The skyline of Brickell is set to receive a significant addition with the ongoing construction of the 1 Southside Park project. The developer behind this massive undertaking has recently submitted revised plans and renderings to the county, showcasing a range of adjustments aimed at enhancing the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
1 Southside Park is a mixed-use development that promises to redefine urban living in Brickell. Among its many components is the residential segment known as Mercedes Benz Places, which is already making strides with a recent foundation pour marking the progress of its first phase.
The revised plans introduce several notable changes:
Increase in Open Space: The updated design incorporates more open space, providing residents and visitors with ample areas to enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.
Increase in Lot Coverage: There is a slight increase in lot coverage by 6%, optimizing the use of available land.
Reduction in Residential Units: The number of residential units has been reduced by 185, bringing the total to 1,010 units, a 15% decrease.
Reduction in Office Space: The office area has been trimmed down by 11,930 square feet, resulting in a 7% decrease.
Increase in Commercial Space: Commercial space has seen a significant boost, with an addition of 26,129 square feet, representing a 23% increase.
Larger Fire Station: The project now includes a larger fire station to better serve the community.
Overall Reduction in Floor Area: The total floor area has been reduced by 43,453 square feet, making the design more efficient and streamlined.
The newly revised plans outline a structure that will rise to an impressive 61 stories, with a total of 64 levels and a roof height of 780 feet above sea level. Here are the detailed specifications:
Hotel Units: 200 units (no change in unit count, but a reduction in square footage)
Commercial Space: 142,129 square feet (+23%)
Office Space: 153,070 square feet (-7%)
Residential Units: 1,010 units (-15%)
Parking Spaces: 881 spaces (-12%)
Governmental Space: 38,582 square feet (+21%)
The ambitious 1 Southside Park project is being developed by JDS Development Group, a company known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. The architectural brilliance of the project is being spearheaded by ODP Architects, who serve as the architect of record.
Exciting New Residential Project Proposed in Miami: Gamla Health District
Miami is known for its dynamic skyline and ever-evolving urban landscape. Adding to this vibrant city’s growth, planners have recently received an application for a new residential project named Gamla Health District. This exciting new development promises to enhance the city’s residential offerings with a blend of modern design, convenient amenities, and strategic location.
The proposed Gamla Health District is a 20-story residential structure, poised to become a significant addition to Miami’s architectural scene. Here are some key details about the project:
Residential Units: The building will house 224 residential units. The majority of these units will be 1-bedroom apartments, complemented by a selection of studios and 2-bedroom units, catering to a diverse range of residents from young professionals to small families.
Amenities: The development plans include a leasing office, co-working spaces, and various other amenities designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for its residents.
Parking: Addressing one of the critical needs in urban living, the project includes 257 parking spaces. These will be distributed across a 7-level garage, cleverly integrated into the design and mostly hidden by residential units, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the structure.
Height: The tower is planned to reach a height of 232 feet above ground, making it a notable presence in the city’s skyline.
The entity behind this ambitious project is Gamla Cedron HD, LLC. This company has a vision of creating a residential space that not only meets the housing needs but also adds value to the community with thoughtfully designed amenities and facilities.
The architectural plans have been crafted by Behar Font, a name synonymous with innovative and sustainable urban design. Their expertise is expected to bring a fresh and contemporary touch to the Miami skyline with the Gamla Health District.
A crucial step in the approval process for the Gamla Health District is an upcoming hearing. The Urban Development Review Board of Miami is scheduled to review the application today. This hearing will be a significant milestone, as it will determine whether the project can proceed as planned.
Miami’s Urban Development Review Board Set to Review 55-Story Tower Proposal in Edgewater
An application for the proposed 55-story tower at 419 Northeast 19th Street in the Edgewater neighborhood has been received by the Miami’s Urban Development Review Board. This project, which was initially filed in October 2023, has been scheduled for review on July 20, 2024, after undergoing several updates and modifications.
