Onda Residences: A New Landmark in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands

Onda Residences Miami

Onda Residences, a stunning 8-story residential condominium designed by the renowned Arquitectonica, has reached a significant milestone with the completion of construction. Located at 1135 103rd Street in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, this boutique waterfront tower has officially received its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). This achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Onda as owners move forward with unit closings and prepare to call this luxurious development home. The project was spearheaded by developers Ugo Colombo of CMC Group and Valerio Morabito of Morabito Properties, with Coastal Construction serving as the general contractor.

Onda has been a highly anticipated addition to Miami’s luxury condo market since its initial launch in 2021. Nearly all of the residences have been presold, reflecting strong demand for high-end properties in the area. Only three units remain available, with prices starting at approximately $5.1 million. The majority of Onda’s buyers are domestic, highlighting a trend of business and wealth migration fueling South Florida’s real estate market.

Onda Residences offers an array of luxurious living spaces, with residences ranging from two to four bedrooms plus den floorplans. The units vary in size from 1,809 to 3,535 square feet, with four penthouse residences reaching up to 5,073 square feet. Two of the penthouses include private rooftop pool decks. Each unit features high-end finishes, including private and semi-private high-speed elevators, floor-to-ceiling, impact-resistant sliding glass doors and windows, spacious tiled terraces with private gardens, open floor layouts with up to 9-foot-high ceilings, and fully-accessorized Snaidero kitchens with top-of-the-line Miele appliances. Bathrooms boast Italian marble and Milldue cabinetry, complemented by Italian flooring throughout. The residences also include energy-efficient air conditioning and heating systems, as well as advanced air and water filtration systems.

Designed by Bernardo Fort-Brescia of Arquitectonica, Onda reflects its name—meaning “wave” in Italian—through its architectural style and interior design. The interiors, crafted by Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Human Sustainable Architecture, feature soothing, neutral tones inspired by the meeting of water and sand. Award-winning architect Enzo Enea of Enea Garden Design was responsible for the landscaping, adding to the serene and tropical ambiance of the property.

Onda’s prime location offers more than 300 linear feet of bay frontage with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The development includes a private marina with 15 boat slips and a water sports launch dock, providing residents with direct ocean access through Miami’s Haulover Inlet.

The building’s amenities are equally impressive, featuring a rooftop pool deck and lounge area, a state-of-the-art fitness center with Technogym equipment, a yoga studio, and a spa complete with massage treatment rooms, steam bath and sauna rooms. Residents will also enjoy personalized services, state-of-the-art security and technology, a front desk reception, a covered valet drop-off area, personal parking spaces, electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle storage, and residential storage space. An integrated digital concierge, WiFi throughout public spaces, and FTTH technology for voice, video, and high-speed internet are also provided.

Onda marks another successful collaboration between Colombo and Morabito, who previously partnered on the development of Beach House 8, a boutique waterfront condo on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. Colombo’s CMC Group continues to make waves in the Miami real estate market, with projects like Vita at Grove Isle and the Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove in partnership with Fort Partners.

With its prime location, luxurious features, and thoughtful design, Onda Residences is set to become a landmark in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, offering a unique and upscale living experience for its residents.

FAA Approves Height for New Brickell Tower, Clearing a Major Hurdle

Calle 8 in Brickell
Calle 8 in Brickell

In a significant development for the Brickell skyline, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a determination this morning stating that the proposed height for a new tower in the area does not present a hazard to air navigation. The determination letter from the FAA specifically noted that the Calle 8 building height of 737 feet above ground level, or 750 feet above mean sea level, is within acceptable limits.

This decision comes after the Miami-Dade Aviation Department initially objected to a greater proposed height. In April, the development team submitted the new height proposal to the FAA, following concerns raised by the county’s aviation officials. A March letter from these officials stated that an earlier proposal for a tower height of 870 feet above sea level would not comply with the airport height zoning regulations, prompting the revision.

The architectural design of Calle 8 is particularly striking, spanning 65 stories. As of this month, the project is progressing through the zoning approval process with Miami-Dade County planners. The plans for the tower include ground floor retail spaces, a performing arts venue or retail complex, and 464 residential units, alongside various amenity spaces.

Millennium Developments of Brickell, the developer behind this ambitious project, aims to contribute a significant new structure to the Brickell area. With FAA approval secured, the development is poised to proceed further, bringing this vision closer to reality.

