Summit Brickell Development Secures FAA Approval, Moves Forward with Updated Plans
The highly anticipated mixed-use development, Summit Brickell is set to redefine the skyline of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. Located at 1015 Southwest 1st Avenue, this ambitious project recently achieved a significant milestone by securing approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). With this approval, the development is poised to rise 765 feet above ground, reaching a total height of 769 feet above sea level at its highest point. Designed by Corwil Architects and developed by Lore Development Group—a joint venture between Brazilian billionaire Daniel Dantas’ Opportunity investment firm and Leste Group—Summit Brickell promises to bring a dynamic blend of residential and commercial spaces to the heart of Miami.
Filed on April 5 and swiftly approved on May 21, Summit Brickell is planned as a 60-story structure with a total floor area ratio (FAR) of 717,740 square feet. The updated plans for the tower to include:
500 residential units
1,583 square feet of commercial space
500 parking spaces
Documents recently filed with Miami-Dade County in April provided updated renderings and plans for Summit Brickell. One of the notable changes is the reduction of the proposed structure from 69 to 60 stories. The updated plans also indicate the elevator bulkhead will now rise to 750 feet, significantly lower than the initially planned 843 feet, falling well within the heights approved by the FAA.
Summit Brickell is currently under review by Miami-Dade County planners as part of its Rapid Transit zoning plan, allowing it to bypass city review. However, a construction permit for the project has not yet been filed with the county.
The project’s material board highlights the variety of architectural features and elements that contribute to the overall design and aesthetic of the structure. Key features include:
Fine sand stucco/textured finish used throughout the elevations
Horizontal concrete pours/sculpted to exterior walls
Impact-resistant guardrail systems
Sliding glass doors with impact-resistant aluminum frame and glass
Fixed-lite, clear safety glass and impact-resistant guardrail system on balcony rails
Additionally, the building will feature:
Impact-resistant glass doors
Storm-resistant mesh screens
Parking garage breezeway
Perforated aluminum garage system panels
Decorative metal claddings
Aluminum sunshade systems
Summit Brickell will offer various unit types from the 14th through the 58th floor, including studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom floor plans ranging from 500 to 1,418 square feet. The penthouse units on the 59th floor will range from 1,288 to 2,618 square feet. Residents will enjoy amenities on both the 13th floor and the 60th-floor rooftop. The parking garage is designed to occupy floors 2 through 12, ensuring ample space for residents and visitors.
While it remains unclear when the developer plans to break ground on the project, it is still navigating through the approval process, and no permits have been submitted as of May. Initially, groundbreaking for the project was tentatively scheduled for June 2024, with completion expected by summer 2027. However, given the current status, a groundbreaking towards the end of the year seems more likely, with completion potentially extending into late 2027.
Swire Properties Unveils $100 Million Duplex Penthouse at The Residences at Mandarin Oriental
The latest addition to Miami’s upscale real estate scene is Mandarin Oriental, which, in collaboration with Swire Properties, has launched sales for The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami. This development features 228 luxury branded residences within an 800-foot tower on Brickell Key, just moments away from Miami’s bustling center.
These residences are just a part of the brand’s grand vision to transform this secluded island sanctuary into an unmatched residential and hospitality destination. The South Tower will house The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, while the North Tower is set to become the new North American flagship Mandarin Oriental hotel, connected by a beautifully landscaped podium.
Among the first properties available is the development’s $100 million duplex penthouse. The penthouse offers 23,000 square feet of living space, including 7,000 square feet of private outdoor space.
With 30-foot-high ceilings, interiors by designer Tristan Auer, and unparalleled views of the city skyline from nearly 800 feet above, this residence epitomizes elevated living. The property features multiple outdoor dining and entertainment areas and a sky cabana that can serve as an additional bedroom. The infinity pool, one of Miami’s highest, adds to the allure for those who love heights.
Luxury Residences for Sale
The South Tower offers a range of luxurious residences:
Two-bedrooms starting at $4.9 million
Three-bedrooms starting at $5.8 million
Four-bedrooms starting at $10.5 million
Five-bedrooms starting at $17.5 million
The North Tower: A New Flagship Hotel
The North Tower will house the new Mandarin Oriental hotel, featuring:
121 rooms
A signature Spa at Mandarin Oriental
Multiple intimate fine-dining and al fresco restaurants
This tower will also offer an additional 66 private residences and 28 hotel residences, with sales set to launch later this year.
The Future of Branded Residences in Miami
The branded residence trend continues to gain momentum in Miami, blending luxury living with prestigious brands. With properties like The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, the city is setting new standards for high-end urban living, offering residents unparalleled luxury and world-class amenities.