The development team for this ambitious project includes:
The property at 419 Northeast 19th Street is owned by a joint venture between SB Development, led by Joseph Stern, and Hazelton Capital Group, based in New York. The development team has formally requested the UDRB to consider their updated proposal at the upcoming meeting.
The project was previously reviewed in October 2023 but was withdrawn before a decision was made. Since then, notable updates include:
Reduction in the Podium Footprint: To lessen the overall mass and aesthetic impact.
Detailed and Articulated Façade: To screen the parking garage.
Green Wall Addition: On the north elevation to enhance interaction with neighboring properties.
Increased Parking Spaces: From 172 to 180.
Climbing Plants: Introduction on the north façade of the podium.
Water Fountain: A new water feature wrapping around the northeastern corner of the ground floor.
Relocation of Northeast Egress Path and Exit Door: To allow for a continuous water fountain around the corner.
The resubmitted plans, which were updated on June 5, 2024, feature a total floor area of 552,604 square feet, accommodating 463 residential units and 444 parking spaces. The units range from studios to four-bedroom apartments, varying in size from 403 to 2,223 square feet. Amenities will be located on the 9th and 10th floors, as well as the rooftop, including a sky lounge, private dining area, prep kitchen, and pool.
The architectural design aims to blend the new structure seamlessly with its surroundings. The tower features a sleek, modern profile with curvilinear lines that give it a distinctive and elegant appearance. The tower’s elevations are characterized by horizontal bands of glass and metal, creating a wave-like effect.
The podium has been designed to respond to the character of the block, which includes an existing residential tower to the north. It will feature climbing plants on the north façade, giving the appearance of a green wall facing the existing apartments. A water fountain wrapping around the façade on the northeastern corner of the ground floor will create an enhanced ground-level experience near the gateway to Margaret Pace Park, helping to create an inviting atmosphere. Additionally, a bronze-colored perforated metal screen wrapping the parking garage will screen internal elements from view and limit the aesthetic impact on the surrounding neighborhood.
The project’s art treatment includes a bronze-colored perforated metal screen that wraps around the parking podium and the ground-floor façade. This screen will be lit from the bottom of each panel to enhance the pedestrian experience. The curved metal in the art treatment will require regular maintenance to ensure its aesthetic quality.
The property, with a gross lot area of 14,277 square feet, is located within the T6-36B-L transect zone, allowing for a mix of residential and commercial uses. The project seeks seven waivers, including reductions in required setbacks, drive aisle width, and parking stall length. It also requests a 30% reduction in parking needed due to its location within the Transit Oriented Development area and the Urban Central Business District overlay. Additionally, waivers are requested to allow above-ground parking in the second layer and to eliminate pedestrian entrance spacing requirements.
The proposed 55-story tower at 419 Northeast 19th Street promises to be a significant addition to the Edgewater skyline. With its sleek design, enhanced ground-level experience, and extensive amenities, it aims to provide a modern and inviting living space for future residents. The UDRB’s upcoming review will be a critical step in determining the project’s future.
CMC Group Secures $69.9 Million Loan for 4000 Ponce/The Collection in Coral Gables
CMC Group has obtained a significant $69.9 million loan from City National Bank of Florida (CNB) for the refinancing of 4000 Ponce/The Collection. This nine-story, Class-A mixed-use office and retail development, situated in the heart of Coral Gables, was developed by CMC Group Founder Ugo Colombo in 2002. The Mediterranean-style building is not only an architectural marvel but also a hub for luxury and business, featuring The Collection, a high-end car dealership showcasing brands such as Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Porsche.
Located at the intersection of Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Bird Road, 4000 Ponce/The Collection encompasses 150,000 square feet of Class A office space and 32,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. The property boasts over 90% occupancy, with prestigious tenants including Steinway & Sons, Coldwell Banker, and Hemisphere Media Group.
“Our ability to secure this refinancing for 4000 Ponce is a testament to the building’s enduring value and strategic significance in the Coral Gables market,” said Ugo Colombo. “As the anchor of Coral Gables’ Southern Business District, 4000 Ponce not only boasts a premier walkable setting adjacent to The Shops at Merrick Park, but also a top-tier tenant roster including The Collection’s flagship location, which has called the building home for more than 20 years. With this refinancing, 4000 Ponce continues to set the standard for being one of the most prestigious business addresses in Miami, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone of sophistication and quality in the market.”
