Fortune International Group Secures Pre-Development Loan for ORA by Casa Tua in Brickell
Fortune International Group, a prominent Miami-based developer, has made a bold move by acquiring a prime 46,373-square-foot site at 1210 Brickell Ave in the heart of Brickell. This acquisition is a crucial milestone for the ORA by Casa Tua project, further supported by a substantial $36,080,000 pre-development loan from Amerant Bank. The project, set to redefine luxury living in Miami, is now on track for its groundbreaking in 2025.
The site was purchased from Miami-based Patagonian Investment Internacional LLC, and the developer is now gearing up for the construction phase, with groundbreaking expected to commence in 2025.
ORA by Casa Tua is set to be a landmark development in Miami, standing at 77 stories and approximately 930 feet tall. The building, designed by Arquitectonica with interiors by m2atelier, will feature 533 fully furnished residences available for short-term rentals. This ambitious project aims to embody Miami’s dynamic and evolving spirit, establishing itself as a prime destination in the city.
The development will also include approximately 25,000 square feet dedicated to Casa Tua’s four new restaurant concepts. Additionally, it will feature creative workspaces with private office spaces, conference rooms, content creation rooms, bar lounges, and outdoor seating areas.
Edgardo Defortuna, President, CEO, and founder of Fortune International Group, expressed his excitement about the project: “The acquisition of the site and loan closing are principal steps that mark an exciting beginning for ORA by Casa Tua’s vision to take shape. We are eager for Miami’s community to sense the anticipation and witness the project come to life.”
ORA by Casa Tua promises a range of luxurious amenities, including a second pool on the 12th floor with a sun shelf, loungers, cabanas, a jacuzzi, a show kitchen, a private event space, and lush landscaping. Residents will also enjoy an entertainment lounge, a two-floor fitness and wellness center with a hammam and couples treatment rooms, and a unique three-story open sky garden.
The residences will range from 500-square-foot studios to 2,400-square-foot four-bedroom units, all fully furnished and ready for immediate listing as short-term, seasonal, or long-term rentals. These units will offer stunning panoramic views of Brickell, Biscayne Bay, and Coconut Grove, featuring ten-foot ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows and curated window treatments. The Italian-designed kitchens will be equipped with top-tier appliances, and the Italian-designed baths will include imported fixtures. Additionally, the residences will be outfitted with smart home technology and spacious walk-in closets.
Casa Tua, founded by Miky and Leticia Grendene, opened its flagship Miami Beach location in 2001. It quickly became known as a welcoming place for friends, family, and guests from around the world to celebrate life. Pioneering the members club concept in Miami, Casa Tua blends art, entertainment, and fine dining with a signature Italian style. Over the years, it has expanded to Aspen and Paris, with a New York City location opening in 2023. The brand also launched Casa Tua Cucina in partnership with Richard Baker and Saks Fifth Avenue, an award-winning Italian open kitchen concept located in Miami’s Brickell City Centre.
ORA by Casa Tua is poised to add to this legacy, offering a unique blend of luxury living and innovative design that reflects the vibrant spirit of Miami. As the project progresses, it will undoubtedly become a cornerstone of the Brickell skyline and a testament to Fortune International Group’s vision and commitment to excellence.
Unveiling the Santander Tower – A Beacon of Innovation on Brickell Avenue
Excitement is buzzing in Miami’s vibrant Brickell neighborhood as plans for the new Santander Tower unfold. With the latest updates surfacing, it’s time to delve into what’s in store for this striking addition to the city’s skyline.
According to reports, the fate of the Santander Tower is still pending, with a final decision yet to be reached. In a significant development, Santander Bank has already taken steps to solidify its presence in Miami’s bustling landscape. The bank secured a lease agreement with Miami Worldcenter for a prime retail space spanning over 4,000 square feet. This strategic move underscores Santander’s commitment to establishing a strong foothold in one of Miami’s premier destinations.
The lease, inked on January 31st, not only marks Santander’s proactive approach but also grants the bank exclusive rights within the retail banking domain at Worldcenter—a testament to the institution’s foresight and strategic planning.
Last week, the Urban Development Review Board delivered a unanimous vote in favor of recommending the new tower’s approval. However, this endorsement comes with a twist—the board proposed the incorporation of shade trees instead of the conventional palm trees at the northwest corner of the property, reflecting a nod towards sustainability and environmental consciousness.
