Miami

[Archit_K]

Please feel free to post buildings of Miami in this thread.

[Archit_K]

Southest Financial Centre, designed by SOM it is the most noticeable of
the Miami Skyscrapers. http://www.som.com/opener.cfm

[TLOZ Link5]

http://www.metropolitanmiami.com/home.html

[Archit_K]

http://www.metropolitanmiami.com/home.html
Met 3 have been scaled down. I wonder what the new renderings look like.

[Archit_K]

Miami is Florida's 2nd largest city and the largest metropolitan area in the state. Known as the Magic City it was originally settled by the Tequesta Indians thousands of years ago. Sparsely populated until the 1890s,a local landowner named Julia Tuttle persuaded Standard Oil founder Henry Flagler to extend his railroad to Miami & build a resort. Miami was incorporated on July 28, 1896.

The city grew rapidly in its first 30 years until a hurricane and the Great Depression ended the real estate boom. Post World War II Miami prospered mainly on tourism. The 1960s brought an influx of Cuban immigrants. Subsequent waves of immigrants from the Caribbean, South America and Europe have changed the cultural, political and business climate of the city.

Due to its diversity Miami has emerged as a major center of international trade and finance. Many multinational companies have based their Latin American headquarters in the city. A gleaming row of skyscrapers line Brickell Avenue, the heart of the city's financial district and home to many foreign banks and financial service firms.

The Port of Miami is one of the largest cruise ship ports in the world as well as a major cargo container port in the US. While tourism plays an important role in the economy it is international commerce that truly makes Miami the Crossroads of the Americas.

[Archit_K]

Southest Financial Centre a.k.a. Wachovia Building, or Wachovia Financial Center

200 South Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL

Developer: Hines Interests Limited Partnership
Architect: SOM
Floor count: 55
Erected: 1984

Facts about the building.
- The building has won the TOBY Building of the Year Award in 1990, 1996 and 1999, and in 1997 was chosen by the Wall Street Journal as one of the 50 best buildings in the United States.
- Designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, the building's unique design and towering height dominate the Miami skyline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and City of Miami.
- Located in the heart of the Downtown Business District, it is one block from I-95, and immediately adjacent to the Bayfront Park Metro.
- In the immediate vicinity are several of Miami's best hotels, as well as a festive shopping center.
- First Union was the largest (in floor area) and tallest building in Florida until completion of the Four Seasons Hotel, also in Miami.

See picture above.

[Archit_K]

Rumor has it; a new proposed world tallest building is going to be erected in Miami. Can anybody comment on this?

[Kolbster]

The Met 3 looks pretty large...any info on floor counts and height?

[Kolbster]

Words tallest in Miami? Are you sure"?

[Archit_K]

The Met 3 looks pretty large...any info on floor counts and height?

Met 3, is going to be the tallest of all residential buildings in the world, and the estimated height is about 850ft not yet official. It is set to break ground by mid-05. Located in the heart of the Central Business District, it will be anchored by a Whole Foods Market and be neighbors with Miami’s second (soon to be third) tallest building, Wachovia Financial Center.

The advertising does list it as the "tallest babe south of New York City".
http://www.metropolitanmiami.com/home.html

[Archit_K]

Words tallest in Miami? Are you sure"?
Don’t know, but I’m baffled by this.

[TLOZ Link5]

What surprises me about Miami is that it has a smallish population (around 380,000) for a city with such a huge concentration of tall buildings. Anyone care to explain why?

[Archit_K]

Sun-Sentinel
Miami-Dade County officials unveiled Wednesday a financing plan for a $420 million ballpark and parking garage for the Marlins that represents roughly a 50-50 public-private partnership and includes a variety of guarantee protections for the county and city of Miami.

The non-binding agreement, which still requires the approval of the both the city and county commissions, could still run into trouble, if the state Legislature fails to grant the team a $60 million state sales tax rebate during this year's session or the $28 million set aside for acquiring land east of the Orange Bowl does not cover those costs.
But Marlins, county and city officials told the county commission's Intergovernmental, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Committee Wednesday that they are far closer than they have ever been to finalizing a deal for a new ballpark that will keep the team in South Florida for decades. Officials are putting the finishing touches on an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will serve as a road map for full legal development plan.

Marlins President David Samson said with local approval, "We go to Tallahassee with a completed deal. That's never been done before, not with the first ownership [of the Marlins], not with the second ownership."

"I really believe this structure will allow us to go to Tallahassee and get a yay or a nay from them," Miami City Manager Joe Arriola said.

The deal envisions a 38,000-seat retractable roof ballpark that includes 3,000 club seats, 62 suites and 4,000 lower cost seats, opening in 2008.

Under the deal, the Marlins commit $192 million, mainly in future revenues to the project. The county has pledged $138 million in hotel bed and sports facilities taxes and the city would provide $28 million in tourist development taxes. The city will help oversee development of a $32 million parking garage expected to pay for itself through parking fees. The parties are hoping the state will grant the $2 million annual rebate over 30 years, which would provide a present day value of $30 million to cover the financing gap.

The county and city will issue the debt to cover the majority of the financing with the team guaranteeing annual rent from annual guaranteed revenue streams, such as its television broadcasting contract.

The Miami City Commission is scheduled to vote on the deal Feb. 24, with a county commission vote on March 1. The three parties will then lobby state legislators, who begin their annual session March 8, for the state sales tax rebate.

[Archit_K]

Everglades Hotel Gives Way to 49-Story Condo Complex
By Marita Thomas
Last updated: February 4, 2005 01:46pm

MIAMI-Everglades on the Bay, a two-tower, 49-story, 849-unit residential condominium with 60,000 sf of retail, breaks ground at 244 Biscayne Blvd. next month. The 2.8-acre parcel is the former site of Everglades Hotel, a 72-year-old landmark that was imploded a week ago by 50 pounds of dynamite and 137 pounds of “steel-cutting” charges.

Immediately following the implosion, site owner and condo developer, Aventura-based Cabi Developers, extended rights for disaster training drills to the city’s various fire, police, hazmat and other rescue workers. Jacobo Cababie, principal, declined to disclose an estimated construction cost for the project.

“The revitalization [of] a piece of property that directly faces…Bayside Marketplace, cruise ships at the Port of Miami and Biscayne Bay is long overdue,” he says. With construction of this project, “we can begin to realize the bright future that this neighborhood has been anticipating.”

Residential units will range from 550 sf to 2,100 sf and sell from the mid-$200,000s to just over $1 million. The second- and third-floor units are flats; the fourth- and sixth-floor units are two-story lofts, and one-, two- and three-bedroom units occupy the other floors, topped by penthouses. Phase I is scheduled for completion next year. George Mato of Aventura-based Marka-Tech Associates is the sales director. Andrew Dieringer of Turnberry Associates is leasing agent for the commercial space.

