Construction Update for 888 Brickell by Dolce&Gabbana
JDS Development Group just filed a dry run demolition permit at the highly anticipated Brickell site, where plans for the 90-story supertall condo hotel, 888 Brickell by Dolce&Gabbana. Although this is just a preliminary step, it marks significant progress in the development process.
The filed permit indicates there is currently no contractor attached to the project. However, a permit expediter has been listed as the contact, facilitating the process. Alongside this, there is also a separate permit pending to install a fence around the property, ensuring the site’s security and preparation for future construction activities.
Back in April, JDS Development Group completed the purchase of the property for an impressive $61.2 million. This acquisition has paved the way for a remarkable collaboration with renowned fashion house Dolce&Gabbana. Together, they plan to bring to life a 90-story condo hotel that promises to redefine luxury living in Miami.
Standing at a staggering 1,049 feet, this new building is set to become the tallest in Miami. Esteemed architect Studio Sofield is at the helm of this ambitious project, ensuring a design that combines elegance, innovation, and functionality. The tower will boast 250 rooms and suites, offering unparalleled views and world-class amenities.
The collaboration between JDS Development Group and Dolce&Gabbana, along with the architectural prowess of Studio Sofield, promises to create a new landmark in Miami’s skyline. This 90-story supertall condo hotel is not just a building; it’s a statement of luxury, sophistication, and modern living.
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The project was previously reviewed in October 2023 but was withdrawn before a decision was made.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.
848 Brickell: A New Landmark in Miami’s Financial District
Developers for 848 Brickell have taken a significant step towards reshaping Miami’s skyline with their latest project. Key International and Sterling Bay filed for FAA permits on June 27, 2024, for this 51-story Class A office and retail tower in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. Designed by the renowned Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the structure is set to reach an impressive height of 764 feet above ground, or 775 feet above mean sea level. As of now, the permit status is “work in progress.”
848 Brickell promises to be a major addition to Miami’s Financial District, providing over 750,000 square feet of premium office space and 7,500 square feet of ground-floor retail. Additionally, it will include on-site parking facilities for more than 1,000 vehicles. Catering to modern business needs, the tower will feature tech-enabled conference facilities, a luxury fitness center, an expansive outdoor terrace, padel tennis courts, and private open-air lounges.
Strategically located at 848 Brickell Avenue, the tower will offer stunning views of the ocean and Brickell Avenue. Its prime location ensures quick access to top dining, retail, and entertainment spots, making it a premier business hub in Miami.
Key International, under the leadership of Diego and Inigo Ardid, chose Sterling Bay for its expertise in developing world-class office spaces. Sterling Bay’s impressive portfolio includes creative office spaces for major corporations like Google and McDonald’s. This collaboration aims to create a next-generation workspace that meets the evolving needs of modern businesses and professionals in South Florida.
The FAA permit applications signify a major milestone for 848 Brickell, underscoring ongoing efforts to transform downtown Miami with new residential, commercial, and office projects. This development is poised to play a crucial role in the continued growth and modernization of the area.
Shoma Group Breaks Ground on Shoma Bay in North Bay Village Miami
Shoma Group has officially commenced construction on Shoma Bay, an ambitious residential project located in the picturesque waterfront community of North Bay Village, Florida. This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone for the area, which has seen little development over the past decade. Launched in September 2022, Shoma Bay has quickly established itself as the benchmark for future residential projects in the region.
Masoud Shojaee, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Shoma Group, recognized the island’s untapped potential early on. His vision to transform North Bay Village into a luxurious residential haven is now becoming a reality with Shoma Bay being the first major development to capitalize on the area’s evolution.
Shoma Bay will feature 333 luxury residences, including a variety of meticulously designed floor plans that range from furnished studios to expansive three-bedroom units, with sizes spanning from 344 to 2,700 square feet. The project will also include 10 penthouses, one of which will be the home of Masoud and Stephanie Shojaee, President of Shoma Group. Prices for the available units start at $750,000, with ISG World serving as the exclusive sales team for the development.
Each residence will be thoughtfully crafted to optimize comfort and functionality, with abundant natural light and elegant finishes curated by renowned designer Adriana Hoyos. The building will blend classic art-deco elements with contemporary aesthetics, catering to individuals seeking a holistic approach to living that seamlessly integrates work, wellness, and leisure.
The penthouses at Shoma Bay will offer unique, high-end finishes. Kitchens will be outfitted with the exclusive Gaggenau Appliance Collection, including a French Door Panel-Ready Refrigerator and Freezer, a Panel-Ready dishwasher, a Wall Oven, and an Induction Cooktop. Bathrooms will feature the exclusive Armani Bathroom Collection, including a Frameless Rain Shower and a Designer Soaking Tub in select units.
Shoma Bay is set to redefine luxury living with its array of world-class amenities. Residents will have access to a resident lounge and bar, a spa with a hammam, a golf simulator, a two-story state-of-the-art fitness center, a pet spa, a kids club, a theater room, a wine cellar, a cigar lounge, and a Zen Garden with fire pits. The development’s centerpiece will be the expansive 6,030-square-foot pool deck, offering panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, complete with a pool, cabanas, and a summer kitchen. Additional conveniences include designated parking, electric vehicle charging stations, a bike room, storage spaces, and a grocery delivery room.
