Casa Gianna Brings Vibrant Italian Dining to Gale Miami Hotel & Residences
Downtown Miami’s culinary scene is about to get a flavorful upgrade with the arrival of Casa Gianna, an exciting new Italian dining concept opening at the newly launched Gale Miami Hotel & Residences. Officially debuted on November 18th, 2024, Casa Gianna promises a welcoming and authentic experience, seamlessly transitioning from a cozy café vibe in the morning to a lively dining destination by evening.
Developed in collaboration with the renowned global hospitality brand Zouk Group, Casa Gianna is poised to become a must-visit for both locals and visitors. Russell Galbut, Owner Representative of Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, highlights the significance of the restaurant’s launch.
“Casa Gianna sets Gale Miami apart as a key destination, especially with our proximity to the Miami Worldcenter. Working with Zouk Group has been instrumental in shaping Casa Gianna, which is just the beginning of our vision for the property’s culinary offerings.”
At the heart of Casa Gianna is Executive Chef David Caceres, whose innovative approach combines the rich tradition of Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu promises to be a gastronomic delight, featuring standout dishes like:
Pappardelle Alla Rosa De Ricotta: A comforting dish with brown butter sage.
Crusted Pistachio Chilean Seabass: Paired with a flavorful tomato puttanesca sauce.
Artisanal Pizzas: Handcrafted in a custom Wood & Stone pizza oven, with highlights including the indulgent Ai Funghi e Tartufata pizza.
For diners with dietary preferences, Casa Gianna ensures inclusivity with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Casa Gianna’s opening further elevates the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences as a premier destination within Downtown Miami’s burgeoning Miami Worldcenter district. Whether you’re seeking a morning espresso, a business lunch, or a vibrant dinner spot, Casa Gianna is set to offer an unparalleled dining experience that captures the essence of Italy in every bite.
Namdar Tower One in Downtown Miami Tops Off Construction
Exciting developments are underway at Namdar Towers, as the first of its two striking 43-story towers has officially topped off. This milestone, announced by the project’s architect, Behar Font & Partners, signals significant progress for the ambitious development.
Upon completion, Namdar Towers will boast an impressive combined total of 1,394 residential units and 7,984 square feet of commercial space. The two towers, each rising to 43 stories, are set to redefine the local skyline, offering modern living spaces paired with retail opportunities.
First Tower: 680 apartments
Second Tower: 714 apartments (permits currently in progress)
Construction on the first tower began around April 2023 and has advanced rapidly, culminating in the recent topping-off. Meanwhile, preparations for the second tower are actively moving forward, with permitting already underway.
Namdar Towers is embracing a forward-thinking approach to urban development with its innovative parking solution. The project plans to provide just 336 parking spaces—equivalent to one space for every four residential units. This aligns with trends toward promoting walkability, public transit use, and alternative transportation options in urban centers.
As Namdar Towers continues to take shape, the project highlights the city’s evolution into a hub for modern architecture and high-density living. With the first tower nearing completion and preparations for the second tower advancing, Namdar Towers promises to become a premier destination for residents seeking a blend of luxury, convenience, and sustainability.
Two Roads Development Joins Harvey Hernandez for One Brickell Riverfront Project Along Miami River
In an exciting development for Miami’s skyline, Two Roads Development has partnered with Harvey Hernandez’s Newgard Development Group for the highly anticipated One Brickell Riverfront project. This transformative three-tower development along the Miami River will span 2 million square feet and is valued at $1.5 billion, according to a press release.
Two Roads Development, led by Taylor Collins and Reid Boren, has acquired a 50-50 stake in the project. Collins and Hernandez, who have shared a 15-year friendship, saw this partnership as the perfect synergy.
“We’ve looked at a lot of deals together; he’s been working on this deal for a long time,” said Collins. Hernandez added, “It became apparent that the ideal thing to do was to collaborate on the whole thing.”
This collaboration reflects a growing trend in Miami’s development scene, where rising construction costs and interest rates have pushed developers to bring in equity partners.
Construction on the first phase, Lofty Brickell, is already in motion. The 44-story, 363-unit condominium is set to rise at 99 Southwest Seventh Street. The building, which is 94 percent presold, will feature 40,000 square feet of luxurious amenities, including:
A marina
Social club
Pool deck
Cigar lounge
Co-working space
Additionally, Avra Estiatorio, a celebrated Greek restaurant, will occupy over 10,000 square feet at Lofty Brickell, offering a 300-seat dining room with outdoor seating and riverfront views.
