Aria Development and Merrimac Ventures Buy Miami Worldcenter Site for $17.5 Million for Proposed Condo Building
After purchasing a redevelopment site for $17.5 million, Aria Development Group and Merrimac Ventures have proposed a new Miami Worldcenter condominium building.
According to records, the joint venture paid the labor union $11 million to take over the former Miami headquarters of the International Longshoremen’s Association at 33-55 Northwest Sixth Street. According to a press statement, Aria and Merrimac also paid $6.5 million to acquire a neighboring unoccupied 1.2-acre site from a partner of Miami Worldcenter developers Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani.
The project calls for a 32-story skyscraper with about 600 fully furnished residential units with no limitations on short-term rentals with pricing starting at $395,000.
The final construction plot that was up for grabs in the Miami Worldcenter district was purchased by Fort Lauderdale-based Merrimac, led by Nitin and Dev Motwani, and Miami-based Aria, led by principal David Arditi, according to Mattingly.
Merrimac and The Related Group partnered earlier this year to pay $12 million for another Miami Worldcenter development plot at 601 North Miami Avenue, The Crosby, a 33-story, 450-unit condo tower that will also be accommodating to short-term rentals.
Miami Worldcenter, a $4 billion master-planned mixed-use city, is luring titans of the real estate sector to make investments in the area. For a property at 697 North Miami Avenue that was previously permitted for a 40-story, 429-unit skyscraper, a business connected to WeWork co-founder Adam Neumann received $108 million in construction financing in February. Neumann also owns the Caoba apartment complex, which is a nearby residence.
A.5-acre development site on Northwest 10th Street and North Miami Avenue was purchased by San Antonio-based Lynd Living in August for $30 million. Although a 650-unit apartment building is permitted on the plot, Lynd hasn’t made its official plans public.
One acre at 1016 Northeast Second Avenue, where the New York-based developer intends to construct a two-tower residential complex, was purchased by Naftali Group for $40.5 million a month later.
Aria Development Plans 105 Unit Development in South Brickell-2200 Brickell
Miami’s 2200 Brickell is a brand-new, luxurious condo offering an unrivaled modern condo investment opportunity. Across from opulent waterfront towers, close to Coconut Grove and the Rickenbacker Causeway. On 1.65 acres, these 105 condo units will be a great residential choice in the most sought-after part of downtown Miami.
After the recent success of YotelPad and the current spectacular new short-term rental developments with AirBNB of 501 First Residences and 600 Miami Worldcenter, ARIA Development Group, a builder with high prestige in the market, will develop 2200 Brickell residences. Aria Development is also partnering with Largo and Place Projects on 2200 Brickell.
Developer: Aria Development Group, Largo, Place Projects
Architecture: Revuelta Architecture International
Interior Design: ODA New York
Number of Residences: 105
Number of Stories: 5
Residences:
1 Bedroom 590 – 864 SF
2 Bedroom 1,187 – 1,329 SF
3 Bedroom 1,470 – 1,846 SF
Garden Villas
2 Bedroom1,233 – 1,793 SF
Bedroom1,973 – 2,070 SF
Residence Amenities:
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding glass balcony doors
Large format ceramic tile flooring throughout the living area with engineered wood flooring in bedrooms
Fully tiled balconies featuring glass railings with access from the living room and primary bedroom of every residence
Custom gourmet kitchens designed by ODA New York with wood cabinetry and stone countertops
Luxury primary bathrooms featuring double vanities, stone countertops, porcelain tile on walls and floors as well as rain showers
Spacious, fully built-out custom closets
Dedicated laundry featuring a full-sized washer and dryer
Development Amenities:
Covered porte-cochère
On-site valet parking
Double-height, 24-hour attended lobby
Above-ground parking on all levels with direct access to residences
Electric vehicle charging
Luxer One automated parcel storage featuring tech-forward, contactless digital package delivery system with cold storage
The resident lounge and entertaining space
Dedicated work-from-home suites with conference room
World-class state-of-the-art fitness center designed by Homage Fitness
Custom children’s playroom designed by Silver Hill Arts
Cycling lounge & workshop and bike storage
WELL Building StandardTM designation with thoughtful and intentional spaces that enhance human health and well-being
Resort-style pool with outdoor spa and poolside cabanas
Pickleball court
Summer kitchen with ample seating
Outdoor fitness area designed by Homage Fitness
Children’s play area by Silver Hill Arts
Quarter-mile walking track
Pricing for the units will begin at $1,000,000.
Midway through October 2200 Brickell Holding LLC and Miami-Water Dade’s and Sewer Department reached an agreement for the supply of utilities for the new project. The demolition permit to clear the site was also issued in August 2022.
Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami Sold the Largest Penthouse in the United States
The Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami’s 5-star luxury penthouse, which will grow to be the largest in the country and sit atop Miami’s first supertall tower, has been sold for an undisclosed sum. The tallest residential building south of Manhattan will be the five-story, 33,000+ square foot “Mansion in the Sky.”
For the future of real estate in Downtown Miami, the transaction represents a fortunate start. The unidentified client was looking for an upscale residence, and together with the development team, they created what will serve as the pinnacle of the buyer’s individual real estate portfolio as well as the Miami skyline.
Upon completion, this unique penthouse suspended 1,050 feet in the air, will occupy the top five floors of the skyscraper and provide unmatched vistas in every direction. The home will be just under 34,000 square feet in size and have 10 bedrooms, 11 and a half bathrooms, and ceiling heights of up to 25 feet.
A wall-street-style trading room, safe room, billiards area, private movie theater, screening room with two 90-inch theater screens, three wine cellars, full-scale bar, wellness center with cutting-edge equipment, massage rooms, infrared sauna, and a 20-car garage to house the owner’s extensive car collection are just a few of the extravagant amenities it will feature.
The sole usage of the tower’s private roof deck belongs to the mega-penthouse. Three cabanas, a huge pool, a swim-up tiki bar, an outdoor gym, and a multi-use court for racquetball, pickleball, and basketball are all located on the roof. Other features are currently being finished for the owner.
According to the Managing Partner of PMG, “This penthouse sale is an indicator of the strength and tenacity of the luxury real estate market in Miami, and just how special Waldorf Astoria is to buyers and brand enthusiasts. We are confident in the continued momentum at Waldorf Astoria Miami, and know the property will completely elevate the standard of luxury living as we know it.”
Construction on the Waldorf Astoria Residences Miami is expected to begin on October 27, 2022, and end in 2026.
In order to highlight Waldorf Astoria’s first foray into the Miami market, PMG, along with partners Greybrook, Mohari Hospitality, S2 Development, and the international hospitality business Hilton, set out to build a landmark beacon for the city of Miami. The goal is to offer an aesthetically spectacular structure with expertly built residences and unmatched amenities to Miami’s famous Biscayne Boulevard for residents and future hotel visitors to enjoy. The Waldorf Astoria Miami anticipates ushering in a new era for this magical city as the tallest residential structure south of New York and the first supertall tower in Florida.
The Waldorf Astoria Miami, which is situated at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, will have nine spiraling, offset glass cubes that are evenly placed and covered in what is sometimes described to as a “glass skin” to set it apart from other East Coast properties. In order to develop an iconic edifice in Downtown Miami that offers 360-degree views of Downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and the Atlantic Ocean, Sieger Suarez Architects and famous architect Carlos Ott collaborated.
Additionally, the developers collaborated with award-winning interior design company BAMO, which takes pride in designing enticing surroundings that flow, function, and inspire individuals to live and dream more completely. Along with guest rooms and suites inside the five-star hotel, the resort will have 360 private houses. Peacock Alley, a specialty restaurant, indoor/outdoor pre-function and event spaces, conference and boardrooms, a resort-style pool deck with private cabanas, a spa, and a fitness facility will all be considered signature areas.
501 First Residences Receives Construction Loan
Construction is moving forward at 501 First Residences with a new benchmark after developers receive a construction loan for $80.9 million.
This new 40-story tower with 448, will be developed by Aria Development Group and designed by Revuelta Architecture International, who also designed Wind and 900 Biscayne. 501 First Residences will be located at 501 Northeast 1st Avenue with views of downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay.
According to the Aria Development group, this particular development will be built to cater to the short-term rental market. The biggest perk is that there will be no rental restrictions. This means the resident can utilize any consumer platform (Vrbo, Expedia, Airbnb, etc.) to rent and each unit can be rented for 1 day or more.
The renderings reveal floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive balconies. The sleek structure is curved creating a horizontal and vertical grid-like design. The exact height of the development hasn’t been released but we can expect the 40-story high structure to be over 450 feet in height.
The loan of $80.924 million was arranged by Berkadia with the funding issued by Bank OZK with a floating 42-month interest-only loan.
On the property, demolition has already finished.
Although 501 First Residences is sold out, if you or someone you know has an interest in purchasing downtown Miami, please contact Lucas Lechuga via email at [email protected] or by phone at 786-247-6332.
First Look at Resident’s Only Members Club at Five Park
The newest luxury residential tower building in Miami Beach, Five Park by Terra and GFO Investment, has revealed plans for the first residents-only, fully-serviced social club inside a luxury apartment. A social amenity package centered on cultural activities, fitness, and fine dining is offered by The Canopy Club.
