Swire Properties Unveils $100 Million Duplex Penthouse at The Residences at Mandarin Oriental

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental

The latest addition to Miami’s upscale real estate scene is Mandarin Oriental, which, in collaboration with Swire Properties, has launched sales for The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami. This development features 228 luxury branded residences within an 800-foot tower on Brickell Key, just moments away from Miami’s bustling center.

These residences are just a part of the brand’s grand vision to transform this secluded island sanctuary into an unmatched residential and hospitality destination. The South Tower will house The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, while the North Tower is set to become the new North American flagship Mandarin Oriental hotel, connected by a beautifully landscaped podium.

Among the first properties available is the development’s $100 million duplex penthouse. The penthouse offers 23,000 square feet of living space, including 7,000 square feet of private outdoor space.

With 30-foot-high ceilings, interiors by designer Tristan Auer, and unparalleled views of the city skyline from nearly 800 feet above, this residence epitomizes elevated living. The property features multiple outdoor dining and entertainment areas and a sky cabana that can serve as an additional bedroom. The infinity pool, one of Miami’s highest, adds to the allure for those who love heights.

Luxury Residences for Sale

The South Tower offers a range of luxurious residences:

  • Two-bedrooms starting at $4.9 million
  • Three-bedrooms starting at $5.8 million
  • Four-bedrooms starting at $10.5 million
  • Five-bedrooms starting at $17.5 million

The North Tower: A New Flagship Hotel

The North Tower will house the new Mandarin Oriental hotel, featuring:

  • 121 rooms
  • A signature Spa at Mandarin Oriental
  • Multiple intimate fine-dining and al fresco restaurants

This tower will also offer an additional 66 private residences and 28 hotel residences, with sales set to launch later this year.

The Future of Branded Residences in Miami

The branded residence trend continues to gain momentum in Miami, blending luxury living with prestigious brands. With properties like The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, the city is setting new standards for high-end urban living, offering residents unparalleled luxury and world-class amenities.

Urban Development Review Board Approves Major Mixed-Use Project in Overtown, Miami

New Construction in Miami
New Construction in Miami

The Urban Development Review Board (UDRB) has given the green light to a significant mixed-use development at 650 Northwest 8th Street and 678 Northwest 7th Street in Overtown, Miami. This ambitious project is a joint venture between 0101 Miami Properties, LLC, headed by Jorge and Jose Mas, and 8th Street Connections Holdings, LLC, a Terra affiliate. The development will cover over 1.8 million square feet, offering 1,215 residential units, 16,347 square feet of commercial space, and 1,831 parking spaces.

The project, designed by Arquitectonica with interiors by V Starr, will feature three 12-story apartment buildings and a nine-story parking garage with street-facing residential units, along with a three-story apartment building. This design aims to optimize urban living while blending seamlessly with the existing neighborhood. The UDRB unanimously voted 4-0 to recommend the project’s approval as presented during their May 15 meeting.

Located on approximately 8.381 acres, the site is bordered by NW 7th Avenue and NW 6th Avenue, with NW 8th Street and NW 6th Street forming the other boundaries. The area is primarily surrounded by multifamily residential buildings and industrial sites, offering a diverse urban landscape for the new development. This plot was originally assembled by 0101 Miami Properties LLC in 2016 with the intention of developing an MLS stadium for Inter Miami CF.

The development’s renderings reveal a warm, neutral palette that blends modern and classic design elements, creating an attractive urban environment. The street-facing facades feature large, arched windows to maximize natural light, and the building’s stepped-back upper stories add to a varied and engaging roofline.

Terra has announced that the project will be executed in three phases, providing a mix of market-rate, workforce, and affordable housing units. Apartment sizes will range from 465-square-foot studios to three-bedroom units up to 1,517 square feet. The construction of the first phase, which will include approximately 537 units, is slated to begin in 2025. This development marks a significant step forward in addressing Miami’s growing housing needs.

The approval of this mixed-use development by the UDRB represents a major milestone for urban development in Overtown, Miami. With its strategic design and diverse housing options, the project promises to enhance the urban fabric and meet the city’s evolving housing demands. As construction begins in 2025, this development will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Miami’s urban landscape.

One Twenty Brickell Residences: A New Residential Tower in Miami

One Twenty Brickell Residences Miami
One Twenty Brickell Residences Miami

A foundation permit application has been filed for One Twenty Brickell Residences, a 34-story residential tower planned for construction at 120 Southwest 8th Street in Brickell, Miami. Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects with interiors by Cotofana Designs and developed by Property Markets Group (PMG), this new development will feature 240 fully furnished residences, each delivered with its own deeded office suite and over 60,000 square feet of amenities. The foundation permit application was filed with Miami-Dade County on April 30, with no contractor yet named.