830 Brickell Secures $565 Million Construction Loan

830 Brickell in Downtown Miami
830 Brickell in Downtown Miami

Miami’s skyline is set to welcome a new architectural marvel this fall as 830 Brickell, a 57-story, 640,000-square-foot Class A+ office tower, nears completion. Securing a $565 million long-term loan from TYKO Capital, this development underscores its significance as a base for many firms establishing their first Miami office, with over 90 percent of the building’s tenants being new to the market.

Designed by the renowned architecture firm Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill and featuring interiors by Italian architecture and design company Iosa Ghini Associati, 830 Brickell stands out as the first stand-alone Class A+ office building in Brickell in over a decade. The tower, developed by OKO Group and Cain International, is already fully leased and is in the process of receiving its Temporary Certificate of Occupancy in phases, with tenants actively building out their spaces.

Since construction began in 2020, leasing rates at 830 Brickell have more than doubled, setting a new high standard for Miami’s office market. Initially, office space was priced between $60-$70 per square foot. Recent leases have closed above $150 per square foot, while the Brickell submarket averages around $100 per square foot. This remarkable increase highlights the tower’s premium appeal and the growing demand for high-quality office space in Miami.

TYKO Capital, a commercial real estate private equity and private credit investment management platform, is a joint venture between Adi Chugh and a Florida-based hedge fund. Established in August 2023, TYKO focuses on institutional borrowers and assets in top-tier markets, investing across the entire capital stack and all asset classes. The successful securing of favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell by TYKO Capital marks a significant milestone for the project.

Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of OKO Group, and Jonathan Goldstein, CEO of Cain International, expressed their excitement: “Our ability to secure favorable financing terms for 830 Brickell is a fitting capstone to the building’s success. 830 Brickell has acted as a catalyst for a historic wave of business migration into South Florida, positioning itself as the base for the world’s premier finance, technology, and professional services firms and propelling an office market that continues to outperform other major cities.”

830 Brickell hosts a roster of top-tier financial, technology, and professional services firms, including Microsoft, Citadel, Kirkland & Ellis, Marsh Insurance, Sidley Austin, CI Financial (Corient), Thoma Bravo, Santander Bank, and A-CAP, among others. Many of these firms are currently building out their interior spaces in anticipation of the building’s completion.

The tower’s amenities will include a top-floor restaurant and bar/private club with menus developed alongside a three-Michelin-starred chef, offering expansive views of the city and Biscayne Bay. Other features include a world-class health and wellness center, conferencing facilities, an outdoor terrace, cafés, and street-level retail. The building is conveniently located near multiple transit options, including Metrorail and Metromover, the Brightline, walking paths, cycling lanes, and bay access points. It is also close to Miami’s top residential and lifestyle neighborhoods such as the Design District, Wynwood, Edgewater, and Miami Beach.

Gale Miami Hotel & Residences Achieves Major Milestones with TCO and Rapid Sales Momentum

Gale Miami Hotel and Residences Lobby
Gale Miami Hotel & Residences

The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, a visionary project by hospitality entrepreneur Keith Menin and Marisa Galbut through their development firm Sixth Street Miami Partners LLC, has reached a significant milestone with the issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO). This achievement, backed by GFO Investments, signifies a pivotal moment for the development, which has seen remarkable progress since its inception. Furthermore, Gale Miami has successfully surpassed 250 closings in less than 60 days, highlighting the strong demand for short-term rental properties in Downtown Miami.

Located at 601 Northeast First Avenue in Downtown Miami, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences opened its doors in May 2024. The 51-story development offers move-in-ready and fully furnished units, with studio, 1-, and 2-bedroom layouts ranging from 410 to 910 square feet. Prices for these luxury units start in the mid $500s and go up to over $1 million. Its prime location near Miami Worldcenter and within walking distance of Downtown Miami makes Gale Miami an attractive option for residents seeking the perfect blend of hotel amenities and the flexibility of home-sharing options.

Keith Menin expressed his enthusiasm about the TCO milestone, stating, “Receiving the TCO is a major milestone for us all. Our immediate focus is now on welcoming buyers into their new homes and ensuring they fully experience all that Gale Miami has to offer. The positive reception from buyers confirms Gale Miami’s appeal and exceeds expectations in the Downtown Miami market.”

Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, along with 601 Miami, boasts a sprawling 70,000-square-foot amenity space spread across three floors. Residents and guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness facility, a tranquil yoga lounge, an inviting terrace, and spa facilities including a steam room, sauna, and hammam. The property features a 24-hour attended lobby with a comfortable lounge area and 24-hour valet parking. Culinary options are abundant, with three unique dining concepts: an Italian restaurant, an American steakhouse and lounge, and a Mediterranean-style eatery.

