Plans Move Forward for The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Miami
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Miami, is moving one step closer to redefining luxury living on Brickell Key as new construction plans and timelines are revealed. This impressive dual-tower project, situated on the southern tip of Brickell Key, will bring together residential and hotel offerings in two connected towers, each featuring distinct attributes and state-of-the-art amenities.
Anchoring the development, the South Tower will rise to an impressive 850 feet, spanning 66 stories and offering 228 private residences. Prospective buyers will find spacious two-to-four-bedroom layouts, with units extending up to 4,700 square feet. Additionally, the South Tower includes two ultra-luxurious duplex penthouses, each exceeding 7,000 square feet. The residences are designed to cater to high-end buyers seeking expansive living spaces, modern amenities, and stunning views.
In contrast, the North Tower, set to stand 426 feet tall, will become Mandarin Oriental’s flagship hotel in North America. The tower will host 121 guest rooms, 66 private residences, and 28 hotel residences, creating a seamless blend of residential and hospitality spaces. Both towers promise nearly unobstructed, panoramic views of Miami, making the project a rare ownership opportunity on Brickell Key.
Swire Properties, a seasoned player in Miami’s real estate landscape, is at the helm of this ambitious project. Collaborating with several prominent firms, Swire Properties has enlisted Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) for architectural design, known for creating iconic structures worldwide. Renowned Parisian designer Tristan Auer will bring his distinctive style to the interiors, combining elegance with a contemporary flair. Meanwhile, Shma, a Thailand-based firm with expertise in urban outdoor spaces, will design the landscape, ensuring harmony with Miami’s tropical environment.
Swire Properties Miami’s president, Henry Bott, has provided a clear construction timeline for the project. The existing Mandarin Oriental hotel will close its doors on May 31, 2025, to allow for demolition in the third quarter of that year. Vertical construction of the new towers is expected to commence in early 2026, setting the stage for Miami’s next premier luxury development.
In preparation, Swire Properties filed construction permits for both towers in early December 2023. Currently under review, these permits reflect significant planning progress. The new hotel will be located at 500 Brickell Key Drive, while the residential tower will be positioned at 750 Claughton Island Drive, with Moss & Associates taking on the role of general contractor.
As Miami’s skyline continues to evolve, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental promises to offer a sophisticated blend of luxury living and high-end hospitality. Designed to capture the essence of Miami’s vibrant atmosphere, this development will undoubtedly become a centerpiece of the city’s real estate offerings, reinforcing Brickell Key’s reputation as a premier destination.
South Miami City Hall Redevelopment Moves Forward: $309M Transit-Oriented Project Announced
In a significant move toward urban renewal, South Miami’s City Commissioners voted on Tuesday to greenlight a transformative redevelopment project at the City Hall property. The $309 million development, designed to be transit-oriented, is situated just a short distance from a Metrorail station, emphasizing accessibility and connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
A Two-Phase Development Plan
The redevelopment will occur in two phases, bringing a modern, mixed-use hub to the area. Once completed, the development will feature the following:
70,000 square feet of civic space: A six-story building will house essential city services, including City Hall, the South Miami Police Department, and the public library.
670 high-end apartments: Two 15-story towers will offer luxurious living spaces in the heart of South Miami, catering to those seeking a blend of urban convenience and upscale amenities.
28,000 square feet of active retail venues: The development will include a range of food and beverage outlets, a fitness center, and other active retail spaces designed to create a vibrant community hub.
910 parking spaces: To accommodate both residents and visitors, the project will include extensive parking facilities.
Developer Behind the Project: 13th Floor
The developer leading this ambitious project is 13th Floor, a firm known for its expertise in large-scale, innovative developments. Their plan emphasizes a seamless integration of civic, residential, and commercial spaces, aimed at transforming the City Hall site into a modern, transit-friendly destination.
Transit-Oriented Design
A key element of the redevelopment is its proximity to a Metrorail station, making it a prime example of transit-oriented development. This approach encourages residents to use public transportation, reducing traffic congestion and promoting a more sustainable, pedestrian-friendly environment.
A New Chapter for South Miami
The City Hall redevelopment marks a new chapter for South Miami, blending modern infrastructure with accessible transit options and high-end residential living. With the commissioners’ approval, the project is set to reshape the city’s urban landscape, enhancing its appeal as a dynamic place to live, work, and play.