Lofty and a second branded condo tower are expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2026.
The One Brickell Riverfront project represents a bold vision for Miami’s future. With Taylor Collins and Harvey Hernandez sharing a unified outlook, the development promises to redefine the riverfront experience. Hernandez likened the partnership to a marriage, highlighting the trust and shared goals between the two firms.
Two Roads Development brings a wealth of experience to the collaboration. The firm has completed prestigious projects like Elysee Miami and Biscayne Beach in Edgewater. Currently, it is working on the Edition Residences in Edgewater, although that project has faced legal hurdles related to the termination of the Biscayne 21 condo building.
For Newgard, the success of Lofty Brickell adds to its portfolio, despite past challenges with other projects, including Natiivo Fort Lauderdale.
The collaboration between Two Roads and Newgard comes as the Miami River sees increased development activity. On the north side of the river, KAR Properties and Fortune International Group have partnered on the Faena-branded One River Point.
As new luxury projects reshape the Miami Riverfront, One Brickell Riverfront is poised to be a standout development, blending world-class design, amenities, and a vibrant urban lifestyle.
Breaking Ground at The Residences at 1428 Brickell- Miami’s New Solar-Powered 70-Story Tower
The Residences at 1428 Brickell officially breaks ground. This 70-story tower, designed to generate its own solar power, is touted as the first of its kind in the world, cementing Miami’s place as a forward-thinking city embracing green building practices.
At the core of the tower’s design is a pioneering 20,000-square-foot “Solar Backbone” that sets it apart. This backbone integrates photovoltaic panels directly into the building’s glass façade, harnessing renewable energy to meet a portion of the building’s electricity needs. This innovative system is projected to produce 175 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually, cutting down around 4,700 tons of CO₂ emissions and saving the equivalent of 3,000 barrels of oil each year.
The tower, upon completion, will become one of the tallest in Miami, standing at an impressive 861 feet. With construction cranes exceeding 1,000 feet, this architectural marvel will soon dominate the Brickell skyline, embodying both height and purpose-driven design.
The residential offering is as exclusive as the structure itself, featuring 195 luxury units that promise breathtaking views and top-tier finishes. Residents will enjoy 80,000 square feet of amenities, all carefully crafted to deliver a high-end lifestyle in a sustainable environment. Pricing for these coveted residences starts at $3 million, with upper-range options reaching $7 million. The tower’s collection of penthouses, promising the pinnacle of opulence, are priced between $8 million and $60 million.
The team behind this project reads like a who’s who in luxury development. Ytech leads the charge as the developer, bringing in renowned firms ACPV Architects and Arquitectonica to execute the architectural vision. General contracting duties are in the capable hands of John Moriarty & Associates, a firm known for its commitment to quality and innovation in high-rise construction.
This tower is more than a striking addition to Brickell’s skyline; it’s a statement on the future of sustainable architecture. With its trailblazing solar capabilities, this development isn’t just setting a new standard in Miami but is marking a milestone on a global scale.
Plans Move Forward for The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Miami
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Miami, is moving one step closer to redefining luxury living on Brickell Key as new construction plans and timelines are revealed. This impressive dual-tower project, situated on the southern tip of Brickell Key, will bring together residential and hotel offerings in two connected towers, each featuring distinct attributes and state-of-the-art amenities.
Anchoring the development, the South Tower will rise to an impressive 850 feet, spanning 66 stories and offering 228 private residences. Prospective buyers will find spacious two-to-four-bedroom layouts, with units extending up to 4,700 square feet. Additionally, the South Tower includes two ultra-luxurious duplex penthouses, each exceeding 7,000 square feet. The residences are designed to cater to high-end buyers seeking expansive living spaces, modern amenities, and stunning views.
In contrast, the North Tower, set to stand 426 feet tall, will become Mandarin Oriental’s flagship hotel in North America. The tower will host 121 guest rooms, 66 private residences, and 28 hotel residences, creating a seamless blend of residential and hospitality spaces. Both towers promise nearly unobstructed, panoramic views of Miami, making the project a rare ownership opportunity on Brickell Key.
