The Residences at Shell Bay Break Ground on Construction

A new chapter in South Florida luxury living has begun as Witkoff Group and PPG Development officially break ground on The Residences at Shell Bay. Following the successful securing of a $273 million construction loan, this eagerly awaited luxury condominium is set to redefine exclusive living within a 150-acre Mediterranean-inspired enclave.

Designed by renowned architect Kobi Karp, The Residences at Shell Bay seamlessly blend modern sophistication with the world-class amenities of The Shell Bay Club. With only 108 residences, this development offers a rare opportunity to live at South Florida’s premier private resort destination, where residents will enjoy the unparalleled service of the Auberge Resorts Collection.

According to Alex Witkoff, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Witkoff Group, “Breaking ground on Shell Bay is a monumental moment for us. We are not just creating a place to live, but a legacy of luxury and privacy. This development sets a new standard for what it means to live in South Florida, combining world-class features and an unmatched lifestyle.”

Even before construction is complete, buyers at The Residences at Shell Bay will enjoy immediate access to one of South Florida’s most prestigious golf and leisure experiences. The Shell Bay Club is home to:

• A Championship Golf Course designed by World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman
• A 12-acre practice facility with a nine-hole par-3 course
• A state-of-the-art Racquet Club featuring all four Grand Slam surfaces, plus pickleball and padel courts
• Additional lifestyle offerings including basketball courts, batting cages, and a children’s discovery playground

“Shell Bay represents the pinnacle of private club living, offering unparalleled experiences in a serene and sophisticated environment,” said Ari Pearl, Founder and President of PPG Development. “With partners like Auberge, Kobi Karp, and AvroKO, we are creating residences with unprecedented views of the water and fairways, and a design that is meant to transport owners to their dream oasis.”

Offering one- to four-bedroom floor plans, The Residences at Shell Bay are designed to embrace indoor-outdoor living with expansive open-concept layouts. These homes will overlook the Championship Golf Course and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering breathtaking views alongside an elevated lifestyle.

Residents will enjoy private, resident-only amenities, complementing those available within The Shell Bay Club and the future 60-key Auberge hotel and spa. Some of the exclusive perks include:

• Michelin-starred dining by Chef Julien Jouhannaud
• In-residence dining & house sommelier services
• Resort-style swimming pool
• Full-service medical day spa
• Fitness center with indoor and outdoor personal training spaces

Adding to its unparalleled appeal, Shell Bay will introduce a 48-slip private marina directly accessible to the Intracoastal Waterway, expected to open in 2027. Future plans also include a private members’ clubhouse with a state-of-the-art indoor-outdoor wellness spa, elevated event spaces, and gourmet dining venues.

With pricing starting at $2 million, The Residences at Shell Bay offer a unique blend of privacy, luxury, and exclusivity. As construction progresses toward its anticipated 2027 completion, The Residences at Shell Bay continue to capture the attention of discerning buyers seeking the ultimate in South Florida luxury living.

FAA Filing Submitted For 831-Foot Tower in Downtown Miami

A new skyscraper could soon redefine Miami’s skyline. A filing submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration on February 3rd requests approval for a tower soaring 831 feet above ground (or 840 feet above sea level) in Downtown Miami.

The site coordinates included in the filing appear to align with the Clear Residences property, a planned luxury development that has been making its way through the approval process.

In May 2024, the Miami Urban Development Review Board (UDRB) voted unanimously to recommend approval of Clear Residences without conditions. At the time, the project was presented as a 60-story tower, rising 690 feet above ground with:

• 544 residential units
• 3,680 square feet of commercial space
• 157 parking spaces across five levels

The developer listed in the UDRB filing was Blutrich Holdings Inc., further suggesting that the FAA filing could be linked to a height increase for Clear Residences.

If approved, this latest filing would push the limits of Miami’s vertical growth, joining a wave of new high-rise developments seeking to maximize height in the city’s urban core. As demand for luxury residences continues to rise, developers are increasingly looking to the sky.

The FAA review process will determine whether the proposed height is viable in relation to airspace restrictions. If cleared, this tower could become one of Miami’s tallest and most prominent new structures.

Introducing The James Hotel & Residences Downtown Miami

Sonesta International Hotels Corporation has officially announced plans to bring an extraordinary new landmark to Downtown Miami—The James Hotel & Residences. This ambitious project, executed in partnership with Mint Developers and AD1 Hospitality, will reshape Miami’s skyline with an awe-inspiring 82-story supertall tower, boasting an estimated development cost of $850 million.

According to a press release from AD1 Hospitality, The James Hotel & Residences will claim the title of the tallest building in Miami, offering unparalleled views of the vibrant cityscape and the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay. This architectural marvel will not only redefine Miami’s skyline but also set new standards in luxury living and hospitality.