As the project moves forward, residents can expect more updates on timelines and additional details on the amenities and services that will define this exciting development.
Solina Bay Harbor Reaches 50% Sold
Solina Bay Harbor is quickly becoming the epitome of luxury living, and the numbers speak for themselves—this exquisite development is now 50% sold! As one of the most anticipated waterfront communities, this milestone marks a significant achievement and a testament to the desirability and unique appeal of Solina Bay Harbor.
Located in one of the most picturesque settings, Solina Bay Harbor offers a rare blend of luxury and natural beauty. Nestled along the pristine coastline, this development provides residents with breathtaking ocean views, serene surroundings, and access to some of the most stunning beaches. Each residence is meticulously designed to offer the ultimate in comfort and sophistication, blending seamlessly with the natural environment.
The architectural design reflects a modern aesthetic while paying homage to the coastal charm that makes this location so special. Spacious, open-plan interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive balconies ensure that residents can fully immerse themselves in the beauty that surrounds them.
With 50% of the properties now sold, it’s clear that Solina Bay Harbor is resonating with those seeking not just a home but a lifestyle. The development offers a range of world-class amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, private beach access, and a full-service marina.
For those who value convenience and exclusivity, Solina Bay Harbor provides both in abundance. The nearby town offers gourmet dining, boutique shopping, and vibrant cultural experiences, all within a short drive or boat ride. Whether you’re looking to unwind in your private sanctuary or explore the dynamic local scene, Solina Bay Harbor offers the best of both worlds.
One of the key factors driving sales at Solina Bay Harbor is the sense of community that is being cultivated here. The developers have gone to great lengths to ensure that residents feel connected not just to their environment but to each other. Regular social events, a private club, and communal spaces designed for interaction make it easy for residents to build lasting relationships with their neighbors.
This is more than just a place to live; it’s a community where residents can create memories, enjoy a sense of belonging, and indulge in the finest things life has to offer.
As Solina Bay Harbor continues to captivate discerning buyers, the opportunity to become part of this exceptional community is becoming more limited. With its unique blend of luxury, natural beauty, and community spirit, it’s no wonder that this development has reached the 50% sold milestone so quickly.
Ocean House: A New Benchmark in Ultra-Luxury Living by Multiplan REAM
Multiplan Real Estate Asset Management (REAM), the visionary developer behind the renowned 57 Ocean, has announced the official launch of sales for Ocean House, a meticulously crafted boutique condominium development in the prestigious Surfside enclave. With just 25 ultra-luxurious residences, Ocean House promises an unrivaled living experience, blending the exclusivity and grandeur of a private high-end residence with the conveniences of modern condominium living. Unit prices starting at $5 million.
Located at 9317 Collins Avenue, Ocean House is set to epitomize the Surfside lifestyle with residences ranging from two to five bedrooms. Renowned architecture firm Arquitectonica, along with its landscape division ArquitectonicaGEO, is leading the architectural and landscape design. The vision for Ocean House includes expansive east, south, and west views, meticulously crafted by the celebrated architect Bernardo Fort-Brescia. The interiors, curated by designer Carla Guilhem—known for her work in both yachts and homes—offer sophisticated spaces that seamlessly integrate with the oceanfront setting.
What sets Ocean House apart is its dedication to privacy and tranquility, offering an extensive range of wellness-focused amenities across three thoughtfully designed floors. Residents will find spaces beautifully infused with beach-inspired hues, wooden accents, and natural stone flooring. The development features a rejuvenating spa complete with a treatment room, salon, steam room, and an expansive rooftop pool deck. Additionally, the vitality pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, reflecting ponds, floating cabanas, and intimate lounges, all set within a lush tropical landscape, further enhance the sense of well-being and exclusivity.
Marcelo Kingston, Managing Partner at Multiplan REAM, emphasizes this unique approach: “Unlike the impersonal high-rise developments prevalent in South Florida, Ocean House offers an intimate, exclusive experience. It is a harmonious blend of privacy, architectural brilliance, and unparalleled amenities, designed with the sophisticated buyer in mind. With breathtaking waterfront views, lavish interiors, and a limited collection of residences, Ocean House is a truly exceptional offering within Surfside’s coveted coastline and Miami’s burgeoning luxury real estate market.”
