Miami Real Estate: A Golden Opportunity on the Horizon for 2025-2026

The Miami real estate market is poised for an exciting period of growth and opportunity as we look towards 2025-2026. With a combination of favorable economic conditions, increasing demand, and the city’s enduring appeal, Miami is set to cement its status as a premier destination for real estate investment and living.

Promising Price Projections and Market Dynamics

The future looks bright for Miami’s property values, with median home prices expected to surge by an impressive 6.5% overall. Single-family homes are the star performers, with projections indicating a remarkable 9.7% increase. This robust growth reflects the enduring demand for Miami’s unique blend of urban sophistication and tropical paradise.

Adding to the positive outlook, mortgage rates are anticipated to become more favorable, potentially dropping to around 5% by the end of 2025. This development is set to open doors for a wider range of buyers, making the dream of owning a piece of Miami more attainable than ever.

Luxury Market: A Testament to Miami’s Global Appeal

Miami’s luxury real estate sector is experiencing a renaissance, particularly in the condo market. Properties valued at over $1 million have seen an astounding 122.2% increase in sales compared to pre-pandemic levels. This surge underscores Miami’s growing reputation as a global luxury destination, attracting discerning buyers from around the world who are eager to invest in the city’s unparalleled lifestyle.

Economic Tailwinds Propelling Growth

The city’s real estate market is benefiting from a perfect storm of positive economic factors. The Federal Reserve’s proactive measures to reduce interest rates are making mortgages more affordable, setting the stage for increased buying activity. This improved affordability, coupled with pent-up demand from recent years, promises a dynamic market with ample opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Miami: A Magnet for Talent and Wealth

One of the most exciting trends fueling Miami’s real estate boom is the influx of high-earning professionals and businesses. The city has become a beacon for talent, with new arrivals boasting an average adjusted gross income of $175,600 – significantly higher than long-term residents. This migration has injected billions into the local economy, further stimulating the real estate market and enhancing Miami’s status as a thriving economic hub.

A Seller’s Market with Room for Growth

While the current inventory shortage presents challenges, it also signals strong underlying demand and creates opportunities for sellers. The scarcity of available properties, particularly in the condo market where active listings are 42.2% below historical averages, indicates a robust seller’s market. This situation bodes well for property appreciation and investment returns.

International Appeal Driving Cash Transactions

Miami’s global allure is evident in its high proportion of cash sales, which account for 32.9% of transactions – well above the national average. This trend highlights the city’s appeal to international investors and underscores the strength and stability of Miami’s real estate market.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Miami Real Estate

As we approach 2025, Miami’s real estate market is brimming with potential. The combination of price appreciation, increasing demand from both domestic and international buyers, and the city’s unmatched lifestyle offerings create a compelling case for investment and residence.

The luxury segment, in particular, is expected to flourish, with Miami ranking first in the U.S. for luxury market price growth according to Knight Frank’s 2024 Wealth Report. This prestigious recognition cements Miami’s position as a top-tier destination for high-net-worth individuals and savvy investors alike.

In conclusion, Miami’s real estate market is on track for an exhilarating period of growth and opportunity. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or someone looking to upgrade your lifestyle, Miami offers a unique blend of economic potential and quality of life that is hard to match. As the city continues to evolve and attract talent from around the globe, the future of Miami’s real estate market looks brighter than ever.

Supermodel Elle Macpherson Sells Coral Gables Estate for $18.5 Million

In a notable real estate transaction, Australian supermodel and entrepreneur Elle Macpherson has sold her luxurious Coral Gables mansion for $18.5 million, marking a significant return on her initial investment. The sale, while impressive, falls short of her original ambitious asking price of $29 million when the property was first listed two years ago.

