Miami Arena Site Set for New Development: Site Work Permit Issued
Miami is on the cusp of witnessing the transformation of a significant part of its skyline with the former Miami Arena site now ready for redevelopment. On August 26th, the city’s Building Department issued a highly anticipated site work permit, greenlighting the initial groundwork on the historic site. Coastal Construction, a prominent name in the industry, has been chosen as the contractor to bring the developer’s vision to life, records show.
The project, spearheaded by the Witkoff Group, is set to reshape the downtown area, with plans for three striking towers to be built in phases. The development will feature a combined total of 2,350 residential units and 1,924 parking spaces across the three towers, designed to accommodate the influx of new residents to the area.
The first of the three towers, which is currently moving through the final approval process, will stand tall at 52 stories, reaching an impressive 624 feet. This tower alone will house 894 residential units. Along with the master construction permit, a phased vertical permit is also under review, ensuring that the process continues smoothly.
Witkoff Group has enlisted Kobi Karp, a renowned Miami architect, to design the ambitious project. Karp is known for his iconic designs that blend Miami’s vibrant culture with sleek, modern aesthetics, which will no doubt be on display in this massive development. The multi-tower project is expected to breathe new life into the former Miami Arena site, offering a fresh take on urban living in the heart of Miami.
With these initial approvals, Miami’s skyline is set to change once again, offering more residential options and continuing to establish the city as a hub of luxury and modern living.
New Edgewater Tower Receives FAA Approval for 637-Foot Height
Edgewater, one of Miami’s most rapidly developing neighborhoods, is set to welcome a striking new addition to its skyline. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially given the green light for the height of a new tower planned for the area. According to a determination letter dated August 19th, the FAA has approved the tower to rise to an impressive 637 feet above ground level, or 641 feet above sea level.
The letter was sent to Meridian TC Real Estate Group LLC, the company responsible for overseeing the project. The approved height paves the way for the construction of Edge House Miami, a luxury condominium building that will also allow for short-term rentals—a feature that is increasingly popular in the Miami real estate market.
Edge House Miami is set to be a 57-story architectural marvel, with a design crafted by the renowned architect Kobi Karp. Known for his innovative and contemporary designs, is expected to bring a modern aesthetic to Edge House Miami, further enhancing Edgewater’s reputation as a hub for luxury living.
The developer behind this ambitious project is Peru’s Grupo T&C, a company with a growing portfolio of high-end developments. Their decision to invest in Edgewater reflects the area’s burgeoning appeal, particularly among those seeking upscale residential options with flexible rental opportunities.
As Edge House Miami begins to take shape, it promises to be a significant landmark in Edgewater, contributing to the neighborhood’s evolving identity as one of Miami’s premier residential districts. The project’s approval by the FAA marks a crucial step forward, setting the stage for what will undoubtedly be one of Edgewater’s most anticipated developments.
Loews Corporation Secures $305 Million Refinancing for Miami Beach Resort
Loews Corporation is poised to receive a $305 million refinancing package for its premier oceanfront Miami Beach resort. The financing, which backs the 5-acre, 790-key hotel located at 1601 Collins Avenue, is being originated by Wells Fargo, National Association, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as reported by Fitch Ratings. The transaction is expected to close on September 10th.
The 10-year, fixed-rate, interest-only loan will serve to refinance the existing $300 million debt and cover approximately $5 million in closing costs. Despite multiple inquiries, a spokesperson for Loews has not provided any comments on the matter.
Loews, which is led by the billionaire Tisch family, has a long-standing history with the property, having acquired it in 1998. The resort encompasses two towers, including the historic St. Moritz building and a 17-story tower. The property boasts approximately 46,000 square feet of meeting space, six food and beverage outlets, retail spaces, a pool, and cabanas. Among its dining options is the renowned Rao’s restaurant, which has become a key attraction for guests.
Fitch Ratings has valued the property at just over $400 million, translating to about $507,000 per key. With a loan-to-value ratio of 74 percent, the new financing will strengthen the resort’s financial foundation while ensuring its continued operation as a luxury destination in Miami Beach.
This refinancing follows a similar move earlier this month by BDT & MSD, a merchant bank created through the merger of Trott’s BDT & Company and MSD Partners, the private investment arm of Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell. The firm secured a $1 billion refinancing for the Boca Raton Resort & Club, a 1,047-key luxury hotel located at 501 East Camino Real in Boca Raton. Citi Real Estate Funding provided the two-year, floating-rate interest-only loan for that transaction.
