Miami Dade’s Water and Sewer Department has recently agreed to provide utilities for additional units beyond what was initially planned for M-Tower, a 57-story residential building situated at 56 Southwest 1st Street in downtown Miami. This revision reflects a growing demand for residential space in the heart of Miami, and the project aligns with the city’s vision for urban development.
In early July, a revised utility agreement was recorded, now stating that the M-Tower development will encompass 765 apartments, 4,708 square feet of retail space, and 5,000 square feet for a full-service restaurant. This is a notable increase from the previously planned 675 apartments, adding 90 more units to the development.
This increase in density highlights the growing demand for residential spaces in downtown Miami. The city’s vision for urban development is further realized through such projects, encouraging more people to live in the city center and fostering a vibrant urban community.
M-Tower is being developed by Lions Group NYC and Fortis Design + Build, operating under Downtown 1st St LLC. The tower, designed by Nichols Architects, will rise 57 stories across the sites at 56 and 70 Southwest 1st Street, near Miami’s Government Center. The project also involves Naturalficial as the landscape architect and Kimley-Horn as the civil engineer.
A key feature of M-Tower is its public parking garage, which will offer nearly 700 spaces, alongside commercial and retail spaces at the ground floor level. The building’s design and amenities aim to enhance the overall streetscape and living experience for residents.
The residential units within M-Tower will offer a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The ninth floor is set to host an array of amenities, including a landscaped outdoor deck featuring two pools. Additionally, the project will incorporate integrated art murals for the eight-story parking garage, selected by the Miami Parking Authority, adding a cultural touch to the structure.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved permits for M-Tower in early July, allowing the building to reach 605 feet above ground or 615 feet above mean sea level. These permits, approved on July 2, 2024, are valid until January 1, 2026.
Total demolition permits have already been approved and issued for the sites at 56 and 70 Southwest 1st Street. The BG Group LLC is listed as the contractor for this demolition work, estimated to cost approximately $505,000. The site previously housed a 56-year-old municipal parking garage, which will be demolished to make way for the new development.
The expansion of M-Tower marks a significant step in addressing Miami’s growing residential needs. With its modern design, strategic location, and comprehensive amenities, M-Tower is set to become a landmark in downtown Miami’s urban landscape. This project not only caters to the increasing demand for residential units but also contributes to the city’s vision of a dynamic and integrated urban community.
The Crosby Miami Worldcenter Construction Update
The 33-story Crosby Miami Worldcenter has reached a significant milestone, topping off according to Beauchamp Construction Co. This achievement marks the completion of the building’s structural framework, and a celebration was held on July 19th to commemorate this event.
The journey of the Crosby Miami Worldcenter began with its groundbreaking in January 2023. Now standing tall at a permanent height of 390 feet, this impressive tower is set to become a prominent feature of Miami’s skyline. The building boasts a variety of features that promise to enhance the living experience for its residents:
450 Condo Units: These units are designed to allow short-term rentals, providing flexibility and potential income for owners.
22,000+ Square Feet of Amenities: The extensive amenities include a range of recreational and leisure facilities to cater to the needs of residents.
Rooftop Bar and Restaurant: Offering stunning views of the city, the rooftop bar and restaurant are set to become popular spots for both residents and visitors.
3,370 Square Feet of Retail Space: This retail space will add to the convenience of residents, providing easy access to various shops and services.
In a testament to its appeal, all units in the Crosby have already been sold. This rapid sell-out highlights the high demand for luxury living spaces in prime locations within Miami.
Despite the absence of a new parking garage within the building, residents of the Crosby will have access to parking facilities elsewhere in the Worldcenter. This arrangement ensures that convenience and accessibility remain top priorities for those living in the tower.
The topping off of the Crosby Miami Worldcenter marks a significant step in its development, bringing it closer to its final completion. With its array of amenities, strategic location, and luxurious living spaces, the Crosby is set to become a sought-after residence in Miami. As the building continues to take shape, it promises to deliver an exceptional living experience in the heart of the city.
Milestone Reached: Glass Installation Begins on Oasis Hallandale’s West Tower
The construction of Oasis Hallandale has reached a significant milestone with the commencement of glass installation on the West Tower. This marks a key point in Phase 3 of the project, as this mixed-use development continues to shape the skyline of Hallandale Beach.
