Florida

Coral Gables: The Ideal Oasis for Miami Investment

By Columbus International,21 May 2024

In the heart of Miami lies a hidden gem, Coral Gables, a city that has long captivated homebuyers with its Mediterranean-inspired architecture and lush greenery. However, the pandemic has propelled this idyllic neighborhood to new heights, transforming it into one of the most coveted real estate destinations in Florida.

The 33156 ZIP Code, once a haven for those seeking a tranquil retreat from the bustling city, has experienced a remarkable surge in property values. Once hovering around the $1 million mark, the median listing price has skyrocketed to an impressive $4.6 million as of April 2024, according to Realtor.com data. This remarkable appreciation has positioned Coral Gables as the second most expensive residential area in Florida, surpassed only by the illustrious Fisher Island, a Miami Beach-adjacent enclave with a staggering $12.75 million median listing price. As Miami experienced an economic renaissance during the pandemic, with businesses flocking to the area and a surge in mega real estate transactions around Miami Beach, Coral Gables emerged as a sanctuary for families seeking top-notch schools, proximity to thriving office culture, and a walkable downtown atmosphere.

Exclusive Membership: The Riviera Country Club
For those seeking an unparalleled lifestyle, the Riviera Country Club offers an 18-hole golf course meticulously designed and built by the legendary Donald Ross in the 1920s. In 2015, the course underwent a major renovation by the renowned Kipp Schulties, further enhancing its allure and prestige.

Event of the Year: The Mango Festival
Coral Gables is not only a haven for luxury living but also a celebration of nature’s bounty. Each summer, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden hosts the highly anticipated Mango Festival, a weekend-long event paying homage to the fruit with activities such as mango tasting. The garden boasts the world’s largest collection of mangoes, with nearly 400 varieties, and spans 83 acres, housing nearly 30,000 individual plants in its immaculate collection, making it a true Coral Gables mainstay.

Advice for the Buyer
While Coral Gables encompasses a 13-square-mile area with overlapping ZIP Codes, the driving force behind the soaring real estate prices in the 33156 ZIP Code is the prestigious gated community of Gables Estates. According to some local real estate agents, “The most expensive neighborhood in Coral Gables is Gables Estates. It offers direct waterfront access, expansive views, and properties spanning an acre or more.” Gables Estates is one of the few neighborhoods in the Miami area where such luxurious waterfront real estate can be found, rivaled only by the exclusive enclave of Indian Creek.

In conclusion, Coral Gables stands as the ideal oasis for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle in the heart of Miami. With its unparalleled amenities, prestigious communities, and unmatched natural beauty, this neighborhood presents an unrivaled opportunity for discerning investors seeking a piece of paradise in one of Florida’s most sought-after real estate markets.

Source: WSJ

Photo: Coral Gables

Palm Beach: A Gilded Age Gem Reimagined

By Columbus International,17 May 2024

The ultra-exclusive island of Palm Beach has been luring the elite since the early 1900s when industrialist Henry Flagler transformed the marshy backwater into an opulent winter escape. Today, this 16-mile long barrier island continues to redefine luxury with new upscale additions blending seamlessly with its Gilded Age heritage. From magnificent architecture to world-class culture, exceptional dining and pampering pursuits, here is how to experience the best of Palm Beach over a indulgent weekend getaway.

Where to Stay

The Colony is the chicest place to bed down in Palm Beach. This iconic “pink paradise” reopened after a dazzling renovation that pays homage to its 1950s tropical glamour. Custom designed rooms, cheeky monkey motifs, and the lively scene at Swifty’s Pool Bar & Grill exude a playful, see-and-be-seen vibe befitting the style setters who frequent nearby Worth Avenue.

Day One

After settling in at The Colony, spend the afternoon exploring the Mediterranean-inspired shopping mecca of Worth Avenue. Pioneering architect Addison Mizner crafted this whimsical district of hidden courtyards, stair stairs, and eclectic tilework to evoke an Old World aesthetic. Browse the chi-chi boutiques like Gucci and Tiffany & Co or hunt for vintage gems at consignment salons like Attitudes.