With the demolition permit for the existing 14-story office building nearing approval, the stage is set for the grand entrance of the Santander Tower. Standing tall at 40 stories, with an impressive height of 765 feet above ground and 778 feet above sea level, this architectural marvel promises to redefine Miami’s skyline.
The tower’s ambitious design encompasses 612,918 square feet of top-tier office space, along with 107,953 square feet dedicated to food and beverage outlets—a nod to Brickell’s reputation as a culinary hotspot. Additionally, the inclusion of a multi-level urban club adds an enticing dimension to the tower’s offerings, catering to the diverse needs of Miami’s cosmopolitan populace.
Parking, often a concern in urban landscapes, is addressed with finesse as the tower boasts 1,496 parking spaces—a thoughtful touch that enhances convenience for tenants and visitors alike.
Environmental sustainability takes center stage with the Santander Tower slated to achieve LEED platinum certification—a testament to its eco-conscious design and commitment to minimizing its carbon footprint.
Behind this architectural masterpiece lies the vision of Handel Architects of New York—a firm renowned for its innovative designs and transformative urban projects. With their expertise at the helm, the Santander Tower is poised to set new benchmarks in architectural excellence and urban living.
Mast Capital Secures Record $600 Million Loan for Cipriani Residences Miami
Miami’s real estate landscape is set to be transformed with the announcement that Mast Capital has secured a staggering construction loan of $600 million for the iconic Cipriani Residences Miami project. This historic achievement not only marks a significant milestone in Florida’s real estate history but also signals a new era of luxury living in the heart of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood.
The Financing Breakdown
Mast Capital, a prominent Miami-based developer, has successfully secured this monumental construction loan from Banco Inbursa, based in Mexico, and Ascendant Capital Partners, contributing $350 million and $250 million to the project. This collaboration has not only highlighted the confidence that these financial institutions have in the project but also underscores the rising demand for ultra-luxury residences in Miami’s thriving Brickell Financial District.
A Transformative Development in Brickell
Situated on the southern edge of Brickell’s bustling business district, Cipriani Residences Miami promises to redefine luxury living in this vibrant neighborhood. This groundbreaking project is the first-ever ground-up residence for the renowned Cipriani brand in the Americas. The highlight of this development is an 80-story luxury condominium tower boasting 397 residences, each offering breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, the Brickell skyline, and Coconut Grove.
One of the project’s unique advantages is its strategic location, providing easy access to all Brickell destinations while benefiting from lower traffic density due to its proximity to the less congested southern areas of Brickell.
Developer’s Vision
Camilo Miguel, CEO of Mast Capital, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “The unprecedented financing we have secured for this transformative development anchored in Brickell is a testament to the demand for an ultra-luxury condominium product in this neighborhood. We have assembled the highest caliber of architecture and design to execute this project and further solidify the position of Miami’s Brickell Financial District as a business and residential community.”
With the ongoing influx of new residents to Miami, driven by its cosmopolitan lifestyle, warm climate, and favorable tax environment, the demand for high-end residential properties like Cipriani Residences Miami is expected to continue its rapid growth.
Mast Capital’s Acquisition and Design
Mast Capital acquired the 2.8-acre site at 1420 S Miami Ave. for $103 million in December 2021, securing one of the last raw land parcels in Brickell capable of supporting such a large-scale, high-rise development. The condominium tower boasts a signature design by Bernardo Fort-Brescia of the renowned architecture firm Arquitectonica, as well as interiors crafted by the world-famous design firm 1508 London.
Luxurious Living at Cipriani Residences Miami
Starting at $1.7 million, Cipriani Residences Miami offers one- to four-bedroom residences ranging from 1,123 to 3,495 square feet, along with penthouses featuring private pools, with completion set for 2028. The Canaletto Collection, comprising six penthouses starting at $17 million, provides an even more exclusive experience, with private access to the tower’s speakeasy, dining spaces, and global concierge services.
Residents will have access to a wide range of amenities, including around-the-clock dining services by Cipriani, multiple swimming pools, a golf simulator, a pickleball court, a screening room, a library, a salon, a private dog park, a children’s playroom, and various à la carte services for a truly luxurious lifestyle.
Cipriani Residences Miami is poised to elevate luxury living in Brickell to unprecedented heights, and its development is sure to be closely watched by the real estate industry and luxury lifestyle enthusiasts worldwide. As the project takes shape and the Miami skyline continues to evolve, it’s evident that this prestigious development will play a pivotal role in shaping the city’s future. Stay tuned for updates on this monumental project as it progresses towards completion in 2028.