One Twenty Brickell Residences will feature a range of studio to three-bedroom apartments, sized from 451 to 1,395 square feet. Each residence will boast fully integrated kitchens with custom countertops and backsplashes, contemporary under-mount sinks, and a high-end appliance package. Additional features include imported and custom kitchen and bathroom cabinetry by Italkraft, WaterWorks bathroom fixtures, glass-enclosed showers, and fully built-out closets in primary bedrooms. The flooring, selected with specifications recommended by Cotofana Designs, includes designer polymer wood and a contemporary lighting package. A built-in top-of-the-line washer and dryer enhance convenience, while PMG’s smart home technology offers efficient, seamless personalization at the touch of a button.

One Twenty Brickell Residences features a unique offering of private office suites, which are deeded individually to condo purchasers. Each office is enclosed with glass panels and equipped with a desk, chair, two guest chairs, a wallpaper accent wall, and complimentary Wi-Fi, providing a functional workspace for residents. Additional office amenities include concierge secretary service, dedicated elevators, a reception area, and a coffee station. For larger meetings, a conference room is available, featuring an eight-person conference table, a 72-inch smart TV with a mounted camera, a conference phone, and Wi-Fi access.

Extensive Amenities for Modern Living

Amenities at One Twenty Brickell Residences encompass over 60,000 square feet, including:

  • Pickleball court with courtside seating
  • Children’s club and gym
  • Sky bar and lounge
  • Cafe and juice bar
  • Infinity-edge pool offering sunset views
  • Dog run
  • Wellness and fitness center featuring steam rooms, saunas, treatment rooms, and relaxation area with outdoor terraces
  • Modern fitness studio with the latest equipment
  • Movement studio and yoga lawn

Additional services available to residents include a building and wellness concierge, comprehensive management of the property, and smart-building technology, all aimed at providing a seamless living experience. The complex is further enhanced by custom art installations, enriching the environment for those who live, work, and play there.

NoMad Residences Wynwood: Securing $141.5 Million in Financing and Pioneering a Unique Residential Experience

NoMad Residences Wynwood
NoMad Residences Wynwood

Related Group and Tricap have successfully secured $141.5 million in financing for the highly anticipated NoMad Residences Wynwood, a significant development in Miami’s vibrant Wynwood Arts District. The project received a $51.5 million mezzanine loan from Related Fund Management and a $90 million senior construction loan from Kennedy Wilson. Construction commenced in October 2023, shortly after the groundbreaking in September.

“Related Group is proud to partner with Related Fund Management and Kennedy Wilson to drive the development of NoMad Residences Wynwood further,” said Nick Pérez, President of Related’s Condominium Division. “This significant capital infusion is a testament to the strong investor confidence in Miami’s residential market and, more notably, our distinct vision for this hospitality-centric and lifestyle-driven development. We’re excited to bring this unique residential experience to Wynwood, which adeptly blends design, culture, and community in a way that only NoMad can.”

Thomas Whitesell, Head of the Debt Investment Group at Kennedy Wilson, echoed these sentiments: “We are pleased to join with Related Fund Management to provide construction financing to Related Group for this exceptional project. Related Group is arguably the premier residential developer in South Florida and their deep experience, particularly in Wynwood, is one of many reasons we were drawn to this investment.”

NoMad Residences Wynwood, designed by Arquitectonica with interiors by DesignAgency, will offer 329 units ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Each residence will feature floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and modern kitchens equipped with Bosch appliances and Italian-style cabinetry. The units come fully furnished with packages from DesignAgency and are designed with no rental restrictions, allowing owners the flexibility to rent their homes for any period.

The development will include a variety of public food and beverage venues. Highlights include a rooftop restaurant and bar managed by Leo Robitschek, a James Beard Award winner, and Casa Tua Cucina on the ground floor, offering Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Residents will enjoy access to an array of amenities such as a rooftop lounge, pool, fitness facilities, and the NoMad Library and Lounge. The building will also showcase art from the Jorge M. Pérez Collection and feature commissioned works that reflect the Wynwood artistic community.

Sales have been robust, with more than 80% of the residences already sold. Completion of NoMad Residences Wynwood is anticipated for late 2025, promising a dynamic and culturally enriched living experience in one of Miami’s most artistic neighborhoods.