Elle Macpherson vende la sua villa a Coral Gables | Foto: Douglas Elliman Realty

The Property

The estate, located at 9550 Journeys End Road, boasts an impressive 8,935 square feet of living space. The property features:

  • Six bedrooms
  • Six and a half bathrooms
  • A spacious 1.7-acre lot
  • A pool
  • Home office
  • Gym
  • Chef’s kitchen
  • Lavish primary suite

While not directly on the waterfront, the property includes a coveted boat slip at the exclusive Journey’s End Marina, adding significant value for nautical enthusiasts.

The Transaction

The buyer, identified in property records as Bumda Trust, is a discreet entity managed by an attorney, reflecting the high-profile nature of the sale.

Investment Success

Macpherson originally purchased the property in 2018 for $8.1 million, following her divorce from developer Jeffrey Soffer. The recent sale at $18.5 million represents a remarkable 128% increase in value over just five years, showcasing Macpherson’s savvy in real estate investment.

Market Insights

The sale price, while substantial, indicates a cooling in the ultra-luxury real estate market from its peak. The final figure of $18.5 million is significantly lower than the initial $29 million asking price, and even below the most recent list price of $22 million.

This transaction underscores the ongoing appeal of Coral Gables real estate to high-net-worth individuals and investors, even as the market adjusts to changing economic conditions.

Source: WSJ | Cover photo: Instagram

Soaring Ambitions: Miami’s Supertall Skyscraper Surge Transforms the Urban Landscape

The city of Miami is experiencing a remarkable digital transformation in its urban infrastructure, as more than half a dozen developers race to build the first supertall skyscrapers in the city’s history.

For the first time, Miami is witnessing the simultaneous development of seven “supertall” towers – defined as structures exceeding 984 feet in height. This unprecedented surge in tall tower projects signals a new era of ambition and technical innovation in the city’s real estate industry.

“Miami is the center of the tech world right now, with a real estate market that has never been hotter,” says Dan Kaplan, managing principal at PMG, the development company behind the 1,049-foot-tall Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami – the most advanced of the supertall projects.

The influx of new tech companies and high-net-worth individuals to South Florida has injected billions in capital investment, providing the necessary resources to tackle the unique technical challenges of constructing supertall buildings in Miami. Despite the city’s complex geographic and environmental constraints, developers are demonstrating their engineering expertise and cutting-edge solutions to transform the skyline.

“Many of these towers are now selling condos at price points of over $4 million,” notes Juan Arias, CoStar’s director of market analytics for South Florida. “That’s allowed developers to justify the substantial research and development costs required for supertall towers due to their size, complexity and scale.”

The supertall projects in the works include RFR Realty’s 1,049-foot tower, Florida East Coast Realty’s 1,049-foot One Bayfront Plaza, and Gencom and Hyatt’s Miami Riverbridge development, featuring a 1,044-foot residential tower. These developments are attracting a new caliber of experienced, technologically-savvy developers, many hailing from tech-centric hubs like New York.

“Developers with longer histories of deploying cutting-edge construction technologies have also been coming to the market, again a lot from New York,” Arias says.

While Miami still has ground to cover before challenging the skyscraper supremacy of tech-forward cities like New York and Chicago, the rapid advancement in the city’s tall tower capabilities is undeniable. In the coming years, Miami could join the exclusive club of American cities with offices, hotels and homes powered by state-of-the-art skyscraper software, cementing its status as a global tech-real estate powerhouse.

The future looks bright for Miami’s skyline, as the city’s developers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, leveraging the latest in construction innovation and digital infrastructure. This is just the beginning of Miami’s remarkable supertall transformation.

Fonte: CoStar

Foto: WaResidences

Pastis Expands to West Palm Beach, Joining the Trendy Nora District

In a move that further cements South Florida’s status as a burgeoning culinary hotspot, renowned New York bistro Pastis is set to open its fourth U.S. location in West Palm Beach’s upcoming Nora District. This expansion, slated for 2026, marks a significant milestone for both the restaurant and the developing arts and shopping district.