Located at 1000 East Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Oasis Hallandale is a comprehensive mixed-use development spread across a sprawling 10-acre site. The 25-story West Tower, part of the project, is designed by the renowned architectural firm Arquitectonica and spearheaded by developer Giuseppe Iadisernia. MGM Construction Group is managing the construction, ensuring the project’s vision is realized.
Recent construction photos reveal the extent of progress on the West Tower. The installation of floor-to-ceiling glass has reached the fourth floor, with 14 slabs already poured into the superstructure. This impressive vertical advancement has pushed the structure well past the halfway mark. Notably, the slabs on the tower’s northwest corner display chamfering that narrows toward the middle and expands again at the top. This design feature will enhance the tower’s curvature, as highlighted in the renderings, becoming more pronounced once the glass installation progresses further.
Simultaneously, significant progress is being made on the East Tower, with foundational work for the core currently underway. The formwork for the garage structure, set to connect the two residential towers and feature an amenity deck, is also advancing. Upon completion, the East Tower will contribute an additional 250 residential units, completing the residential program of the project.
The twin towers will offer a variety of modern floor plans, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences. Key features include floor-to-ceiling windows, glass sliding doors, expansive balconies with glass railings, walk-in closets, and powder rooms in select units. The interiors, designed by Domus Aurea Interiors, will feature Italian countertops and tiles in kitchens and bathrooms, double sinks in primary bathrooms, and frameless glass-enclosed showers.
Oasis Hallandale will offer a wide range of amenities designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles. These include valet parking, a 24-hour lobby attendant, business and conference rooms, a lounge bar with pool tables, and a banquet hall. The development will also feature a golf simulator, children’s playroom, indoor and outdoor movie theaters, two pools, a hot tub spa, a children’s splash pad, and poolside cabanas. Additional amenities include a playground, barbecue and fire pit areas, a yoga lawn, a Ping-Pong room, a mini soccer field, a pet park, bike parking, electric vehicle charging stations, and storage facilities.
With Phases 1 and 2 already completed, Phase 3 of Oasis Hallandale is making steady progress. The project is on track to reach full completion by 2026, promising a vibrant and luxurious living experience in the heart of Hallandale Beach.
Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove Construction Update
The highly anticipated Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove is making significant strides towards becoming a new landmark in Miami’s luxury real estate scene. The developers, CMC Group and Fort Partners, recently finalized a deal to connect the upcoming 20-story tower to Miami-Dade’s water and sewer system, a crucial step in the project’s progression.
The construction permit application for this new addition to Coconut Grove’s skyline was submitted in December and is currently under review. Once completed, this will be the first standalone Four Seasons residences in Florida, marking a significant milestone for the brand in the state.
In a notable move, the developers launched sales for the 70 residential units in April, bypassing the traditional reservation stage. The response was immediate and enthusiastic, with buyers going straight to contract, underscoring the strong demand for these exclusive properties.
The residences will offer a range of options from two- to four-bedroom units, with sizes reaching up to 3,980 square feet. For those seeking even more space and luxury, four penthouse residences are available, ranging from nearly 6,430 to a sprawling 9,690 square feet. Each unit will feature private elevators and 11-foot ceilings, providing an unparalleled sense of space and privacy.
The design of the Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove is in expert hands. Renowned Florentine designer Michele Bönan is overseeing the interior design, ensuring a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. The architectural vision is led by Miami-based architect Luis Revuelta, known for his innovative and elegant designs.
As this project moves closer to realization, it promises to set a new standard for luxury living in Miami. With its prime location, world-class design team, and the prestigious Four Seasons name, these residences are poised to become a sought-after address in Coconut Grove.
For potential buyers and investors, the opportunity to own a piece of this exclusive property is both a lifestyle and an investment opportunity. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project continues to take shape.
New Renderings Unveiled for Cassia: A Luxurious Residential Development in Coral Gables
Alta Developers has recently revealed new renderings for Cassia, a striking 12-story residential development set to redefine luxury living in the heart of Coral Gables. Designed by the esteemed architectural firm Behar Font & Partners, this fully furnished luxury condominium will be located at 4011 Salzedo Street in the Merrick Park District. Cassia will offer 174 elegantly designed residences, ranging from one- to three-bedroom units, with sizes spanning from 662 to 1,439 square feet. Ideal for frequent travelers or seasonal residents, these units come fully furnished by RH, offering flexible rental options.