A specialized club-level concierge and extensive programming are characteristics of The Canopy Club. The Club enables residents to live, work, play, and entertain their guests in a range of venues suited to every mood, including white glove service, wellness, dynamic recreational areas, and the finest dining.
The Canopy Club’s Specialty Dining and Beverage Program, a seasonal dining experience designed by famous chefs and situated in the opulent jewel box bar and dining room, will be available to members only. The Club also features private training rooms, state-of-the-art wellness facilities, a branded spa, a personal trainer on staff, and breathtaking bay and ocean views.
Five Park introduces 50,000 square feet of indoor amenities and a three-acre park outside, creating a new standard for the Miami Beach lifestyle under the direction of a recognized team of visionaries. The 40,000 square feet of social spaces that make up the 26th-floor Canopy Club include a private dining room, a jewel box bar and lounge, living rooms, a library, a den, outdoor terraces, wellness, and workout sections.
Additionally, just a few blocks away at the Five Park private beach club, locals have access to their own section of the beach. The outdoor club, which is on South of Fifth, introduces a branded, exclusive area with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and food and beverage service.
According to the CEO of Terra Development, “Five Park’s Canopy Club represents a new standard of luxury and exclusivity in Miami Beach. We developed a selection of amenities that enhance quality of life, wellness, culture and connectivity. Five Park residents will make their homes within a building that embodies a complete living, breathing ecosystem, offering dynamic spaces and creative programming to their doorsteps.”
Developer for Lofty Brickell File Construction Permit
Miami’s Building Department is currently processing a construction permit to allow work to start on the 43-story Lofty Brickell tower.
Since the entire tower designs don’t yet appear to have been submitted, they aren’t currently being examined. However, it appears that on October 27th, the projected $420,000 in permit fees were paid in full.
A total of 362 residential units are being developed, per the permit application.
Designed by internationally acclaimed, Arquitectonica, interiors will be designed by a New York-based interior design company INC New York. Developer Harvey Hernandez is also responsible for Brickell House and Centro towers. Hernandez purchased the Lofty lot for $50 million.
The contractor is named as Americaribe-Moriarty JV. According to a late October FAA approval, Lofty will soar to a height of 574 feet.
Lofty will feature a number of wonderful amenities including a butler service, rooftop pool, car service, and a 5-star restaurant that hasn’t been disclosed. This tower will also include a private marina with available docks for boating.
Building Amenities
Exotic resort pool with pool-side cabanas
Bar and grill on pool deck 24/7
Co-working lounge Private meeting rooms
Event room with exclusive terrace
A fully-equipped, state-of-the-art fitness center with HD TVs and wireless audio Private Peloton studios Yoga lounge and terrace
LOFTY Rooftop Experience
Residence Features
Urban luxury residences with modern open layouts from 485SF—930SF Studio, one and two-bedroom units
All residences are delivered fully finished and furnished specially curated by INC
Panoramic Miami River, and Miami skyline views
Private balconies for every residence
Corner units offer wrap-around balconies
High ceilings ranging from 9’ to 11’
Owner closets in every residence
Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and sound-attenuating impact-resistant laminated glass throughout
Advanced technology Smart Building wiring for HD TV,
Multiple telephone /data lines and ultra-high-speed internet access
Individually controlled energy-efficient central air conditioning and heating system
Kitchen
Imported European cabinets with premium hardware and drawer pull
Top-of-the-line appliance package including stainless steel refrigerator, oven, cook-top, microwave, dishwasher, and sink disposal
Elegant imported stone countertops and backsplashes
Contemporary stainless steel under-mounted sink
High-arc gourmet faucet with integral sprayer
Master Bathroom
Imported European cabinets with premium hardware and drawer pulls
Elegant imported stone countertops and backsplashes
Beyond the initial Lofty tower, there are plans for additional expansion. In September, utilities for 782 residential apartments, 11,364 square feet of restaurant space, and 13,928 square feet of commercial space were secured.
If you or someone you know have an interest in purchasing at Lofty Brickell, please contact Lucas Lechuga via email at [email protected] or by phone at 786-247-6332.
Lettuce Entertain You Launches Aba at Bal Harbour Shops
Photo Credit: Lettuce Entertain You
Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, a Chicago-based restaurant chain, has officially opened its first Bal Harbour Shops location with Aba, a well-known Mediterranean eatery.
Aba’s cuisine, which was developed by Top Chef alum CJ Jacobson, and Marc Jacobs, an executive partner, features tastes from all across the Mediterranean with inspirations from Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece.
The everything Jerusalem bagel with smoked salmon spread, hamachi, and charred avocado, as well as the shawarma spiced skirt steak, are some of the standout dishes on the menu. In addition to a full bar program, a “reserve” cocktail list with higher-end portions, and a large selection of zero-proof alternatives, the wine list and bar program offer options from all around the Mediterranean and Southern California.