Plans for the contemporary-style limestone and granite towers include an eighth-floor deck containing a pool, lap pool and bar overlooking Biscayne Bay; a 15,000-sf health spa; meeting room; billiard room; and business center. The retail space is accessible via a walkway through the center of the buildings on the ground floor, open to the public. The covered parking garage is hidden, and condo owners have assigned, valet parking. The architect is Coral Gables-based Fullerton Diaz.

Loft units have floor-to-ceiling windows and 18-foot ceilings. Ceilings in the flats are 10 feet high. All units have DSL wireless cable, stainless steel appliances and marble master baths.

Everglades on the Bay breaks ground next month.

[Archit_K]

Look at this amazing find, click on this link
http://www.ci.miami.fl.us/Planning/pages/land_development/LargeScaleDev.asp
and download the excel file at bottom,

a rundown on EVERY project with heights, so many tall towers, infinity 2, lynx development. etc etc

[Kolbster]

Everglades Hotel Gives Way to 49-Story Condo Complex
By Marita Thomas
Last updated: February 4, 2005 01:46pm

MIAMI-Everglades on the Bay, a two-tower, 49-story, 849-unit residential condominium with 60,000 sf of retail, breaks ground at 244 Biscayne Blvd. next month. The 2.8-acre parcel is the former site of Everglades Hotel, a 72-year-old landmark that was imploded a week ago by 50 pounds of dynamite and 137 pounds of “steel-cutting” charges.

Immediately following the implosion, site owner and condo developer, Aventura-based Cabi Developers, extended rights for disaster training drills to the city’s various fire, police, hazmat and other rescue workers. Jacobo Cababie, principal, declined to disclose an estimated construction cost for the project.

“The revitalization [of] a piece of property that directly faces…Bayside Marketplace, cruise ships at the Port of Miami and Biscayne Bay is long overdue,” he says. With construction of this project, “we can begin to realize the bright future that this neighborhood has been anticipating.”

Residential units will range from 550 sf to 2,100 sf and sell from the mid-$200,000s to just over $1 million. The second- and third-floor units are flats; the fourth- and sixth-floor units are two-story lofts, and one-, two- and three-bedroom units occupy the other floors, topped by penthouses. Phase I is scheduled for completion next year. George Mato of Aventura-based Marka-Tech Associates is the sales director. Andrew Dieringer of Turnberry Associates is leasing agent for the commercial space.

Plans for the contemporary-style limestone and granite towers include an eighth-floor deck containing a pool, lap pool and bar overlooking Biscayne Bay; a 15,000-sf health spa; meeting room; billiard room; and business center. The retail space is accessible via a walkway through the center of the buildings on the ground floor, open to the public. The covered parking garage is hidden, and condo owners have assigned, valet parking. The architect is Coral Gables-based Fullerton Diaz.

Loft units have floor-to-ceiling windows and 18-foot ceilings. Ceilings in the flats are 10 feet high. All units have DSL wireless cable, stainless steel appliances and marble master baths.

Everglades on the Bay breaks ground next month.



Wow, nice pictures, and nice buildings

[Kolbster]

Seems as if Miami is have a construction boom :)

[Archit_K]

TOWER TWO: New York-based Intell Management has unveiled plans for a 46-story tower at Avenue, a 570-unit, mixed-use condominium with groundbreaking scheduled for March at 1060 Brickell Ave. Work began in September on the project's other building, a 34-story tower. The development includes 24,000 square feet of retail and a 12-story parking garage. Details: www.avenuemiami.com.

LOCATION:
1060 Brickell Avenue
Miami, Florida

Enjoy this rendering.

[Archit_K]

Avenue
LOCATION:
1060 Brickell Avenue
Miami

DEVELOPER:

Intell Management and Investment Company
Gary Barnett, President

Gary Barnett is president of Intell Management and Investment Company, the New York-based firm that developed the swank W Hotel Times Square and is currently developing the highly anticipated InterContinental Boston Harbor condo-hotel project. To develop Avenue, the company has assembled a team of award-winning architects and designers to deliver all of the elements of Miami's urban lifestyle – great design, diverse floor plans and must-have features.

DESCRIPTION:

Every great metropolitan city has its Avenue - the place to see and be seen. In Miami, it's Brickell Avenue - where urban living is now pushed to new heights with the introduction of Avenue, a new 570-unit, mixed-used condominium development. Avenue's amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center with sumptuous spa treatment rooms, a virtual golf room, a billiards room, a business center, a wine and cigar lounge and a home theater. The pet-friendly building will also feature advanced “Smart Building” technology and high-speed wireless Internet capabilities. Residences range from 570-square-foot studios and lofts to 2,500-square-foot duplex penthouses, with prices from the low $200,000s to more than $1 million. All roads lead to Avenue, the new standard for high-life city living.

Amenities:
Retail and restaurants located on ground floor
Lushly landscaped resort deck featuring temperature-controlled pool and whirlpool, sun deck and recreation spaces
State-of-the-art fitness center including advanced cardiovascular and weight training equipment, sauna, showers and locker rooms
Spa treatment rooms and yoga/aerobics room
Game room with billiard table and home theater offering multimedia capabilities
Business center with conference rooms offering high-speed data, video and voice capabilities
Family room with large children's play area and lounge and party room with catering kitchen accessible from pool deck
Virtual golf room featuring sophisticated indoor golf simulator
Wine/Cigar lounge outfitted with temperature-controlled wine storage cabinets and personal humidors
Mail and package receiving area

CONTACT:

Fortune International
www.AvenueMiami.com / 305-329-1060

NUMBER OF UNITS: 570
SQUARE FOOTAGE: 570 - 2,500
PRICE RANGE: Low $200s to more than $1 million
OPENING DATE: Completion Early 2007

I'm pleased with the design. Just can't wait until completed.

[NewYorkYankee]

Miami seems to be a lot diff. from the other southern cities. Ive been to Atl the so called "Capital of the South"...blah..hated it. I think I'd enjoy Miami though.

[Archit_K]

Miami seems to be a lot diff. from the other southern cities. Ive been to Atl the so called "Capital of the South"...blah..hated it. I think I'd enjoy Miami though.
I agree, I never actually step foot in Downtown Atlanta I always wanted to, my mother drove by the city twice. I admire the Peachtree Hotel.

Congratulations on your acceptance to Pace University. I heard allot of wonderful things about that school. I hope you enjoy and have fun.

[NewYorkYankee]

Downtown ATL is nothing to be amazed with. Thank you! :)

[Archit_K]

Here are some cool pictures of Miami's skyline.

[212]

What surprises me about Miami is that it has a smallish population (around 380,000) for a city with such a huge concentration of tall buildings. Anyone care to explain why?