The residences at Ocean House, ranging from 2,093 to 6,279 square feet, boast expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, grand living rooms with natural stone flooring, and open-concept kitchens centered around custom-designed Silestone islands with waterfall edges. Each home is complemented by private terraces offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The interiors feature elegant finishes, including custom European cabinetry, Gaggenau kitchen appliances, and spa-like bathrooms with double-sink vanities, glass-enclosed rainfall showers, and freestanding tubs that evoke a serene, retreat-like atmosphere.
Phil Gutman underscores the project’s unique market position: “Surfside has become the most sought-after market to live in South Florida, the scarcity of either available land or new projects in this area makes Ocean House a true gem in the strong Miami condo luxury market. Our project stands out in this community as a true luxury, boutique development offering buyers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a villa in the sky on the ocean.”
Multiplan REAM has already commenced the demolition of the old Regent Palace Condominium to clear the site in anticipation of groundbreaking, slated for the first quarter of 2025. Ocean House is expected to be delivered in 2027, bringing with it a new standard in luxury living.
“Our go-to-market strategy will be highly selective and focused. By self-financing projects, Multiplan gains the flexibility to initiate construction immediately while patiently pursuing high-caliber buyers who share our vision for Ocean House as Miami’s most exclusive beachfront condo community,” concludes Kingston.
With its visionary design, unparalleled amenities, and prime location, Ocean House is set to redefine luxury living in Miami, offering a rare opportunity for discerning buyers to own a piece of Surfside’s coveted coastline.
Unlocking Miami’s Last Frontier: The Bold Vision for Watson Island
Building in metropolitan Miami has long been a balancing act between nature and urban expansion. Hemmed in by the lush Everglades to the west and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Miami’s land has always been a precious commodity. Now, developers have set their sights on one of the city’s last undeveloped frontiers: Watson Island.
Watson Island, a mostly undeveloped, city-owned stretch of land sitting in Biscayne Bay, has long eluded developers. Despite its prime location just east of downtown Miami, accessible only via the MacArthur Causeway, the island has remained mostly barren. But now, Merrimac Ventures and BH3 Management are proposing a transformative mixed-use project that could finally unlock the island’s potential.
“This is the most underutilized, rare opportunity that exists in all of Miami,” says Greg Freedman, co-CEO of BH3 Management. His words resonate with the urgency and excitement that the proposal has sparked across Miami. In November, the city’s voters will decide whether to move forward with this ambitious plan—a plan that could put an end to decades of indecision and missed opportunities.
Watson Island has a rich history that dates back to Miami’s early days. It’s one of the man-made islands in Biscayne Bay, created through extensive dredging projects in the early 20th century. These projects, which drained and filled swampy lands, fueled Miami’s real estate boom and led to the construction of thousands of homes, roads, and even a railway. The island was deeded to the city in 1919 and was fully reclaimed by 1926, becoming a critical link between Miami and Miami Beach.
Over the years, other islands in Biscayne Bay have been transformed into luxury residential areas or key infrastructure projects. Brickell Key, Star Island, and PortMiami all emerged from similar origins, but Watson Island remained largely untouched, save for the Miami Children’s Museum and Jungle Island, which occupy just a fraction of its 86 acres.
The proposed development by Merrimac Ventures and BH3 Management envisions Watson Island as Miami’s newest neighborhood. The plan includes two hotels, 97,430 square feet of retail space, 100,350 square feet of boutique offices, and 105 condominium units. Additionally, the project would see upgrades to the seawall and boardwalk, infrastructure improvements, and the creation of a public park and promenade. The developers aim to create a vibrant, mixed-use community that will finally breathe life into the long-dormant island.
If the voters approve the proposal, the developers will enter a 99-year ground lease with the city and contribute $9 million toward affordable housing in Miami. The project also includes a commitment to hiring local workers, further embedding the development into the fabric of the community.
Foundation Pour Completed for Aria Reserve North Tower
Exciting progress is being made on the highly anticipated Aria Reserve development in Miami! The foundation pour for the 62-story Aria Reserve North Tower was successfully completed, according to a recent social media post by shell contractor L&R Structural Corp. This marks a significant milestone in the construction of one of Miami’s most luxurious and ambitious residential projects.