Cap off the day with sunset cocktails at Spruzzo, a breezy rooftop bar overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and dine alfresco on Italian classics at Elisabetta’s across the street.

Day Two

Delve into Palm Beach’s Gilded Age legacy at the magnificent Flagler Museum, a lavish 75-room mansion built by the railroad pioneer in 1902. Then explore the outstanding art collection at the Norton Museum, recently revamped by Norman Foster. Contemporary art lovers can browse intriguing exhibits at Sarah Gavlak Gallery. Afternoon calls for a round at one of the area’s celebrated golf courses – splurge for an oceanfront tee time at The Breakers or tackle a redesigned championship layout at PGA National Resort. Celebrate the perfect drive at Jeremy Ford’s new Butcher’s Club with indulgences like a 50oz. Tomahawk steak.

Day Three

Book a rejuvenating Biologique Recherche facial and massage at the gorgeous Four Seasons spa to start your day, then linger over a Mediterranean-inspired brunch at Florie’s helmed by acclaimed French chef Mauro Colagreco. If visiting during polo season, attend the weekly champagne brunch at the International Polo Club, where you can watch the fast-paced “sport of kings” and participate in the traditional divot stomp during half-time. Otherwise, bask in the warm Florida sun on one of Palm Beach’s pristine white sand beaches before departing this gilded paradise refreshed and revitalized.

Source: CN Traveler

Photo by Arnel Hasanovic via Unspash

South Florida’s Bustling Offices Buck National Trend

By Columbus International,16 May 2024

While remote work remains prevalent across most of the United States, South Florida stands out as an exception where office attendance is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels. According to data from Placer.ai, which tracks mobile phone location data, office visits in the Miami metro area (including Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach) were just 14% below April 2019 levels. This contrasts sharply with the national figure of a 32.2% decline compared to four years ago.

For the past three months, South Florida has led all U.S. metro areas in office attendance after overtaking New York City. April marked the region’s highest level of office foot traffic since before the COVID-19 pandemic began. The gap from 2019 narrowed slightly last month to 14.1%, down from 9.4% in February. The only other metro area achieving at least 75% of its 2019 office occupancy is New York City at 16.9% below its pre-pandemic benchmark. Washington D.C. (-26.5%), Dallas (-27.6%), San Francisco (-49.3%), Los Angeles (-43.3%), and Chicago (-41.1%) all lag further behind. Despite San Francisco’s last place national ranking, it actually led the country in year-over-year office visit growth at 26%. Miami took second with a 23.5% annual increase in foot traffic. Nationwide, office visits grew 18.2% year-over-year, with the gap from 2019 levels the smallest since August of that year. South Florida’s robust office market has benefited commercial property owners.

Asking rents in Miami rose over 9% annually in Q1 2023 per Cushman & Wakefield. Tenants are flocking to premium modern buildings while older offices see high vacancy. Over 70% of 3 million SF available for sublease is in pre-2000 properties, with just 220,000 SF available in buildings constructed after 2015. Largest leases are also concentrating in top-tier properties more than in past years. Since 2019, the average size of new leases has been bigger in Class A buildings compared to lower tiers according to Avison Young data. These trends have allowed most of South Florida’s office markets to achieve greater rent growth than nearly anywhere else in the U.S. since 2019, with stable vacancy outside of Fort Lauderdale. Class A asking rents in Miami-Dade County spiked over 20% between Q1 2023 and Q1 2024.

Iconic ‘Miami Vice’ Cameo House Hits Market for $29.9M After Designer Refresh

By Columbus International,20 April 2024

In the digital era, the Internet serves as an extensive repository of knowledge, offering unprecedented access to information on any topic. Its vastness not only facilitates the exploration of “quirky” curiosities but also connects individuals with common interests and passions. A striking example of this phenomenon occurred recently when news emerged of a prestigious Coconut Grove home hitting the market for a staggering $29.9 million.