Sure. Miami proper covers only 36 square miles, small for a southeastern city. To compare, Tampa covers 112 square miles, Atlanta 132, New Orleans 181 and Jacksonville 758. If Miami grew to Atlanta's land area by annexing the beaches and its densely packed inner ring of suburbs (a politically impossible feat), it'd be a million-plus city. Miami-Dade County is close to the 2.5 million mark, and overall a good 5 million people live in South Florida within commuting distance of the CBD.

A few other reasons for Miami skyscraper development relative to its population:

- Land values in Miami spike along the Biscayne Bay waterfront, an area that has much better transit (and all other services) than the rest of the city. The skyline reflects that: Almost all Miami's skyscrapers are within a few blocks of the bay.

- Dozens of Latin banks have built their U.S. headquarters in Miami ... we all know how banks like their iconic buildings.

- With their pools and social rooms and 24-hour security, Miami's big condo towers have long attracted retirees from NYC and other built-up cities. Tall is still something of a selling point in Miami, though I'm happy to say that current developments are more urbane, less fortreesslike than in the past.

[Archit_K]

This might be the final design. I' am some what disappointed.

Overview
Type: Mixed -used development
Location: Downtown Miami
Prices: From mid $200,000s

www.metropolitanmiami.com

Standing 74 Stores over downtown Miami, Met 3 is bringing a new dimension to Metropolitan Miami's visionary urban lifestyle, says a company executive. Soon to be the tallest residential tower south of Manhattan, Met 3 will feature unsurpassed water and city views, inviting contemporary residences and a complete complement of 24/7 amenitites.

"Met 3 is the next step forward in the creation of a vibrant downtown Miami lifestyle, where work, entertainment and shopping are just a few steps from home, "says Time Weller, vice president of Development, MDM Development Group. With its open piazzas, tree-lined walkways and loggias, upscale restaurants, shops and unique lifestyle/entertainment center, Metropolitan Miami will be the epicenter of downtown activity -day and night.

Sales of the 650 units at Met 3 are now underway, following the remarkable success of Met 1, the development's first residential tower, which is now approximatley 90 percent sold.

Met 3 will be built on the site of Henry Flagler's turn-of-the-century resot, the Royal Palm Hotel. To celebrate Met 3's launch, along with the ground-breaking of the project's first tower Met 1. Metropolitan Miami will host a March festivity in conjunction with the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. "Last Tea at the Royal Palm," with live entertainment, costumes and food and drink from the era.

Coral Gables-based Nichols, Brosch, Wurst, Wolf & Associates has designed Met 3 with a distinctive flair that reflects downtown Miami's global appeal, and emphazies the tower's spectacular views. For instance, Met 3 features "sky lofts" with double-height ceilings, between the 58th and 65th floors, along with spacious penthouses starting on the 66th floor.

[Archit_K]

Commercial Real Estate News

Neo Epoch 1 Unveils 41-Story ‘Wind’ Condo

By Marita Thomas of GlobeSt.com
http://www.cityfeet.com/News/NewsArticle.aspx?Id=10630

Friday, February 11, 2005 - MIAMI-For its third condo project here, locally based Neo Concepts joint ventures with Antonio Cabrera Jr. to form Neo Epoch 1 to develop Wind, a 41-story, 489-unit residential tower with some mixed-use space. One-, two- and three-bedroom units will be priced between the $200,000s and $650,000, according to Lissette Calderon, CEO of Neo Concepts.
She declined to disclose the construction cost, but projects the value at $210 million. Wachovia Bank provided a $15.2-million land loan. Units range from 785 sf to 1,617 sf. The architect is locally based Luis Revuelta and the design includes “K rooms” and “Exo Rooms,” two Calderon innovations.

The former, short for kinetic rooms, are designed with easily manipulated walls that Calderon says can be removed and changed to accommodate different situations, such a nursery, home office, den and extra bedroom. She describes an Exo room as “an outdoor living space that is 11 feet deep and has two and a half walls, which can extend an indoor living area, such as the dining or living area to the outdoors, or be used separately, as a meditation room, for example.”

Wind amenities include a two-story clubhouse on floors nine and 10, a 10th-floor River Club with a professional kitchen, a two-story fitness center, separate men’s and women’s spas, pool, children’s playroom and business/conference center. A 40,000-sf garden surrounds the building, which is located within the 13.5-acre River Front gated community, planned to contain six high-rise condos.

In all, River Front will contain 2,000 residential units, more than 60,000 sf of retail space and 200,000 sf of office space. Located on the north bank of Miami River at Miami Avenue, near Brickell Avenue, Calderon says River Front is the largest development along the river and the only gated community Downtown. Neo Realty is exclusive agent for Wind sales and marketing.

[Archit_K]

Miami Beach officials have doubts about Watson Island project

www.miamitodaynews.com
http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/040520/story2.shtml

By Susan Stabley

A $426 million retail-hotel-marina project planned for Watson Island threatens Miami Beach's "future sustainability," City Manager Jorge Gonzalez wrote in a letter to the South Florida Regional Planning Council.

Concerns about the project were outlined by Beach officials last week in response to Miami's application to expand the downtown area's Development of Regional Impact district to include part of Watson Island.

A Development of Regional Impact requires a process in which local, state and federal agencies analyze a major project in terms of effects on transportation, environment and public services.

The South Florida Regional Planning Council acts as a facilitator for such development requests and will make a recommendation to the state after collecting comments from area agencies, including affected cities, Miami-Dade County, the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of Transportation.

Prompting the request to change Miami's DRI is Flagstone Property Group's plans to build Island Gardens on the northwestern tip of the manmade island that connects mainland Miami to Miami Beach via the MacArthur Causeway. The project includes two hotels with 605 rooms, 50 marina slips and 232,774 square feet of retail and restaurant space and a 4,000-square-foot maritime gallery.

The project could be incorporated into the existing development plan for downtown Miami pending recommendations from regional planners and approval of the state's Department of Community Affairs.

Among Miami Beach's concerns is traffic impact, said Mr. Gonzalez.

"MacArthur Causeway is the key linkage between Miami Beach/South Beach and the mainland, which makes it a key infrastructure asset to the region's economy," Mr. Gonzalez wrote via e-mail to Miami Today.

Flagstone officials said Tuesday that they are aware of Miami Beach's concerns and will send a response to the planning council with information asserting the sufficiency of the traffic study, which was submitted by Miami's Downtown Development Authority.

Concerns over development of the manmade island is not new to Beach officials.

Even before the Island Gardens proposal, the city was worried about the moves of Parrot Jungle and the Miami Children's Museum to Watson Island. The city fears further impact from proposals to build a headquarters for the Free Trade Area of the Americas as well as the hotel-retail project on the 86-acre island.

According to Mr. Gonzalez, Miami Beach officials have asked since 2002 to participate in discussions affecting the island.

Expanding the DRI district to include the Island Gardens project "will further exacerbate the adverse impacts already realized to date," Mr. Gonzalez wrote to the South Florida Planning Council. "The mayor and City Commission of Miami Beach feel this is an extremely important issue for our barrier island's future sustainability."