Moreover, Shoma Bay will be anchored by a 35,037-square-foot Publix supermarket and 15,628 square feet of retail space, which includes a rooftop lounge. This integration of retail and residential spaces aims to enhance the community living experience by providing residents with easy access to daily necessities and leisure activities.
“We are incredibly excited to break ground on Shoma Bay and embark on this transformative journey in North Bay Village,” said Stephanie Shojaee. “At Shoma Group, we meticulously craft each development with the future residents in mind, ensuring that every detail enhances their comfort and enriches their lifestyle. From the serene resident lounge to the state-of-the-art fitness center and the panoramic pool deck overlooking Biscayne Bay, we have curated a collection of exceptional amenities that will elevate the living experience for our residents.”
Situated at 1850 John F. Kennedy Causeway, Shoma Bay boasts a prime location at the intersection of 79th Street Causeway and East Treasure Drive. This strategic position offers residents convenient access to major highways and a plethora of world-class dining, retail, and entertainment options available in South Florida. The project’s anticipated completion date is set for the end of 2026.
Miami’s Transformation: One Bayfront Plaza’s New Supertall Tower
Miami’s Building Department has issued a total demolition permit for the One Bayfront Plaza site at 100 South Biscayne Boulevard, marking a significant first step towards developing a new supertall tower in downtown Miami. Approved on March 27 and issued on June 25, this permit sets the stage for a major transformation in the heart of the city.
Currently, the site hosts a 19-story office building that occupies an entire city block, a significant presence in Miami’s downtown area. The demolition process, expected to take nine months to a year, will clear the way for a transformative project that will redefine the city’s skyline. Interior demolition has already begun, with B2 Group LLC handling the work under a permit valued at $2.4 million.
The property owner, Florida East Coast Realty (FECR), has ambitious plans for the site. They envision a landmark tower reaching 1,049 feet in height, featuring over three million square feet of mixed-use space. This includes class AAA office space, a luxury convention hotel, high-end residences, an upscale retail mall, and a parking garage, all offering 360-degree panoramic views over Biscayne Bay. Once completed, this tower will become Miami’s tallest building and the city’s second supertall, following the soon-to-rise Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences.
The new tower’s design is still under wraps, with previous concepts from renowned architects like Kohn Pedersen Fox and ODP Architecture & Design. While specific details are scarce, FECR has shared a low-resolution rendering of the proposed building, though the architect’s identity remains undisclosed.
Older renderings of supertall towers on the site:
One Bayfront Plaza, designed by ODP Architecture & Design.
One Bayfront Plaza, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox and ODP Architecture & Design.
In recent years, the One Bayfront Plaza site has gained notoriety for its extensive graffiti. The abandoned building has served as a canvas for graffiti artists, particularly during major events like Art Basel. In December 2023, graffiti artists from around the world “bombed” the building, covering it with colorful tags and murals. This creative takeover highlighted the building’s vacancy and prominence as a visible site in downtown Miami, attracting both admiration and condemnation from the public.
The new tower is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area, attracting businesses, tourists, and new residents. Its diverse range of uses aims to create a vibrant and dynamic environment, enhancing the appeal of downtown Miami as a premier destination for work, living, and leisure.
As the demolition process begins and the groundwork is laid for this new supertall tower, Miami is poised for a transformative development that will reshape its skyline and redefine its downtown area.
New Construction in Miami Beach-Ella Miami Beach
Following the announcement of 299 Minorca, an eight-story, mixed-use venture, the Constellation Group and Boschetti Group have unveiled their next ambitious project: Ella Miami Beach. This upcoming residential tower promises to bring a new level of luxury and modern living to Miami Beach.
Ella Miami Beach is set to be a 10-story residential tower featuring 95 condominiums. Ella Miami Beach will offer a variety of living spaces, ranging from studio to two-bedroom layout plans, with unit sizes spanning from 434 to 1,076 square feet.
Residents of Ella Miami Beach will enjoy a plethora of amenities designed to enhance their living experience. The homes will feature expansive outdoor terraces, plank-style flooring, and various high-end finishes that provide a touch of elegance and comfort.
Amenities:
A rooftop swimming pool
A pickleball court
A fitness center
Additional offerings to cater to a modern lifestyle
These features are sure to provide residents with ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Condo sales for Ella Miami Beach began in June 2023, and the development has already seen significant interest, with 36 percent of the units sold. Although construction has not yet started, the project’s website anticipates completion by the first quarter of 2026.
Ella Miami Beach is not just about residential living; it will also include 2,200 square feet of retail space, adding convenience and vibrancy to the area. The high-rise has been designed by the internationally renowned, Miami-based firm Arquitectonica, ensuring a striking and modern architectural presence.
The developers purchased the 25,000-square-foot parcel for Ella Miami Beach in February 2023 for $5.5 million. The site is located at 6940 Abbott Ave, Miami Beach, FL, 33141, in the vibrant Miami-Dade County.
Ella Miami Beach is set to become a landmark of luxury and modern living in Miami Beach. With its high-end amenities, stunning design, and prime location, it offers a promising new option for residents seeking the best in Miami Beach living. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project progresses towards its anticipated completion in early 2026.
