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.
Welcome to Gale Miami Hotel & Residences: A New Chapter in Downtown Miami’s Hospitality
Downtown Miami is set to elevate its hospitality scene with the grand opening of the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences on June 1st. This eagerly awaited development promises to enrich Miami’s dynamic urban landscape by offering a blend of luxury accommodations and top-tier amenities.
The Gale Hospitality Group, celebrated for its iconic Gale South Beach, brings this new property to life with a commitment to celebrating Miami’s rich history and bright future. The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences honors the city’s past, with nods to landmarks like The Freedom Tower. Throughout the property, guests will find photography from the Miami History Museum, paying homage to the original Gale location and inviting exploration of Miami’s captivating history.
The hotel boasts a range of accommodation options, from studios to one- and two-bedroom units, catering to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Many units are outfitted with full kitchens and washer-dryers, ensuring all the comforts of home are at your fingertips.
Keith Menin of Gale Hospitality Group shared his excitement for the new property, stating, “With Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, we aim to redefine the benchmark for hospitality within Miami’s urban landscape. We are excited to offer an unmatched guest experience that combines the energetic ambiance of Downtown Miami with carefully curated amenities and services.”
Spanning three floors and covering 70,000 square feet, Gale Miami offers breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Guests can indulge in the Gale Wellness program, which includes a co-ed hammam, steam room, sauna, fitness facility, yoga lounge, and spa services. High-speed internet access, a 24-hour attended lobby, valet parking, and several dining options further enhance the guest experience. Notably, Gale Miami is one of the few downtown hotels to offer exclusive beach club access to its guests.
Dining at Gale Miami is a notable experience, featuring 9,000 square feet of restaurant space on the ground floor, including an outdoor garden, an Italian concept, and a street-front restaurant. The 9th floor offers an American steakhouse and lounge, alongside a Mediterranean-style restaurant with a retractable roof and outdoor terrace.
For event planners, the Gale Miami Conference Center on the 8th floor provides over 20,000 square feet of space, including conference rooms, breakout rooms, and a grand ballroom. Additionally, three floors of exhibition space make it one of Downtown Miami’s largest conference venues.
Situated just steps from the Kaseya Center, Port of Miami, and the Brightline station, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s hospitality and residential sectors.
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.
Foundation Milestone Achieved at Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami
Excitement builds in the heart of downtown Miami as the foundation work at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, the future site of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences, hits a significant milestone. This 100-story supertall tower is not only set to reshape the Miami skyline but also marks the introduction of Florida’s first supertall skyscraper.
Designed by the renowned Sieger Suarez Architects in collaboration with visionary Carlos Ott, the Waldorf Astoria Miami will rise to an impressive height of 1,049 feet. The project is a collaborative endeavor involving Property Markets Group, Greybrook Realty Partners, Mohari Hospitality, S2 Development, and Hilton. Upon completion, the structure will offer 1,738,999 square feet of mixed-use space, including residential, hotel, retail, office, and ample garage facilities.
John Moriarty & Associates, the general contractor overseeing the project, has made substantial progress. Recent updates from Andres Baquerizo at Keller, the contractor responsible for the site work and foundations, showcased the completion of critical foundation stages, including soil mixing and the installation of Augercast/CFA piles at a record depth of 190 feet. These developments pave the way for the next steps, which involve forming pile caps to distribute the building’s load evenly and preparing for vertical construction. The Miami Building Department has facilitated this progress with a Phased Class I: Full Vertical permit issued earlier this year.
The Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences will feature 360 private residences and 205 guestrooms and suites. The design includes nine glass offset cubes that create a striking visual effect. The hotel occupies the first three cubes, encompassing Waldorf Astoria’s signature spaces and amenities. Both residents and guests will enjoy access to luxury facilities like Peacock Alley, a specialty restaurant, versatile event spaces, and a holistic wellness spa.
Residents will be treated to top-tier amenities including a private lobby, hospitality suites for social events, a billiard room, a children’s club, and an exclusive pool deck. The integration of smart home technology and a custom mobile app will enhance living experiences by offering streamlined services such as dining reservations, room service, spa and fitness bookings, and more.
The anticipation for the Waldorf Astoria Miami continues to grow as the project moves towards its projected completion in 2027. This development is not just a building; it’s a beacon of luxury that promises to enhance Miami’s urban fabric and redefine luxury living in Florida.
Nick Jonas and John Varvatos to Launch Villa One Tequila Gardens in Miami Worldcenter
Miami is set to welcome a new pinnacle of culinary and nightlife innovation with the introduction of Villa One Tequila Gardens, a venture co-founded by pop sensation Nick Jonas and renowned menswear designer John Varvatos. This exciting addition aims to infuse the vibrant essence of Mexico’s finest tequilas and mezcals into the heart of Downtown Miami, nestled within the sprawling $6 billion Miami Worldcenter development.