The state wants the City of Miami to show how a massive $426 million hotel-retail-marina project benefits the public before it approves Watson Island for commercial use.

"The City of Miami still has to prove how the project is beneficial to the public," said Kathalyn Gaither of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Without state permission, Turkish developer Mehmet Bayraktar's Island Gardens project can't break ground on the northwestern tip of the manmade island that connects mainland Miami to Miami Beach via the MacArthur Causeway.

At issue is a deed restriction from 1949, when the state gave the island to the city for public use. The state - through a trust that oversees public lands composed of Gov. Jeb Bush, Attorney General Charlie Crist, Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher and Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson - must grant a waiver to allow commercial development.

City officials haven't submitted information on public amenities in the project but will within a week, said Laura Billberry, assistant director of Miami's economic development department.

The Miami City Commission has approved another request from the state, for a 15% share of the money the city collects in rent payments from the project.

That won't take effect until Island Gardens is completed, said Ms. Billberry, when the state would get $300,000 from the $2 million annual rent. The city and the state may also be able to collect a percentage of the project's gross revenues, she said.

The trust won't meet to discuss the issue before August, said Ms. Gaither. The panel is scheduled to meet in June, but the issue won't be ready until the city submits paperwork and the state reviews the deed restriction, she said. No meeting is scheduled for July.

Officials of Mr. Bayraktar's development company, Flagstone Property Group, detailed a list of amenities Tuesday. Public components were part of a proposal reviewed by the city. Voters approved the project in a 2001 referendum.

"Flagstone's design as well as public purpose, benefits and access have remained substantially unchanged," Island Gardens project director Joseph Herndon said via an e-mail Tuesday. "Still, over 60% of the development site is freely accessible to the public."

The developer has worked with area institutions to propose public amenities. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden has worked on the project's planned garden, and the Historical Museum of Southern Florida has helped with a planned 4,000-square-foot maritime gallery.

Flagstone will make improvements - including landscaping - to the roadway around the property and under the MacArthur Causeway bridge, said Mr. Herndon.

The project's main components are two hotels, 50 marina slips for megayachts and 232,774 square feet of retail space that includes an open-air fish market and a restaurant. At least six fountains, a performance stage and a reflecting pool are planned.

Flagstone will put together a calendar of events for residents from Miami and Miami Beach and create a trust to operate, maintain and repair public art, gardens, pools and fountains, Mr. Herndon said. The trust would be financed through operating revenues, he said.

An environmental watchdog group, the Urban Environment League of Greater Miami, has opposed commercial development on public lands such as Watson Island. League president Nancy Liebman said she is concerned that Flagstone's planned public amenities are not "set in stone" through the property lease.

Flagstone attorney Judy Burke of Shutts & Bowen said there should be no concern because documents require site plans that include the amenities.

Here are few renderings of the Watson Island project. Old style renderings, I hope you enjoy.

[Kolbster]

Im thinking that the buildings are made to reflect the sails of the ships?

[Archit_K]

I get the same impression when I vew the renderings.

[Kolbster]

I think Miami is going to be an exciting place to visit in a couple of years or so

[Archit_K]

I think Miami is going to be an exciting place to visit in a couple of years or so
I agree Kolbster.

[Archit_K]

Building: Miami, FL.
Client: Dade County, Miami
Architect: Cesar Pelli & Associates
Structure Type: 2 to 3-story / Steel & Concrete Structure
Project Category: Art and Entertainment

Project Description
The new Miami Performing Arts Center is composed of two major structures; a 200,000 SF concert hall and a 350,000 SF ballet opera house. The concert hall is structured out of steel framing supporting concrete on metal deck and steel framing supporting formed concrete at the balcony tiered seating areas. The ballet opera house building will house the new theater and support spaces. In addition to the main performance area, this building houses a rehearsal area, banquets room and a studio theater. The structure is steel framed supporting concrete on metal deck. The balcony areas are also steel framed and support formed concrete seating risers. Long span steel trusses span the theater and support the attic and roof levels.

Miami Today News
http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/020912/story2.shtml
Miami's performing arts center struggles to meet construction schedule

By Frank Norton
With foundations nearly laid, about 120 workers are set to begin the 11-month phase of pushing up steel beams to support the roofs and walls and the complex electrical circuitry needed to power Miami's performing arts center.

Turret-like elevator towers already mark the perimeter of the planned Sanford & Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House, rising west of Biscayne Boulevard between 13th and 14th streets.

"We're moving aggressively to stick to schedule," said Gail Thompson, project director. "We've had the rainiest spring and summer ever."

The center's three-year building phase, which began in October 2001, is scheduled for completion Oct. 15, 2004, though final completion will depend on a number of variables, such as weather and the timeliness of steel beam shipments now predicted to be arriving two to three weeks late, Ms. Thompson said last week.

Although the steel shipments previously expected Sept. 16 would probably be delayed about two weeks, Ms. Thompson said, it will not affect the completion date.

"I was shocked and appalled to hear the Sun-Sentinel report on NPR (National Public Radio) this morning that we could see much longer delays," she said, denying earlier rumors that late shipments could push back completion by six months or a year.

"We are slightly behind schedule but have acceleration plans in place. You might see we are working weekends and late nights now," she said.

The $370 million performing arts center project is considered the largest public-private partnership ever undertaken by Miami-Dade County, with building costs totaling $255 million. Barring incessant rains or a major unforeseen force, money is the only other factor that could significantly delay the center's opening.

"Let's face it, this is a tough economic climate," said Nancy Herstand, executive director of the Performing Arts Center Foundation, the fund-raising arm created to attract private sector money to help get the center up and running. "Everybody becomes more selective in what they do during a downturn and that raises the challenge for us."

The Ziffs are making installment payments on a $10 million pledge that entails putting their name on the opera hall, Ms. Herstand said. It will be the western building of the complex planned to be home for five local arts organizations.

Although revenues from Miami-Dade County's convention development tax on tourist spending are financing the bulk of the project, private-sector donations remains crucial to its completion.

Ms. Herstand said she is confident the foundation will meet its $80 million campaign goal toward the end of the project, still about three years off. The group has raised about $50 million but has taken 10 years and about $10 million in campaign operating costs to do it.

The fund-raising goal includes a $21 million endowment that must be in place by the time the arts center opens. Interest from that fund is expected to accrue $800,000 to $1 million each year and is to be used to help fund the center's operating losses.

Of the foundation's $80 million campaign, $42.2 million is earmarked for building costs, payable directly to the county when the center opens, and $21 million will go to the creation of the operating endowment fund. More than $10 million in campaign operating expenses and about $5 million to help set up the Performing Arts Center Trust administration that will run the center make up the balance of the total private sector fundraising commitment.

This last three-year leg of the private funding campaign is expected to be the most difficult due to national and local economic woes and the fact that some of the biggest donors have already been tapped.