The Miami Beach resort refinancing marks yet another significant investment in South Florida’s luxury hotel market, reflecting the region’s robust real estate and hospitality sectors. As Loews continues to enhance its premier properties, the future looks bright for this iconic oceanfront destination.
New Renderings Unveiled for Cassia: A Luxurious Residential Development in Coral Gables
Alta Developers has recently revealed new renderings for Cassia, a striking 12-story residential development set to redefine luxury living in the heart of Coral Gables. Designed by the esteemed architectural firm Behar Font & Partners, this fully furnished luxury condominium will be located at 4011 Salzedo Street in the Merrick Park District. Cassia will offer 174 elegantly designed residences, ranging from one- to three-bedroom units, with sizes spanning from 662 to 1,439 square feet. Ideal for frequent travelers or seasonal residents, these units come fully furnished by RH, offering flexible rental options.
The newly unveiled renderings showcase Cassia’s rectilinear form, accentuated by a sleek white stucco exterior. The building’s design emphasizes vertical and horizontal lines through its recessed balconies and window frames. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows punctuate the façade, allowing for breathtaking views and an abundance of natural light. Architectural frames surrounding the balconies add a sophisticated depth and texture to the overall aesthetic.
The lower levels of Cassia will feature ground-level retail spaces, designed with extensive glazing and black aluminum framing to enhance transparency and encourage street-level interaction. The façade on this level will be clad in stone material or veneer, complemented by green walls and nearby landscaping, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment.
A standout feature of Cassia is the outdoor amenity deck located above the podium level. This landscaped area includes a pool deck surrounded by palm trees and lush plantings, offering a serene retreat for residents. The pool area is outfitted with lounge chairs and outdoor seating, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
The name “Cassia” is inspired by the beautiful Cassia trees that bloom across Coral Gables during Spring and Fall, their pink blossoms resembling delicate bouquets. This name is a nod to the city’s founders, who envisioned Coral Gables as a Garden City with lush green avenues and charming architecture. This vision has been preserved, with Coral Gables earning the designation of Tree City USA for over 34 years.
Located just steps away from the Shops at Merrick Park, Cassia residents will enjoy unparalleled access to premier shopping and dining experiences. The area boasts over 100 retailers and restaurants, including luxury brands such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. For fitness and wellness, residents can visit Equinox Fitness, SoulCycle, and the Elemis spa.
Cassia promises to be a hallmark of luxury living in one of South Florida’s most desirable and pedestrian-friendly locations, blending modern design with the rich cultural heritage of Coral Gables.
FAA Approves Height for New Brickell Tower, Clearing a Major Hurdle
In a significant development for the Brickell skyline, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a determination this morning stating that the proposed height for a new tower in the area does not present a hazard to air navigation. The determination letter from the FAA specifically noted that the Calle 8 building height of 737 feet above ground level, or 750 feet above mean sea level, is within acceptable limits.
This decision comes after the Miami-Dade Aviation Department initially objected to a greater proposed height. In April, the development team submitted the new height proposal to the FAA, following concerns raised by the county’s aviation officials. A March letter from these officials stated that an earlier proposal for a tower height of 870 feet above sea level would not comply with the airport height zoning regulations, prompting the revision.
The architectural design of Calle 8 is particularly striking, spanning 65 stories. As of this month, the project is progressing through the zoning approval process with Miami-Dade County planners. The plans for the tower include ground floor retail spaces, a performing arts venue or retail complex, and 464 residential units, alongside various amenity spaces.
Millennium Developments of Brickell, the developer behind this ambitious project, aims to contribute a significant new structure to the Brickell area. With FAA approval secured, the development is poised to proceed further, bringing this vision closer to reality.
Gale Miami Hotel & Residences Achieves Major Milestones with TCO and Rapid Sales Momentum
The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, a visionary project by hospitality entrepreneur Keith Menin and Marisa Galbut through their development firm Sixth Street Miami Partners LLC, has reached a significant milestone with the issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO). This achievement, backed by GFO Investments, signifies a pivotal moment for the development, which has seen remarkable progress since its inception. Furthermore, Gale Miami has successfully surpassed 250 closings in less than 60 days, highlighting the strong demand for short-term rental properties in Downtown Miami.