A New York Icon in the Sunshine State

Pastis, the brainchild of restaurateur Stephen Starr, has been a New York institution since its original opening in 1999. After a brief hiatus and relocation, the bistro has been on an expansion trajectory, with successful openings in Miami and Washington, D.C. The West Palm Beach location will be its second foray into the South Florida market, following the warm reception of Pastis Miami in Wynwood.

The Nora District: West Palm Beach’s Answer to Wynwood

The new Pastis will be a cornerstone establishment in the Nora District, a mixed-use development that aims to bring a touch of Miami’s artistic Wynwood neighborhood to West Palm Beach. Spearheaded by NDT Development, Wheelock Street Capital, and Place Projects, the district is designed to be a pedestrian-friendly hub of arts, shopping, and dining just north of downtown.

A Culinary Anchor for a Boutique Hotel

Pastis will occupy a prime 13,300-square-foot space on the ground floor of the boutique Nora Hotel. True to its roots, the restaurant will feature its signature design elements, including white subway tiles, red banquettes, and a curved zinc bar. Starr Restaurants’ involvement extends beyond Pastis, as they will also co-create and operate the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and lounge, as well as manage room service operations.

Strategic Growth and Market Demand

Stephen Starr’s decision to bring Pastis to West Palm Beach was driven by strong market demand. “Since opening Pastis in Miami last year, the positive response to the restaurant has been astounding. Residents of Palm Beach, West Palm Beach and the surrounding areas have asked me countless times to bring Pastis to their neighborhood,” Starr stated in a press release.

The Nora District: A New Urban Landscape

The Nora District represents a significant urban development project for West Palm Beach. The first phase of construction, which began last year, is supported by an $84 million loan from Bank OZK. The project involves the renovation and repurposing of industrial buildings along North Railroad Avenue, creating 150,000 square feet of commercial space, including 55,000 square feet of creative office space and a linear park.

A Magnet for New York Transplants

The district has already attracted over a dozen retail tenants, many of which are New York-based businesses expanding into the South Florida market. This trend aligns with the broader movement of businesses and individuals relocating from the Northeast to Florida’s more favorable tax environment and lifestyle offerings.

Looking Ahead

As Pastis prepares to make its mark on West Palm Beach, the Nora District is poised to become a significant cultural and commercial hub in South Florida. With its mix of dining, shopping, and arts, coupled with the cachet of established New York brands, the development is set to redefine the urban landscape of West Palm Beach and further elevate its status as a destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Source: CoStar News
Photo via Pastis 

Citadel’s Miami Metamorphosis: Ken Griffin’s Billion-Dollar Bet on the Sunshine State

In a move that epitomizes the shifting tides of financial power, hedge fund titan Ken Griffin is doubling down on his Florida gambit with an ambitious plan for Citadel’s new Miami headquarters. The proposed 54-story marvel, set to redefine the city’s skyline, is not just a building—it’s a statement of intent from one of Wall Street‘s most formidable players.

A Visionary Vertical

The planned 1.7-million-square-foot mixed-use development is a testament to Griffin’s grand vision for Citadel’s future. Designed by the renowned Foster + Partners, the structure will house:

  • Citadel’s state-of-the-art headquarters
  • Premium office space for lease
  • A luxurious rooftop hotel
  • Two high-end restaurants
  • A public waterfront terrace

In a nod to Miami’s nautical culture, plans even include a dock for direct bay access—a feature that’s sure to appeal to the city’s high-net-worth clientele.

Strategic Relocation

Griffin’s decision to transplant Citadel from Chicago to Miami two years ago was no mere whim. It was a calculated move, influenced by Florida’s business-friendly climate and concerns over Chicago’s rising crime rates. This new headquarters represents the culmination of that strategic shift.

Architectural Innovation

Nigel Dancey, head of studio at Foster + Partners, describes the tower as a fusion of form and function. “The tower’s tapered form unifies its various functions, enhances structural efficiency, and creates an elegant marker on the Miami skyline,” Dancey told our correspondent. The design also incorporates environmentally responsive elements, including a louvered shading system that pays homage to Florida’s vernacular architecture while optimizing internal comfort.