For enthusiasts of Miami’s real estate scene, this leak of information sparked immediate interest. However, it wasn’t just the announcement itself that captured attention, but rather the reference to an ’80s cultural icon: “Miami Vice.” The historic property, located at 3467 N. Moorings Way, with a lineage dating back to 1925, was designed by architect Walter DeGarmo, whose most notable works include Miami City Hall and the Women’s Club of Coconut Grove, a noteworthy detail in itself. In the media, headlines like “Coastal Mansion Featured on ‘Miami Vice’ Breezes Onto the Market for $29.9M” failed to capture the essence of the television series that epitomized the vibrant charm of 1980s Miami.

Similarly, articles like “Inside a $30 Million South Florida Mansion Featured in ‘Miami Vice'” offered little more than a cursory overview, leaving enthusiasts eager to delve into the property’s backstory in the cultural landscape of the time. Enter miamiviceonline.com – a “digital refuge” for “Miami Vice” devotees. Here, two Austrian enthusiasts, Thomas Foltyn and Tom Seifert, stand out as luminaries in their relentless quest for nuances of the show and its profound impact on the portrayal of Miami. Through their meticulous research, Foltyn and Seifert offer insights into the relationship between “Miami Vice” and the city that served as its backdrop. According to Mansion Global, “the seller, who owns several properties, searched for over eight months to find the right property. She had no intention of selling, but I kind of persuaded her – one of the houses in the neighborhood was sold privately for $50 million, and that set the ceiling.” Built in 1929, the Mediterranean Revival-style “Miami Vice” house overlooking Biscayne Bay is located in the prestigious and private gated community of The Moorings, which has only 35 houses.

The estate was featured in the “Main Squeeze” episode, the eleventh of the fifth and final season of “Miami Vice,” starring Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas as undercover police detectives and aired from 1984 to 1989. You may recall a scene with Rita Moreno in the living room (the interior decoration looked very different at the time). Situated on two-thirds of an acre, the grand residence, at the mouth of the marina, covers 6,268 square feet and features six bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and one half bath. Outside, the lush garden, reminiscent of an oasis, is punctuated by a swimming pool and spa, a fountain, and a koi pond. The Moorings is one of the few gated communities in Coconut Grove. You can walk to the village center for dinner and shopping.

Additionally, the estate is right next to the Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, a renowned private girls’ college preparatory school. Coconut Grove is a coveted community because you’re in the middle of the city but can enjoy a small-town life, without too much chaos and stress around. The house was sold twice in quick succession before the current seller bought it. In February 2021, it sold for $9.5 million, in January 2022, it changed hands for $12.4 million, according to property records.

Climate Crisis Drives Miami Toward Gentrification: At-Risk Neighborhoods Under the Spotlight

By Columbus International,9 April 2024

Miami‘s scintillating real estate scene blazes like the South Florida sun, with its market ablaze in a frenzy of activity. In recent years, an influx of new residents has set the city’s property values and rental rates ablaze, rendering the dream of living in the Magic City an increasingly unattainable reality for many lower-income Floridians. Yet, amid the allure of ocean views and beachside proximity, the city’s waterfront neighborhoods face a growing menace: the encroaching peril of the climate crisis. Despite their undeniable charm, these low-lying havens are now fraught with the looming threat of rising sea levels, prompting a sobering reassessment of their desirability. Interestingly, some of Miami’s less affluent communities find themselves perched on higher ground, providing a sanctuary from the watery woes besieging their coastal counterparts. However, this sanctuary is not without its own risks, as the specter of “climate gentrification” casts its shadow over these once-overlooked neighborhoods.

With wealthier denizens setting their sights on safer, less flood-prone locales, a wave of change threatens to engulf these resilient communities. The tide of transformation is unmistakable, as neighborhoods like Little Haiti, Overtown, and Liberty City witness a surge in real estate values. Developers, sensing the shifting winds, are redirecting their focus toward areas less vulnerable to flooding, a trend underscored by recent research findings. Moody’s, in a freshly minted report, underscored the socio-economic implications of this migration dance. “Such shifts in migration patterns accelerate the displacement of established residents and inflate property values and taxes, widening the socio-economic divide,” the report warned, serving as a poignant reminder of the collateral damage wrought by Miami’s changing landscape.