"Is it more difficult, yes, but we are optimistic that we'll meet our goals," said foundation Chairman Sherwood Weiser. "There's no question the market has affected some gifts. But the people we're talking to still recognize the importance of the project."

Ms. Herstand and others said that while business has slowed, there have been no withdrawals of pledges due to this year's stock market plunges. In fact, she said, the percentage of gifts coming through stock equities is small.

Even counting donations from individuals, she said, there have been no losses.

"That says a great deal to me about the people behind this project really wanting to see it come through. It also reflects the depth of donors' pockets, since their wealth to some degree insulates them from shocks in the economy. We're fortunate this is not a grassroots campaign because that's where you would feel it the most."

Mr. Weiser said summer fundraising in Miami is especially difficult since many potential donors spend the season north or abroad.

With about three years and $30 million to go, the foundation has turned to state and federal governments for help.

"We are looking for appropriations from the federal budget for the coming year" - October to September - and that's not without precedent in terms of other performing arts centers," said Michael Hardy, president & CEO of the Performing Arts Center Trust.

Rep. Carrie Meek together with Sen. Bob Graham and Sen. Bill Nelson are spearheading an effort to raise $2 million in federal appropriations for the rehabilitation of an Art Deco tower that is planned in front of the opera house. There are 13 such requests nationwide likely to be decided just after the start of the fiscal year in October.

A spokesperson for Rep. Meek called the project a "huge economic development engine for downtown Miami, just like the air and seaports," adding that performing arts centers spin-off production and performance studios, shops and restaurants.

Officials would not comment on the status of the request but Sen. Graham's press secretary Jill Greenberg said "it is early in the appropriations process, but the senator sees the performing arts center as the cornerstone of redevelopment downtown. He is committed to a long-term effort to secure funding" for the project.

In terms of state funds, trust and foundation executives are pushing for Regional Cultural Facilities Act dollars, which could finance programming at the center up to a maximum of $2.5 million a year for up to four years.

Mr. Hardy said planners would seek appropriations in the spring budget.

The center was designed by Cesar Pelli and is being built by Performing Arts Center Builders, a partnership of Odebrecht Construction, the Haskell Company and Ellis Don Corp. It will include the 2,480-seat Ziff Opera House, a 2,200-seat Carnival Symphony Hall, a 200-seat flexible space studio theater, a 57,000-square-foot central plaza with outdoor performance space, an Art Deco tower and a restaurant.

Miami's peforming arts center related sites
http://www.fda-online.com/projects/miami.html
http://www.pacfmiami.org/ This website might have changed.

[Archit_K]

Building: 205 South Biscayne Boulevard ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Related Group
Architect: Arquitectonica
Structure Type: Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Check out the views from One Miami.
http://www.michaelgarlitz.com/one_miami_condo_downtown_miami.htm

[Archit_K]

^ The building called Inter-Continental is where they drop the orange ball on New Year day.

[Archit_K]

Building: 1040 Biscayne Blvd. ,Miami, FL.
Client: CORE
Architect: Oppenheim Architecture & Design
Structure Type: 50-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Ten Museum Park will be part of a development project to reshape Downtown Miami. Housing high-end condominiums, the tower is intended to revolutionize the idea of luxury. As only some of its amenities, it will boast a 10,000 sq. ft. restaurant and outdoor cafe, a 3,000 sq. ft. bar, 20,000 sq. ft. of office space with Biscayne Bay views, a sky garden, and 12 rooftop vitality pools for penthouses and tower suites. The structure will have a glass facade, giving it a crystalline look.

Ten Museum Park website: http://www.tenmuseumpark.com/flash/index.html
This might change: 4 images, an anima, VR tour so check it out. ^

[TLOZ Link5]

I think Miami is going to be an exciting place to visit in a couple of years or so

You mean it isn't already?

[Archit_K]

Building: Miami, FL.
Client: BAP-GGM Development
Architect: Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc.
Structure Type: 50-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Part of the continuing development in the Miami Arts District, Onyx 2 houses 130 luxury loft condominiums on the water's edge of Biscayne Bay, its glass facade and wrap around balconies providing unobstructed bay views. Above the lower 8 levels of parking sits a rooftop pool and garden at the 9th floor. Other amenities include an outdoor bar, fitness center, spa, and recreation center.

[Archit_K]

Building: 234 N.E. 3rd Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Related Group
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa
Structure Type: 23-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
The 196-unit Loft I is scheduled for completion in Summer, 2005, and will provide affordable condominium housing to the Downtown Miami area. It will feature expansive high ceilings and amenities such as a plunge pool, a health club, and a sun deck. In addition to residential spaces, the tower will also provide retail spaces on the first floor.

[Archit_K]

Building: N.E. 2nd Ave. & N.E. 2nd Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Related Group
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa
Structure Type: 36-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Located in the Downtown Miami area, the site for Loft 2 is intersected by the new Metromover, a transportation system similar to a monorail in function. The interference caused by the Metromover required an innovative solution to design the new 500-unit affordable housing building. Originally, the idea was to build two towers on either side of the Metromover, but the final plan is to allow the transportation system to actually go through the building. From the ground floor to the ninth floor, Loft 2 will have a base of two structures, combining into a single tower from the 10th floor on. This will create a passageway for the Metromover.

This building reminds me of one of those buildings in a science ficition movie.

[Archit_K]

Building: 101 East Flagler Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: Flagler First Developers, LLC
Architect: Martinez-Posa
Structure Type: 15-Story / Steel Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
The Flagler First Condominium project consists of the conversion of an existing steel framed office building into a new luxury residential condominium building. The existing steel frame and facade were updated to comply with the current Miami wind code. Project cost is estimated at $15.7 million.

[Archit_K]

Building: Miami, FL.
Client: BAP-GGM Development
Architect: Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc.
Structure Type: 50-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Premiere Towers rises above 9 levels of parking and contains 588 condominium units with retail spaces on the bottom. The 10th floor includes a fitness center with landscaped pool deck, and above that are 4 office levels. The top floors alternate between 1-story apartments and 2-story lofts, having glass facades and large wrap-around balconies.

ABOUT PREMIERE TOWERS CONDOS:
http://www.condofinds.com/listings.php?listing=242&imageNo=2

Premier Towers will be a 52 story twin tower project comprised of retail, commercial office and a combination of flats and loft style residences.

“Premier” will be a full luxury building in the heart of Brickell Village, the block immediately north of “Mary Brickell Village”, the newest retail/commercial center in Brickell (currently under construction). This center will include tenants such as: Publix, Starbucks, PF Chang’s, Bally Total Fitness, Royce Dry Cleaners, Passions Hair Salon, a variety boutique fashion stores and more (visit www.MaryBrickellVillage.com).