The refinancing process was facilitated by JLL Capital Markets, with a team led by Senior Managing Director Paul Stasaitis, Associate Paul Adams, and Analyst Nicole Barba. Legal representation was provided by Jim Shindell and Hannah Lidicker of Bilzin Sumberg. The five-year, floating-rate senior loan secured through City National Bank of Florida underscores the building’s robust market presence and the sponsor’s proven track record.
Gary Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President and Real Estate Banking Executive at City National Bank of Florida, added, “CMC Group has been one of Florida’s most prolific real estate firms for more than 30 years, and 4000 Ponce has been a centerpiece of commercial activity in Coral Gables since its development. Our decision to finance the asset aligned closely with our dual focus on relationship banking and providing capital to clients that are fueling Florida’s real estate market, which is among the nation’s strongest.”
Built in 2002, 4000 Ponce features a grand lobby adorned with marble, Venetian stucco, cherry millwork, and bronze accents, embodying Mediterranean-style architecture. Each office floor offers approximately 30,000 rentable square feet with flexible floor plans. The building is equipped with advanced broadband communications, high-speed internet, data network services, and ample on-site parking.
The strategic location of 4000 Ponce/The Collection offers tenants easy access to executive housing, The Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables trolley service, a nearby MetroRail station, and proximity to US-1 and Miami International Airport.
Introducing 14 ROC Miami: A New Condo Tower by GFO Investments
GFO Investments is excited to announce the launch of sales for their latest condo tower, 14 ROC Miami. This impressive 32-story development promises to be a landmark in the city’s skyline, offering modern living spaces with a flexible rental policy that suits a variety of lifestyles.
The 14 ROC condo tower will feature a total of 283 units, providing ample options for potential homeowners. These units range from cozy 410-square-foot studios to spacious 964-square-foot apartments, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Prices for these stylish units start at $495,000, making 14 ROC an attractive option for both investors and residents seeking a blend of luxury and convenience.
RSP Architects, a firm renowned for its innovative and sustainable designs, is at the helm of 14 ROC’s architectural design. The interiors of the condo tower will be crafted by March and White Design, known for their sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic. To complement the sleek interiors, Urban Robot Associates will be designing the landscape, ensuring that the outdoor spaces are as inviting and beautiful as the interiors.
GFO Investments has a proven track record of delivering high-quality developments. Their recent project, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, opened on July 1 and has already received rave reviews for its luxurious amenities and prime location. The success of Gale Miami Hotel & Residences sets a high standard, and 14 ROC is poised to continue this tradition of excellence.
Fortune International Group Secures Pre-Development Loan for ORA by Casa Tua in Brickell
Fortune International Group, a prominent Miami-based developer, has made a bold move by acquiring a prime 46,373-square-foot site at 1210 Brickell Ave in the heart of Brickell. This acquisition is a crucial milestone for the ORA by Casa Tua project, further supported by a substantial $36,080,000 pre-development loan from Amerant Bank. The project, set to redefine luxury living in Miami, is now on track for its groundbreaking in 2025.
The site was purchased from Miami-based Patagonian Investment Internacional LLC, and the developer is now gearing up for the construction phase, with groundbreaking expected to commence in 2025.
ORA by Casa Tua is set to be a landmark development in Miami, standing at 77 stories and approximately 930 feet tall. The building, designed by Arquitectonica with interiors by m2atelier, will feature 533 fully furnished residences available for short-term rentals. This ambitious project aims to embody Miami’s dynamic and evolving spirit, establishing itself as a prime destination in the city.
The development will also include approximately 25,000 square feet dedicated to Casa Tua’s four new restaurant concepts. Additionally, it will feature creative workspaces with private office spaces, conference rooms, content creation rooms, bar lounges, and outdoor seating areas.