The James Hotel & Residences will feature approximately 336 fully furnished and exquisitely decorated residences, reflecting the sophistication and energy synonymous with Miami. Sales for these premier units are slated to begin in Q2 2025, offering future residents a chance to secure their place in one of the city’s most prestigious addresses.

Designed to cater to the most discerning tastes, the development will include a four-story private club, an oasis of exclusivity and luxury. Among the standout amenities are innovative snow and rain rooms, providing unique, immersive wellness experiences rarely found in residential developments.

For culinary enthusiasts and socialites, The James will also be home to the highest elevation luxury bar and restaurant in the Americas, offering breathtaking panoramic views and an unparalleled dining atmosphere.

Groundbreaking for The James Hotel & Residences is scheduled for Q1 2026, with an anticipated grand opening in January 2028.

Daniel Berman of Mint Developers expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with Sonesta on The James Hotel & Residences Downtown Miami, a development that embodies the vibrancy and sophistication of Miami.”

Miami Freedom Park: A Visionary Urban Development in Progress

Miami Freedom Park is rapidly taking shape as a transformative mixed-use development poised to redefine urban living in Miami. Designed by renowned master-planner Arquitectonica, the ambitious 130-acre project is being constructed on the site of a former public golf course and is intended to serve as a model for integrated, sustainable city planning.

According to Arquitectonica, the master plan harmonizes green spaces, cutting-edge design, and dynamic public amenities to create a vibrant community hub that will benefit Miami for generations to come. The development seamlessly blends civic, recreational, and commercial elements, offering a multifaceted environment catering to diverse urban needs.

At the heart of Miami Freedom Park, the highly anticipated stadium for Inter Miami CF is already rising from the ground. This 25,000-seat sporting facility will serve as the focal point of the development, solidifying Miami’s reputation as a premier destination for soccer enthusiasts and furthering the city’s stature in the global sports arena.

In addition to the stadium, Miami Freedom Park will include:

• 360,000 square feet dedicated to full-service restaurants
• 240,000 square feet of retail space
• 750 hotel rooms to accommodate visitors and residents
• 400,000 square feet of office space, fostering a dynamic business environment
• A public park equipped with restroom facilities and a capacity for 500 persons
• Multiple structured parking garages to support the anticipated influx of visitors and residents

Earlier this month, construction commenced on an eight-story, 382,592-square-foot office building, which will function as a City of Miami Administrative Building. This addition underscores the development’s role in enhancing municipal operations while contributing to the area’s overall economic vitality.

With a robust infrastructure plan and a thoughtfully designed layout, Miami Freedom Park is set to become a landmark of modern urban development. By integrating innovative architectural principles with community-centric spaces, this project aims to deliver a premier destination that embodies the future of Miami’s metropolitan evolution.

The Brickell Starlite: A New 39-Story Residential Tower Coming to Miami

A major new development is set to transform Miami’s Brickell neighborhood with the arrival of The Brickell Starlite, a 39-story residential tower planned for 128 Southwest 7th St., Miami, FL, 33130. This ambitious project, which has just received approval from county officials, is set to bring a mix of luxury housing, commercial space, and top-tier amenities to the heart of Miami-Dade County.

Florida YIMBY recently reported that The Brickell Starlite has been given the green light to proceed. The 697,913-square-foot tower will feature 517 Class A residential units, offering a range of floorplans from studio to three-bedroom layouts. Designed with modern renters in mind, the development will include high-end amenities such as fitness centers, rooftop swimming pools, and co-working spaces, catering to professionals and urban dwellers seeking convenience and luxury.

The new development replaces the Starlite Motel, a property originally built in 1995. The site was acquired in 2022 by Chicago-based Focus and Fox Group in a joint venture for $28 million. This marks a significant shift for the area, as the former motel, which last traded for $24.8 million in 2014, is set to make way for a high-rise residential experience tailored to the evolving needs of Miami’s population.

In addition to its residential offerings, The Brickell Starlite will incorporate 500 parking spaces and 7,500 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. This integration of residential and retail components aims to enhance the urban lifestyle by offering dining, shopping, and services within walking distance.

Construction is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025, with completion projected for 2028. The venture is poised to elevate the skyline of Brickell, reinforcing the neighborhood’s reputation as Miami’s premier financial and residential district.

San Francisco-based Gensler is spearheading the architectural design of The Brickell Starlite. The globally recognized firm has previously worked on Residences at The Wynwood Plaza, a 509-unit luxury project in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District, which topped off in February 2024. With their expertise, The Brickell Starlite is expected to showcase a sleek, contemporary design that seamlessly integrates with the dynamic urban landscape of Brickell.