MSC Cruises Unveils World’s Largest Cruise Terminal at PortMiami: A Game-Changer for Tourism and Sustainability

Port Miami Unveiled
Port Miami Unveiled

In the ever-evolving landscape of cruise tourism, PortMiami has consistently set benchmarks, but the latest development is setting a new standard. MSC Cruises is nearing the completion of what will be the world’s largest cruise terminal, a state-of-the-art facility with an impressive price tag of $450 million. This ambitious project is not just a testament to MSC Cruises’s commitment to enhancing Miami’s cruise sector but also a beacon of modernity and sustainability.

The new MSC Cruises terminal at PortMiami is poised to be a marvel of modern architecture and operational efficiency. Designed by the renowned firm Arquitectonica, the terminal sprawls over a significant footprint at the bustling port. Its completion is highly anticipated later this year, promising to elevate the passenger experience to unprecedented levels.

Key features of the terminal include:

  • Capacity to Welcome Thousands: On a daily basis, the terminal will handle 36,000 guests across its three cruise berths. This capacity is not just impressive; it’s transformative, designed to streamline operations and enhance passenger comfort from arrival to embarkation.
  • Ample Parking Facilities: With a parking garage that can accommodate 2,400 cars, visitors will find easy access and secure parking, making their travel experience smoother right from the start.
  • Environmental Considerations: In a significant nod to sustainability, the terminal incorporates shore power connectivity. This feature allows docked ships to draw electrical power from the land, significantly reducing the emission of pollutants and underlining MSC’s commitment to environmental stewardship in its operations.

MSC Cruise’s investment in Miami extends beyond the colossal terminal. The company recently announced the construction of a new $100 million headquarters in Overtown, signaling its long-term commitment to the region and its economic health. This facility will not only create jobs but also stimulate local economic activity, fostering community growth and development.

Adding to the excitement, MSC Cruises has revealed plans for a grand naming ceremony for its newest flagship, the MSC Cruises World America, scheduled for April 9, 2025. This event, to be held at the new PortMiami facility, is expected to be a landmark occasion, attracting cruise enthusiasts and dignitaries alike.

As MSC Cruise’s new terminal moves closer to completion, it heralds a new era not just for PortMiami but for the entire cruise industry. This facility is set to become a central hub for international travelers and a model for future cruise terminal developments worldwide. With its blend of capacity, innovation, and sustainability, MSC Cruises new PortMiami terminal is not just a gateway to the seas but a doorway to the future of cruising.

Wynwood Welcomes Major Retail Expansion with Prominent Developers

Society Wynwood
Society Wynwood

In a significant move for the Wynwood Art District’s commercial landscape, a trio of influential development firms—Lion Development Group led by Michael Simkins, LNDMRK Development led by Alex Karakhanian, and Tricera Capital led by Ben Mandell—has jointly acquired 32,000 square feet of prime ground-floor retail space at the Society Wynwood complex. The deal, valued at $22.5 million, marks a pivotal development in one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Prior to the closing, Tricera and LNDMRK had already signed four major leases, securing tenants for approximately 50% of the available space. This proactive leasing strategy brought in a diverse mix of businesses, including Starbucks, Nacho Daddy, Chama De Fogo Brazilian Steakhouse, and I Scream Gelato. These brands are not just filling space; they are set to enhance the local flavor and economic vitality of Wynwood.

The property, developed by Property Markets Group (PMG) and Greybrook, is situated at 2431 NW Second Ave., right in the heart of the Wynwood Art District. This location is pivotal, standing directly across from the iconic Wynwood Walls. “Wynwood’s growth over the last decade has been tremendous, and our team is excited to continue to play a role in elevating the community,” said Ben Mandell, CEO of Tricera Capital.

Alex Karakhanian of LNDMRK Development also shared his enthusiasm for the project: “We are excited to partner with Tricera and Lion on this transformative acquisition. The retail is situated in the core of the district, and continues to attract premium tenants that want to be part of this vibrant community.”

The retail portion of Society Wynwood, along with its nearly 300 modern residential units and private parking garage, positions the building as a premier destination within the district. This integration of living, leisure, and work space reflects the ongoing transformation of Wynwood into a dynamic urban neighborhood where culture and commerce meet.

With successful leasing already underway and more announcements expected soon, the new ownership is poised to continue its momentum. The addition of high-profile tenants like Starbucks, which will occupy approximately 2,600 square feet, and the unique dining experiences offered by Nacho Daddy, Chama De Fogo, and I Scream Gelato, Society Wynwood is set to become a key player in the area’s ongoing development.