Breaking News: Miami’s Stunning Brickell Tower Set to Soar to New Heights
Miami’s iconic skyline is about to get a breathtaking addition, as plans were officially filed yesterday for a striking new tower in the vibrant Brickell neighborhood. The project, which is sure to turn heads and spark excitement, has undergone some remarkable changes since its initial proposal.
Initially, plans for the tower outlined an impressive 57-story structure soaring to 685 feet above ground. However, the newly filed plans have unveiled a surprising twist – the tower is now set to reach a soaring height of 856 feet, but with a slightly reduced number of floors, standing at 52 stories tall. This change in height promises to provide an even more captivating presence on the Miami skyline.
One of the most exciting aspects of this development is its residential offerings. The new filing reveals that the tower will feature 458 luxurious residential units, showcasing a slight reduction from the previous count of 464. Among these, 225 units will be thoughtfully designed studios, offering a blend of elegance and functionality. The tower promises to redefine urban living, offering its residents an unparalleled lifestyle in the heart of Miami.
What truly sets this Brickell tower apart is its versatility. The recent filing introduces two distinct options for the tower’s use:
Flexible Multi-Level Concert Hall: Imagine a state-of-the-art concert hall that can adapt to various performances and events. This option promises to become a cultural hub for the city, hosting everything from classical symphonies to contemporary music acts.
Multi-Story Retail Complex: Alternatively, the tower can house a multi-story retail complex capable of accommodating a department store or similar retail vendors. This option aims to offer an unrivaled shopping experience, making it a go-to destination for retail enthusiasts.
In response to the city’s evolving needs, the tower’s new plans include a substantial increase in parking spaces. The previous proposal featured 467 parking spaces, but the updated filing now boasts a generous 660 parking spaces. This move reflects the developer’s commitment to providing convenient and accessible amenities for both residents and visitors.
To bring this ambitious vision to life, Millennium Developments of Brickell LLC, the developer behind this project, is requesting a special exception under Miami-Dade’s Rapid Transit Zoning plan. This demonstrates their dedication to adhering to local regulations while delivering a project that will undoubtedly redefine Miami’s urban landscape.
The architectural prowess behind this stunning tower is none other than BMA Architects. Their expertise and innovative designs are set to transform the Brickell skyline, creating a landmark that seamlessly merges modernity with the city’s vibrant culture and lifestyle.
Miami’s Brickell neighborhood is on the cusp of witnessing a remarkable transformation, with a stunning tower that promises to redefine luxury living, entertainment, and retail experiences. As this development takes shape, it will undoubtedly become an iconic fixture on Miami’s skyline, drawing residents and visitors alike. Keep a close eye on this project as it unfolds, and be prepared to witness a new era of elegance and innovation in the Magic City. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on this exciting venture!
Construction Update for Two Riverside Tower in Brickell
In the heart of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, a new chapter in architectural excellence is unfolding with the planned construction of the Two Riverside Tower. This 59-story edifice is not merely a building; it’s a “signature development” that promises to invigorate the Miami Riverfront with its public riverwalk and ground-level commercial spaces, as per the developer’s representative.
Adjacent to this site, the Lofty Brickell project is already taking shape, with its twin towers of 43 and 44 stories, housing 784 residential units, at the One Brickell Riverfront site.
The Two Riverside Tower is ambitiously designed to house 169 residential units, 1,090 square feet dedicated to commercial space, and shared parking facilities with Lofty Brickell.
The proposed riverwalk, an integral part of this development, will extend over 10 feet in certain areas, as revealed in the project filings.
In a significant step forward, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted approval for the tower to reach a height of 731 feet above ground, or 733 feet above sea level. This approval addressed to NGD Riverfront LLC in Miami, came through in October 2023.
The Miami River Commission’s Urban Infill and Greenways Subcommittee has already reviewed the proposal on October 16. The full Commission is poised to deliberate on the proposal on November 6.
For the discerning hedge fund manager, Two Riverside represents more than an architectural marvel; it is a beacon of investment potential and urban development. This project not only promises a revitalized riverfront but also signifies the strategic growth and dynamism of Miami’s real estate market.
Miami Commissioners Approve Four Residential Towers in Brickell
In the heart of Brickell, a significant financial move was made last month as county commissioners greenlit the development of four prominent towers on a single block.
This decision, made on September 20 during a session of the Miami-Dade Zoning Board, paves the way for Sentral, Menesse, Westpine, and Calle 8 towers.
Cumulatively, these ventures will usher in an impressive 1,995 residential units across the five towers.