Mast Capital and Starwood Capital Group Secure $390 Million Construction Loan for The Perigon Miami Beach

In a monumental achievement for Miami Beach real estate, Mast Capital and Starwood Capital Group have successfully closed a $390 million construction loan for The Perigon Miami Beach. This milestone marks a critical step in the development of this ultra-luxury condominium, set to redefine refined beachfront living.

Construction for The Perigon Miami Beach began in April 2024, with completion anticipated in 2027. This iconic project is a collaboration between Miami-based real estate development group Mast Capital and a controlled affiliate of Starwood Capital Group, a globally renowned private investment firm led by Barry Sternlicht. General contractor Moss Construction is spearheading the project, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.

The Perigon is set to become a landmark of architectural excellence and sophistication, boasting world-class amenities, breathtaking design, and a prestigious beachfront location. With over 75% of residences already sold, it’s clear that this development has captured the market’s attention.

The $390 million construction loan is one of the largest secured in Miami Beach over the past year. Provided by Eldridge Real Estate Credit, a leading investor in real estate credit opportunities, the financing highlights the market confidence in The Perigon’s vision and appeal.

Designed by the internationally acclaimed architectural firm OMA, led by visionary architect Rem Koolhaas, The Perigon will be the first Miami Beach residential project from the firm. The striking diamond-shaped tower will feature 73 two- to four-bedroom residences ranging from 2,100 to 6,700 square feet, all offering sweeping beachfront views. Prices start at just over $10 million.

Renowned interior designer Tara Bernerd has meticulously crafted the residences with the finest finishes, including expansive 10-foot ceilings, 10- to 12-foot-deep wraparound balconies, and direct water views. Residents will also have access to eight private guest suites, adding an exclusive touch to their lifestyle.

The Perigon Miami Beach will offer approximately 40,000 square feet of thoughtfully curated indoor and outdoor amenities. Highlights include:

• A private oceanfront restaurant and speakeasy conceptualized by Michelin-starred chef Shaun Hergatt.
• An oceanfront swimming pool with cabanas, a serene spa with sauna and treatment rooms, and a private salon.
• A fully equipped fitness center with panoramic ocean views, a children’s playroom, and a screening room.
• Additional amenities such as a wine room, double-height lobby lounge, and a dedicated lifestyle concierge and residential butler service.

Residents will also enjoy 24-hour security, valet, house car service, pool and beach service, and in-residence dining, ensuring an unmatched level of luxury and convenience.

Located at 5333 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach’s exclusive Mid-Beach neighborhood, The Perigon is nestled along a tranquil stretch of sand between Indian Creek and the Atlantic Ocean. With expansive beachfront acreage and an emphasis on privacy, this development offers a lifestyle experience that is both rare and highly coveted.

The Perigon Miami Beach represents the pinnacle of modern luxury living. With its world-class design, exclusive amenities, and breathtaking location, this development is poised to become a defining icon in Miami Beach real estate.

Okan Tower Reaches Major Milestones: Sales Surpass 60% and Construction Advances

Okan Tower, the highly anticipated mixed-use skyscraper in the heart of Downtown Miami, has hit two significant milestones, according to the developer, Okan Group. Sales have now exceeded the halfway mark, reaching an impressive 60%, while construction has advanced to the 12th floor following the completion of a sprawling 290,000-square-foot parking podium.

Bekir Okan, the visionary behind the project, expressed excitement over the progress. “We are thrilled to see Okan Tower’s incredible momentum as it takes shape,” he said. “Achieving this sales milestone underscores the demand for its world-class offerings and Hilton Hotels & Residences’ services. With the tower now reaching the 12th floor, we are one step closer to delivering a sophisticated landmark that will elevate living in the heart of Miami’s dynamic downtown.”

Buyers from across the globe have been drawn to Okan Tower’s unique blend of luxury, functionality, and prestige. The growing list of international owners includes individuals from Argentina, Mexico, the United States, Colombia, Turkey, Spain, and Denmark, showcasing the project’s worldwide appeal.

With construction crews completing one floor per week, the project is advancing rapidly. Work has now commenced on the hotel levels, bringing the iconic structure closer to its final form. Once completed, the tower will rise to 70 stories, or 902 feet, making it one of the tallest buildings south of New York City.

Okan Tower promises to be a transformative addition to Miami’s skyline. The mixed-use complex will include:

• A 316-key Hilton Miami Bayfront Hotel, delivering unparalleled hospitality and amenities.
• 236 condo-hotel units managed by Hilton, blending luxury living with top-tier services.
• 163 Sky Residences offering sophisticated living spaces and breathtaking views.
• 64,000 square feet of Class A office space catering to the needs of modern businesses.

As Okan Tower climbs higher, anticipation continues to build for this architectural marvel. Its world-class offerings, coupled with its strategic location in Downtown Miami, are set to redefine luxury living and working in the city. With sales momentum strong and construction progressing steadily, Okan Tower is well on its way to becoming a landmark destination.