The foundation pour comes just a few weeks after the Miami Building Department issued the master construction permit for the North Tower on June 11. Construction cranes were promptly installed following the permit issuance, allowing the project to progress smoothly. The twin towers of Aria Reserve, each rising 62 stories or 649 feet, are set to redefine Miami’s skyline.
Aria Reserve is a twin-tower development, with each tower standing tall at 62 stories. The South Tower, which topped off in April, is a testament to the speed and efficiency with which this project is moving forward. Together, the two towers will offer approximately 743 luxury condos, providing residents with stunning views and top-tier amenities in the heart of Miami.
The Aria Reserve project is being developed by the esteemed Melo Group, a name synonymous with quality and luxury in Miami’s real estate scene. The architectural design is being crafted by the renowned firm Arquitectonica, known for their innovative and iconic designs that grace skylines around the world.
With the foundation pour now complete, the construction of the Aria Reserve North Tower will continue to rise, bringing this ambitious project closer to its final form. As the towers inch closer to completion, Miami residents and future condo owners alike are eagerly awaiting the day when Aria Reserve will open its doors, offering an unparalleled living experience in one of the most vibrant cities in the world.
Shoma Bay Elevates Miami Luxury Living with Rolls-Royce Perks and Unmatched Amenities
Miami is no stranger to luxury, but Shoma Bay, a new 24-story tower in North Bay Village set to open in 2026, is taking things to a whole new level. The latest project by Shoma Group is making waves not just for its stunning architecture or prime location off the John F. Kennedy Causeway but for an extraordinary amenity that’s sure to turn heads—a chauffeured Rolls-Royce Cullinan available to all residents. Yes, you read that right. Imagine having a Rolls-Royce at your beck and call to cruise around Miami in style. Let’s dive into what makes Shoma Bay the epitome of luxury living in the Magic City.
Shoma Bay isn’t just another high-rise; it’s a lifestyle destination designed to cater to the most discerning buyers. With 333 units ranging from one to three bedrooms, plus 10 exclusive penthouses, Shoma Bay promises to offer something for everyone looking for a luxurious place to call home. But what truly sets it apart are the unique amenities that go far beyond the typical offerings of high-end condos.
The crown jewel of Shoma Bay’s amenities is undoubtedly the Rolls-Royce Cullinan—a vehicle synonymous with elegance and sophistication. Residents will have access to this chauffeured luxury SUV for trips within a 10-mile radius, including key locations like Miami International Airport, the Bal Harbour Shops, and the Miami Design District. It’s a perk that redefines convenience and luxury, ensuring that every outing is a memorable one.
Stephanie Shojaee, one half of the power couple leading Shoma Group, explains, “We offer residents access to a bespoke Rolls-Royce to enhance the luxurious lifestyles they will experience at Shoma Bay. This kind of amenity goes beyond traditional luxurious features such as high-end appliances or premium finishes.”
Shoma Bay is all about creating an environment where residents can live their best lives. The development features a wide range of amenities that cater to various aspects of luxury living:
Pet Spa: Because your fur babies deserve the best too.
Golf Simulator: Perfect for channeling your inner Tiger Woods without leaving the building.
Zen Garden: A peaceful retreat where you can relax and unwind.
Wine Club: Elevate your happy hours with curated selections and exclusive tastings.
And if that’s not enough, Shoma Bay is also set to include what might be the most luxurious Publix in Florida, along with a rooftop lounge offering stunning views and a place to socialize with neighbors.
The integration of high-end brands like Rolls-Royce into real estate developments is a growing trend, especially in markets like Miami, where affluent buyers are looking for more than just a place to live—they’re looking for a complete lifestyle experience. As the first Latina U.S. ambassador for Rolls-Royce, Stephanie Shojaee sees this collaboration as a natural extension of Shoma Group’s commitment to luxury.
While the Rolls-Royce Cullinan might seem like the ultimate amenity, Shoma Group has hinted that more surprises are in store. One highly anticipated feature is a distinguished high-end restaurant, though the name remains under wraps for now. This, combined with the development’s other luxurious offerings, ensures that Shoma Bay will be a landmark of opulence in Miami.