A chilling study published last year in Environmental Research Letters hinted at the magnitude of the looming crisis. If sea levels surge by 40 inches, more than half of Miami-Dade County’s 2.6 million inhabitants could find themselves displaced, adding a sense of urgency to the city’s plight. Unfortunately, the forecast offers little solace, as the convergence of rising temperatures, swelling seas, and fiercer storms threatens to compound the city’s woes. Compounding this predicament is the rising influence of millennials, a cohort acutely attuned to the perils of climate change, who are poised to reshape the real estate landscape in the years ahead. Yet, Miami is but one pawn in Mother Nature’s grand chessboard, as coastal flooding and extreme weather events ravage cities across the nation. It is often the most vulnerable among us who bear the brunt of these cataclysms. A sobering analysis by McKinsey in 2023 laid bare the harsh reality: lower-income and predominantly Black neighborhoods are disproportionately exposed to the ravages of climate change, painting a stark picture of inequality in the face of nature’s fury.

Jeff Bezos Buys Third Mansion in Indian Creek: Controversy Among Residents

By Columbus International,4 April 20244 April 2024

Jeff Bezos, the visionary force propelling Amazon to unprecedented heights, continues to fortify his dominion over the esteemed Indian Creek island, securing a third opulent mansion in his illustrious real estate portfolio.

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In a discreet off-market transaction shrouded in exclusivity, the acquisition commands a staggering price tag hovering around the $90 million mark, as reported by Bloomberg, thus elevating Bezos’ standing as a titan in the realm of property acquisitions. Insiders familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to The Post, divulged Bezos’ intentions to make this newly acquired residence his primary abode, while concurrently orchestrating the dismantling of his two preceding island abodes. Nevertheless, this audacious maneuver hasn’t gone unnoticed by the affluent denizens of the island, who covet their own slice of the prestigious enclave. “As the pinnacle destination in the nation, exclusivity reigns supreme on Indian Creek. The wealthy elite are drawn to its allure,” confided a source well-versed in the area’s real estate dynamics.

“With properties on the island already in high demand, Bezos’ clandestine dealings are bound to stir the aspirations of those vying for residency.” The revered Indian Creek island, spanning a scant 300 acres, is home to only 41 residential estates alongside the esteemed Indian Creek Country Club. Representatives for Bezos have remained tight-lipped regarding the transaction. Historical records reveal that the property last changed hands in 1998 for a modest $2.5 million, exemplifying the astronomical surge in its valuation over the intervening years. Bezos’ latest venture into the Miami real estate arena follows swiftly on the heels of his relocation from the Seattle region to the sun-kissed shores of the Sunshine State. With a formidable net worth totaling $203.7 billion, as per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Bezos epitomizes the epitome of luxurious living. His prior acquisitions on Indian Creek, amassing a staggering $147 million, firmly entrench him within the echelons of the island’s elite. With his residences boasting prestigious addresses such as 11 Indian Creek Island Rd, 12 Indian Creek Island Rd, and his latest acquisition at 28 Indian Creek Island Road, Bezos’ investment in the area now eclipses a staggering $237 million.

Often dubbed the “Billionaire Bunker,” Indian Creek counts amongst its residents illustrious figures such as power couple Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, football maestro Tom Brady, and esteemed investor Carl Icahn. Bezos’ presence on the island adds yet another luminary to its glittering constellation of residents. While Bezos’ financial acumen is undeniably formidable, his recent maneuvers have ignited speculation regarding his long-term strategies and investment trajectories. In February, he divested Amazon shares worth an eye-watering $8.5 billion, marking his first substantial departure from the company since 2021. The allocation of these proceeds remains shrouded in mystery, further fueling conjecture surrounding Bezos’ fiscal machinations.

Beyond his acquisitions in Miami, Bezos boasts an impressive array of properties, including residences in Washington, a sumptuous estate in Maui, and a grandiose mansion in Beverly Hills, procured for a princely sum of $165 million in 2020. The seller of Bezos’ latest acquisition, situated at 28 Indian Creek Island Road, is identified as former banker Javier Holtz, thus adding another chapter to the island’s storied legacy of opulent transactions.