Swire Properties, a seasoned player in Miami’s real estate landscape, is at the helm of this ambitious project. Collaborating with several prominent firms, Swire Properties has enlisted Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) for architectural design, known for creating iconic structures worldwide. Renowned Parisian designer Tristan Auer will bring his distinctive style to the interiors, combining elegance with a contemporary flair. Meanwhile, Shma, a Thailand-based firm with expertise in urban outdoor spaces, will design the landscape, ensuring harmony with Miami’s tropical environment.
Swire Properties Miami’s president, Henry Bott, has provided a clear construction timeline for the project. The existing Mandarin Oriental hotel will close its doors on May 31, 2025, to allow for demolition in the third quarter of that year. Vertical construction of the new towers is expected to commence in early 2026, setting the stage for Miami’s next premier luxury development.
In preparation, Swire Properties filed construction permits for both towers in early December 2023. Currently under review, these permits reflect significant planning progress. The new hotel will be located at 500 Brickell Key Drive, while the residential tower will be positioned at 750 Claughton Island Drive, with Moss & Associates taking on the role of general contractor.
As Miami’s skyline continues to evolve, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental promises to offer a sophisticated blend of luxury living and high-end hospitality. Designed to capture the essence of Miami’s vibrant atmosphere, this development will undoubtedly become a centerpiece of the city’s real estate offerings, reinforcing Brickell Key’s reputation as a premier destination.
Elevating Miami’s Skyline – Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Tower Cranes Set to Soar Higher
The Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami, a remarkable 100-story skyscraper, is reaching new heights—literally and figuratively. On October 25, 2024, permits were filed with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to raise the heights of two Maxim cranes currently stationed on-site. Located at 300 Biscayne Boulevard (or alternatively 249 Northeast 3rd Street), the building project initially received FAA approval for crane heights at 955 feet above ground level (966 feet above sea level). However, new permits now seek approval to extend these cranes to 1,214 and 1,225 feet (1,238 and 1,249 feet above sea level), enabling the construction team to push upward toward the tower’s ultimate planned height of 1,049 feet.
A unique collaboration of industry leaders has come together for this iconic project. PMG, Greybrook, Mohari Hospitality, S2 Development, and Hilton are the powerhouse developers behind the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences, combining their expertise to deliver an unparalleled luxury experience in Downtown Miami. This ambitious project will ultimately feature 387 luxury residences and 205 hotel rooms, merging high-end living with the elegance and hospitality for which Waldorf Astoria is known.
Designed by the acclaimed Sieger Suarez Architects and renowned architect Carlos Ott, the building’s structure is defined by nine stacked and offset glass cubes. These cubes create a distinct visual profile that promises to redefine Miami’s skyline. General contractor John Moriarty & Associates is overseeing construction, while Capform Inc. is handling the turnkey concrete work. CHM Structural Engineers is serving as the structural engineer, ensuring that this monumental tower remains safe and resilient.
According to Christian Tupper, Vice President of Sales at PMG, the building’s structural shell has already made significant progress, reaching around 7 to 8 stories as of his LinkedIn update two weeks ago. This milestone brings the structure close to completing the first of its nine unique cubes, signifying a major step in the project’s upward journey. With the approval of the additional crane height, the construction team can continue their ascent, bringing the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences ever closer to its final form.
A project of this scale requires substantial financial support, and the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences has secured a record-breaking $668 million construction loan to fuel its progress. This financing underscores the importance of the development within Miami’s rapidly evolving real estate landscape. Upon its projected completion in 2028, the Waldorf Astoria will stand as Florida’s tallest building and the tallest residential structure south of New York, symbolizing a new era of architectural innovation and luxury living in Miami.
As construction progresses and additional permits are approved, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences will continue to capture the attention of Miami residents and architecture enthusiasts worldwide. This monumental project is not only redefining the Miami skyline but also setting new standards for luxury and mixed-use developments in South Florida.
Faena Residences Miami: A $700 Million Project with a Landmark Design by Rafael Viñoly
A significant new addition to Miami’s skyline is on the horizon with the unveiling of the expected construction timeline for the twin 60-story Faena Residences Miami towers. Construction of these architectural marvels is anticipated to begin in late 2025, with a projected completion timeframe of approximately three years.
