Edgardo Defortuna of Fortune International Group and Shahab Karmely of Kar Properties Launch Faena Residences Miami
Miami’s skyline is set to welcome a stunning new addition as developers Edgardo Defortuna of Fortune International Group and Shahab Karmely of KAR Properties collaborate with Alan Faena to create the Faena District along the Miami River. This ambitious project includes the development of Faena Residences, a 440-unit luxury condominium development that promises to transform the area.
Located at 90 Southwest Third Street in Miami, the Faena Residences project will replace the previously planned One River Point. The two-tower development, connected by a striking sky bridge, was designed by the late renowned architect Rafael Viñoly. Construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with sales expected to launch later this year. Units will range in price from $1 million to over $4 million.
Fortune International Group joined KAR Properties as a co-developer in late 2022, bringing new energy to the project. According to Defortuna, the developers aim to be in full swing by Art Basel Miami Beach, one of the world’s premier art events. “We’ll be in full force by the time Art Basel rolls around,” he noted, underscoring the team’s enthusiasm for the development.
The Faena Residences will include an impressive 45,000-square-foot amenity space in the sky bridge, which will be designed and programmed by Faena himself. The space is set to feature a variety of wellness-focused facilities, all aimed at promoting longevity and well-being—a hallmark of Faena’s development ethos.
This project marks the second major South Florida real estate venture for Alan Faena, following the successful completion of the Faena District in Miami Beach, which includes Faena House, Faena Hotel, and Faena Forum. Backed by billionaire Len Blavatnik, the Faena District in Miami Beach has become synonymous with luxury, art, and world-class amenities. The new Faena Residences Miami looks to continue this legacy, offering a private park, wellness facilities, a marina, and public art installations as part of a larger three-block phased development along the river.
In late 2022, Fortune and KAR secured a $38 million loan from Bank OZK, a line of credit aimed at supporting the project’s sales and marketing efforts. The developers are optimistic about the future of the Faena District along the Miami River, confident that it will become a defining part of Miami’s growing luxury real estate market.
Karmely’s original vision for the 60-story towers, first revealed in 2014, included ambitious features like a three-story floating glass sky bridge and a 55th-floor members-only “Sky Club” with high-end amenities such as restaurants, a cigar lounge, and a screening room. Though the final plans have evolved, the Faena Residences Miami remains poised to offer a unique and exclusive living experience.
The Faena Residences Miami is just one of several developments that will reshape the Miami River area. A recent analysis by The Real Deal found that more than a dozen projects are in various stages of development along the river, with plans to add over 10,500 condo and apartment units. Notable among these is Related Group’s Baccarat, a 75-story, 355-unit tower set to rise at 99 Southeast Fifth Street on the south side of the river.
With its prime location, striking design, and emphasis on wellness, the Faena Residences Miami is set to become a landmark in the city’s evolving luxury real estate market.
Naftali Group Reveals Exclusive JEM Sky Villas at Miami Worldcenter with FENDI Casa Interiors
Naftali Group has introduced two opulent penthouses, the JEM Sky Villas, featuring interiors by the world-renowned Italian luxury brand, FENDI Casa. These penthouses crown the 67-story JEM Private Residences, which rises more than 700 feet into the Miami skyline at 1016 Northeast 2nd Avenue in Miami Worldcenter. The building, designed by Arquitectonica and Rockwell Group, is an architectural masterpiece combining cutting-edge design with elevated living experiences.
The JEM Private Residences will offer residential units beginning from the 43rd floor to maximize the breathtaking panoramic views of Miami and Biscayne Bay. The 50th floor will house an impressive suite of high-end amenities, including a Sky Lounge, outdoor pool, fitness center, boxing arena, yoga patio, and a luxurious spa suite.
Chairman and CEO of Naftali Group, Miki Naftali, emphasized the significance of this partnership: “We are excited about this special collaboration with FENDI Casa on the JEM Sky Villas. We look forward to bringing this limited collection of residences to downtown Miami. The JEM Sky Villas signify the evolving landscape of upscale living in this dynamic city, with each villa showcasing FENDI Casa’s exceptional craftsmanship and meticulously designed furnishings at the crown of JEM Private Residences.”
These exclusive penthouses are designed with expansive floor plans ranging from 5,083 to 5,277 square feet. Each villa boasts four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, a private library, and a stunning wraparound terrace offering unparalleled views of Miami. One of the units will even feature a hot tub on the terrace, adding to the luxurious experience. FENDI Casa’s design approach centers on elegance, with each interior reflecting their commitment to craftsmanship and luxury, incorporating bespoke furniture and premium materials hand-selected for these residences.