With units starting at $750,000, Shoma Bay is positioning itself as one of Miami’s most desirable addresses. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of having a Rolls-Royce at your disposal, the array of exclusive amenities, or simply the chance to be part of a community that celebrates luxury, Shoma Bay offers an unparalleled living experience.
The Crosby Miami Worldcenter Construction Update
The 33-story Crosby Miami Worldcenter has reached a significant milestone, topping off according to Beauchamp Construction Co. This achievement marks the completion of the building’s structural framework, and a celebration was held on July 19th to commemorate this event.
The journey of the Crosby Miami Worldcenter began with its groundbreaking in January 2023. Now standing tall at a permanent height of 390 feet, this impressive tower is set to become a prominent feature of Miami’s skyline. The building boasts a variety of features that promise to enhance the living experience for its residents:
450 Condo Units: These units are designed to allow short-term rentals, providing flexibility and potential income for owners.
22,000+ Square Feet of Amenities: The extensive amenities include a range of recreational and leisure facilities to cater to the needs of residents.
Rooftop Bar and Restaurant: Offering stunning views of the city, the rooftop bar and restaurant are set to become popular spots for both residents and visitors.
3,370 Square Feet of Retail Space: This retail space will add to the convenience of residents, providing easy access to various shops and services.
In a testament to its appeal, all units in the Crosby have already been sold. This rapid sell-out highlights the high demand for luxury living spaces in prime locations within Miami.
Despite the absence of a new parking garage within the building, residents of the Crosby will have access to parking facilities elsewhere in the Worldcenter. This arrangement ensures that convenience and accessibility remain top priorities for those living in the tower.
The topping off of the Crosby Miami Worldcenter marks a significant step in its development, bringing it closer to its final completion. With its array of amenities, strategic location, and luxurious living spaces, the Crosby is set to become a sought-after residence in Miami. As the building continues to take shape, it promises to deliver an exceptional living experience in the heart of the city.
New Renderings Unveiled for Cassia: A Luxurious Residential Development in Coral Gables
Alta Developers has recently revealed new renderings for Cassia, a striking 12-story residential development set to redefine luxury living in the heart of Coral Gables. Designed by the esteemed architectural firm Behar Font & Partners, this fully furnished luxury condominium will be located at 4011 Salzedo Street in the Merrick Park District. Cassia will offer 174 elegantly designed residences, ranging from one- to three-bedroom units, with sizes spanning from 662 to 1,439 square feet. Ideal for frequent travelers or seasonal residents, these units come fully furnished by RH, offering flexible rental options.
The newly unveiled renderings showcase Cassia’s rectilinear form, accentuated by a sleek white stucco exterior. The building’s design emphasizes vertical and horizontal lines through its recessed balconies and window frames. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows punctuate the façade, allowing for breathtaking views and an abundance of natural light. Architectural frames surrounding the balconies add a sophisticated depth and texture to the overall aesthetic.
The lower levels of Cassia will feature ground-level retail spaces, designed with extensive glazing and black aluminum framing to enhance transparency and encourage street-level interaction. The façade on this level will be clad in stone material or veneer, complemented by green walls and nearby landscaping, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment.
A standout feature of Cassia is the outdoor amenity deck located above the podium level. This landscaped area includes a pool deck surrounded by palm trees and lush plantings, offering a serene retreat for residents. The pool area is outfitted with lounge chairs and outdoor seating, perfect for relaxation and social gatherings.
The name “Cassia” is inspired by the beautiful Cassia trees that bloom across Coral Gables during Spring and Fall, their pink blossoms resembling delicate bouquets. This name is a nod to the city’s founders, who envisioned Coral Gables as a Garden City with lush green avenues and charming architecture. This vision has been preserved, with Coral Gables earning the designation of Tree City USA for over 34 years.
Located just steps away from the Shops at Merrick Park, Cassia residents will enjoy unparalleled access to premier shopping and dining experiences. The area boasts over 100 retailers and restaurants, including luxury brands such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. For fitness and wellness, residents can visit Equinox Fitness, SoulCycle, and the Elemis spa.
Cassia promises to be a hallmark of luxury living in one of South Florida’s most desirable and pedestrian-friendly locations, blending modern design with the rich cultural heritage of Coral Gables.
Onda Residences: A New Landmark in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands
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.