In a strategic move, the developer behind Menesse has entered into a covenant, committing to a significant contribution to enhance Brickell’s mass transit infrastructure. This agreement, formalized on October 18, entails Menesse Brickell LLC allocating $350,000 towards the refurbishment of the Brickell Metrorail and Metromover stations. This contribution will be made before the issuance of the building permit.
Furthermore, in a nod to sustainable urban development, the developer has pledged to reserve a minimum of 5% of the residential units for workforce housing. This initiative targets households earning between 60% and 140% of the area’s median income and will be in effect for two decades post-TCO issuance.
The administrative review of the tower’s site plan is currently in progress, and the financial world watches with bated breath as Brickell continues to evolve.
New Residential Tower Announced in Brickell
Chicago-based developer Focus has recently released renderings for a new 39-story residential tower in Brickell. The abandoned Starlite Motel land in Brickell is where the residential tower will be built. The Starlite Motel has already been demolished in preparation for construction.
On August 30, Miami-Dade County received the zoning and general plan applications. The project is being approved through the county’s Rapid Transit zoning procedure, which has grown to be a popular substitute for the City of Miami approval procedure. From a pre-application submission on August 4, renderings have been revised. Gensler is the architect.
Development Information:
517 residential units
8,282 sq. ft. of ground floor
indoor/outdoor and rooftop amenity space
506 parking spaces
According to a letter from the developer, the project also has cross-block connectivity on the ground floor via a driveway and walkway on the west side of the property, which will enhance both vehicular and pedestrian circulation inside and outside the development.
Federal Aviation Administration Approves Brickell Key Project
According to developer Swire Properties, the Federal Aviation Administration has approved two towers on Brickell Key, One Island Drive. Tower 1 will rise 1,044 feet tall while Tower 2 will rise 691 feet.
One Island Drive will be a tranquil haven with two magnificent buildings, situated at the southernmost tip of Brickell Key, the private island community that Swire Properties has been building for more than 40 years. The luxurious collection of 220 two- to four-bedroom private homes with expansive floorplans of up to 4,700 square feet and two prestigious duplex penthouses at the top of the building, each spanning over 6,000 square feet, will be found in the first tower, known as “The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami,” which rises to a height of over 800 feet. The second tower will rise 400 feet tall and will feature 151 rooms with the famous North American Mandarin Oriental Hotel in addition to 61 private Residences and 28 hotel Residences.
Residence Features
Panoramic views of Biscayne Bay
Resort-style podium
100,000 square feet of amenities
Multi-tiered landscaped infinity pools
Private cabanas
Work lounges
Private dining room
Chef kitchens
Top-notch restaurants
Signature spa
Cutting-edge health and wealth facilities
An award-winning international design team, each at the top of their respective industries, will work together to create One Island Drive, a landmark of understated elegance on the waterfront. The bold exterior design by Kohn Pederson Fox Associates (KPF) will redefine the skyline; the interiors of The Residences by Parisian designer Tristan Auer; the interiors of the hotel by AD 100 and Elle Décor A-List Parisian designer Laura Gonzalez; and the landscape architecture by renowned Thai firm Shma. For Auer, Gonzalez, and Shma, this is their first commission for new development in the country.
One Island Drive will be the first residential building to be constructed on Brickell Key in the last 15 years. Pricing will begin at $3,500,000 when sales begin in the latter half of 2023.
If you or someone you know have an interest in purchasing at One Island Drive, please contact Lucas Lechuga via email at lucas@miamicondoinvestments.com or by phone at 786-247-6332.
St. Regis Residences Miami Construction Update
Related Group and Integra Investments have just submitted an application for a total demolition permit at the location of the St. Regis Residences Miami located in Brickell and as well as new designs for the elevation of the tower.
According to the filing, a total of 211,121 square feet will be completely destroyed at an estimated cost of $1,127,000.
The demolition contractor is named The BG Group LLC. According to county records, a 17-story structure constructed in 1966 now stands on the location. The Urban Development Review Board is expected to meet next week to discuss the changes on June 21, 2023.
St. Regis Residences Miami is planned to rise 48 stories or 639 feet and will include 391 parking spaces as well as 152 residential units.
Robert A.M. Stern Architects is creating the project with a nautical concept. CFE is the architect of the records.