One Twenty Brickell Residences: A New Residential Tower in Miami
A foundation permit application has been filed for One Twenty Brickell Residences, a 34-story residential tower planned for construction at 120 Southwest 8th Street in Brickell, Miami. Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects with interiors by Cotofana Designs and developed by Property Markets Group (PMG), this new development will feature 240 fully furnished residences, each delivered with its own deeded office suite and over 60,000 square feet of amenities. The foundation permit application was filed with Miami-Dade County on April 30, with no contractor yet named.
One Twenty Brickell Residences will feature a range of studio to three-bedroom apartments, sized from 451 to 1,395 square feet. Each residence will boast fully integrated kitchens with custom countertops and backsplashes, contemporary under-mount sinks, and a high-end appliance package. Additional features include imported and custom kitchen and bathroom cabinetry by Italkraft, WaterWorks bathroom fixtures, glass-enclosed showers, and fully built-out closets in primary bedrooms. The flooring, selected with specifications recommended by Cotofana Designs, includes designer polymer wood and a contemporary lighting package. A built-in top-of-the-line washer and dryer enhance convenience, while PMG’s smart home technology offers efficient, seamless personalization at the touch of a button.
One Twenty Brickell Residences features a unique offering of private office suites, which are deeded individually to condo purchasers. Each office is enclosed with glass panels and equipped with a desk, chair, two guest chairs, a wallpaper accent wall, and complimentary Wi-Fi, providing a functional workspace for residents. Additional office amenities include concierge secretary service, dedicated elevators, a reception area, and a coffee station. For larger meetings, a conference room is available, featuring an eight-person conference table, a 72-inch smart TV with a mounted camera, a conference phone, and Wi-Fi access.
Extensive Amenities for Modern Living
Amenities at One Twenty Brickell Residences encompass over 60,000 square feet, including:
Pickleball court with courtside seating
Children’s club and gym
Sky bar and lounge
Cafe and juice bar
Infinity-edge pool offering sunset views
Dog run
Wellness and fitness center featuring steam rooms, saunas, treatment rooms, and relaxation area with outdoor terraces
Modern fitness studio with the latest equipment
Movement studio and yoga lawn
Additional services available to residents include a building and wellness concierge, comprehensive management of the property, and smart-building technology, all aimed at providing a seamless living experience. The complex is further enhanced by custom art installations, enriching the environment for those who live, work, and play there.
NoMad Residences Wynwood: Securing $141.5 Million in Financing and Pioneering a Unique Residential Experience
Related Group and Tricap have successfully secured $141.5 million in financing for the highly anticipated NoMad Residences Wynwood, a significant development in Miami’s vibrant Wynwood Arts District. The project received a $51.5 million mezzanine loan from Related Fund Management and a $90 million senior construction loan from Kennedy Wilson. Construction commenced in October 2023, shortly after the groundbreaking in September.
“Related Group is proud to partner with Related Fund Management and Kennedy Wilson to drive the development of NoMad Residences Wynwood further,” said Nick Pérez, President of Related’s Condominium Division. “This significant capital infusion is a testament to the strong investor confidence in Miami’s residential market and, more notably, our distinct vision for this hospitality-centric and lifestyle-driven development. We’re excited to bring this unique residential experience to Wynwood, which adeptly blends design, culture, and community in a way that only NoMad can.”
Thomas Whitesell, Head of the Debt Investment Group at Kennedy Wilson, echoed these sentiments: “We are pleased to join with Related Fund Management to provide construction financing to Related Group for this exceptional project. Related Group is arguably the premier residential developer in South Florida and their deep experience, particularly in Wynwood, is one of many reasons we were drawn to this investment.”
NoMad Residences Wynwood, designed by Arquitectonica with interiors by DesignAgency, will offer 329 units ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Each residence will feature floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and modern kitchens equipped with Bosch appliances and Italian-style cabinetry. The units come fully furnished with packages from DesignAgency and are designed with no rental restrictions, allowing owners the flexibility to rent their homes for any period.
The development will include a variety of public food and beverage venues. Highlights include a rooftop restaurant and bar managed by Leo Robitschek, a James Beard Award winner, and Casa Tua Cucina on the ground floor, offering Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Residents will enjoy access to an array of amenities such as a rooftop lounge, pool, fitness facilities, and the NoMad Library and Lounge. The building will also showcase art from the Jorge M. Pérez Collection and feature commissioned works that reflect the Wynwood artistic community.