PREMIERE TOWERS is located in the heart of the BRICKELL BUSINESS DISRTRICT and just steps away from MARY BRICKELL VILLAGE, PREMIERE TOWERS CONDO offers a unique opportunity to indulge in an authentic urban lifestyle.

Featuring one, two, and three- bedroom flats and lofts with spacious layouts, 9" and 18' foot ceiling heights, marble bathroom floors and european style kitchens, the premiere residences are enhanced by an ultra chic lobby, infinity edge pool&spa, and many other elegant features that highlight urban Miami condo living at a moren pace.

At Premire Towers there are Loft units in more than half of the 53 floors, providing soaring views of Downtown Miami, Brickell and Biscayne Bay. Floor-to-ceiling window walls, double height ceilings and spacious interiors creat a modern retreat for the clasic Miami urbanite.

Flat condo units, featuring eastern and western views of the city, boast glass balcony railing and sleek interiors that provide comfort and style. Contemporary materials and minimalist design accentuate unit features and amenities.

Each residence at Premier Towers condos incorporates stylish design features including:

European style kithcen-cabinets, Marble/Granite Countertops and stainless steel appliances.
Rimless, under-counter double kitchen sink.
Designer faucets and hardware.
European style bathroom and power rooms; vanities with stone flooring and countertops.
All condos come with floor to ceiling glass windows.
Breathtaking waterfront and downtown Miami views.
Each condo is pre-wired for high speed internet

Building amenities:

Electric garage access
24 hour Concierge service
Two Story lobby entrance
Single point entry into residential lobby
State of the art fitness center with cardio theater
Sauna and steam rooms
24 hour vallet parking service
Private library
Poolside Barbeque
Sports lounge
Business center and conference rooms
24-hour security
Private viewing theater


Premier is scheduled to launch to the public in June of this year. As always we offer a pre-launch VIP reservation period before the official launch date for our clients.

For floor plans, or to learn more about how you can buy a condo at Premiere Towers , Please contact at 305-576-7474 or email us at contact@condofinds.com

[Archit_K]

Miami City Commissioners Thursday unanimously -- and enthusiastically -- approved a tentative funding plan to provide the Florida Marlins a new baseball stadium next to the Orange Bowl.

The proposal calls for $420 million, 38,000-seat, retractable-roof stadium that would open in time for the 2008 season.

The Marlins have pledged $192 million, Miami--Dade County would pitch in $138 million, with the city of Miami offering $28 million, plus land near the stadium. Parking revenues would contribute $32 million.

When casting his vote for the plan, Miami City Commission Chairman Joe Sanchez passed on the usual ''yes'' and instead blurted, "absolutely!''

A $30 million funding gap still has to be closed before the stadium can be built. The club and local politicians hope to close it by getting a $60 million sales tax rebate from the state during the upcoming legislative session, which begins March 8. The Miami-Dade County Commission must also approve the county's contribution on March 1, but that approval is expected to come easily.

It is obtaining state money that looms as the big challenge for the team. Marlins President David Samson is counting on both city and county support to give his team the edge.

''We go to Tallahassee as one,'' Samson told City Commissioners. "Three legs of the stool going to Tallahassee for the final piece.''

[Archit_K]

Eastside and Westside renderings here.
http://www.miamirealestatetrends.com/pages/Onyx2ontheBayUptownMiami.aspx

[Kolbster]

One word

Wow

[Kolbster]

The extensiveness of these plans is admirable, and i think that something like this should be emulated in the Downtown brooklyn and Flushing area. Istead of only zoning for 10 story residential buildings, why not zone up for such towers near 50 stories

[NewYorkYankee]

My sentiments exactly Kolbster.

[Archit_K]

Building: Miami, FL.
Client: Urbana Development
Architect: Oppenheim Architecture & Design
Structure Type: 22-Story / Steel Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
The Cube is a steel framed residential structure with an exposed lateral bracing system constructed above a 4 level retail and parking base. In addition, the project includes highly architectural cantilevered apartment units randomly spread throughout. It is designed to contain 101 units.

I really love this design. Kudos to Oppenheim Architecture and Design Team.

[Archit_K]

Building: 701 NE 31st Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Sonoma Companies
Architect: Chad Oppenheim & Walter Chatham
Structure Type: 36-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Ice 1, a post tensioned, 100-unit, concrete condominium tower, will be constructed above multiple levels of parking garage, providing spectacular views over the Biscayne Bay. WSP Cantor Seinuk's role in this project was one of value engineering, resulting in an estimated reduced project cost of $34 million.

[Archit_K]

Building: 630 NE.31st Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Sonoma Companies
Architect: Oppenheim Architecture & Design
Structure Type: 53- Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Ice 2, a condominium tower consisting of 53 residential, amenity, and parking floors, has an estimated project cost of $70 million. The residential floors are cast in place concrete flat plate construction.

http://www.miamirealestatetrends.com/pages/Ice2.aspx

[Kolbster]

wow, more?!? this is great. I think Miami is going to be in the top American city sky lines in the near future

[Kris]

How is the city at street level?

[TLOZ Link5]

Phase 3 of Metropolitan Miami is said to be 866 feet high.

[Kolbster]

Phase 3 of Metropolitan Miami is said to be 866 feet high.

thats a good look for Miami....but i think it falls short of the world's tallest residential building (isn't it the 1000 footer in Sydney?, or is it still trump World?)

[Archit_K]

Click here they have a Development Showcase. Estates and Condos http://www.miamiestatesandcondos.com/showcase.cfm

Major Projects:

Axis
Bellini Bal Harbour
Ice
Jade
Latitude on the River
Metropolis
Metropolitan
One Miami
Prisma
Quantum
Santa Maria
Villa Regina

[Archit_K]

Miami New Construction Preconstruction Condos and Lofts

Miami Beach:

The Bath Club
The Meridian
Vilasol
Cosmopolitan
Bayview Lofts
Terra Beach Villas
The Absolut
Sundance
The Setai
The Bentley Bay
Murano Grande
Nautica Condos

Downtown Miami:

The Loft Downtown
Ten Museum Park
One Miami
Neo Vertika
Latitude On The River
Espirito Santo Plaza
Everglades on the Bay
MarinaBlue

Miami Arts District:

Ice Lofts
Quantum
Parc Lofts
Aria
1800 Miami
Uptown Lofts
Opera Tower
Star Lofts
Wynwood Lofts
Cite' Condo
Blue
Onyx
Nirvana

North Bay Village:

Sky Lofts
Space 01
360°

Brickell:

1390 Brickell
Brickell on the River
Lofts on Brickell
Infinity at Brickell
Skyline on Brickell

Aventura:

Uptown Marina Lofts
Aventura Marina

[Archit_K]

Museum Caliber Sky Residences
6000 Indian Creek
http://www.6000indiancreek.com/feedback.htm

To view more renderings like these, click on the website.

[Kolbster]

I can't get over all these developments, this will surely rocket Miami to a more youtful and important American city.