Slated for a grand opening in 2025, Villa One Tequila Gardens promises an exotic rooftop retreat spanning 12,294 square feet atop the ‘Jewel Box’ retail building at 150 NE 8th Street. This space is part of the 27-acre mixed-use Miami Worldcenter, which is rapidly transforming Miami’s urban landscape with a rich blend of residential, commercial, and hospitality offerings. The Tequila Gardens will feature a diverse selection of over 150 tequilas and mezcals, complemented by Baja-style Mexican cuisine, offering guests a unique escape within the bustling city.
The venue will boast panoramic views of the Downtown Miami skyline, a raw bar, a tequila tasting room led by a dedicated tequila sommelier, and an intimate speakeasy operated by a yet-to-be-announced nightlife brand. This addition is poised to enhance the Miami Worldcenter’s appeal, joining other recently announced dining and entertainment concepts such as Starbucks, Earls Kitchen + Bar, Sports & Social, Sixty Vines, and Bowlero.
Miami Worldcenter, one of Florida’s largest privately owned urban developments, is a testament to the vision of Miami Worldcenter Associates, led by Managing Partners Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani, in collaboration with CIM Group. Nitin Motwani emphasizes that Villa One Tequila Gardens will offer a unique rooftop experience that melds Mexican-inspired cocktails and cuisine with Miami’s modern sophistication, providing a captivating destination within the city’s dynamic core.
Designed by KOM Studio, the venue will immerse guests in the luxurious and authentic Mexican lifestyle, featuring rich textiles, agave-inspired greens, and vibrant neon accents. This addition further enriches the Miami Worldcenter’s growing portfolio of tenants and hospitality destinations, including Michelin-star-rated offerings by Ariete Hospitality Group, national retail brands, and the citizenM Miami Worldcenter hotel.
Villa One Tequila Gardens is set to become a landmark destination within Miami Worldcenter, offering an unparalleled rooftop experience that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of Mexico, all while embracing the vibrant energy and sophistication of Miami.
MSC Group Announces $100 Million Investment in a New Headquarters in Downtown Miami
Miami is buzzing with anticipation as MSC Group, a global leader in various industries, has just unveiled its grand plan to invest a $100 million in a brand new headquarters. Located in the heart of downtown Miami, the new headquarters will be situated in the Block 55 complex, currently under construction in the vibrant neighborhood of Overtown. This monumental project is set to reshape the skyline of Miami and bring significant economic opportunities to the city.
A Glimpse Into the New Headquarters:
The new headquarters is set to be an architectural marvel, boasting a sprawling 130,000 square feet of space. It will serve as the central hub for approximately 250 dedicated professionals who will work tirelessly to drive MSC Group’s vision forward.
This development is particularly significant because it will house three of MSC Group’s prominent divisions: MSC Cargo, MSC Cruises, and the newly launched Explora Journeys. While MSC Cargo already calls Miami-Dade home, this expansion signals the company’s commitment to solidifying its presence in the region. MSC Cruises North America, currently based in Fort Lauderdale, is also making the move to Miami, further consolidating MSC Group’s footprint in South Florida.
A Booming Cruise Terminal on the Horizon:
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. MSC Group has been actively involved in Miami’s maritime scene, with construction underway for a next-generation cruise terminal at PortMiami. This state-of-the-art terminal, initiated in 2021, is designed to accommodate three of the latest generation ships simultaneously. Upon completion later this year, it will claim the title of the largest cruise terminal in North America, capable of handling a staggering 36,000 passenger movements per day. The expansion of the terminal reflects MSC Group’s dedication to the thriving cruise industry in Miami.
Block 55: A Masterpiece in the Making:
The Block 55 complex, where the new headquarters will be nestled, is itself a testament to innovation and urban development. Breaking ground in June 2021 and topping off in June 2023, it’s a multifaceted project that will not only house the MSC Group headquarters but also offer a vibrant mix of residential and retail spaces.
Among its offerings, Block 55 will feature 578 apartments catering to seniors, creating a dynamic and inclusive living environment. Moreover, it’s set to become a shopping haven with multiple levels of retail, including popular stores like Target, Aldi, Ross Dress for Less, and Burlington. This retail mix ensures that Block 55 will be a hub of activity, drawing in not just business professionals but also residents and shoppers from across the city.
As Miami continues to evolve and grow, MSC Group’s $100 million investment in a new headquarters and its involvement in the expansion of PortMiami reaffirm the city’s status as a global economic powerhouse. The Block 55 complex is set to become a bustling center of commerce and community, and MSC Group’s presence there is a significant milestone in the city’s development.
Rising High: The HUB Miami Tower – Downtown’s Latest Beacon of Luxury and Connectivity
The HUB Miami Tower is an ambitious project that marks a collaborative effort by The John Buck Company, Florida Value Partners, BH Group, and PEBB Enterprises, showcasing their commitment to innovation and excellence. This 41-story mixed-use development, taking shape at 533 N.W. Second Avenue, Miami, Florida, is a joint venture between these four developers, who invested around $40 million in purchasing the 1.03-acre build site.
Situated in the heart of Downtown Miami, the HUB Miami Tower is poised to offer 306 luxurious residences, ranging from efficient studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments. The residential component is designed to offer first-class amenities that include a fitness center, spa, and a resort-style pool, integrating sleek architecture with modern living spaces and thoughtfully curated comforts.