Community Integration

Griffin’s vision extends beyond Citadel’s walls. The project aims to connect with Miami’s ambitious Baywalk project, a multi-mile waterfront trail that promises to enhance the city’s public spaces. This integration underscores a commitment to urban development that goes beyond corporate interests.

The Griffin Effect

As the owner of the most expensive home in U.S. history, Griffin is no stranger to headline-grabbing real estate moves. This latest venture, however, transcends personal luxury. It’s a bold statement about the future of finance, with Miami positioned as a key player on the global stage.

Looking Ahead

With groundbreaking set for next year, the financial world will be watching closely. As Citadel’s new headquarters rises from the shores of Biscayne Bay, it will stand as a gleaming symbol of Miami’s ascendance in the financial sector—and of Ken Griffin’s unerring instinct for being ahead of the curve.

In the high-stakes world of hedge funds, Griffin has once again shown why he’s considered a master of calculated risks. As this glass and steel titan takes shape, it may well herald a new era for Miami, for Citadel, and for the landscape of American finance.

Photo: Foster + Partners
Source: New York Post

Downtown Brooklyn

The Great Migration Reversal: Florida’s Exodus to the Big Apple

In a surprising twist of real estate dynamics, Florida residents are increasingly trading their sun-soaked paradises for the concrete jungle of New York City. This trend, emerging as a counterpoint to the long-established New York-to-Florida migration, is reshaping the landscape of high-end property investments in the Empire State.

According to a recent PropertyShark study, Floridians have emerged as formidable contenders in New York’s real estate market. In the first half of 2024 alone, they acquired 219 properties valued at a staggering $315 million—a $30 million increase from a decade ago. This surge in Florida-origin investments is particularly pronounced in the luxury sector, with $141 million dedicated to properties priced at $3 million and above.

Several factors are driving this reverse migration. Florida’s skyrocketing insurance rates, now nearly triple the national average, coupled with increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, have prompted many residents to reconsider their tropical haven. While Florida welcomed 739,000 new residents in 2022, it simultaneously bid farewell to 490,000, with 21,300 of those expatriates setting their sights on New York.

This influx of Sunshine State capital is reshaping the competitive landscape of New York’s real estate market. While New Jersey remains the top out-of-state investor with 345 deals, its market share has dwindled from 27.6% in 2014 to 19% today. Concurrently, California has solidified its position, expanding its market presence from just under 10% to 13.4% over the past decade, with investments totaling $352 million in the first half of 2024—a $107 million increase since 2014.

Despite the surge in out-of-state buyers, local New Yorkers remain active participants in their home market. The Bronx, in particular, has witnessed a notable 20% increase in home purchases, bucking broader trends.

This shifting paradigm in real estate investments reflects broader economic and environmental considerations. As climate change concerns and insurance costs reshape the calculus of homeownership in coastal areas, traditionally popular retirement destinations like Florida may find themselves competing with unexpected rivals. New York’s enduring appeal as a center of culture, finance, and opportunity appears to be drawing a new generation of sun-weary transplants, eager to exchange beachfront views for skyline vistas.

As this trend continues to unfold, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on property values, urban development, and the demographic makeup of both Florida and New York. The reversal of this long-standing migration pattern could herald a new era in American urban dynamics, with far-reaching implications for real estate markets, city planning, and regional economies.

Miami’s Culinary Landscape: 14 Must-Try Restaurants Shaping the Scene in August 2024

Miami’s dining scene continues to evolve, offering a tantalizing array of culinary experiences for locals and visitors alike. From reimagined classics to international imports, here are 14 restaurants that are currently defining the Magic City’s gastronomic landscape.

1. Blue Collar: A Local Favorite Reimagined

Danny Serfer’s beloved Blue Collar has reopened in a spacious 4,000-square-foot location, maintaining its charm while expanding its offerings. The mid-century aesthetic and classic cocktails complement an enhanced menu that balances fan favorites with innovative additions.