Sales have been robust, with more than 80% of the residences already sold. Completion of NoMad Residences Wynwood is anticipated for late 2025, promising a dynamic and culturally enriched living experience in one of Miami’s most artistic neighborhoods.
Miami’s Skyline to Soar with the New Midtown 1 Tower
After years of anticipation, the Midtown 1 tower, a groundbreaking project set to redefine the skyline of Midtown Miami, is advancing towards realization. The project has now been sent for review by Miami’s Urban Development Review Board, with the initial renderings of this architectural marvel released to the public for the first time.
Standing at an impressive height of 596 feet, Midtown 1 is slated to become the tallest tower in Midtown Miami. The tower will rise up to 48 stories, towering over the district and offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. This high-rise is designed to accommodate:
400 residential units: A mix of luxury apartments designed for comfort and style, promising an upscale living experience.
27,658 square feet of retail space: Intended to host a variety of shops and boutiques, this area is expected to transform into a bustling hub for shopping and leisure.
498 parking spaces spread across five levels: Ample parking ensures convenience for residents and visitors alike.
The architectural genius behind Midtown 1 comes from Arquitectonica, a renowned firm celebrated for their innovative and forward-thinking designs. The project is being developed by Midtown 1 Investments, a collaborative venture led by Terra and Lion Development Group. This partnership brings together extensive experience and a shared vision for transformative urban development.
The Miami Urban Development Review Board is scheduled to conduct a hearing on the proposal on May 15. This session is crucial as it will determine the next steps in the approval process, moving closer to bringing this ambitious project to life.
Midtown 1 represents not just a building, but a beacon of modern living and urban development. As Midtown Miami continues to grow and evolve, Midtown 1 stands poised to become a landmark that encapsulates the vibrancy and dynamism of the city.
Introducing Clear Residences in Downtown Miami
Toronto-based Blutrich Holdings, spearheaded by real estate mogul Gil Blutrich, is set to transform Downtown Miami’s skyline with their latest venture, Clear Residences. This ambitious project proposes a 60-story mixed-use building situated at 130 Southeast 1st Street, a prime location in the heart of the Central Business District.
Clear Residences is designed to be a nearly 690-foot-tall architectural marvel, encompassing approximately 666,432 square feet. The structure is planned by Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design, with landscape architecture by KEITH. The project aims to offer 549 residential units alongside 3,622 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. Furthermore, residents will enjoy nearly 40,000 square feet of amenities and a parking garage designed to hold 157 vehicles. The Miami Urban Development Review Board is expected to review the project proposal on May 15.
Currently, the site operates as a surface parking lot, covering about 23,750 square feet or 0.55 acres, bordered by SE 1st Street and SE 2nd Street, with SE 1st Avenue and SE 2nd Avenue flanking its sides.
The design of Clear Residences aims to blend seamlessly with the urban fabric of Downtown Miami while standing out with its modern architectural elements. The building is characterized by sleek, curved corners and a striking glass façade. A unique feature of the design is the building’s rooftop, which includes landscaped terraces that provide a stunning contrast to its linear structure, enhancing the visual appeal and reducing the massiveness of the tower.
The tower’s position within the city allows it to capture breathtaking views from Biscayne Bay towards the west, emphasizing its prominence in the city’s landscape. The architectural renderings reveal a structure that honors the area’s vibrancy while contributing to the skyline’s dynamic evolution.
Several detailed renderings showcase the building’s intricate fenestration and façade, which includes vertical columns wrapped in golden metal, wrap-around frameless glass guardrails, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The bronze aluminum cladding panels add a touch of elegance and modernity to the overall design.
Blutrich Holdings has requested several waivers to facilitate this project, including increased lot coverage and adjustments to building setbacks and frontage access. These requests are aligned with recent amendments to local zoning codes, aiming to accommodate the unique design and structural requirements of Clear Residences.
Clear Residences is poised to be a significant addition to Miami’s downtown area, offering luxury living combined with breathtaking designs and state-of-the-art amenities. As the review date approaches, all eyes will be on how this project will further shape the future of Miami’s urban landscape.
Alta Developers Announces New Short-Term Rental-Friendly Condo Project in Coral Gables
Alta Developers, a prominent Miami-based real estate firm, has officially launched sales for its latest venture, a short-term rental-friendly condominium known as Cassia, located in the vibrant heart of Coral Gables. This announcement marks a significant shift from the company’s initial plans of developing an apartment complex at 4011 Salzedo Avenue.