Aba was initially launched by the group in Chicago in 2018 to great acclaim, winning restaurant of the year from Eater Chicago readers. The popular group will open two restaurants in South Florida; the RPM Italian concept is expected to open in Palm Beach in 2023. Since 1971, Lettuce Entertain You has opened more than 130 eateries, including Beatrix, Shaw’s Crab House, Mon Ami Gabi, and RPM Italian.
With climbing ivy, olive trees, and vintage lighting, including authentic Parisian street lamps and gilded Moroccan fixtures, the 250-seat restaurant maintains its Mediterranean theme. The room is divided into two halves by an arched passageway with textured walls and leather, wicker, and teak furnishings. Both floors of the two-story building have outside dining areas, while the second-floor mezzanine has a bar and additional seats.
The Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Avenue, Unit 101, is where you can find Aba. Every day from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., the restaurant is open for dinner; later this month, lunch and brunch will be added.
Photo Credit: Lettuce Entertain You
Major Food Group Officially Opens Italian Restaurant in Miami’s Design District-Contessa
The upscale, well-known Italian concept Contessa has officially debuted in the Miami Design District thanks to Major Food Group, the renowned hospitality company that is responsible for bringing Carbone, Rao’s, and Dirty French Steakhouse to Miami.
Contessa is a classic yet utterly modern Italian restaurant created by MFG Co-Founders and creative powers Jeff Zalaznick, Mario Carbone, and Rich Torrisi. It is inspired by the old-world refinement of Northern Italy’s famed villas and estates.
Visitors at Contessa Miami can begin their dinner with one of the several antipasti starters, which include Proscuitto, Chianina beef carpaccio, and squash carpaccio. Of course, the menu features a number of sumptuous pasta dishes, such as the fiery lobster cappelli, the tortellini in broth, the rigatoni carbonara, the fusilli Genovese, and the rigatoni carbonara. Entree choices include grilled branzino, the traditional veal Milanese, and a 40-ounce dry-aged Fiorentina steak. The meal is finished with a variety of sweets such as gelato and cakes with pistachio, amaretto, and gianduja chocolate.
Contessa’s original location made its debut on the rooftop of The Newbury Boston last year, and it rapidly established a reputation as one of the most opulent and outstanding Italian restaurants in America.
It was hailed as the city’s “crème de la crème” of restaurants by the opulent publication Boston Common. Boston Magazine has also raved about the restaurant stating that it is one of the best Italian restaurants in the city.
Contessa Miami promises exquisite Northern Italian cuisine in addition to MFG’s renowned warm, charismatic, and polished hospitality, which is specially tailored to the city the company has called home since 2021. At that time, the company began a historic run of restaurant openings in the area, including ZZ’s Club in the Miami Design District and Sadelle’s in Coconut Grove.
Over 40 restaurants, pubs, hotels, and private clubs are now managed by the organization across the world. The company has numerous new openings scheduled for South Florida over the next six months, in addition to Contessa Miami and a variety of upcoming projects in the United States and internationally.
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and is housed in a two-story building in the renowned neighborhood at 111 NE 41st Street.
LeBron James’ Real Estate Portfolio is HEATING Up in Miami
According to public records, the top player for the Los Angeles Lakers and former Miami Heat purchased a luxury condo in Sunny Isles Beach at The Estates at Acqualina. James paid $9 million for the 43rd floor condo at Acqualiana.
Akron, an Ohio-based business founded by James purchased the 2-story unit at 17909 Collins Avenue from the developer. This summer saw the completion of the north tower, which rises 49 stories tall and features 154 luxury condo units.
A 45,000 square foot luxury villa with an ice rink, bowling alley, and the Avra Miami Estiatorio restaurant will be delivered as part of Estates at Acqualina later this year. The late fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld created the lobbies in both skyscrapers.
The acquisition signifies James’ return to South Florida as one of the greatest basketball players in history. James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh made up the “Big Three” while they were all members of the Heat from 2010 to 2014.
In 2015, he sold his waterfront residence in Miami’s Coconut Grove district for $13.4 million. James sold one of his Los Angeles houses in Brentwood last year for $19.6 million.
According to Forbes, the athlete became a billionaire this summer and is a co-owner of the clothing chain Unknwn, which has outlets in Wynwood and Akron, Ohio. Additionally, he has investments in businesses including Tonal, a startup home gym, and Blaze Pizza.
The Estates of Acqualina, by the Trump Group led by brothers Jules and Eddie Trump, the Estates is their third condominium development in Sunny Isles. Three single-family residences are part of the development, and prices varied from the mid $4 million range to $35 million for the penthouses.