The newly unveiled renderings showcase Cassia’s rectilinear form, accentuated by a sleek white stucco exterior. The building’s design emphasizes vertical and horizontal lines through its recessed balconies and window frames. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows punctuate the façade, allowing for breathtaking views and an abundance of natural light. Architectural frames surrounding the balconies add a sophisticated depth and texture to the overall aesthetic.
The lower levels of Cassia will feature ground-level retail spaces, designed with extensive glazing and black aluminum framing to enhance transparency and encourage street-level interaction. The façade on this level will be clad in stone material or veneer, complemented by green walls and nearby landscaping, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment.
A standout feature of Cassia is the outdoor amenity deck located above the podium level. This landscaped area includes a pool deck surrounded by palm trees and lush plantings, offering a serene retreat for residents. The pool area is outfitted with lounge chairs and outdoor seating, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
The name “Cassia” is inspired by the beautiful Cassia trees that bloom across Coral Gables during Spring and Fall, their pink blossoms resembling delicate bouquets. This name is a nod to the city’s founders, who envisioned Coral Gables as a Garden City with lush green avenues and charming architecture. This vision has been preserved, with Coral Gables earning the designation of Tree City USA for over 34 years.
Located just steps away from the Shops at Merrick Park, Cassia residents will enjoy unparalleled access to premier shopping and dining experiences. The area boasts over 100 retailers and restaurants, including luxury brands such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. For fitness and wellness, residents can visit Equinox Fitness, SoulCycle, and the Elemis spa.
Cassia promises to be a hallmark of luxury living in one of South Florida’s most desirable and pedestrian-friendly locations, blending modern design with the rich cultural heritage of Coral Gables.
Onda Residences: A New Landmark in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands
Onda Residences, a stunning 8-story residential condominium designed by the renowned Arquitectonica, has reached a significant milestone with the completion of construction. Located at 1135 103rd Street in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, this boutique waterfront tower has officially received its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). This achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Onda as owners move forward with unit closings and prepare to call this luxurious development home. The project was spearheaded by developers Ugo Colombo of CMC Group and Valerio Morabito of Morabito Properties, with Coastal Construction serving as the general contractor.
Onda has been a highly anticipated addition to Miami’s luxury condo market since its initial launch in 2021. Nearly all of the residences have been presold, reflecting strong demand for high-end properties in the area. Only three units remain available, with prices starting at approximately $5.1 million. The majority of Onda’s buyers are domestic, highlighting a trend of business and wealth migration fueling South Florida’s real estate market.
Onda Residences offers an array of luxurious living spaces, with residences ranging from two to four bedrooms plus den floorplans. The units vary in size from 1,809 to 3,535 square feet, with four penthouse residences reaching up to 5,073 square feet. Two of the penthouses include private rooftop pool decks. Each unit features high-end finishes, including private and semi-private high-speed elevators, floor-to-ceiling, impact-resistant sliding glass doors and windows, spacious tiled terraces with private gardens, open floor layouts with up to 9-foot-high ceilings, and fully-accessorized Snaidero kitchens with top-of-the-line Miele appliances. Bathrooms boast Italian marble and Milldue cabinetry, complemented by Italian flooring throughout. The residences also include energy-efficient air conditioning and heating systems, as well as advanced air and water filtration systems.
Designed by Bernardo Fort-Brescia of Arquitectonica, Onda reflects its name—meaning “wave” in Italian—through its architectural style and interior design. The interiors, crafted by Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Human Sustainable Architecture, feature soothing, neutral tones inspired by the meeting of water and sand. Award-winning architect Enzo Enea of Enea Garden Design was responsible for the landscaping, adding to the serene and tropical ambiance of the property.
Onda’s prime location offers more than 300 linear feet of bay frontage with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The development includes a private marina with 15 boat slips and a water sports launch dock, providing residents with direct ocean access through Miami’s Haulover Inlet.
The building’s amenities are equally impressive, featuring a rooftop pool deck and lounge area, a state-of-the-art fitness center with Technogym equipment, a yoga studio, and a spa complete with massage treatment rooms, steam bath and sauna rooms. Residents will also enjoy personalized services, state-of-the-art security and technology, a front desk reception, a covered valet drop-off area, personal parking spaces, electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle storage, and residential storage space. An integrated digital concierge, WiFi throughout public spaces, and FTTH technology for voice, video, and high-speed internet are also provided.