Edgardo Defortuna, President, CEO, and founder of Fortune International Group, expressed his excitement about the project: “The acquisition of the site and loan closing are principal steps that mark an exciting beginning for ORA by Casa Tua’s vision to take shape. We are eager for Miami’s community to sense the anticipation and witness the project come to life.”
ORA by Casa Tua promises a range of luxurious amenities, including a second pool on the 12th floor with a sun shelf, loungers, cabanas, a jacuzzi, a show kitchen, a private event space, and lush landscaping. Residents will also enjoy an entertainment lounge, a two-floor fitness and wellness center with a hammam and couples treatment rooms, and a unique three-story open sky garden.
The residences will range from 500-square-foot studios to 2,400-square-foot four-bedroom units, all fully furnished and ready for immediate listing as short-term, seasonal, or long-term rentals. These units will offer stunning panoramic views of Brickell, Biscayne Bay, and Coconut Grove, featuring ten-foot ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows and curated window treatments. The Italian-designed kitchens will be equipped with top-tier appliances, and the Italian-designed baths will include imported fixtures. Additionally, the residences will be outfitted with smart home technology and spacious walk-in closets.
Casa Tua, founded by Miky and Leticia Grendene, opened its flagship Miami Beach location in 2001. It quickly became known as a welcoming place for friends, family, and guests from around the world to celebrate life. Pioneering the members club concept in Miami, Casa Tua blends art, entertainment, and fine dining with a signature Italian style. Over the years, it has expanded to Aspen and Paris, with a New York City location opening in 2023. The brand also launched Casa Tua Cucina in partnership with Richard Baker and Saks Fifth Avenue, an award-winning Italian open kitchen concept located in Miami’s Brickell City Centre.
ORA by Casa Tua is poised to add to this legacy, offering a unique blend of luxury living and innovative design that reflects the vibrant spirit of Miami. As the project progresses, it will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of the Brickell skyline and a testament to Fortune International Group’s vision and commitment to excellence.
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.
Discover Solana Bay: Miami’s New Boutique Residential Enclave
A new residential boutique in Miami, Solana Bay, has recently unveiled its first-look renderings by the award-winning design firm Avenue Interior Design. Solana Bay promises an unparalleled coastal sanctuary with its elegant architecture and seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living.
With just 52 elevated residences, Solana Bay offers an exclusive living experience. The residences range from two to four bedrooms, each featuring masterfully executed design and customizable options for a personalized touch. The interiors exude a warm and inviting ambiance with museum-quality finishes and flow-focused layouts that maximize stunning views from every angle.
Located at 2305 NE 123rd St. in North Miami, Solana Bay is a collaboration between BH Group and Kolter Urban, with architectural design by Arquitectonica. Sales and marketing are managed by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing, ensuring a seamless experience from purchase to move-in.
Solana Bay’s luxury address offers a range of amenities designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles. The lobby features a private dining area and bayfront terrace, while the Residents Lounge provides morning coffee, tea, pastries, and a weekly wine and cheese happy hour. The rooftop pool deck offers a private-club atmosphere with cabanas, daybeds, and an outdoor bar.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the state-of-the-art Fitness Center, complete with yoga and Pilates studios, and an outdoor space for meditation. For those who love the water, a standup paddleboard launch and storage allow easy exploration of Biscayne Bay. Additional amenities include a TV Lounge & Library, Executive Board Room, Game Room, Library Lounge, and a paved Bay Walk for leisurely strolls along the shoreline.
Solana Bay represents a departure from typical high-rise towers in Miami. Its design focuses on balance, calm, and luxury, creating a living experience unlike any other. The residences and amenities reflect a sense of warmth and elegance, with textures, materials, and finishes that create a luxurious and welcoming atmosphere.
Penthouse at Rivage Bal Harbour Hits the Market for $75 Million
A stunning ultra-luxe penthouse has recently hit the market at Rivage Bal Harbour for $75 million, setting the one-of-a-kind unit as one of the most expensive listings in Miami. Rivage Bal Harbour is a 54-unit luxury oceanfront condominium being developed by Related Group, Two Roads Development, and Rockpoint and is one of the neighborhood’s first new developments in 20 years.