Originally intended as a multifamily apartment building, the project’s direction shifted about six months to a year ago, amidst challenging market conditions. “The multifamily market is pretty tough today. With interest rates and costs, it’s very difficult to launch a multifamily project,” explained Raimundo Onetto, CEO of Alta Developers. He further noted the sustained demand in the condo market, which influenced the strategic redirection towards developing Cassia as a condo project suitable for short-term rentals.
Cassia is set to rise as a 12-story building offering 174 residential units, with sizes ranging from 662 to 1,439 square feet. The units, which will include options from one to three bedrooms, are priced starting in the $700,000s, stretching up to about $1.8 million. Each condo will be delivered fully finished and furnished, featuring elegant interiors by RH (formerly Restoration Hardware), ensuring a premium living experience.
The development is designed to attract a diverse group of buyers, including foreign investors and families with children attending the University of Miami, as well as medical professionals working at nearby hospitals. “People can use it when they’re here, and when they’re not here they can put it into a management program that allows them cash flow. … This is a great way to start your real estate portfolio,” said Jesse Ottley, President of Development Sales, highlighting the project’s flexibility.
Set to open a sales center this month at 4201 South LeJeune Road, Cassia is strategically located near top shopping destinations like the Shops at Merrick Park and luxury automotive dealer The Collection. The project promises a rich array of amenities including a café, gym, multiple pools, and a landscaped garden on the fifth floor, not to mention a striking $1 million tree sculpture within a serene paseo.
With plans to break ground by year-end, Alta Developers aims to secure construction financing by selling approximately 40% to 45% of the units—roughly 70 units in total. The anticipated loan amount is around $60 million, with construction expected to last about 18 to 20 months.
Alta Developers purchased the 1.5-acre site for $17.5 million in late 2020 from Baptist Health South Florida. The site’s history includes a previous development plan by Ugo Colombo and Masoud Shojaee, which was later sold to Baptist in the wake of a legal dispute.
Cassia represents a significant addition to Coral Gables and South Florida’s growing portfolio of short-term rental-friendly developments, joining other noteworthy projects like 600 Miami Worldcenter and Natiivo Fort Lauderdale. As Alta Developers embarks on this exciting project, Cassia is poised to become a cornerstone of flexible urban living in Coral Gables.
New Renderings Revealed for Mercedes Benz Places
Mercedes Benz Places tower just revealed new renderings of the stunning 67-story edifice that’s taking shape in the heart of Brickell. This reveal, strategically timed ahead of the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix weekend, not only captured the essence of luxury and innovation but also marked a significant milestone in real estate developments.
From the outset, Mercedes Benz Places has been a beacon of architectural ambition and opulence. It’s no surprise that the tower has already set a sales record, with 100 units snapped up within the first four days of marketing. This brisk pace of sales underscores the high demand and prestige associated with owning a part of this iconic building.
The image reveal event was held at The Concours Club, providing an apt setting for unveiling a project that melds luxury with cutting-edge design. Attendees got their first look at the sophisticated aesthetic and architectural nuances of the tower. Notably, the building features giant Mercedes logos at the porte cochere and atop the rooftop pool, these design elements echo the luxury and excellence synonymous with the Mercedes brand.
The event was graced by notable figures including Toto Wolff, the CEO of Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team; Michael Stern, CEO of JDS Development; and Ryan Serhant, a renowned real estate mogul. Their presence highlighted the significant collaboration and vision that drives the Mercedes Benz Places project.
The Mercedes Benz Places tower in Brickell is more than just a high-rise; it’s a symbol of luxury living and architectural grandeur. As the tower rises, it promises to reshape the Miami skyline and offer an unmatched living experience. The enthusiastic reception of the new renderings is just a precursor to the transformative impact this tower will have on luxury real estate in Miami.
For those interested in a blend of luxury and performance, Mercedes Benz Places appears to be setting new standards on every front. As the construction progresses, all eyes will undoubtedly remain on this landmark project that’s poised to become one of the most coveted addresses in Miami.
Revving Up Luxury Living: Aston Martin Residences in Downtown Miami
When dreams meet determination, the impossible becomes achievable. Amidst the glittering skyline of downtown Miami, the Aston Martin Residences stand tall as a testament to visionary thinking and unwavering perseverance. Despite initial doubts, this architectural marvel has not only come to fruition but has also exceeded expectations.
Developer G&G Business Developments defied skeptics as they held a triumphant ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 30, coinciding with Miami’s electrifying race week. The event, graced by the presence of Aston Martin executives and esteemed Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, marked the culmination of years of meticulous planning and dedicated effort.