Onda marks another successful collaboration between Colombo and Morabito, who previously partnered on the development of Beach House 8, a boutique waterfront condo on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. Colombo’s CMC Group continues to make waves in the Miami real estate market, with projects like Vita at Grove Isle and the Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove in partnership with Fort Partners.
With its prime location, luxurious features, and thoughtful design, Onda Residences is set to become a landmark in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, offering a unique and upscale living experience for its residents.
FAA Approves Height for New Brickell Tower, Clearing a Major Hurdle
In a significant development for the Brickell skyline, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a determination this morning stating that the proposed height for a new tower in the area does not present a hazard to air navigation. The determination letter from the FAA specifically noted that the Calle 8 building height of 737 feet above ground level, or 750 feet above mean sea level, is within acceptable limits.
This decision comes after the Miami-Dade Aviation Department initially objected to a greater proposed height. In April, the development team submitted the new height proposal to the FAA, following concerns raised by the county’s aviation officials. A March letter from these officials stated that an earlier proposal for a tower height of 870 feet above sea level would not comply with the airport height zoning regulations, prompting the revision.
The architectural design of Calle 8 is particularly striking, spanning 65 stories. As of this month, the project is progressing through the zoning approval process with Miami-Dade County planners. The plans for the tower include ground floor retail spaces, a performing arts venue or retail complex, and 464 residential units, alongside various amenity spaces.
Millennium Developments of Brickell, the developer behind this ambitious project, aims to contribute a significant new structure to the Brickell area. With FAA approval secured, the development is poised to proceed further, bringing this vision closer to reality.
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.
830 Brickell Secures $565 Million Construction Loan
Miami’s skyline is set to welcome a new architectural marvel this fall as 830 Brickell, a 57-story, 640,000-square-foot Class A+ office tower, nears completion. Securing a $565 million long-term loan from TYKO Capital, this development underscores its significance as a base for many firms establishing their first Miami office, with over 90 percent of the building’s tenants being new to the market.
Designed by the renowned architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill and featuring interiors by Italian architecture and design company Iosa Ghini Associati, 830 Brickell stands out as the first stand-alone Class A+ office building in Brickell in over a decade. The tower, developed by OKO Group and Cain International, is already fully leased and is in the process of receiving its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy in phases, with tenants actively building out their spaces.
Since construction began in 2020, leasing rates at 830 Brickell have more than doubled, setting a new high standard for Miami’s office market. Initially, office space was priced between $60-$70 per square foot. Recent leases have closed above $150 per square foot, while the Brickell submarket averages around $100 per square foot. This remarkable increase highlights the tower’s premium appeal and the growing demand for high-quality office space in Miami.
TYKO Capital, a commercial real estate private equity and private credit investment management platform, is a joint venture between Adi Chugh and a Florida-based hedge fund. Established in August 2023, TYKO focuses on institutional borrowers and assets in top-tier markets, investing across the entire capital stack and all asset classes. The successful securing of favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell by TYKO Capital marks a significant milestone for the project.
Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of OKO Group, and Jonathan Goldstein, CEO of Cain International, expressed their excitement: “Our ability to secure favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell is a fitting capstone to the building’s success. 830 Brickell has acted as a catalyst for a historic wave of business migration into South Florida, positioning itself as the base for the world’s premier finance, technology, and professional services firms and propelling an office market that continues to outperform other major cities.”
830 Brickell hosts a roster of top-tier financial, technology, and professional services firms, including Microsoft, Citadel, Kirkland & Ellis, Marsh Insurance, Sidley Austin, CI Financial (Corient), Thoma Bravo, Santander Bank, and A-CAP, among others. Many of these firms are currently building out their interior spaces in anticipation of the building’s completion.
The tower’s amenities will include a top-floor restaurant and bar/private club with menus developed alongside a three-Michelin-starred chef, offering expansive views of the city and Biscayne Bay. Other features include a world-class health and wellness center, conferencing facilities, an outdoor terrace, cafés, and street-level retail. The building is conveniently located near multiple transit options, including Metrorail and Metromover, the Brightline, walking paths, cycling lanes, and bay access points. It is also close to Miami’s top residential and lifestyle neighborhoods such as the Design District, Wynwood, Edgewater, and Miami Beach.