Miami’s Office Market Cools as Tallest Tower Struggles to Secure Anchor Tenant

By Columbus International,18 March 2024

The emergence of challenges surrounding the construction of One Brickell City Centre, poised to be Miami’s tallest corporate skyscraper at approximately 1,000 feet, reflects the gradual cooling of the city’s once-booming office real estate market. Related Cos., a New York-based developer, and Swire Properties, an international firm founded by the British Swire family, find themselves in a struggle to secure a key tenant nearly a year after breaking ground. Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Related is in the process of restructuring its agreement with Swire, the landowner. Reports suggest that Swire has even contemplated selling the 1.55-acre downtown Miami site, as revealed in a document reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. However, Swire has clarified that while they regularly assess various options for their development sites, the One Brickell City Centre site is currently not up for sale. Related has affirmed its ongoing collaboration with Swire despite the challenges.

The U.S. office market has faced pressures from rising interest rates and the shift to hybrid work models, impacting cities like Miami, which previously weathered such challenges better due to corporate relocations and limited office space availability. However, recent data from commercial real estate services firm JLL indicates a 25% decrease in leasing activity in the Miami office market last year compared to 2022. Additionally, sublease vacancies surged by 66%, signaling existing tenants’ desires to downsize their office footprints. Steven Hurwitz of JLL notes, “There’s a slowdown of new-to-market activity. We’re sort of at a new inflection point.” Juan Arias, director of market analytics for CoStar in South Florida, highlights that office construction starts in Miami have decelerated following a peak in the second quarter of 2023. Factors such as higher interest rates, increased construction costs, and subdued leasing activity in a softer economic climate have contributed to this slowdown. Miami, once primarily focused on leisure and tourism, is striving to evolve into a thriving business and financial hub. While the city has attracted financial and tech firms from various regions, it also grapples with challenges such as soaring property prices and limited educational infrastructure for new residents. Despite these hurdles, Miami’s office market remains robust compared to many U.S. cities. It registered the highest annual office rent growth last year and maintained a low office vacancy rate of 8.4%.

Related chairman Stephen Ross, known for his interest in South Florida projects, has emphasized One Brickell City Centre’s significance. The tower, with 68 floors spanning 1.5 million square feet, is slated for completion in 2028. Ross aimed to secure prominent tenants, including discussions with Ken Griffin of Citadel regarding potential tenancy, although recent developments suggest Griffin’s firm is pursuing other ventures. While the partnership for One Brickell City Centre’s anchor tenancy did not materialize, both Ross and Griffin have hinted at future collaborations. Their joint statement expresses eagerness to partner on initiatives beneficial to the community, indicating potential future endeavors despite the current challenges facing this high-profile project.

Ken Griffin’s Plan for a Miami Headquarters Finally Begins to Take Shape

By Columbus International,5 March 2024

Ken Griffin, the billionaire founder of Citadel, caused quite a stir when he announced the relocation of his hedge-fund giant from Chicago to Miami. This move marked the most significant shift of any financial institution to the Miami scene. However, nearly two years down the line, the waterfront property Griffin secured for his planned $1 billion headquarters remains barren.

Citadel’s employees continue to toil away in temporary offices in the financial district, awaiting the fruition of their grand relocation plans. Nevertheless, the vision for Griffin’s Miami headquarters is gradually taking shape. Foster + Partners have been entrusted with the design, aiming to erect one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers. Renderings seen by The Wall Street Journal reveal plans for a luxury hotel atop the building, reflecting Griffin’s ambition to leave an indelible mark on Miami’s skyline. Gerald Beeson, Citadel’s chief operating officer, sees this as a pivotal opportunity to craft an iconic edifice befitting Citadel’s future.

Miami, often touted by Griffin as “Wall Street South,” is slated to be the firm’s primary hub, with expansions planned for New York City and London. Griffin’s conspicuous presence in Miami has drawn parallels to the impact LeBron James had on the city, attracting both businesses and wealth, and igniting pockets of growth in the real estate market. Born in Daytona Beach, Florida, Griffin founded Citadel in 1990, propelling himself into the upper echelons of the financial world. With approximately $58 billion in assets under management, Citadel stands as one of the globe’s foremost hedge-fund managers. Griffin’s high-profile acquisitions in Miami, including a record-breaking purchase of a sprawling estate in Coconut Grove, further underscore his commitment to the city. Before publicly announcing his relocation plans in 2022, Griffin quietly acquired a prime waterfront parcel on Brickell Bay, setting the stage for his envisioned headquarters. However, his collaboration with Sterling Bay, the initial developer, came to an abrupt end amid concerns about their ability to see the project through. Citadel’s subsequent search for an experienced developer with a solid track record in South Florida ensued.

