion and innovation throughout the project.
David Martin (Terra) and Russell Galbut (GFO Investments): The driving forces behind the development, turning the ambitious vision into reality.
Moss Construction: Brought the project to life with meticulous execution and timely delivery. Moss has also embarked on another prominent Terra project, the Villa Miami tower in Edgewater.
Five Park isn’t just a building—it’s a statement. From its record-breaking height to its seamless integration with nature and the community, this tower sets a new standard for Miami Beach’s skyline. With the Canopy Bridge on the horizon and the vibrant life surrounding it, Five Park is poised to redefine luxury living in Miami Beach.
