A Glimpse Into Miami’s Newest Architectural Marvel: The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami
Miami’s skyline is about to welcome a new icon as The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, taking shape on Brickell Key. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox and developed by Swire Properties, this 66-story tower is set to redefine luxury living in one of Miami’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Recently, a new rendering has been unveiled, offering a breathtaking perspective that highlights the building’s stunning architectural features and its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, is more than just a building—they are a work of art. The tower’s design features undulating slabs on each floor, creating a dynamic and fluid appearance that evokes a sense of movement and flow. These undulating floors, paired with expansive glass terraces, give the building a distinctive profile that stands out in the Miami skyline. The glass railings extend seamlessly along the edges of the terraces, while the smooth, meticulously finished soffits below blend harmoniously with the curved design of the slabs. This combination of elements results in a sleek and transparent aesthetic that is as functional as it is visually striking.
The entrance to The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, is nothing short of grand. A prominent canopy with a textured underside greets residents and visitors alike, adding a touch of artistry and elegance. Supported by robust yet refined vertical columns, the canopy integrates seamlessly into the building’s overall design while enhancing its monumental presence. The ground level reveals an interior space adorned with stone finishes visible through the glass façade, adding an element of refinement and durability to the entry experience.
Rising 66 stories above Brickell Key, the tower’s subtly convex profile accentuates its height and elegance, creating a slender, towering silhouette that is visually striking from the ground level. The landscaping around the base of the tower is lush and organic, softening the transition between the natural environment and the built structure. This thoughtful integration of nature and architecture reinforces the building’s connection to its surroundings, making it a harmonious addition to the Miami skyline.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, have already made significant strides in both sales and construction. In just 30 days, Swire Properties USA and Fortune International Group successfully converted sale contracts valued at $150 million with close to $1 billion inn reservations—a testament to the strong demand for these luxury residences, even in what is traditionally a slow season for Miami real estate. The available units include a variety of 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes, catering to a diverse range of buyers. With the soft opening of the sales gallery, interested buyers have the opportunity to convert their purchases to contracts immediately, further solidifying the project’s momentum.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, will feature 228 residences, each with interiors designed by acclaimed Parisian designer Tristan Auer. These homes will offer panoramic vistas of Biscayne Bay and the surrounding cityscape, providing residents with breathtaking views that are matched only by the building’s luxurious amenities. True to the Mandarin Oriental brand, residents will enjoy legendary service and a wide array of world-class amenities, ensuring a lifestyle of unparalleled comfort and convenience.
Significant progress is also being made behind the scenes. An application for a new construction permit was filed in December 2023 and is currently under review by Pacifica Engineering. The permit outlines a structure that will yield 1,351,367 square feet of space, reach a height of 826 feet, and have an estimated total cost of $237 million. Moss & Associates LLC is listed as the general contractor, ensuring that this ambitious project is in experienced hands.
Although the project is being marketed as 500 Brickell Key Drive, the permit lists 750 Claughton Island Drive as the official address. This location encompasses the southernmost tip of the island, a 2.42-acre site where Brickell Key Park is currently situated. Additionally, another permit is under review for the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel at 500 Brickell Key Drive, which will rise 339 feet across 27 stories and include a variety of lodging units, condo-hotel units, and multi-family units, along with a multi-story parking garage.
As construction progresses and sales continue to surge, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, are poised to become one of the city’s most coveted addresses. With its striking design, luxurious interiors, and world-class amenities, this tower represents a new chapter in Miami’s ever-evolving architectural narrative—a chapter that promises to set new standards for luxury living in the Magic City.
The Future of Inter Miami: Miami Freedom Park
As the anticipation builds for the 2026 MLS season, soccer fans in Miami have a lot to look forward to with the upcoming opening of Miami Freedom Park, the new home of Inter Miami CF. While the stadium is still under construction, the project received a significant boost from the State of Florida, further solidifying its importance to the local community and beyond.
Governor Ron DeSantis made headlines recently with an announcement at Inter Miami’s temporary home, Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. The governor revealed that the State of Florida would be granting $8 million to Miami-Dade County to support infrastructure improvements around the new stadium site. This funding is earmarked specifically for constructing roadways that will alleviate traffic congestion, an essential consideration given the stadium’s proximity to Miami International Airport.
The governor’s remarks highlight the state’s strategic approach to supporting large-scale projects like Miami Freedom Park. While direct funding for the stadium’s construction isn’t on the table, the investment in infrastructure underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring the success of such ventures.