Amidst uncertainties surrounding the fate of Citadel’s future headquarters, the company appointed Paul Darrah, formerly of Alphabet’s Google, as its chief workplace officer. Darrah, renowned for his role in developing Google’s corporate campus in Manhattan, aims to establish a temporary space within the 830 Brickell building. This interim solution will provide Citadel with a platform to experiment and refine its vision for the ultimate headquarters, a decision facilitated by the flexibility of the lease agreement. Griffin’s real estate endeavors, however, face challenges, with several acquisitions made but development hindered by existing structures, notably a condo building. Despite these hurdles, Griffin’s determination to establish Citadel’s presence in Miami remains unwavering, signaling a continued evolution of the city’s financial landscape under his stewardship.

Introducing E11EVEN Residences Beyond: Redefining Luxury Living in Miami

By Columbus International,26 February 2024

Nestled within the prestigious District 11 of Miami, E11EVEN Residences Beyond emerges as the epitome of opulent living, introducing a lifestyle coined as “24/11”. This visionary development, the second phase of the esteemed E11EVEN Hotel & Residences Miami project, is poised to transcend the ordinary and set new standards in Miami’s residential landscape.

With bespoke amenities empowering residents to transcend the mundane and a cadre of esteemed partners crafting immersive, entertainment-filled experiences, E11EVEN Residences Beyond promises a life of unparalleled luxury. Embark on an immersive journey into the realm of extravagance with a visit to the state-of-the-art sales gallery located at 1018 N Miami Avenue, where the essence of E11EVEN Residences Beyond comes to life through a meta-reality experience showcasing the new residential collection. At the heart of this visionary development lies the integration of holistic wellness practices, courtesy of the globally renowned wellness brand Chopra Global. Marking their inaugural residential and hotel partnership, Chopra Global brings the ancient healing traditions of Ayurveda to the towers of E11EVEN Hotel & Residences. The Chopra Spa & Studio invites residents and guests into a sanctuary of tranquility, featuring a sublime reception area designed to instill a sense of serenity. From a breathtaking indoor pool to a revolutionary somatic room offering immersive sensory experiences, the spa promises a holistic approach to well-being, complemented by yoga sessions, personalized treatments, and nutrition coaching.

Elevating the social and culinary landscape of E11EVEN Residences Beyond is The Clayton, an exclusive premium social club hailing from Chicago. Exuding an air of sophistication, The Clayton offers residents an array of curated cocktail and dining experiences, alongside private meeting spaces and secluded cigar hideaways, promising the epitome of a lavish night out. Further enriching the culinary tapestry of E11EVEN Residences Beyond is the Riviera Dining Group, renowned for its innovative hospitality concepts. Residents can indulge in a gastronomic journey at the experiential restaurant and lounge nestled within E11EVEN Hotel & Residences, or ascend to the rooftop lounge for panoramic vistas of the Downtown Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay. Beyond its luxurious amenities, E11EVEN Residences Beyond offers a realm of adventure, granting residents access to an expansive resort-style dual-level pool deck and a vibrant day club overlooking the cityscape. Sports enthusiasts can revel in the thrill of major sporting events at the casino-style sports lounge, complete with state-of-the-art amenities and a beer garden. For those seeking a seamless blend of leisure and business, E11EVEN Residences Beyond presents an array of services curated to facilitate every aspect of life. From fully staffed executive office suites to a private helipad for optimal convenience, every detail is meticulously crafted to elevate the resident experience.