Bravi, well done i must say

[Kolbster]

How is the city at street level?

currently, it's not as grimey as new york, and not as conjested. there are a lot of palm tries that line streets, beautiful beaches and all that good stuff.

After all these towers: A summer paridise; i know it sounds tacky, but Miami is gonna become a hot city

[Archit_K]

I can't get over all these developments, this will surely rocket Miami to a more youtful and important American city.

Bravi, well done i must say
Thanks, Hope fully when I go back home for Spring break, I'll take lots of pictures and keep you all updated on new construction in Miami.

[NewYorkYankee]

Oh, so you migrated to Brooklyn from Miami?

[Archit_K]

Oh, so you migrated to Brooklyn from Miami?
Yeaaa, I always wanted to go to school in a big city.

[NewYorkYankee]

Cool, you and I are just alike.

[Archit_K]

About Downtown Miami
Downtown Miami has continued to grow in importance over the past decade as a vital nerve center of international finance, commerce, culture, trade and tourism. Along with its growing global influence have come dramatic changes in downtown Miami's skyline. Sleek and modern towers now rise above Biscayne Bay housing regional and international headquarters of major multi-national corporations. The Brickell Avenue financial district has the largest concentration of international financial institutions in the Southeast. Downtown currently contains over 13 million square feet of office space and 5 million square feet of retail space providing employment to 104, 000 people on a daily basis.

Like the rest of Miami, downtown is very international in flavor with visitors from every place among the globe as part of the city's everyday ambiance. Downtown Miami is only 10 minutes away from Miami International Airport with 140 airlines offering flights to more international capitals than any other airport in America. It also offers convenient access to the Port of Miami, which serves more than 3 million passengers per year and is the number one cruise port in the world.

Homelessness is the biggest issue afflicting the commercial downtown core. There is a large homeless population living in encampments constructed under the expressways' overpass. Efforts are under way by city and county officials to offer assistance to homeless individuals as part of a large relocation plan. Construction of a 350-bed homeless assistance center is scheduled to break ground by year's end.

There are many outstanding attractions and public facilities in Downtown including the Metro Dade Cultural Center, a public complex which includes the Dade County Main Library, the Center for Fine Arts, and the South Florida Historical Museum. The Miami Arena is home to the Miami Heat, NBA basketball team, the NHL Florida Panthers hockey team and the Miami Hooters arena football team. Bayside Marketplace, a retail complex on a 20-acre waterfront parksite has become the number one tourist destination in South Florida. The Omni complex, a multi-use center containing major hotels, a retail shopping center and entertainment and meeting facilities anchors the north end of Downtown. Miami-Dade Community College Downtown Campus, America's highest ranked community college, is located in the heart of the City.

A $248 million expansion of the public transit "Metro mover" system from Brickell to Omni has just been completed now linking all of downtown. A water taxi system with stations along the bay and river has recently been inaugurated. Further tying Downtown with Broward and Palm Beach Counties is the high speed tri-rail system.
http://www.ci.miami.fl.us/nets/old/down.htm

Downtown Miami website: http://www.downtownmiami.com/ or click here http://downtownmiami.photomachine.n...t_albumName=DDA has an interesting slide show of what to come for Downtown Miami.

Miami Downtown Development Authority website: http://www.miamidda.com/index.html

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 1

http://www.miamirealestatetrends.com/Images/StarterImages/Marina_Blue_main.jpg
Marina Blue
800 Biscayne Blvd
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Lofts
Units: 1bdrms & 1.5 bth
Building Height: 5 Floors
Total Units: 24 in each
Floors: 60

Marina Blue A private 2 acre beach club 14 stories above Biscayne Boulevard, overlooking the city and the bay. Infinity edge pool, Lap pool. Sand volleyball court. Sun beach with cabanas, indoor-outdoor party lounge. Two-story glass-wall gym and yoga studie...and much more.

Two renderings on arquitectonica's website: http://www.arquitectonica.com/

[Archit_K]

Building: 1040 Biscayne Blvd. ,Miami, FL.
Client: CORE
Architect: Oppenheim Architecture & Design
Structure Type: 50-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Ten Museum Park will be part of a development project to reshape Downtown Miami. Housing high-end condominiums, the tower is intended to revolutionize the idea of luxury. As only some of its amenities, it will boast a 10,000 sq. ft. restaurant and outdoor cafe, a 3,000 sq. ft. bar, 20,000 sq. ft. of office space with Biscayne Bay views, a sky garden, and 12 rooftop vitality pools for penthouses and tower suites. The structure will have a glass facade, giving it a crystalline look.

Ten Museum Park website: http://www.tenmuseumpark.com/flash/index.html
This might change: 4 images, an anima, VR tour so check it out. ^
Miami project # 2

http://www.miamilodgerealty.com/_Pictures_Properties/Ten-Museum-Park-1-copy.jpg

http://www.miamilodgerealty.com/_Pictures_Properties/Ten_2.jpg

http://www.miamilodgerealty.com/_Pictures_Properties/Ten_3.jpg
Ten Museum Park
1040 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida

Type: Lofts and Condos
Units: Lofts, 1-3 Bdrms & Penthouse
Building Height: 50 Stories

Ten Museum Park will be soaring above Miami's sparkling waters and lush islands, a slender 50-story crystalline tower of dramatic proportion, conceived by international award winning architectural visionary Chad Oppenheim, emerges from the vibrant skyline. 1, 2, 3 bedroom lofts. Tower Suite, and Penthouses with private rooftop vitality pools. Priced from $300,000 to over 4 million.!

At Ten Museum Park, your every whim is fulfilled with white-glove service and endless pampering by the expertly trained Clinique La Prairie staff. Relax in the 25,000 sf sky garden and soothe body and spirit in the signature Clinique La Prairie Spa. Refresh yourself in the 8 pools including infinity edge sunrise and sunset pools, 2 lap pools and 4 unique plunge pools. Unwind and recharge in pavilions dedicated to aromatherapy, chromotherapy, steam, sauna and rainforest showers or reinvigorate with a workout in the spa's fitness center. Streetside, dine in the fine restaurant, indoors or out. Head over to the private bar and lounge for socializing in a sophisticated setting.


BUILDING FEATURES:
A 50 story crystalline structure of dramatic proportion designed by visionary rchitect Chad Oppenheim

-10,000 sf restaurant and outdoor café fronting Biscayne Boulevard
-3,000 sf bar and lounge inspired by Michael Capponi
-20,000 sf of office space with views of Biscayne Bay
-24-hour Valet Parking
-24-hour building security
-Michael Capponi VIP access into popular clubs, nightspots and travel destinations worldwide
-Exclusive Clinique La Prairie white-glove service
-25,000 sf Clinique La Prairie Wellness Center and Pleasure Garden
-Architectural pavilions dedicated to aromatherapy, chromotherapy, massage, meditation, steam, and sauna
-Building situated in the heart of Downtown Miami's Arts and Entertainment District
-Building located 5 minutes from South Beach, Coconut Grove, Miami Design District and Miami International Airportd ceramic tiled floors in all baths.