Miami Freedom Park isn’t just about soccer; it’s a vision for a multifaceted community space that includes a 26,700-seat stadium, a 58-acre park, hotels, offices, retail, and entertainment venues. Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas emphasized this broader vision during the announcement, calling the project “transformational” for Miami.
The project is set to create over 13,000 direct and indirect jobs and generate more than $40 million in tax revenue for state and local governments. In addition to the stadium, the project promises to deliver the largest park in the City of Miami, offering a significant recreational space for residents.
The journey to Miami Freedom Park has been a long and challenging one for the Mas brothers and co-owner David Beckham. After years of political hurdles and delays, the City of Miami finally approved the $1 billion project in April 2022. The stadium is being built on the site of the former Melreese Golf Course, a location that will soon transform into a vibrant hub for sports and entertainment.
Inter Miami CF has already made waves in the soccer world, especially with the signing of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi. The arrival of Messi, along with other top talents like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, has catapulted the team into the global spotlight, raising expectations for what lies ahead.
Governor DeSantis acknowledged the impact of these signings, noting, “What we’ve seen in soccer in South Florida has been incredible, especially when they brought Messi on. That was like the biggest thing ever, having a global superstar like that right here is a really big deal for our community.”
As Miami Freedom Park nears completion, the excitement continues to build. With its opening scheduled for the 2026 MLS season, the stadium will not only serve as the new home for Inter Miami but also as a key venue for the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will co-host. The future looks bright for soccer in Miami, and Miami Freedom Park is set to be at the heart of it all, driving both the sport and the local economy to new heights.
Miami Dade’s Water and Sewer Department has recently agreed to provide utilities for additional units beyond what was initially planned for M-Tower, a 57-story residential building situated at 56 Southwest 1st Street in downtown Miami. This revision reflects a growing demand for residential space in the heart of Miami, and the project aligns with the city’s vision for urban development.
In early July, a revised utility agreement was recorded, now stating that the M-Tower development will encompass 765 apartments, 4,708 square feet of retail space, and 5,000 square feet for a full-service restaurant. This is a notable increase from the previously planned 675 apartments, adding 90 more units to the development.
This increase in density highlights the growing demand for residential spaces in downtown Miami. The city’s vision for urban development is further realized through such projects, encouraging more people to live in the city center and fostering a vibrant urban community.
M-Tower is being developed by Lions Group NYC and Fortis Design + Build, operating under Downtown 1st St LLC. The tower, designed by Nichols Architects, will rise 57 stories across the sites at 56 and 70 Southwest 1st Street, near Miami’s Government Center. The project also involves Naturalficial as the landscape architect and Kimley-Horn as the civil engineer.
A key feature of M-Tower is its public parking garage, which will offer nearly 700 spaces, alongside commercial and retail spaces at the ground floor level. The building’s design and amenities aim to enhance the overall streetscape and living experience for residents.
The residential units within M-Tower will offer a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The ninth floor is set to host an array of amenities, including a landscaped outdoor deck featuring two pools. Additionally, the project will incorporate integrated art murals for the eight-story parking garage, selected by the Miami Parking Authority, adding a cultural touch to the structure.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved permits for M-Tower in early July, allowing the building to reach 605 feet above ground or 615 feet above mean sea level. These permits, approved on July 2, 2024, are valid until January 1, 2026.
Total demolition permits have already been approved and issued for the sites at 56 and 70 Southwest 1st Street. The BG Group LLC is listed as the contractor for this demolition work, estimated to cost approximately $505,000. The site previously housed a 56-year-old municipal parking garage, which will be demolished to make way for the new development.
The expansion of M-Tower marks a significant step in addressing Miami’s growing residential needs. With its modern design, strategic location, and comprehensive amenities, M-Tower is set to become a landmark in downtown Miami’s urban landscape. This project not only caters to the increasing demand for residential units but also contributes to the city’s vision of a dynamic and integrated urban community.
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.
Exciting New Residential Project Proposed in Miami: Gamla Health District
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.
Miami’s Urban Development Review Board Set to Review 55-Story Tower Proposal in Edgewater
An application for the proposed 55-story tower at 419 Northeast 19th Street in the Edgewater neighborhood has been received by the Miami’s Urban Development Review Board. This project, which was initially filed in October 2023, has been scheduled for review on July 20, 2024, after undergoing several updates and modifications.
The development team for this ambitious project includes:
The property at 419 Northeast 19th Street is owned by a joint venture between SB Development, led by Joseph Stern, and Hazelton Capital Group, based in New York. The development team has formally requested the UDRB to consider their updated proposal at the upcoming meeting.
The project was previously reviewed in October 2023 but was withdrawn before a decision was made. Since then, notable updates include:
Reduction in the Podium Footprint: To lessen the overall mass and aesthetic impact.