Society Wynwood Courtyard

Miami’s Skyline to Soar with the New Midtown 1 Tower

Midtown 1 Miami
Midtown 1 New Construction

After years of anticipation, the Midtown 1 tower, a groundbreaking project set to redefine the skyline of Midtown Miami, is advancing towards realization. The project has now been sent for review by Miami’s Urban Development Review Board, with the initial renderings of this architectural marvel released to the public for the first time.

Standing at an impressive height of 596 feet, Midtown 1 is slated to become the tallest tower in Midtown Miami. The tower will rise up to 48 stories, towering over the district and offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. This high-rise is designed to accommodate:

  • 400 residential units: A mix of luxury apartments designed for comfort and style, promising an upscale living experience.
  • 27,658 square feet of retail space: Intended to host a variety of shops and boutiques, this area is expected to transform into a bustling hub for shopping and leisure.
  • 498 parking spaces spread across five levels: Ample parking ensures convenience for residents and visitors alike.

The architectural genius behind Midtown 1 comes from Arquitectonica, a renowned firm celebrated for their innovative and forward-thinking designs. The project is being developed by Midtown 1 Investments, a collaborative venture led by Terra and Lion Development Group. This partnership brings together extensive experience and a shared vision for transformative urban development.

The Miami Urban Development Review Board is scheduled to conduct a hearing on the proposal on May 15. This session is crucial as it will determine the next steps in the approval process, moving closer to bringing this ambitious project to life.

Midtown 1 represents not just a building, but a beacon of modern living and urban development. As Midtown Miami continues to grow and evolve, Midtown 1 stands poised to become a landmark that encapsulates the vibrancy and dynamism of the city.

Midtown 1

Introducing Clear Residences in Downtown Miami

Clear Residences in Downtown Miami
Clear Residences in Downtown Miami

Toronto-based Blutrich Holdings, spearheaded by real estate mogul Gil Blutrich, is set to transform Downtown Miami’s skyline with their latest venture, Clear Residences. This ambitious project proposes a 60-story mixed-use building situated at 130 Southeast 1st Street, a prime location in the heart of the Central Business District.

Clear Residences is designed to be a nearly 690-foot-tall architectural marvel, encompassing approximately 666,432 square feet. The structure is planned by Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design, with landscape architecture by KEITH. The project aims to offer 549 residential units alongside 3,622 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. Furthermore, residents will enjoy nearly 40,000 square feet of amenities and a parking garage designed to hold 157 vehicles. The Miami Urban Development Review Board is expected to review the project proposal on May 15.

Currently, the site operates as a surface parking lot, covering about 23,750 square feet or 0.55 acres, bordered by SE 1st Street and SE 2nd Street, with SE 1st Avenue and SE 2nd Avenue flanking its sides.

The design of Clear Residences aims to blend seamlessly with the urban fabric of Downtown Miami while standing out with its modern architectural elements. The building is characterized by sleek, curved corners and a striking glass façade. A unique feature of the design is the building’s rooftop, which includes landscaped terraces that provide a stunning contrast to its linear structure, enhancing the visual appeal and reducing the massiveness of the tower.

The tower’s position within the city allows it to capture breathtaking views from Biscayne Bay towards the west, emphasizing its prominence in the city’s landscape. The architectural renderings reveal a structure that honors the area’s vibrancy while contributing to the skyline’s dynamic evolution.

Several detailed renderings showcase the building’s intricate fenestration and façade, which includes vertical columns wrapped in golden metal, wrap-around frameless glass guardrails, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The bronze aluminum cladding panels add a touch of elegance and modernity to the overall design.

Blutrich Holdings has requested several waivers to facilitate this project, including increased lot coverage and adjustments to building setbacks and frontage access. These requests are aligned with recent amendments to local zoning codes, aiming to accommodate the unique design and structural requirements of Clear Residences.

Clear Residences is poised to be a significant addition to Miami’s downtown area, offering luxury living combined with breathtaking designs and state-of-the-art amenities. As the review date approaches, all eyes will be on how this project will further shape the future of Miami’s urban landscape.

Alta Developers Announces New Short-Term Rental-Friendly Condo Project in Coral Gables

Cassia New Construction Coral Gables
Cassia New Construction Coral Gables

Alta Developers, a prominent Miami-based real estate firm, has officially launched sales for its latest venture, a short-term rental-friendly condominium known as Cassia, located in the vibrant heart of Coral Gables. This announcement marks a significant shift from the company’s initial plans of developing an apartment complex at 4011 Salzedo Avenue.