For business needs, the Gale Miami Conference Center, located on the 8th floor, offers over 20,000 square feet of flexible space, including multiple conference rooms, breakout areas, and a grand ballroom. Additionally, the property includes three dedicated floors of exhibition space, each spanning 40,000 square feet. As a premier conference venue in Downtown Miami, Gale Miami is a sought-after location for major events, from weddings to corporate functions. The center provides personalized concierge catering and services, ensuring every guest’s needs are met with meticulous attention to detail.

Designed by Arquitectonica, in collaboration with Urban Robot for interior design and landscape architecture, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences embodies a vibrant, walkable urban oasis in Downtown Miami. With breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, the design seamlessly integrates urban sophistication with luxurious resort-style amenities, establishing a new benchmark for city living.

The announcement of Gale Miami’s TCO and rapid sales success coincides with the launch of their latest development, 14 ROC, in Downtown Miami on July 10. This new venture continues the trend of innovative, high-demand properties that cater to the evolving needs of Miami’s residents and visitors alike.

Gale Miami Hotel and Residences Lobby

Billionaire Ken Griffin Moves Forward with $1 Billion Mixed-Use Tower in Miami’s Brickell Financial District

Ken Griffin's Citadel Purchases Vacant Land in Brickell
Ken Griffin's Citadel Purchases Vacant Land in Brickell

Ken Griffin, the billionaire founder and CEO of Citadel and owner of Citadel Securities, is pushing ahead with ambitious plans to develop a $1 billion-plus mixed-use tower in Miami’s vibrant Brickell Financial District. This significant development marks a new chapter for both Citadel and the rapidly evolving Miami skyline.

This week, Griffin’s attorney, Neisen Kasdin, submitted a pre-application for three prominent sites located at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive, 1221 Brickell Avenue, and 1250-1260 Brickell Bay Drive. These sites will collectively host the new headquarters for Citadel and Citadel Securities, reflecting Griffin’s commitment to establishing a substantial presence in Miami.

The proposed tower at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive will feature a mix of office spaces, a luxury hotel, retail outlets, food and beverage venues, and ample parking. This development will be constructed under Miami-Dade County’s rapid transit zoning regulations, a testament to the city’s forward-thinking urban planning. The sites fall within a Metromover subzone added in recent years, enhancing their accessibility and appeal.

In addition to the new tower, preliminary site plans suggest that residential units may be integrated into the existing office building at 1221 Brickell Bay Drive. This blend of commercial and residential spaces is designed to create a dynamic, multi-functional environment in the heart of Brickell.

Griffin has enlisted the expertise of Norman Foster’s renowned London-based architecture firm, Foster + Partners, to bring this vision to life. Philadelphia-based Gattuso Development Partners, led by office developer John Gattuso, is also collaborating on the project.

The Brickell assemblage, spanning approximately 4.2 acres, was acquired by companies linked to Griffin and Citadel for nearly $670 million in 2022. The most notable transaction was the $363 million purchase of the 2.5-acre bayfront lot at 1201 Brickell Bay Drive from the Hollo family’s Florida East Coast Realty. This deal set a record price for the development site.

While the project’s future height will be restricted by Federal Aviation Administration regulations, capping buildings in Miami at 1,049 feet, the development is poised to make a significant impact on the city’s skyline.

Citadel has been steadily expanding its footprint in Miami. Recently, it increased its space at 830 Brickell to a total of approximately 130,000 square feet. Additionally, Citadel and Citadel Securities maintain a presence at the Southeast Financial Center in downtown Miami.

Ken Griffin has also been investing heavily in South Florida’s residential real estate market. He owns several waterfront properties in Miami, Miami Beach, and Palm Beach. The Daytona Beach native’s relocation from Chicago to South Florida includes plans to sell some of his residential properties in Chicago, where he originally built his business empire.

Villa Residences Miami Selects Moss Construction in Waterfront Development

Villa Miami Helipad
Villa Miami Condos in Edgewater

Moss Construction has been selected to oversee the construction of Villa Miami, a groundbreaking luxury waterfront development in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood. Set to break ground in the summer of 2024, Villa Miami marks the first-ever collaboration between Major Food Group, David Martin’s Terra, and One Thousand Group. Situated at 710 NE 29 St., Villa Miami will stand as a 56-story, 650-foot-tall architectural marvel. Envisioned by ODP Architects under the leadership of rising star Kurt Dannwolf, its distinctive copper color-cladded exoskeletal design is set to make Villa Miami an iconic tower on Miami’s Edgewater skyline.