The Faena Residences Miami represents a $700 million investment, with a total of 440 condos planned across the two towers. This ambitious project not only underscores Miami’s ever-growing luxury real estate market but also highlights the city’s attraction as a hub for high-end residential developments. One of the notable aspects of Faena Residences Miami is that its developers strategically initiated the approval and permitting processes well in advance of the project’s announcement. This foresight is expected to streamline construction and allow for a timely completion by the end of the decade.
Adding to the allure of this development is its architectural pedigree. The late Rafael Viñoly, a visionary architect recognized for his striking and innovative designs, was commissioned for this project. The Faena Residences towers stand as one of his final masterpieces, infusing a legacy of sophistication and style into Miami’s evolving architectural landscape.
With the planned groundbreaking just a year away, Faena Residences Miami promises to be a major focal point, offering future residents both luxury and a piece of architectural history.
Miami World Tower 1 Receives Initial TCO, Marking Milestone for Miami Worldcenter Development
Miami World Tower 1 has reached a significant milestone, officially receiving its initial Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) from Coastal Construction. This TCO, identified as TCO #1, signals that the 56-story residential tower has met the preliminary standards to begin occupancy, paving the way for residents to soon move into one of Miami’s newest luxury developments.
Rising 56 stories above the vibrant Miami skyline, Miami World Tower 1 brings a blend of luxury living and lifestyle amenities to the Miami Worldcenter. The tower includes 565 apartment units, providing high-end residences with sweeping views and sophisticated design. Alongside residential offerings, the building features a 3,000-square-foot full-service restaurant and provides 401 parking spaces, offering convenience for residents and visitors alike.
Construction at the Miami World Tower site kicked off in late 2021, with the first crane installation in April 2022. By June 2022, the foundation was poured, and the tower’s skeleton began to rise, marking steady progress through the development timeline. The receipt of the initial TCO is the latest accomplishment, signifying that essential building systems are operational and meet safety standards required to welcome occupants.
Behind this ambitious project is developer Lalezarian, who has long-term plans for the Miami World Tower site. In addition to Tower 1, Lalezarian has filed plans to develop three additional towers, potentially adding 2,043 multifamily residential units to the area. This multi-tower vision aligns with the larger objectives of the Miami Worldcenter development, which aims to transform downtown Miami into a dynamic, mixed-use destination featuring residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces.
Miami World Tower 1 is just one component of the expansive Miami Worldcenter project, a master-planned development reshaping the city’s urban core. This transformative project aims to create a walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment enriched by art, culture, and green spaces. The additional towers proposed by Lalezarian will only further contribute to the vibrancy and allure of Miami Worldcenter, supporting its role as a landmark destination in downtown Miami.
With its initial TCO in hand, Miami World Tower 1 stands ready to welcome its first residents. This achievement underscores the commitment of Coastal Construction and Lalezarian to bringing a vision of modern, urban living to life in the heart of Miami. As Miami Worldcenter continues to grow, the addition of Miami World Tower 1 sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the city’s skyline and urban lifestyle.
Millennium Developments Signs Covenant for New 70-Story Brickell Tower-Calle 8
Millennium Developments is moving forward with plans for an impressive new 70-story tower in Brickell, Calle 8. In a significant step toward realizing this ambitious project, the developer has signed a covenant with Miami-Dade County. The agreement, officially recorded on November 4th, states that the tower will connect to the county’s water and sewer systems, which is required as a condition of the building permit.
The proposed tower is set to become one of Brickell’s tallest buildings, rising to 750 feet. The design envisions 464 residential units, offering a mix of luxury residences with stunning views of Miami’s skyline. Additionally, the project includes 75,736 square feet dedicated to either performing arts spaces or retail, bringing a blend of culture, commerce, and community to the heart of Brickell. The building will also provide ample parking, with 653 planned spaces, along with various amenities to enhance the lifestyle of future residents.
In August, Millennium Developments submitted an updated version of the proposal to Miami-Dade County as part of the ongoing zoning approval process. This proposal includes preliminary plans and renderings, shared for reference in the zoning phase, with a formal submission to follow as part of the site plan review.
BMA Architects is the architectural team behind the vision for this 70-story tower, adding their expertise to shape what is anticipated to be an iconic addition to the Miami skyline.
Millennium Developments’ latest project reflects Brickell’s growth as a hub for luxury living, arts, and entertainment. As zoning approval progresses, more details on the tower’s features and design will be revealed, shaping an exciting future for this high-rise in Brickell.