Oak Row Equities and Mariposa Real Estate Acquire Prime Waterfront Property in Brickell for $520 Million

In a landmark transaction set to redefine South Florida’s real estate landscape, Oak Row Equities and Mariposa Real Estate have finalized an agreement to acquire Aimco’s coveted 4.25-acre waterfront property at 1001 and 1111 Brickell Bay Drive. Valued at $520 million, this acquisition marks the largest single land purchase in South Florida history and is scheduled to close in the fourth quarter of 2025.

This prime site, boasting 485 feet of uninterrupted Biscayne Bay frontage, is zoned for over three million square feet of development. It is ideally suited for the construction of ultra-luxury condominiums, poised to meet the increasing demand for high-end residences in Miami’s thriving Brickell neighborhood.

“The Brickell Bay Drive assemblage presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a transformative project in the most exciting submarket in the City of Miami,” stated Erik Rutter, Managing Partner at Oak Row Equities. “A perfect blend of zoning, site geometry, bay frontage, and location combine to create a truly irreplaceable piece of real estate. We are thrilled to be at the helm of such an important project.”

The flexible zoning of the site permits the construction of multiple towers reaching heights of up to 1,049 feet, making it a one-of-a-kind development opportunity. Oak Row Equities aims to leverage this potential by creating a landmark project that not only redefines Miami’s iconic skyline but also sets new standards for urban luxury.

“Waterfront property of this caliber, size, and scale demands the best in design, and we intend to collaborate with world-class talent to bring our vision to life,” said David Weitz, Managing Partner at Oak Row Equities. “Each one of our projects to date has helped elevate and transform their respective submarkets. With this opportunity, we will bring our unique blend of placemaking and design to the Brickell Bay Drive assemblage and deliver an unmatched product to meet the growing sophistication of the Miami market.”

Mariposa Real Estate, known for its expertise in luxury developments, has partnered with Oak Row Equities on this transformative endeavor. Together, the two firms share a commitment to delivering a groundbreaking product that epitomizes luxury living.

“We are excited to be partners with Oak Row Equities on this amazing opportunity,” said Sam Franklin of Mariposa Real Estate. “We share a vision for delivering best-in-class product and believe there is no better site in Miami to do so.”

As Miami continues to cement its reputation as a global luxury hub, the development at 1001 and 1111 Brickell Bay Drive promises to be a game-changer. With unparalleled bayfront access, the project is set to attract discerning buyers seeking exclusivity, sophistication, and world-class amenities. This historic acquisition underscores the confidence that leading developers have in Miami’s future as a premier destination for luxury real estate.

Brickell’s Skyline Set to Evolve with New 39-Story Residential Tower

The transformation of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood continues as plans for a new 39-story residential tower move forward. Located just a block from Brickell City Centre, this development promises to bring both luxury and community enhancements to the area.

The developer, working on the site of the recently demolished Starlite Motel, has officially signed a public benefits agreement to secure the project’s approval. Recorded on December 10, the agreement paves the way for development under Miami-Dade’s Rapid Transit Zoning plan.

As part of the agreement, the developer has committed to a series of public benefits:

• $500,000 Contribution: A payment to Miami-Dade County, earmarked for repairs or upgrades to the Brickell Metrorail or Metromover stations.
• Workforce Housing: Five percent of the tower’s residential units will be income-restricted for workforce renters, addressing the need for affordable housing options in the area.
• Tree Planting Initiative: The developer will plant 40 trees at least 20 feet high either on the property or within the surrounding right-of-way, in addition to the required landscaping.
• Pedestrian Connectivity: A cross-block passage will provide pedestrian access between SW 7th Street and SW 8th Street, enhancing walkability.
• Utility Line Upgrades: Telecom wires on the property will be buried at the developer’s expense, improving the aesthetic and infrastructure.

The planned development includes:

• 517 Apartments: Offering a range of residential options to accommodate Brickell’s growing population.
• Restaurant Space: 9,700 square feet dedicated to dining establishments.
• Parking Facilities: A six-level garage with 506 parking spaces.

A construction permit for the tower was filed in August, with Suffolk Construction serving as the contractor. The estimated construction value stands at $190 million, highlighting the significant investment in the project. Chicago-based Focus is leading the development, with the world-renowned architectural firm Gensler at the helm of the design.

As approval for the project hinges on the fulfillment of public benefit commitments, the developer’s proactive approach signals a win-win for both the community and investors. This 39-story tower is set to redefine the local skyline while contributing to the enhancement of Brickell’s urban environment.

ELLE Residences Miami: A Bold Fusion of Fashion, Design, and Lifestyle