The allure of the Aston Martin Residences lies not only in its striking design but also in its unparalleled exclusivity. Of the 391 luxury condos nestled within its sleek façade, an astounding 99% were snapped up by eager buyers even before the doors swung open. What’s more, over 50 of these new residents are proud owners of Aston Martin automobiles, further cementing their allegiance to the brand’s legacy of luxury and innovation.
Collaboration breeds excellence, and nowhere is this more evident than in the partnership between Aston Martin’s design team and the visionary architect Rodolfo Miani of Bodas Mian Anger. Together, they have crafted a striking sail-shaped glass tower that stands as an ode to sophistication and modernity, redefining the skyline of downtown Miami.
Step into the realm of luxury living, where every amenity is crafted to indulge and inspire. Spread across levels 52 through 55, residents are treated to a plethora of indulgences. From an exquisite art gallery to state-of-the-art movie theaters, a golf simulator to a bustling business center, every need and desire finds fulfillment within these walls. For families, a dedicated kids’ playroom ensures that little ones are equally catered to, while a full-service spa, beauty salon, and barber shop beckon residents to unwind and rejuvenate in style.
Ascend to level 55, where the true epitome of luxury awaits. The pool deck, with its inviting jacuzzis and private cabanas, offers a sanctuary amidst the bustling city below. Here, residents can bask in the warm embrace of the Miami sun or mingle in the opulent surroundings of the chef’s kitchen, ballroom, and private dining areas, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline and the azure waters beyond.
In the heart of downtown Miami, where innovation meets elegance, the Aston Martin Residences stand not just as a symbol of luxury living but as a testament to the power of ambition and ingenuity. As residents settle into their new abodes, they do so knowing that they are not just homeowners but custodians of a legacy—a legacy built on the belief that with passion and perseverance, even the loftiest dreams can become reality.
ChatGPT Transforming Miami Beach: The Proposed 5-Story Office Building at 1100 5th Street
Miami Beach is poised for an exciting transformation with the proposal of a new 5-story commercial office building at 1100 5th Street, in the vibrant South of Fifth neighborhood. Designed by the renowned Eduardo Souta de Moura and Zyscovich Architects, and developed by Sumaida + Khurana in collaboration with property owners Roslyn and Norton Nesis and Robert and Miriam Weiss of Weiss Properties, this project promises to be a landmark addition to the area.
The planned building stands approximately 80 feet tall and encompasses a total construction area of about 101,424 square feet. The design incorporates a Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.) of 65,274 square feet, which includes 43,797 square feet dedicated to office space. It also features 7,142 square feet of both indoor and outdoor amenities and 7,204 square feet allocated for a ground floor restaurant. Moreover, the design plans to provide 105 parking spaces to accommodate both tenants and visitors.
Situated on an “L” shaped parcel that stretches over approximately 0.75 acres, the site currently hosts two commercial structures. One is a former Pier One retail store, and the other a Burger King restaurant, both of which will be replaced by the new development. This location, at the intersection of Fifth Street, Alton Road, and Lenox Avenue, extending to 4th Street, is pivotal for enhancing the connectivity and aesthetic of the neighborhood.
The ground floor of the new building will house the main office lobby, a restaurant, and essential back-of-house facilities, along with a publicly accessible open court/patio. To align with the city’s resiliency policies aimed at reducing traffic, the project will also include a Mobility Hub, featuring long-term bicycle racks, lockers, a repair workshop, and showers for commuting cyclists.
The second level is designed for parking, including ADA-compliant spaces and VIP self-parking for office tenants. The upper floors, from the third to the fifth, will accommodate additional office spaces, promoting a modern, light-filled workspace with extensive balconies and glazing.
One of the project’s striking features is its architectural design, which transitions smoothly from the bustling commercial environment of Fifth Street to the quieter residential zones to the south and east. The building steps down in mass and height towards the south, integrating decorative columns that taper with each ascending floor, thus providing a harmonious transition to adjacent areas.
The development seeks a waiver to modify the sidewalk elevation along Fifth Street to better integrate with the existing landscaped areas and pedestrian pathways. Additionally, two variances are requested. One is for the design of an open court space, which, although larger than required, needs adjustment due to its integration with bus and pedestrian traffic. The second variance seeks a slight increase in the maximum building height to enhance the structure’s resilience to sea level rise.
The Miami Beach Design Review Board is set to review this application on June 6th. If approved, this project will not only provide much-needed office space but also boost local amenities and improve urban connectivity, making it a significant enhancement to the South of Fifth neighborhood. This development represents a thoughtful blend of modern design with practical functionality, aiming to set new standards for commercial office buildings in Miami Beach.