Detailed and Articulated Façade: To screen the parking garage.
Green Wall Addition: On the north elevation to enhance interaction with neighboring properties.
Increased Parking Spaces: From 172 to 180.
Climbing Plants: Introduction on the north façade of the podium.
Water Fountain: A new water feature wrapping around the northeastern corner of the ground floor.
Relocation of Northeast Egress Path and Exit Door: To allow for a continuous water fountain around the corner.
The resubmitted plans, which were updated on June 5, 2024, feature a total floor area of 552,604 square feet, accommodating 463 residential units and 444 parking spaces. The units range from studios to four-bedroom apartments, varying in size from 403 to 2,223 square feet. Amenities will be located on the 9th and 10th floors, as well as the rooftop, including a sky lounge, private dining area, prep kitchen, and pool.
The architectural design aims to blend the new structure seamlessly with its surroundings. The tower features a sleek, modern profile with curvilinear lines that give it a distinctive and elegant appearance. The tower’s elevations are characterized by horizontal bands of glass and metal, creating a wave-like effect.
The podium has been designed to respond to the character of the block, which includes an existing residential tower to the north. It will feature climbing plants on the north façade, giving the appearance of a green wall facing the existing apartments. A water fountain wrapping around the façade on the northeastern corner of the ground floor will create an enhanced ground-level experience near the gateway to Margaret Pace Park, helping to create an inviting atmosphere. Additionally, a bronze-colored perforated metal screen wrapping the parking garage will screen internal elements from view and limit the aesthetic impact on the surrounding neighborhood.
The project’s art treatment includes a bronze-colored perforated metal screen that wraps around the parking podium and the ground-floor façade. This screen will be lit from the bottom of each panel to enhance the pedestrian experience. The curved metal in the art treatment will require regular maintenance to ensure its aesthetic quality.
The property, with a gross lot area of 14,277 square feet, is located within the T6-36B-L transect zone, allowing for a mix of residential and commercial uses. The project seeks seven waivers, including reductions in required setbacks, drive aisle width, and parking stall length. It also requests a 30% reduction in parking needed due to its location within the Transit Oriented Development area and the Urban Central Business District overlay. Additionally, waivers are requested to allow above-ground parking in the second layer and to eliminate pedestrian entrance spacing requirements.
The proposed 55-story tower at 419 Northeast 19th Street promises to be a significant addition to the Edgewater skyline. With its sleek design, enhanced ground-level experience, and extensive amenities, it aims to provide a modern and inviting living space for future residents. The UDRB’s upcoming review will be a critical step in determining the project’s future.
Penthouse at Rivage Bal Harbour Hits the Market for $75 Million
A stunning ultra-luxe penthouse has recently hit the market at Rivage Bal Harbour for $75 million, setting the one-of-a-kind unit as one of the most expensive listings in Miami. Rivage Bal Harbour is a 54-unit luxury oceanfront condominium being developed by Related Group, Two Roads Development, and Rockpoint and is one of the neighborhood’s first new developments in 20 years.
The penthouse offers 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and 3 powder rooms, spanning a total of 17,521 SF. The interior measures 12,603 SF, while the exterior offers 4,918 SF of space. Unique features of this penthouse include a multi-level terrace, private outdoor pool, media room, game room, library/lounge, fitness studio, outdoor kitchen, and a private elevator.
Residents of Rivage Bal Harbour will have access to a private beachfront enclave and a wide range of resort-style amenities. The development offers 25,000 SF of exceptional amenities, including a luxury spa, fitness pavilion with ocean views, game rooms, multiple lounges, and a world-class restaurant overlooking the beach and ocean.
Some of the key amenities at Rivage Bal Harbour include:
Signature oceanfront dining experience: Exclusively for residents and their guests.
Curated social spaces: Media room, library, breakfast bar, and cocktail lounge.
Activities deck: Resort-style pools, outdoor spa, sunbeds, cabanas, poolside food and beverage service, pickleball and padel courts.
Rivage spa: Sauna, hammam, hot and cold plunge pools, and private treatment rooms.
Fully serviced beach club
State-of-the-art fitness center: High-impact training room and yoga studio.
Virtual reality game simulator
Imaginative children’s playroom
Bicycle storage
Service amenities at Rivage Bal Harbour include a residential butler and estate manager to facilitate deliveries, errands, and in-residence services such as personal chef services, shopping, medical concierge, housekeeping, laundry/dry cleaning, and maintenance. Additional services include in-residence dining and catering, 24-hour security and valet services, a house car, on-site general manager, and a mailroom with secure package technology.