Danielle Naftali, Executive Vice President of Marketing, Sales + Design for Naftali Group, spoke about the design journey: “Collaborating with FENDI Casa to design and curate each space at the JEM Sky Villas has been a remarkable experience of craftsmanship and creativity. Inspired by FENDI’s rich heritage in Rome, we hand-selected and custom-finished each piece to complement the lifestyle that these residences offer. Every detail has been chosen to create a harmonious blend of high-end design and refined living.”
Among the standout features of these penthouses are FENDI Casa’s signature pieces, including the Matrice bookcase and Metropolis coffee table, each reflecting geometric design elements inspired by FENDI’s Roman headquarters.
Alberto da Passano, CEO of FENDI Casa, highlighted the importance of the collaboration: “This partnership represents a significant milestone for FENDI Casa in the realm of interior design. As luxury projects gain prominence globally, we are excited to contribute to this prestigious development and continue our expansion into high-end markets.”
With completion set for Q4 2027, units will be priced from $8 million and marketed exclusively by OneWorld Properties, marking these JEM Sky Villas as one of the most coveted residential addresses in Miami.
Meta Development’s New Luxury Venture Set to Transform Brickell
Meta Development, an international firm, is making waves in the Miami real estate scene with plans to demolish the five-unit Houses of Brickell Condominium and replace it with an exclusive luxury development. This ambitious project will introduce 36 upscale residences, with each ownership opportunity priced around $2.5 million.
The development’s blueprint includes two interconnected five-story buildings. These structures will be linked via a stunning rooftop pool deck and supported by a parking podium. Residences are set to range from three to five bedrooms, although specific square footage details remain undisclosed.
Beyond the beautiful design, residents will enjoy high-end finishings, energy-efficient appliances, and integrated smart home technology. The development aims to appeal to both wealthy homeowners with spacious residences and investors seeking smaller units for short-term rentals. The inclusion of smart home features and sustainable design elements positions the project as a forward-thinking addition to the Brickell skyline.
Brazil-based OSPA Architecture and Urbanism is spearheading the architectural design of the project. Conceptual renderings depict a sleek, rectangular-shaped structure surrounded by lush palm trees and native ferns, encapsulating Miami’s tropical beauty.
Meta Development secured the land for this ambitious project through two strategic acquisitions. The firm purchased a vacant 17,500-square-foot lot at 1870 Brickell Avenue for $10.25 million and has the five condos at the existing Houses of Brickell under contract for a combined $10.5 million.
This new 36-unit development will be located at 1888 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33129, within Miami-Dade County. As the project moves forward, anticipation builds for this transformative luxury venture that will further solidify Brickell’s reputation as a premier destination for luxury living.
1428 Brickell Development Moves Forward with Site Work Permit
Exciting news for Miami’s real estate landscape! The City of Miami’s Building Department has recently issued a site work permit for the highly anticipated 1428 Brickell development. This new phase in the project’s timeline marks significant progress toward bringing a remarkable new luxury tower to the heart of Brickell.
The 1428 Brickell development is set to redefine the skyline with a 70-story, 861-foot tower that promises to be a beacon of luxury and innovation. What sets this project apart is its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology. The building will be equipped to generate its own electricity using photovoltaic panels integrated directly into its glass curtain wall, offering a forward-thinking approach to energy efficiency.
When completed, this architectural marvel will house 189 luxury condominiums, designed to provide residents with unmatched views and top-of-the-line amenities.
Earlier this year, the demolition of an older building on the property was successfully completed, clearing the way for new development. The recently issued site work permit, which became active on October 3rd, marks the next crucial step in preparing the site for construction. The permit outlines an estimated $1,992,000 worth of site work, with John Moriarty as the contractor leading the charge.
While the site work permit is a significant milestone, there’s more to come for 1428 Brickell. A separate master construction permit for the new tower is currently in the process, which will pave the way for the full-scale building of this impressive structure.
The development is being spearheaded by Ytech, a prominent name in the industry known for its commitment to creating luxury spaces that push the boundaries of design and innovation. The architectural vision for 1428 Brickell is being shaped by ACPV Architects in collaboration with Arquitectonica, two architectural firms renowned for their innovative and sustainable design approaches.
The 1428 Brickell development stands as a symbol of Miami’s continuous growth and evolution as a global city. With its groundbreaking design and emphasis on sustainability, it is set to become a new landmark in the Brickell skyline, attracting residents seeking luxury living combined with modern technology.