David Martin, CEO of Terra, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to work with Moss Construction on another landmark project. Villa Miami meets the demand for a luxury condominium tower with full and half-floor vertical residences in a boutique environment. Terra has a proven history of enriching neighborhoods across South Florida and Villa will do the same for Edgewater.”

Ed Baro, Executive Vice President of Moss, echoed this excitement, saying, “Villa Miami is an elegantly stunning concept, and Moss is thrilled to be part of the Terra team once again. We eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking and the realization of this unparalleled residential experience which will change Miami’s skyline.”

The project’s interior design is led by Vicky Charles of Charles & Co., known for her work as the former design director at Soho House and for commissions for the likes of Sony Music, Goop, George and Amal Clooney, Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, as well as David and Victoria Beckham. Renowned landscape architect Enzo Enea is at the forefront of Villa Miami’s green design, incorporating native plants seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Moss Construction, under the guidance of Brett Atkinson, brings its wealth of experience, particularly in luxury high-rise developments, having successfully collaborated with David Martin’s Terra on recent projects like the topped-out Five Park Miami Beach set to deliver this year. Global structural design firm DeSimone—whose more than 10,000 building designs include the most recognizable high-rises in New York and Miami—will engineer the impressive structure.

Villa Miami will offer 72 exclusive full and half-floor residences, epitomizing vertical estate-style living with 360-degree water views. Residents will enjoy a plethora of amenities including Major Domo estate manager service, a rooftop helipad, poolside service, spa and wellness facilities, access to a branded beach club, and a fully serviced elevated pool deck. Additionally, the tower will boast an on-site MFG restaurant with private lounge spaces, offering residents preferred reservations, provisioning, and access to at-home MFG chef services.

Exciting New Development in Overtown: One West Twelve Residences

One West Twelve Residences
One West Twelve Residences

The skyline of Overtown is set to change dramatically with the announcement of a new 22-story development: One West Twelve Residences. This ambitious project is the collaborative effort of PMG, Lion Development Group, and LNDMRK, with architectural design by Cube 3.

One West Twelve Residences promises to bring 372 residential units to the heart of Overtown. Each unit will be delivered finished and furnished, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a move-in-ready home. Additionally, the development will allow short-term rentals, catering to both long-term residents and short-term visitors. This flexibility is expected to attract a diverse mix of inhabitants, contributing to the vibrant community atmosphere.

The development is a collaboration between three prominent entities in the real estate industry:

  • PMG (Property Markets Group): Known for their innovative approach and high-quality developments, PMG has a long history of successful projects that blend modern design with functionality.
  • Lion Development Group: With a reputation for creating impactful urban spaces, Lion Development Group brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to enhancing the living experience in the communities they serve.
  • LNDMRK: This firm is recognized for its forward-thinking projects that prioritize sustainability and community integration. Their involvement in One West Twelve Residences ensures a focus on eco-friendly practices and community-centric design.

The architectural firm Cube 3 has been tasked with bringing the vision of One West Twelve Residences to life. Known for their cutting-edge designs and attention to detail, Cube 3 is expected to deliver a building that not only enhances the Overtown skyline but also provides a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living environment for its residents.

The introduction of One West Twelve Residences is more than just a new building; it represents a significant step in the ongoing revitalization of Overtown. The development is expected to boost the local economy, create new jobs, and attract new businesses to the area. It also aligns with the broader efforts to transform Overtown into a thriving, modern neighborhood that respects its historical roots while looking towards the future.

One West Twelve Residences is poised to become a landmark development in Overtown, offering modern, flexible living options in a vibrant community setting. With the combined expertise of PMG, Lion Development Group, LNDMRK, and Cube 3, this project is set to redefine urban living in Overtown, making it an exciting time for current and future residents of the area. Stay tuned for more updates as this project progresses!

1 Southside Park Brickell- Revised Plans Unveiled

1 Southside Park Brickell
1 Southside Park Brickell

The skyline of Brickell is set to receive a significant addition with the ongoing construction of the 1 Southside Park project. The developer behind this massive undertaking has recently submitted revised plans and renderings to the county, showcasing a range of adjustments aimed at enhancing the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

1 Southside Park is a mixed-use development that promises to redefine urban living in Brickell. Among its many components is the residential segment known as Mercedes Benz Places, which is already making strides with a recent foundation pour marking the progress of its first phase.