2. La Màrtola: Mediterranean Oasis in Buena Vista

This newcomer transports diners to the European Riviera with its coastal-inspired menu. La Màrtola’s ambiance and dishes, ranging from fresh oysters to Neapolitan pizzas, offer a slice of seaside luxury in the heart of Miami.

3. Itamae AO: Intimate Nikkei Experience

Chef Nando Chang’s latest venture, Itamae AO, presents an exclusive 10-seat counter experience in Midtown. This intimate setting showcases Chang’s mastery of Peruvian-Japanese fusion, featuring meticulously crafted dishes that highlight local seafood.

4. Maman: Parisian Charm Meets Miami Flair

The NYC-based French café has made a splash with its Wynwood flagship. Maman seamlessly blends French classics with Miami-inspired creations, offering an all-day dining experience in a chic, Instagram-worthy setting.

5. Skinny Louie: Simplicity Meets Success

This 1950s-inspired burger joint in Wynwood proves that sometimes less is more. With just three burger options and classic sides, Skinny Louie has quickly become a local phenomenon, drawing crowds with its no-frills approach to quality fast food.

6. Yann Couvreur Café: French Pastry Mastery

Acclaimed pastry chef Yann Couvreur’s first U.S. outpost in Wynwood offers more than just picture-perfect desserts. The café’s extensive menu and stunning interior design make it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and Instagram influencers alike.

7. Brother’s Keeper: Nostalgia and Novelty

This Miami Beach cocktail bar by Lost Boy & Co. blends 1980s New York aesthetics with innovative drinks and eclectic bar bites. Brother’s Keeper’s unique atmosphere and creative menu make it a standout in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

8. ViceVersa: Italian Aperitivo with a Miami Twist

Award-winning bartender Valentino Longo’s ViceVersa brings the essence of Italian aperitivo culture to Miami. The bar’s sophisticated ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails offer a refined drinking experience in the heart of the city.

9. Mangrove: Caribbean Fusion in Downtown

Mangrove elevates traditional Caribbean cuisine in a lounge setting, offering a unique dining experience that marries familiar flavors with upscale presentation. The restaurant’s eclectic menu and island-inspired cocktails create a vibrant atmosphere in downtown Miami.

10. Catch Miami Beach: Seafood Spectacle

The arrival of Catch in South of Fifth brings a touch of glamour to Miami’s seafood scene. This expansive venue offers a mix of Catch classics and Miami-inspired dishes in a stunning Art Deco-influenced setting, cementing its status as a see-and-be-seen destination.

11. Felice Brickell: Tuscan Elegance

This NYC import brings authentic Tuscan flavors to Brickell. Felice offers a refined Italian dining experience, featuring a carefully curated menu and an extensive wine list that showcases the best of Tuscany.

12. Gramps Getaway: Tropical Escape

An extension of the popular Wynwood bar, Gramps Getaway offers a laid-back waterfront experience in Key Biscayne. With elevated bar food and tropical drinks, it’s the perfect spot for a casual day out by the bay.

13. RedFarm: Innovative Chinese Cuisine

The New York dim sum hotspot has found a new home in Coconut Grove. RedFarm’s creative take on Chinese classics, including its famous Pac-Man dumplings, brings a fresh perspective to Miami’s diverse culinary scene.

14. Sereia: Portuguese Seafood Excellence

Two-Michelin-starred chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s Sereia brings the flavors of the Iberian coast to Coconut Grove. The restaurant’s sophisticated menu and elegant interior design offer a high-end dining experience that celebrates Portuguese culinary traditions.

These 14 establishments represent the dynamic and diverse nature of Miami’s culinary landscape, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences. As the city continues to attract world-class talent and innovative concepts, Miami solidifies its position as a global gastronomic destination.

Photo & Source: Eater Miami

Miami’s Condo-Hotel Boom: A Risky Bet for Investors?