Sushi Garage Set To Open New Location at The Standard Residences in Midtown Miami
Rosso Development, Standard International, and Midtown Development are excited to announce that the beloved Sushi Garage is set to open at the eagerly awaited The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami. From the renowned Juvia Group, founded by restaurateurs Jonas and Alexandra Millán, Sushi Garage is a celebrated neighborhood restaurant known for its modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. This new addition marks The Standard Residences’ third major food and beverage announcement this year, joining Solana on the rooftop, also by Juvia Group, and Rosetta Bakery Café & Privato Speakeasy.
The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, is already 96% sold, with sales and marketing exclusively managed by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing. The project has reached a major milestone with its construction topping off, and the anticipated completion is set for Q3 2025.
Sushi Garage has built a reputation for its popular happy hour, which has become a hallmark of Miami’s dining culture. The restaurant offers an approachable yet refined experience, attracting both locals and visitors with its menu that emphasizes high-quality, sustainable ingredients. The dishes are crafted with innovative culinary techniques, providing a perfect blend of authenticity and creativity.
The design of the new Sushi Garage location will draw inspiration from the simplicity and elegance of Japanese aesthetics, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a refined yet accessible dining experience.
The Standard Residences: A Blend of Culture, Community, and Style
Situated at 3100 N.E. 1st Ave, between The Design District and Wynwood, The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, is a fusion of culture, community, and style, offering world-class design, amenities, and service. The 228 residences range from studios to two-bedroom layouts, all featuring The Standard’s signature style and providing flexible living options. Owners can lease out their units for as short as one month, enhancing the development’s appeal for both residents and investors.
The property’s amenities are designed to create a luxurious yet laid-back lifestyle, including a lushly landscaped rooftop with a 60-foot, resort-style sunset pool, and a signature rooftop restaurant and bar that echoes The Standard’s iconic vibe from LA to New York to London. Wellness facilities include a state-of-the-art sweat room and fitness center, an infrared sauna, an indoor pickleball court, and yoga and stretch studios.
The social floor of The Standard Residences features a karaoke bar, screening room, fully equipped co-working spaces, Zoom rooms, and a private boardroom, making it an ideal location for both relaxation and productivity. A dedicated Standard concierge service will be available 24/7, offering personalized assistance and fostering a sense of community through cultural and social programming.
With its unique blend of dining, design, and lifestyle offerings, The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, continues to set a new standard for urban living in one of Miami’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Sushi Garage’s arrival is yet another step in establishing the development as a vibrant hub for both residents and visitors alike.
La Baia North Breaks Ground in Bay Harbor Islands
The Continuum Company has officially commenced construction on La Baia North, the second of two boutique bayfront condominiums planned for Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands. This milestone follows the overwhelming success of La Baia South, which secured a $90 million construction loan and sold out all units. La Baia North, situated at 9481 East Bay Harbor Drive, is an eight-story residential building featuring 57 units and has already achieved an impressive 60% in pre-sales.
This latest project is spearheaded by renowned New York-based developer Ian Bruce Eichner, celebrated for iconic developments such as Continuum South Beach. Eichner continues to make his mark in South Florida with ventures like La Baia and the recent acquisition of the Shuckers Bar and Grill site in North Bay Village. La Baia North is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2027, with Jacob’s Construction as the general contractor and sales exclusively managed by Gutman Development Marketing.
La Baia North offers a range of two- to four-bedroom residences, with sizes between 1,400 and 2,100 square feet. Prices start at $1.4 million, and private boat slips are available for residents. Located near the popular Kane Concourse and Bal Harbour Shops, the development is ideally positioned for access to dining, shopping, and Miami’s beautiful beaches. Each residence includes expansive floor plans, private terraces with transparent glass railings for unobstructed views, and designated spaces for modern remote work.
Designed by architect Luis Revuelta, with landscaping and pool areas curated by C. Wright Studios, and interiors by Durukan Design, La Baia North embodies a seamless fusion of functionality and style. Residences will be delivered fully finished, featuring European wide-plank wood flooring, marble stone bathrooms, and custom mill-worked cabinetry. Kitchens will be equipped with Miele appliances and quartz countertops, while the upper and lower penthouses will offer additional luxurious amenities such as wine coolers.
In addition to its residential features, La Baia North will provide over 20,000 square feet of curated amenities. These include a rooftop deck, heated spas, a sunset lounge with a fire pit, and recreational spaces like a splash pad, play lawn, and outdoor grilling areas. For those who enjoy water sports, the property will feature a dockside pick-up area, along with full-time valet services, front desk reception, and an on-site property manager to ensure a high level of service for all residents.