The Residences
Private elevator and entry foyer to each residence
Double-door entry in select residences
11-foot ceilings with integrated linear diffusers in living areas
Custom European marble flooring throughout
European solid wood doorways
All homes feature a powder room and laundry room
Integrated smart home technology
Kitchens
Gourmet kitchen with custom Italian cabinetry designed by Rockwell Group
Marble countertops and backsplashes
Fully integrated Sub-Zero and Wolf appliance packages, including:
Paneled refrigerator
Paneled freezer
Full-height wine refrigerator
Convection oven
Steam oven
Microwave
Dornbracht fixtures
Primary Suites and Bathrooms
Oversized walk-in closets
Midnight Bar and Butler’s Pantry
Split marble top vanities with Dornbracht fixtures
Oversized marble showers and free-standing bathtubs
Private water closets with Toto toilets
St Regis Residences Miami Amenities
40,000 square feet of amenity space
On-premises ground floor, fine dining restaurant
Exclusive beach club access
Park-like grounds and lush terraces
State-of-the-art media room
Business center with coffee bar and conference rooms
Children’s entertainment room
Teen video game lounge
Programmable golf simulator
Salon equipped for all beauty services
Pet spa, grooming, and dog walking services
Private, secure climate-controlled storage
Private marina
Fully equipped fitness center
Relaxation and juice bar
Indoor lap pool and cold plunge pool
Pilates and yoga studio
Salt spa room
Dual saunas and steam rooms
State-of-the-art treatment room
Bayfront infinity pool and whirlpool with private cabanas
Poolside bar and cafe
Bayfront garden with seating area
St. Regis Butler service and in-room dining
St. Regis housekeeping services
St. Regis global membership privileges
31st Floor Sky Lounge
Double-height bar and lounge with water views
Signature St. Regis Cognac Room
Traditional St. Regis Tea Room
Billiards room
Catering Kitchen
Technologies
Keyless residential entry
Smart home climate and lighting control systems
State-of-the-art fiber optic WI-FI service throughout residences and amenities
Easy to use St. Regis residents-only app
If you or someone you know have an interest in purchasing at the St. Regis Residences Miami, please contact Lucas Lechuga via email at lucas@miamicondoinvestments.com or by phone at (786)247-6332.
Sales Launch for ORA By Casa Tua in Brickell
Sales have begun for ORA by Casa Tua, the newest development of short-term rentals in Brickell, located at 1210 Brickell. The 76-story mixed-use building being built by Edgardo Defortuna’s Fortune International Group will have 540 units with 25,000 square feet devoted to four new concept eateries. The restaurants include a Mediterranean restaurant-UVA, a dining experience Fuoco, a 24 hour bakery and market-Terra, and a rooftop bar and lounge.
The ORA’s design was created by the internationally renowned and award-winning architecture firm Arquitectonica. The company drew inspiration from today’s constantly changing culture to design numerous outdoor levels at ORA that connect to nature and the environment, with the goal of allowing visitors to enjoy and experience the city of Miami from a unique angle.
The interiors of the residential and amenity areas are being designed by m2atelier, a company founded by Marco Bonelli and Marijana Radovic and renowned for its personalized approach.
Amenities:
Private office spaces
Conference rooms
Content production rooms
Bar lounges
Outdoor seating
Second Pool with sun deck, loungers, cabanas, and a jacuzzi
Show kitchen
Private event space
Lush green vegetation
Three-story open sky garden
Two-floor fitness and wellness facility with a harman and couples treatment rooms
Entertainment bar
Residence Feature:
Floor-to-ceiling windows
10 foot ceilings
Italian-designed kitchen with premium appliances
Italian-designed bathrooms with imported fixtures
Smart home technology
Pre-wired for high-speed internet
Roomy walk-in closets
Washers and dryer
Views of Brickell, Biscayne Bay, and Coconut Grove
Residences at ORA will start at $800,000 and range from 500 square foot studio homes to 2,400 square foot, four bedroom fully furnished residences that will be ready for immediate listing as short-term, seasonal, or long-term rentals.
Edgardo Defortuna, the creator of Fortune International Group, is a pioneer in real estate development, financing, construction management, sales, and marketing. In addition to others, they are currently building the Nexo Residences in North Miami Beach, The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Pompano Beach, and the St. Regis Residences in Sunny Isles Beach. They most recently built The Ritz Carlton Residences Sunny Isles Beach and the renowned Jade Signature, designed by Herzog & de Mueron.
If you or someone you know have an interest in purchasing at ORA at Casa Tua, please contact Lucas Lechuga via email at lucas@miamicondoinvestments.com or by phone at (786)247-6332.