Comprising studio to two-bedroom residences, the new residential collection at E11EVEN Residences Beyond epitomizes luxury living, boasting fully integrated “smart building” features, Subzero and Wolf appliances, custom ITALKRAFT Italian cabinetry, and designer-curated furnishings. The recently unveiled Speakeasy Collection adds a touch of sophistication, featuring studios with integrated modern cocktail bars stocked with premium liquors, transforming each residence into a swanky entertainment destination. Embrace a life of limitless possibilities at E11EVEN Residences Beyond, where luxury knows no bounds. With exclusive amenities and world-class partners, this visionary development epitomizes the ultimate live, work, play experience, inviting residents to embark on a journey of unrivaled sophistication and indulgence.

Photos via E11EVEN

Unveiling the Epitome of Luxury: Miami’s Starchitect-Driven Real Estate Revolution

By Columbus International,22 February 2024

In the world of luxury real estate in Miami, the mere mention of the name of a world-renowned architect can evoke prices that defy imagination. Imagine this: a penthouse spanning over 13,000 square meters ready to enter the market at a price of $150 million, equivalent to the astronomical figure of $11,000 per square meter. Welcome to The Raleigh, an illustrious Art Deco hotel currently undergoing renovation under the guidance of developer Michael Shvo, ready to unveil the epitome of opulence in collaboration with Rosewood Hotel and Residences. The allure behind these stratospheric prices? A design led by architect and visionary Peter Marino, celebrated globally for his creations. Marino and his “colleagues,” often referred to as “starchitects,” are the driving force behind many of Miami’s most coveted residential skyscrapers. Their involvement goes beyond aesthetics; it symbolizes exclusivity and prestige, elevating Miami’s already rich real estate landscape to unprecedented levels. According to some brokers, “in the Miami market, it is a true mark of credibility, of quality.” The intrinsic value associated with properties bearing the imprint of these architectural luminaries is emphasized, where ownership goes beyond mere real estate investment to embody a symbol of enduring value and sophistication. A glaring example of this phenomenon is One Thousand Museum, a beacon of architectural skill conceived by the late Zaha Hadid. The residences within this colossus have consistently commanded premium prices, with resales reaching up to $2,100 per square meter, a testament to the profound impact of alignment with a renowned architect. There is a trust instilled in buyers by the mere association with famous architects, citing the example of the St. Regis Residences by RAMSA in Brickell, where buyers have shown absolute confidence in the architect’s pedigree. To illustrate the tangible impact of the touch of a famous architect, let’s compare five upcoming towers in Miami, each crafted by the most eminent of starchitects, with their non-starchitect counterparts:

The Baccarat, a collaboration between the Related Group and GTIS Partners, boasts the design skill of Arquitectonica, a pillar in the architectural landscape of South Florida. The penthouse at The Baccarat commands a price of $21.7 million, translating to approximately $3,200 per square meter, representing a competitive advantage over non-starchitect offerings nearby.

The Shore Club, undergoing a revitalization under the transformative guidance of RAMSA, sets a new standard in luxury living. With penthouse prices kept discreet, the $6,250 per square meter for the Beach House sets an ambitious benchmark, surpassing nearby competitors.

The collaboration between Related Group and Integra Investments with RAMSA for the St. Regis Residences in Brickell embodies unparalleled luxury. Despite a 35% premium attributed to Stern’s involvement, the price of $4,500 per square meter for the upper penthouse remains competitive in the market.

The visionary project of Mast Capital and Starwood Capital Group, conceived by Rem Koolhaas’s OMA, embodies avant-garde design. The $37 million penthouse, sold at $6,500 per square meter, represents a significant premium over nearby offerings, underscoring the intrinsic value of architectural distinction.

The pinnacle of luxury finds its zenith in the legendary beachfront enclave reimagined by SHVO and designed by Peter Marino. With the crown jewel, a luxurious penthouse commanding an extraordinary price of $150 million, or $11,000 per square meter, it eclipses its competitors, embodying the pinnacle of exclusivity and luxury.

In the landscape of luxury real estate in Miami, the name behind the design is more than a mere recognition; it is a mark of unparalleled excellence and sophistication, capable of transforming residences into true works of art. As Miami continues its ascent as a global epicenter of luxury living, the influence of these visionary architects remains unparalleled, shaping the city’s skyline and redefining the very essence of luxury living.

Source: New York Post