La Baia North promises to be an exceptional addition to the Bay Harbor Islands landscape, offering an elegant and modern living experience in one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods. With its innovative design, prime location, and luxurious amenities, it is set to attract discerning buyers looking for a blend of exclusivity and comfort.
Exciting New Retail and Restaurant Concepts Coming to Miami Worldcenter
Miami Worldcenter, the $6 billion, 27-acre mixed-use development that’s transforming Downtown Miami, is set to welcome three exciting new tenants by early 2025. The latest additions to the vibrant project include Go Greek Yogurt, HŸP, and SkinSpirit, all of which promise to bring unique experiences to the growing retail and dining scene.
Developed by Miami Worldcenter Associates, under the leadership of Managing Partners Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani in partnership with CIM Group, Miami Worldcenter stands as one of Florida’s largest privately owned urban real estate projects. Spanning 10 city blocks, the development offers a blend of residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, complemented by 300,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment venues.
New Tenants Coming Soon
Go Greek Yogurt: This Beverly Hills-based yogurt bar and café will open its first Florida location at Miami Worldcenter in late 2024. Spanning nearly 1,300 square feet on the Paseo Promenade, Go Greek Yogurt will offer authentic fresh and frozen Greek yogurt with ingredients imported directly from Europe, promising a healthy and flavorful dining option.
HŸP: Known for its curated selection of top-tier streetwear brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Chrome Hearts, HŸP will also debut in late 2024. The 1,300-square-foot sneaker and streetwear retailer will add another layer of fashion-forward appeal to the Paseo Promenade.
SkinSpirit: Arriving in early 2025, SkinSpirit’s 1,700-square-foot medical aesthetics spa will mark the company’s first foray into South Florida. With a national reputation for top-tier services like Botox and dermal fillers, SkinSpirit’s arrival will enhance Miami Worldcenter’s wellness offerings.
Expanding Retail and Dining Scene
These new tenants will join an impressive roster of businesses already open at Miami Worldcenter. Notable venues include Sixty Vines wine-on-tap restaurant, Chef Michael Beltran’s Brasserie Laurel, Chug’s Express, and El Vecino Cigar & Cocktail Bar. Popular retailers like lululemon, Sephora, Ray-Ban, and Free People are also part of the development, alongside entertainment options such as Lucky Strike bowling, the Museum of Ice Cream, and a Lucid Motors showroom.
Additionally, more high-profile names are set to open soon, including Juvia, Villa One Tequila Gardens, Chicago’s Maple & Ash, and Serafina, along with Club Studio and The Spot Barbershop.
A Destination for the Future
Miami Worldcenter is not just a place to shop and dine; it’s a cultural and residential hub that enhances Miami’s urban experience. The project includes completed developments such as the 351-room citizenM hotel, the luxury Paramount Miami Worldcenter condominium, and market-rate apartments Flow and Bezel Miami. Under construction are major projects like Miami World Tower 1 and The Crosby, while future residential towers by leading developers are also planned.
In addition to its retail and residential elements, Miami Worldcenter will feature World Square, a 20,000-square-foot outdoor public plaza, and a $5 million public art initiative that will transform the space into a permanent outdoor museum with works curated by Jeffrey Deitch and PRIMARY.
Its strategic location places it within walking distance of cultural landmarks like the Pérez Art Museum, Adrienne Arsht Center, and the Brightline MiamiCentral station, making Miami Worldcenter one of Florida’s most well-connected and transit-oriented developments.
Exploring 50′ Inside with Lucas Lechuga
In the world of French television, few shows offer such an exclusive and intimate look into the lives of celebrities, cultural icons, and world of lavish real estate as 50′ Inside. Hosted by popular French journalist Nikos Aliagas, this long-running program provides viewers with an inside perspective on entertainment, fashion, and celebrity life in both France and beyond.
50′ Inside goes beyond surface-level reporting. The show, airing every Saturday afternoon, dedicates its 50-minute runtime to in-depth features, interviews, and reports on the lives of prominent figures. The program expertly balances glitzy glamour with human interest stories, making it a favorite among fans of celebrity culture.
50’Inside Meets Miami
In a recent episode of 50′ Inside, the show took viewers to Miami for an exclusive interview with Lucas Lechuga, a prominent figure in the luxury real estate scene as well as the owner of the #1 real estate website covering The South Florida real estate market – MiamiCondoInvestments.com. The episode showcased Lechuga’s insights into Miami’s booming property market, highlighting his expertise in high-end developments and exclusive listings, which attract wealthy buyers from all over the world. Lechuga gave a behind-the-scenes tour of Paramount Miami Worldcenter’s largest penthouse, providing viewers with a glimpse into the post lifestyle and world class amenities of the development.