The allure of short-term rental income is driving Miami’s latest real estate trend, but experts warn of potential pitfalls.

In the sun-soaked streets of Miami, a new kind of real estate gold rush is underway. Developers are betting big on short-term rental-friendly condos, rebranding them as condo-hotels to capitalize on the booming demand from investors. But as the market floods with these units, industry insiders are raising red flags about the long-term viability of such investments.

The Numbers Game

The scale of this boom is staggering. According to recent data:

  • Approximately 11,000 units across 36 planned or under-construction condo developments from Miami’s Coconut Grove to Hillsboro Beach in Broward County will be available for short-term rentals.
  • This represents about half of the entire new development condo pipeline in the area.

Supply and Demand: A Delicate Balance

Craig Studnicky, a veteran brokerage chief, doesn’t mince words when describing the future of this market. “It will become a bloodbath of competition,” he predicts. The influx of units is expected to put significant pressure on daily rates, potentially eroding investors’ returns.

The Oversell Dilemma

Industry experts, including Studnicky and Roman Pedan, CEO of short-term rental operator Kasa, point to a concerning trend: developers overpromising on potential rental income. This discrepancy between expectation and reality can lead to frustrated buyers and, ultimately, impact resale values.

Historical Performance Raises Concerns

Condo-hotels have a checkered past when it comes to maintaining value. Studnicky notes that of all condo resales in 2023, a mere 2% were condo-hotel units, highlighting their potential lack of appreciation.

A Buyer’s Perspective

Not all investors share these concerns. Matthew Birnholz, owner of finance company Capital Infusion, recently contracted to purchase a one-bedroom condo at Rilea Group’s Rider Residences for just under $1 million. Birnholz sees the dual benefit of personal use and rental income as appealing.

“I hope the unit appreciates in value by 35 to 40 percent by the time Rider Residences opens,” Birnholz says, echoing the optimism of many buyers in this space.

The Bottom Line

While the short-term rental condo market in Miami is booming, potential investors should approach with caution. Studnicky offers a stark comparison: “You’d be better off buying Amazon or Tesla stock.”

As with any investment, due diligence is crucial. Prospective buyers should carefully consider factors such as location, design, price, and management before jumping into Miami’s condo-hotel pool.

Miami’s Architectural Renaissance: A New Era of Luxury Living Transforms the Magic City

Miami, long known for its vibrant real estate market and picturesque beaches, is undergoing a transformative period that promises to redefine luxury urban living. A series of ambitious developments are not only reshaping the city’s iconic skyline but also setting new global standards for residential and hospitality experiences. From record-breaking heights to unprecedented amenities, these projects are attracting international attention and solidifying Miami’s position as a premier destination for high-end real estate.

888 Brickell Avenue: A New Pinnacle of Luxury

Leading the charge is 888 Brickell Avenue, an audacious project born from the collaboration between JDS Development and Studio Sofield. Set to become Miami’s tallest building at an impressive 1,049 feet, this hybrid hotel and luxury condominium complex is poised to be a game-changer in the city’s architectural landscape.

Drawing inspiration from iconic modernist skyscrapers like New York’s Seagram Building and infused with elements of Milanese mid-century design, 888 Brickell Avenue boasts a striking façade that combines ivory travertine, white stucco, and matte black steel beams. This elegant composition gives the building a distinctly vertical appearance, setting it apart from its neighbors and creating a new focal point for the Miami skyline.

One of the most distinguishing features of 888 Brickell Avenue is its ground-level aesthetic. A gold-beaded screen wraps around multiple stories, emitting a warm, golden glow that has quickly become the property’s signature look. This dazzling display sets the tone for the luxurious experience that awaits within, where white-glove service and gracious hospitality are the norm.

The development is a testament to JDS Development Group’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. Led by Michael Stern, the team brings a wealth of experience from high-profile projects like New York’s 111 West 57th Street and the Brooklyn Tower. With 888 Brickell Avenue, they’re not only continuing their track record of creating supertall residential towers but also making their first foray into the hospitality sector.