Additionally, the HUB Miami will feature 245,000 square feet of Class-A office space, designed by ODP Architects with interiors by One Line Design Studio. This is part of a strategy to blend leisure and work within the same development. The tower is designed with a transit-oriented approach, which aims to provide a hyper-connected living experience, catering to the modern-day demands for accessibility and convenience.
The tower’s design includes residential units ranging in size from 394 to 1,046 square feet, situated on levels 22 and above, offering residents impressive views of the cityscape. The project is a testament to the evolving skyline of Miami and represents a significant investment in the city’s future as a hub for culture, business, and luxury living.
Unveiling HUB Miami: A Pinnacle of Mixed-Use Innovation in Downtown Miami
In a strategic move that underscores their commitment to innovation and excellence, The John Buck Company, Florida Value Partners, BH Group, and PEBB Enterprises have collectively unveiled HUB Miami. This 41-story mixed-use tower, strategically positioned at 525 NW 2nd Avenue in the heart of Downtown Miami, is poised to redefine the standards of luxury living and premium office space.
HUB Miami stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and thoughtful design, boasting 306 condominium residences and a sprawling 245,000 square feet of Class-A office space. Crafted by the renowned ODP Architects and adorned with interiors by One Line Design Studio, this development seamlessly integrates work and leisure, offering a hyper-connected live-work lifestyle. Its proximity to MiamiCentral Station ensures unparalleled connectivity, facilitating easy travel across major metros throughout Florida.
OneWorld Properties takes the helm as the exclusive sales and marketing brokerage for HUB Miami Residences, with prices starting in the mid $400,000s. On the commercial front, CBRE, a leading real estate firm, will spearhead the leasing efforts for HUB Miami Offices.
Ryan Lovell, Managing Director of Investments at The John Buck Company, expressed his enthusiasm: “HUB Miami marks a pivotal moment for our firm, being our inaugural project in Florida. This development is a strategic response to the burgeoning demand for high-caliber office spaces in Miami, offering a central location and exceptional connectivity.”
HUB Miami Residences introduces a collection of fully furnished residences, starting from the 22nd floor, with a variety of layouts including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options. Each residence is a paragon of modern luxury, featuring open floor plans, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and gourmet kitchens equipped with Bosch appliances. A state-of-the-art keyless entry system ensures secure and convenient access for all residents.
Residents of HUB Miami will have exclusive access to a suite of amenities, including a cutting-edge fitness center, spa facilities, resident lounges, and work-from-home spaces equipped with video conferencing facilities. The development also features a Sky Lounge bar, resort-style pool, and 24/7 concierge and security services.
HUB Miami Offices offers an impressive 245,000 square feet of Class-A office space, with floor plates ranging from 18,000 to 32,000 square feet. Tenants will enjoy access to private amenities including a fitness center, tenant lounge, conference center, and 24/7 security services.
HUB Miami is a landmark collaboration between four esteemed developers, creating a unique residential and office offering in Downtown Miami. This development not only enhances the city’s skyline but also solidifies its reputation as a thriving economic hub and a desirable destination for both living and working.
Dolce & Gabbana Partners with 888 Brickell on 90-Story Residential Tower
Dolce & Gabbana debuts its first real estate project in Miami at 888 Brickell Avenue in Downtown Miami. Designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana ‘selected’ the condominiums, which come in several marble selections and colors.
Michael Stern, CEO and founder of the developer JDS Development Group stated that the involvement of the fashion house in residents’ daily lives will go beyond the structure of the one- to four-bedroom condos and/or the building’s opulent amenities. Instead, each of the 259 homes will have a full “curation” of everything inside.
The three color schemes include: white with Bianco Striata Marble, black with Nero Marquina Marble, and gold with Giallo Imperiale Marble.
According to Stern, the homes include “very elaborate marbles, amazing light fixtures… and an incredibly luxurious palette.” People have a lot of freedom to make from the options for their units.
The building was designed by Studio Sofield, the same company that also worked on notable projects like New York’s rail-thin Steinway Tower, and depictions show opulent details like Venetian chandeliers and freestanding bathtubs in front of expansive ocean views.
The company’s CEO, Alfonso Dolce, indicated that the ultimate objective is to become “ambassadors of ‘Made in Italy’ in the world” and to expand “the perimeter of the company’s activities with a view to an all-round lifestyle experience.”
The amenities that are often found in high-end buildings, such as restaurants, bars, fitness centers, shared offices, and conference rooms, will be available to 888 Brickell residents. Additionally, there is a 4,000-square-foot pool deck with a 44-foot pool and views of Miami Beach, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean.
The most luxurious condos will cost more than $35 million, with prices starting at about $3.5 million.
Dolce&Gabbana is not the only luxury brand investing in Florida in this way. Bentley and Porsche, two Volkswagen Group-owned car companies, have also built towers along the state’s coastline, while Armani provides residents with access to a private beach from its skyscraper.
Meanwhile, the number of fashion industry leaders opening branded hotels throughout the world has increased recently. Examples include Bulgari, Versace, and Roberto Cavalli. They do this by drawing on their well-established aesthetics and identifiable designer brands.