The episode didn’t just focus on luxury properties, but also explored what makes Lechuga’s MiamiCondoInvestments.com website so special. Lechuga highlighted the site’s user-friendly interface, real-time inventory data, unique tools and resources, and advanced property search. These are just a few of the many reasons that make his website so successful.
The segment aimed to provide viewers with an in-depth look at the upscale lifestyle, showcasing the seamless blend of elegance and comfort that the Mandarin Oriental brand is known for. Through his platform, Lechuga continues to highlight Miami’s most prestigious developments for luxury real estate enthusiasts from around the world.
The Show’s Popularity and Longevity
50′ Inside has been a staple of French television since its debut in 2006. The fact that it has maintained its relevance for over a decade speaks to its ability to evolve with its audience and the changing landscape of media. With Nikos Aliagas at the helm, the show benefits from his charismatic interviewing style and deep connection with French culture.
What makes 50′ Inside particularly engaging is its ability to blend the worlds of celebrities with deeper, more meaningful narratives. The show’s popularity is a testament to the public’s interest in a nuanced and sophisticated look at the lives of the famous.
Whether you’re a fan of celebrity news, interested in the latest fashion trends, or simply looking for engaging stories about fascinating people, 50′ Inside is the perfect show to keep you entertained and informed. It offers a window into a glamorous world, while still maintaining an air of authenticity and depth, making it a unique fixture in French television.
Another aspect of Lucas Lechuga’s real estate empire is his expansion of Miami Condo Investment with his newest venture MiamiRealEstate.tv website. The platform features interviews with Miami’s top real estate brokers, developers, and other industry-leading figures, showcasing the city’s most prestigious properties and developments. 50′ Inside was able to watch some of the interviews in action when Lechuga met with representatives for one of Miami’s hottest real estate developments – The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Miami.
Construction Begins on Rivage Bal Harbour: A New Pinnacle of Luxury Living
Excitement is building in South Florida as construction officially kicks off on Rivage Bal Harbour, an ultra-luxury condominium project set to redefine opulent living in one of the region’s most exclusive communities. This ambitious development is a collaborative effort between industry giants Related Group, Rockpoint, and Two Roads Development, with architectural mastery from the esteemed firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and exquisite interiors designed by Rottet Studio.
Nestled between the serene Intracoastal Waterway and 200 feet of pristine oceanfront, Rivage Bal Harbour will house 56 lavish residences, cleverly dubbed “sky villas.” Ranging from a generous 3,300 to nearly 13,000 square feet, these homes are thoughtfully designed to harmonize modern luxury with the natural beauty of South Florida. Each residence will feature the convenience of in-unit elevator access and private parking garages, ensuring a seamless living experience.
Residents will also enjoy expansive terraces that provide breathtaking views of the ocean and Biscayne Bay—the perfect backdrop for relaxation or entertaining guests.
The design of Rivage Bal Harbour boasts open-concept floor plans that epitomize spaciousness and light. Gourmet kitchens are equipped with top-of-the-line Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, while bathrooms and closets showcase high-end Italian finishes, providing an atmosphere of sophistication at every turn.
The development promises to cater to the desires of luxury buyers, capitalizing on Bal Harbour’s reputation for exclusivity and its prime location near the renowned Bal Harbour Shops.
Rivage Bal Harbour is set to offer an unparalleled suite of amenities, with over 25,000 square feet dedicated to wellness and recreation. Future residents can indulge in a state-of-the-art fitness pavilion, a hammam spa complete with hot and cold plunge pools, and private treatment rooms for ultimate relaxation. For those who enjoy sports, outdoor pickle and paddle ball courts will be available, while leisurely pursuits include private dining services and a chic cocktail lounge.
Families will appreciate the inclusion of a kids’ playroom and a high-tech VR game simulator, making Rivage a community where all ages can thrive. Residents can also expect the luxury of resort-style services, including a 24/7 residential butler and concierge.
Managed by Coastal Construction Group, Rivage is on track for completion in 2027. The development team is confident that this project will fill a significant gap in the supply-constrained Miami market, catering to the increasing demand for high-end properties.
Since its inception in 1929, Bal Harbour has attracted affluent residents and visitors, blending cultural richness with a sense of privacy and exclusivity. With Rivage Bal Harbour, this legacy is poised to flourish even further, offering a living experience that is as luxurious as it is unique.