Located at 601 Northeast First Avenue in Downtown Miami, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences opened its doors in May 2024. The 51-story development offers move-in-ready and fully furnished units, with studio, 1-, and 2-bedroom layouts ranging from 410 to 910 square feet. Prices for these luxury units start in the mid $500s and go up to over $1 million. Its prime location near Miami Worldcenter and within walking distance of Downtown Miami makes Gale Miami an attractive option for residents seeking the perfect blend of hotel amenities and the flexibility of home-sharing options.
Keith Menin expressed his enthusiasm about the TCO milestone, stating, “Receiving the TCO is a major milestone for us all. Our immediate focus is now on welcoming buyers into their new homes and ensuring they fully experience all that Gale Miami has to offer. The positive reception from buyers confirms Gale Miami’s appeal and exceeds expectations in the Downtown Miami market.”
Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, along with 601 Miami, boasts a sprawling 70,000-square-foot amenity space spread across three floors. Residents and guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness facility, a tranquil yoga lounge, an inviting terrace, and spa facilities including a steam room, sauna, and hammam. The property features a 24-hour attended lobby with a comfortable lounge area and 24-hour valet parking. Culinary options are abundant, with three unique dining concepts: an Italian restaurant, an American steakhouse and lounge, and a Mediterranean-style eatery.
For business needs, the Gale Miami Conference Center, located on the 8th floor, offers over 20,000 square feet of flexible space, including multiple conference rooms, breakout areas, and a grand ballroom. Additionally, the property includes three dedicated floors of exhibition space, each spanning 40,000 square feet. As a premier conference venue in Downtown Miami, Gale Miami is a sought-after location for major events, from weddings to corporate functions. The center provides personalized concierge catering and services, ensuring every guest’s needs are met with meticulous attention to detail.
Designed by Arquitectonica, in collaboration with Urban Robot for interior design and landscape architecture, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences embodies a vibrant, walkable urban oasis in Downtown Miami. With breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, the design seamlessly integrates urban sophistication with luxurious resort-style amenities, establishing a new benchmark for city living.
The announcement of Gale Miami’s TCO and rapid sales success coincides with the launch of their latest development, 14 ROC, in Downtown Miami on July 10. This new venture continues the trend of innovative, high-demand properties that cater to the evolving needs of Miami’s residents and visitors alike.
1 Southside Park Brickell- Revised Plans Unveiled
The skyline of Brickell is set to receive a significant addition with the ongoing construction of the 1 Southside Park project. The developer behind this massive undertaking has recently submitted revised plans and renderings to the county, showcasing a range of adjustments aimed at enhancing the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
1 Southside Park is a mixed-use development that promises to redefine urban living in Brickell. Among its many components is the residential segment known as Mercedes Benz Places, which is already making strides with a recent foundation pour marking the progress of its first phase.
The revised plans introduce several notable changes:
Increase in Open Space: The updated design incorporates more open space, providing residents and visitors with ample areas to enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.
Increase in Lot Coverage: There is a slight increase in lot coverage by 6%, optimizing the use of available land.
Reduction in Residential Units: The number of residential units has been reduced by 185, bringing the total to 1,010 units, a 15% decrease.
Reduction in Office Space: The office area has been trimmed down by 11,930 square feet, resulting in a 7% decrease.
Increase in Commercial Space: Commercial space has seen a significant boost, with an addition of 26,129 square feet, representing a 23% increase.
Larger Fire Station: The project now includes a larger fire station to better serve the community.
Overall Reduction in Floor Area: The total floor area has been reduced by 43,453 square feet, making the design more efficient and streamlined.
The newly revised plans outline a structure that will rise to an impressive 61 stories, with a total of 64 levels and a roof height of 780 feet above sea level. Here are the detailed specifications:
Hotel Units: 200 units (no change in unit count, but a reduction in square footage)
Commercial Space: 142,129 square feet (+23%)
Office Space: 153,070 square feet (-7%)
Residential Units: 1,010 units (-15%)
Parking Spaces: 881 spaces (-12%)
Governmental Space: 38,582 square feet (+21%)
The ambitious 1 Southside Park project is being developed by JDS Development Group, a company known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. The architectural brilliance of the project is being spearheaded by ODP Architects, who serve as the architect of record.
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.
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.