The revised plans introduce several notable changes:

  1. Increase in Open Space: The updated design incorporates more open space, providing residents and visitors with ample areas to enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.
  2. Increase in Lot Coverage: There is a slight increase in lot coverage by 6%, optimizing the use of available land.
  3. Reduction in Residential Units: The number of residential units has been reduced by 185, bringing the total to 1,010 units, a 15% decrease.
  4. Reduction in Office Space: The office area has been trimmed down by 11,930 square feet, resulting in a 7% decrease.
  5. Increase in Commercial Space: Commercial space has seen a significant boost, with an addition of 26,129 square feet, representing a 23% increase.
  6. Larger Fire Station: The project now includes a larger fire station to better serve the community.
  7. Overall Reduction in Floor Area: The total floor area has been reduced by 43,453 square feet, making the design more efficient and streamlined.

The newly revised plans outline a structure that will rise to an impressive 61 stories, with a total of 64 levels and a roof height of 780 feet above sea level. Here are the detailed specifications:

  • Hotel Units: 200 units (no change in unit count, but a reduction in square footage)
  • Commercial Space: 142,129 square feet (+23%)
  • Office Space: 153,070 square feet (-7%)
  • Residential Units: 1,010 units (-15%)
  • Parking Spaces: 881 spaces (-12%)
  • Governmental Space: 38,582 square feet (+21%)

The ambitious 1 Southside Park project is being developed by JDS Development Group, a company known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. The architectural brilliance of the project is being spearheaded by ODP Architects, who serve as the architect of record.

Exciting New Residential Project Proposed in Miami: Gamla Health District

Gamla Health District Residences
Gamla Health District Residences

Miami is known for its dynamic skyline and ever-evolving urban landscape. Adding to this vibrant city’s growth, planners have recently received an application for a new residential project named Gamla Health District. This exciting new development promises to enhance the city’s residential offerings with a blend of modern design, convenient amenities, and strategic location.

The proposed Gamla Health District is a 20-story residential structure, poised to become a significant addition to Miami’s architectural scene. Here are some key details about the project:

  • Residential Units: The building will house 224 residential units. The majority of these units will be 1-bedroom apartments, complemented by a selection of studios and 2-bedroom units, catering to a diverse range of residents from young professionals to small families.
  • Amenities: The development plans include a leasing office, co-working spaces, and various other amenities designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for its residents.
  • Parking: Addressing one of the critical needs in urban living, the project includes 257 parking spaces. These will be distributed across a 7-level garage, cleverly integrated into the design and mostly hidden by residential units, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the structure.
  • Height: The tower is planned to reach a height of 232 feet above ground, making it a notable presence in the city’s skyline.

The entity behind this ambitious project is Gamla Cedron HD, LLC. This company has a vision of creating a residential space that not only meets the housing needs but also adds value to the community with thoughtfully designed amenities and facilities.

The architectural plans have been crafted by Behar Font, a name synonymous with innovative and sustainable urban design. Their expertise is expected to bring a fresh and contemporary touch to the Miami skyline with the Gamla Health District.

A crucial step in the approval process for the Gamla Health District is an upcoming hearing. The Urban Development Review Board of Miami is scheduled to review the application today. This hearing will be a significant milestone, as it will determine whether the project can proceed as planned.

Construction Update for 888 Brickell by Dolce&Gabbana

Dolce&Gabbana 888 Brickell
Dolce&Gabbana 888 Brickell

JDS Development Group just filed a dry run demolition permit at the highly anticipated Brickell site, where plans for the 90-story supertall condo hotel, 888 Brickell by Dolce&Gabbana. Although this is just a preliminary step, it marks significant progress in the development process.

The filed permit indicates there is currently no contractor attached to the project. However, a permit expediter has been listed as the contact, facilitating the process. Alongside this, there is also a separate permit pending to install a fence around the property, ensuring the site’s security and preparation for future construction activities.

Back in April, JDS Development Group completed the purchase of the property for an impressive $61.2 million. This acquisition has paved the way for a remarkable collaboration with renowned fashion house Dolce&Gabbana. Together, they plan to bring to life a 90-story condo hotel that promises to redefine luxury living in Miami.

Standing at a staggering 1,049 feet, this new building is set to become the tallest in Miami. Esteemed architect Studio Sofield is at the helm of this ambitious project, ensuring a design that combines elegance, innovation, and functionality. The tower will boast 250 rooms and suites, offering unparalleled views and world-class amenities.

The collaboration between JDS Development Group and Dolce&Gabbana, along with the architectural prowess of Studio Sofield, promises to create a new landmark in Miami’s skyline. This 90-story supertall condo hotel is not just a building; it’s a statement of luxury, sophistication, and modern living.