The penthouse offers 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and 3 powder rooms, spanning a total of 17,521 SF. The interior measures 12,603 SF, while the exterior offers 4,918 SF of space. Unique features of this penthouse include a multi-level terrace, private outdoor pool, media room, game room, library/lounge, fitness studio, outdoor kitchen, and a private elevator.
Residents of Rivage Bal Harbour will have access to a private beachfront enclave and a wide range of resort-style amenities. The development offers 25,000 SF of exceptional amenities, including a luxury spa, fitness pavilion with ocean views, game rooms, multiple lounges, and a world-class restaurant overlooking the beach and ocean.
Some of the key amenities at Rivage Bal Harbour include:
Signature oceanfront dining experience: Exclusively for residents and their guests.
Curated social spaces: Media room, library, breakfast bar, and cocktail lounge.
Activities deck: Resort-style pools, outdoor spa, sunbeds, cabanas, poolside food and beverage service, pickleball and padel courts.
Rivage spa: Sauna, hammam, hot and cold plunge pools, and private treatment rooms.
Fully serviced beach club
State-of-the-art fitness center: High-impact training room and yoga studio.
Virtual reality game simulator
Imaginative children’s playroom
Bicycle storage
Service amenities at Rivage Bal Harbour include a residential butler and estate manager to facilitate deliveries, errands, and in-residence services such as personal chef services, shopping, medical concierge, housekeeping, laundry/dry cleaning, and maintenance. Additional services include in-residence dining and catering, 24-hour security and valet services, a house car, on-site general manager, and a mailroom with secure package technology.
For those interested in this exclusive penthouse, a unique sales experience utilizing Fortnite technology is available for ultra-realistic virtual reality tours. This cutting-edge technology allows buyers to explore and share tours via a link, with instantly interchangeable finishes to explore various possibilities.
Bal Harbour has been an elite enclave since its inception in 1929, offering one of the most sophisticated and culturally rich versions of South Florida’s glamorous lifestyle. With its luxurious amenities and unparalleled features, the $75 million penthouse at Rivage Bal Harbour truly embodies the epitome of luxury living in Miami.
Foundation Pour Completed for Mercedes Benz Places Miami
The foundation pour for the impressive 67-story Mercedes Benz Places Miami has been successfully completed, as announced by the developer on their social media account. This significant achievement sets the stage for the vertical construction, which is scheduled to commence in July.
The foundation pour took place in the last week, involving a colossal effort with over 10,000 cubic yards of concrete being transported to the site. This marks one of the largest concrete pours in the region, highlighting the scale and ambition of the project.
Mercedes Benz Places is not just another building; it is one of the largest developments currently under construction in Florida. The project spans an impressive 2.5 million square feet, making it a significant addition to the state’s skyline.
Upon completion, Mercedes Benz Places will feature 791 residential units, providing luxurious living spaces in the heart of the city. In addition to the residential units, the development will include office spaces, a hotel, retail outlets, and various amenity spaces, offering a comprehensive and vibrant community for its residents and visitors.
With the foundation pour now completed, all eyes are on the upcoming vertical construction phase set to begin in July. As the tower begins to rise, it will not only transform the skyline but also set new standards for mixed-use developments in the region.
Boasting 791 residences ranging from studios to three-bedroom condominiums, each unit offers panoramic views of Miami, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond its residential offerings, the tower will feature 130,000 square feet of amenities and hospitality space, 200,000 square feet of office space, a 174-key hotel, retail outlets, and ample on-site parking.
What sets Mercedes-Benz Places apart is its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The project incorporates cutting-edge mobility solutions, including EV charging stations, valet parking, and bike-sharing programs, ensuring residents embrace a seamless urban lifestyle. Moreover, sustainability lies at the core of its design, with initiatives such as energy-efficient production and water conservation contributing to a greener, more eco-conscious community.