The Residences at 1428 Brickell: Elevating Waterfront Living

Rising 70 stories above the Brickell neighborhood, The Residences at 1428 Brickell is set to become another iconic centerpiece of Miami’s evolving skyline. This architectural masterpiece offers 189 exclusive homes, each designed to maximize the quality of life for its residents.

With units ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 square feet for standard residences, and up to 10,000 square feet for penthouses, The Residences at 1428 Brickell caters to those seeking spacious, luxurious living spaces. Every home in this 70-story tower faces Biscayne Bay directly, providing stunning water views and thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light.

The development’s location at the intersection of Brickell Avenue and Southeast 14th Terrace puts it in the heart of one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods. Its proximity to the Four Seasons Residences Miami further cements its status as a prime piece of real estate in the city’s luxury market.

Mercedes-Benz Places: Automotive Luxury Meets Urban Living

In a groundbreaking move, Mercedes-Benz is making its first foray into the residential market in North America with Mercedes-Benz Places. This visionary community in Brickell represents a unique fusion of innovative living solutions and the unparalleled standards synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Developed by JDS Development Group, the project brings together an all-star team of designers and architects. The Mercedes-Benz design team has collaborated with award-winning SHoP Architects (working alongside ODP), while interiors are being crafted by Woods Bagot, and landscaping is under the expert guidance of Field Operations.

The development is set to include luxurious condominium residences, office and wellness spaces, a world-class hotel, and a newly-built open park designed by Field Operations. This last feature is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to create a leafy oasis in the heart of urban Brickell, complete with winding paths, local flora and fauna, playgrounds, sports courts, and ample green spaces.

With 130,000 total square feet dedicated to amenities and hospitality spaces, Mercedes-Benz Places is designed to be more than just a residence – it’s a lifestyle destination that combines sophistication, convenience, and sustainable living in one extraordinary location.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental: A New Benchmark in Waterfront Luxury

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental represents a pinnacle of refined luxury along Miami’s waterfront. This development brings together a highly acclaimed global design team, each member renowned in their respective fields, to create a truly unique living experience.

Kohn Pederson Fox Associates (KPF) is responsible for the striking exterior architecture that promises to redefine the city’s skyline. The interiors of The Residences will be infused with the sophisticated aesthetic vision of Parisian designer Tristan Auer, while the esteemed Laura Gonzalez, featured on the AD 100 and Elle Décor A-List, will craft the hotel interiors. The landscape architecture, led by the renowned Thai firm Shma, completes this world-class team.

Starting at $3.5 million, The Residences at Mandarin Oriental offers a range of exclusive amenities that set a new standard for luxury living. Residents will enjoy panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, access to multi-tiered landscaped infinity swimming pools, private cabanas, executive work lounges, private dining rooms with chef kitchens, world-class restaurants, a signature spa, and state-of-the-art health and wellness facilities.

Okan Tower: At the Crossroads of Miami’s Future

With its alluring curved façade and soaring height, Okan Tower is designed to be the dramatic centerpiece of downtown Miami’s skyline. Its central location puts residents at the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural scene and growing business districts.

The tower’s strategic position provides easy access to key transportation routes, including the downtown Metromover loops and Government Center Metrorail Station. This connectivity, combined with proximity to major highways, the Brightline commuter rail station, and Port Miami, makes Okan Tower an ideal base for those who value both local convenience and global connectivity.

Residents of Okan Tower will find themselves at the forefront of an exciting urban residential experience, with easy access to parks, shops, restaurants, museums, professional sports venues, concerts, performing arts centers, festivals, and nightlife. The tower’s location also allows for quick escapes to the waters of Biscayne Bay or Miami Beach, offering a perfect balance of urban energy and coastal relaxation.