For those interested in this exclusive penthouse, a unique sales experience utilizing Fortnite technology is available for ultra-realistic virtual reality tours. This cutting-edge technology allows buyers to explore and share tours via a link, with instantly interchangeable finishes to explore various possibilities.
Bal Harbour has been an elite enclave since its inception in 1929, offering one of the most sophisticated and culturally rich versions of South Florida’s glamorous lifestyle. With its luxurious amenities and unparalleled features, the $75 million penthouse at Rivage Bal Harbour truly embodies the epitome of luxury living in Miami.
Foundation Pour Completed for Mercedes Benz Places Miami
The foundation pour for the impressive 67-story Mercedes Benz Places Miami has been successfully completed, as announced by the developer on their social media account. This significant achievement sets the stage for the vertical construction, which is scheduled to commence in July.
The foundation pour took place in the last week, involving a colossal effort with over 10,000 cubic yards of concrete being transported to the site. This marks one of the largest concrete pours in the region, highlighting the scale and ambition of the project.
Mercedes Benz Places is not just another building; it is one of the largest developments currently under construction in Florida. The project spans an impressive 2.5 million square feet, making it a significant addition to the state’s skyline.
Upon completion, Mercedes Benz Places will feature 791 residential units, providing luxurious living spaces in the heart of the city. In addition to the residential units, the development will include office spaces, a hotel, retail outlets, and various amenity spaces, offering a comprehensive and vibrant community for its residents and visitors.
With the foundation pour now completed, all eyes are on the upcoming vertical construction phase set to begin in July. As the tower begins to rise, it will not only transform the skyline but also set new standards for mixed-use developments in the region.
Boasting 791 residences ranging from studios to three-bedroom condominiums, each unit offers panoramic views of Miami, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond its residential offerings, the tower will feature 130,000 square feet of amenities and hospitality space, 200,000 square feet of office space, a 174-key hotel, retail outlets, and ample on-site parking.
What sets Mercedes-Benz Places apart is its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The project incorporates cutting-edge mobility solutions, including EV charging stations, valet parking, and bike-sharing programs, ensuring residents embrace a seamless urban lifestyle. Moreover, sustainability lies at the core of its design, with initiatives such as energy-efficient production and water conservation contributing to a greener, more eco-conscious community.
Introducing First & Fifth: A New Icon in Downtown Miami’s Skyline
Oak Row Equities has made a bold move in the heart of Downtown Miami with its recent acquisition of 49 Northwest 5th Street, heralding the dawn of First & Fifth, a visionary 45-story multifamily tower. This off-market purchase, secured for $38.5 million with seller financing, marks a significant step in the company’s commitment to shaping South Florida’s urban landscape.
Designed by ODP Architecture & Design, First & Fifth draws inspiration from Miami’s rich Venetian architecture of the early 20th century, blending historical charm with contemporary flair. The design features prominent arches reminiscent of the Doge Palace in Venice, creating a unique silhouette against Miami’s skyline.
The 700,000-square-foot tower will host 500 multifamily units, each offering high-end finishes and sweeping city views. Bright, airy spaces emphasize the open feel of urban living, tailored to meet the demands of modern residents seeking both luxury and convenience.
Situated strategically across from MiamiCentral Station, First & Fifth enjoys unparalleled connectivity as the central nexus for South Florida’s major train systems: Brightline, Metrorail, Tri-Rail, and Metromover. This prime location places residents within walking distance of Miami’s dynamic urban core, including Miami Dade College’s Wolfson Campus, the federal courthouse, and the Miami Heat’s arena.
Erik Rutter, Managing Partner at Oak Row Equities, articulates the project’s vision: “First & Fifth exemplifies our belief that proximity to transportation hubs is pivotal in shaping urban living choices in South Florida.” This sentiment is echoed by David Weitz, Managing Partner, who emphasizes the project’s culmination of foresight and collaboration.
First & Fifth not only enhances the skyline but also reflects Oak Row Equities’ dedication to transit-oriented development. This approach is central to their portfolio, which includes notable projects like The Oasis, Wynwood Plaza, and others strategically positioned near transit nodes to maximize connectivity across the region.
As Oak Row Equities prepares to introduce First & Fifth to the capital markets and prospective tenants, anticipation mounts for a new chapter in Miami’s urban evolution. With its blend of historical inspiration, modern design, and strategic location, First & Fifth promises to redefine urban living in Miami, offering a vibrant lifestyle where convenience meets luxury.
Stay tuned as First & Fifth rises to prominence, a testament to Miami’s growth and Oak Row Equities’ commitment to innovation in urban development.