Originally intended as a multifamily apartment building, the project’s direction shifted about six months to a year ago, amidst challenging market conditions. “The multifamily market is pretty tough today. With interest rates and costs, it’s very difficult to launch a multifamily project,” explained Raimundo Onetto, CEO of Alta Developers. He further noted the sustained demand in the condo market, which influenced the strategic redirection towards developing Cassia as a condo project suitable for short-term rentals.

Cassia is set to rise as a 12-story building offering 174 residential units, with sizes ranging from 662 to 1,439 square feet. The units, which will include options from one to three bedrooms, are priced starting in the $700,000s, stretching up to about $1.8 million. Each condo will be delivered fully finished and furnished, featuring elegant interiors by RH (formerly Restoration Hardware), ensuring a premium living experience.

The development is designed to attract a diverse group of buyers, including foreign investors and families with children attending the University of Miami, as well as medical professionals working at nearby hospitals. “People can use it when they’re here, and when they’re not here they can put it into a management program that allows them cash flow. … This is a great way to start your real estate portfolio,” said Jesse Ottley, President of Development Sales, highlighting the project’s flexibility.

Set to open a sales center this month at 4201 South LeJeune Road, Cassia is strategically located near top shopping destinations like the Shops at Merrick Park and luxury automotive dealer The Collection. The project promises a rich array of amenities including a café, gym, multiple pools, and a landscaped garden on the fifth floor, not to mention a striking $1 million tree sculpture within a serene paseo.

With plans to break ground by year-end, Alta Developers aims to secure construction financing by selling approximately 40% to 45% of the units—roughly 70 units in total. The anticipated loan amount is around $60 million, with construction expected to last about 18 to 20 months.

Alta Developers purchased the 1.5-acre site for $17.5 million in late 2020 from Baptist Health South Florida. The site’s history includes a previous development plan by Ugo Colombo and Masoud Shojaee, which was later sold to Baptist in the wake of a legal dispute.

Cassia represents a significant addition to Coral Gables and South Florida’s growing portfolio of short-term rental-friendly developments, joining other noteworthy projects like 600 Miami Worldcenter and Natiivo Fort Lauderdale. As Alta Developers embarks on this exciting project, Cassia is poised to become a cornerstone of flexible urban living in Coral Gables.

Cassia Coral Gables

New Renderings Revealed for Mercedes Benz Places

Mercedes Benz Places Pool Deck
Mercedes Benz Places Lobby

Mercedes Benz Places tower just revealed new renderings of the stunning 67-story edifice that’s taking shape in the heart of Brickell. This reveal, strategically timed ahead of the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix weekend, not only captured the essence of luxury and innovation but also marked a significant milestone in real estate developments.

From the outset, Mercedes Benz Places has been a beacon of architectural ambition and opulence. It’s no surprise that the tower has already set a sales record, with 100 units snapped up within the first four days of marketing. This brisk pace of sales underscores the high demand and prestige associated with owning a part of this iconic building.

The image reveal event was held at The Concours Club, providing an apt setting for unveiling a project that melds luxury with cutting-edge design. Attendees got their first look at the sophisticated aesthetic and architectural nuances of the tower. Notably, the building features giant Mercedes logos at the porte cochere and atop the rooftop pool, these design elements echo the luxury and excellence synonymous with the Mercedes brand.

The event was graced by notable figures including Toto Wolff, the CEO of Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team; Michael Stern, CEO of JDS Development; and Ryan Serhant, a renowned real estate mogul. Their presence highlighted the significant collaboration and vision that drives the Mercedes Benz Places project.

The Mercedes Benz Places tower in Brickell is more than just a high-rise; it’s a symbol of luxury living and architectural grandeur. As the tower rises, it promises to reshape the Miami skyline and offer an unmatched living experience. The enthusiastic reception of the new renderings is just a precursor to the transformative impact this tower will have on luxury real estate in Miami.

For those interested in a blend of luxury and performance, Mercedes Benz Places appears to be setting new standards on every front. As the construction progresses, all eyes will undoubtedly remain on this landmark project that’s poised to become one of the most coveted addresses in Miami.

Mercedes Benz Places Penthouse Kitchen
Mercedes Benz Places Ocean View and Pool Deck
Mercedes Benz Places Pool Deck
Mercedes Benz Places Living Room with Ocean View