Villa Miami: Bringing Italian Elegance to the Magic City

Villa Miami introduces a unique concept to the city’s luxury real estate market: airy, Italianate living high above the Miami skyline. Developed by New York design studio Charles & Co, the residence interiors marry sophisticated European sensibility with a focus on warmth, romance, and waterfront living.

Each residence at Villa Miami is designed to evoke the feel of a European countryside estate, with sunlight pouring in from all directions, sprawling living rooms made for gathering and lounging, and dining rooms built for entertaining. The heart of each home is the kitchen, equipped with chef-grade appliances and designed by MFG’s Mario Carbone, featuring CornuFé series ovens and stovetops from La Cornue, Wolf appliances, and pasta sinks.

The bedroom suites offer unending views of the bay and the Miami skyline, with expansive floor plans that include private dressing rooms. Bathrooms are an extension of the building’s hydrotherapy amenities, featuring curved, deep-soaking tubs and soft marble, brass, and fluted glass finishes throughout.

As these developments near completion, they collectively promise to transform not only Miami’s physical landscape but also its reputation on the global stage. By combining cutting-edge architecture, world-class amenities, and innovative living concepts, these projects are cementing Miami’s status as a leader in luxury urban living. For investors, residents, and visitors alike, the Magic City is entering a new golden age of architectural and lifestyle innovation, setting the stage for an exciting future in one of America’s most dynamic cities.

Photo via Villa Miami

Oak Row Equities Secures Prime Miami Location for $38.5M, Plans 45-Story Luxury Tower

In a bold move that underscores the growing appeal of Miami’s urban core, Oak Row Equities has acquired a prime downtown parcel for $38.5 million in an off-market deal. The real estate investment and development firm, with offices in New York and Miami, plans to transform the site at 49 NW 5th St. into a striking 45-story multifamily tower dubbed “First & Fifth.”

The acquisition, brokered by Colliers’ Mika Mattingly and Cecilia Estevez, along with Vincent Pastore of Pastore and Associates, represents a significant investment in Miami’s burgeoning transit-oriented development landscape.

Designed by ODP architects, the proposed First & Fifth tower will boast 700,000 square feet of space, housing 500 luxury multifamily units. While specific details on unit mix and rental rates remain undisclosed, the project aims to blend modern luxury with historical charm by preserving elements of the original 1925 Venetian-inspired structure.

The development’s strategic location adjacent to MiamiCentral station positions it at the nexus of Miami’s mass transit system, offering residents unprecedented access to Brightline, Tri-Rail, Metrorail, and Metromover services. This proximity to transportation hubs aligns with a growing trend in Miami’s urban development, catering to residents seeking car-free living options in the city center.

Erik Rutter, managing partner at Oak Row Equities, emphasized the project’s alignment with evolving renter preferences: “First & Fifth exemplifies our thesis that the ability to live, work, and play within a short walk or train ride will become critical to a renter’s decision process in South Florida.”

The development comes at a time when Miami grapples with significant traffic congestion, ranking eighth globally according to INRIX’s latest data. This challenge has spurred a wave of transit-oriented developments and renewed focus on expanding mass transit options.

Market data supports the wisdom of Oak Row Equities’ investment. Over the past five years, downtown Miami has captured more than 30% of the city’s renter demand. The area’s desirability is reflected in premium asking rents, which command a 21% higher rate compared to the broader Miami market, according to CoStar.

As Miami continues to evolve as a global city, projects like First & Fifth are poised to reshape the urban landscape, offering a blend of luxury living and practical accessibility that could set new standards for residential development in high-density urban areas.

Source: CoStar News 


Columbus international

Columbus International offers top experts in the real estate field that will make your quest for a property as seamless as possible.

CONTACT

OFFICE

Rockefeller Center
1270 Sixth Avenue, 8th floor,
New York, NY 10020

Newsletter

Receive our latest news and updates.

1
keyboard_arrow_leftPrevious
Nextkeyboard_arrow_right

Columbus International operates in the United States under the aegis of Keller Williams NYC and Living RE srl in Italy