[Archit_K]

Everglades Hotel Gives Way to 49-Story Condo Complex
By Marita Thomas
Last updated: February 4, 2005 01:46pm

MIAMI-Everglades on the Bay, a two-tower, 49-story, 849-unit residential condominium with 60,000 sf of retail, breaks ground at 244 Biscayne Blvd. next month. The 2.8-acre parcel is the former site of Everglades Hotel, a 72-year-old landmark that was imploded a week ago by 50 pounds of dynamite and 137 pounds of “steel-cutting” charges.

Immediately following the implosion, site owner and condo developer, Aventura-based Cabi Developers, extended rights for disaster training drills to the city’s various fire, police, hazmat and other rescue workers. Jacobo Cababie, principal, declined to disclose an estimated construction cost for the project.

“The revitalization [of] a piece of property that directly faces…Bayside Marketplace, cruise ships at the Port of Miami and Biscayne Bay is long overdue,” he says. With construction of this project, “we can begin to realize the bright future that this neighborhood has been anticipating.”

Residential units will range from 550 sf to 2,100 sf and sell from the mid-$200,000s to just over $1 million. The second- and third-floor units are flats; the fourth- and sixth-floor units are two-story lofts, and one-, two- and three-bedroom units occupy the other floors, topped by penthouses. Phase I is scheduled for completion next year. George Mato of Aventura-based Marka-Tech Associates is the sales director. Andrew Dieringer of Turnberry Associates is leasing agent for the commercial space.

Plans for the contemporary-style limestone and granite towers include an eighth-floor deck containing a pool, lap pool and bar overlooking Biscayne Bay; a 15,000-sf health spa; meeting room; billiard room; and business center. The retail space is accessible via a walkway through the center of the buildings on the ground floor, open to the public. The covered parking garage is hidden, and condo owners have assigned, valet parking. The architect is Coral Gables-based Fullerton Diaz.

Loft units have floor-to-ceiling windows and 18-foot ceilings. Ceilings in the flats are 10 feet high. All units have DSL wireless cable, stainless steel appliances and marble master baths.

Everglades on the Bay breaks ground next month.
Miami project # 3

http://www.miami-realestate.net/images/listing_photos/200_everglades2.jpg
Everglades on the Bay
60 SW 13th St.
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Condos & Lofts
Units: Studios, 1, 2, & 3 bdrms
Building Height: 2 towers 49 stories each
Total Units: 800 +

[Archit_K]

Building: 205 South Biscayne Boulevard ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Related Group
Architect: Arquitectonica
Structure Type: Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Check out the views from One Miami.
http://www.michaelgarlitz.com/one_miami_condo_downtown_miami.htm
Miami project # 4

http://www.condomar.com/images/one-miami.jpg
One Miami
1 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida

Biscayne Bay Meets Miami River

Type: Condos
Units: 1,2,3 bedrooms
Total Units: 896


Building Amenities:
Magnificent landmark waterfront location creating the Gateway to downtown Miami where the Miami Rivermeets Biscayne Bay.

-The residences and party and amenities decks offer spectacular and dramatic views of Biscayne Bay, Port of Miami, Brickell Avenue,Downtown Miami, South Beach and Key Biscayne.
-Direct access from the Miami Riverwalk Promenade to Bayside Marketplace.
-Lush tropical landscaping accentuates the relaxing recreational and lap pools, amenities and party decks.
-Dramatically designed lobby by the internationally award-winning firms of Arquitectonica of Miami and Yabu Pushelberg of New York and Toronto.
-Bayfront Café offering casual indoor and alfresco dining.
-Personal touch services such as concierge, housecleaning, valet as well as on-site dry cleaning pickup and delivery service available.
-Fitness center with the latest in strength and cardio-vascular equipment.
-Assigned parking in the secured garage.
-Twenty-four hour optional valet parking right at your front door.
-Full service business center with high speed data and voice capability.
-Twenty-four hour security and secured gated entry.
Proposed tennis court.
-Multi-function rooms located in each building.

[Kolbster]

that last project... i dunno about

[NewYorkYankee]

Its ugly, the last one.

[Kolbster]

Its ugly, the last one.

Yea, thats what i thought....something not quite right about it

[Kolbster]

Also, all of the architecture looks sortof the same (besides from a few towers). I mean its the same 2 towers from a base type structure

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 5

Neo Vertika
Located on the Miami River
Miami, Florida

Type: Lofts
Units: 1 - 2 bedrooms; 1 - 2 baths
Building Height: 36 Floors
Total Units: 100

Developer: Neo Concepts LLC
Architect: Revuelta Vega Leon
Construction Company: Coastal Construction Group

NeoVertika has taken a unique approach to creat an urban habitat with open living standard that has come to define our time. Neo Vertika is possitoned on the edge of the Miami River's South Bank, in the teeming Brickell Village. Challenging convention and demanding innovative designs and lifestyles choices, NeoVertika is synonymous with a new look for the uranite that emphizes freedom of design and informal, contemporary, open-living, maximizing space and light.

Amenities: Located on the 8th floor is the amenities deck were you are received by a 49,000 square foot oasis featuring a magnificent swimming pool enveloped by lush landscaping, therapeutic waterfall and a double height aperture to the Miami River. Other amenities include, double height professional fitness center with state-of-the art exercise equipment, poolside cabanas, volcanic rock sauna, aromatherapy steamroom, poolside bar, dog park, cigar parlor and library, club room, racquetball court, business center and conference room, 24 hour security, concierge, valet parking, rooftop lounge and riverfront dining.

Units: Throw out the Rulebook, ignore the standards and forget the traditional floor plans. NeoVertika’s Splits has done away with them all. Splits are characterized by two levels of vertical living spaces with 20 foot ceilings, floating staircases, private balconies and floor to ceiling windows that frame captivating views of the Miami River, Biscayne Bay and the City..

Visit Neo Vertika's website: http://www.neovertika.com/

This project broke ground on June 18, 2004. Construction end 2006.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 6

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/643/28miami-blue-01.jpg

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/643/28miami-blue-02.jpg

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/643/28miami-blue-03.jpg

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/643/28miami-blue-04.jpg
Blue
601 NE 36th Street
Miami, Florida

Type: Condos
Units: 1 bdrms & 2 bdrms
Building Height: 35 Floors
Total Units: 330

Blue a 35-story condominium tower overlooking Biscayne Bay and the Miami Design District. The 330 residences range from 1 and 2 bedrooms to custom penthouses. Blue is the next generation in condo living. Blue was founded by two legends of the digital world, Jim Clark, founder of Silicon Graphics and Netscape and Tom Jermoluk. Built by master builder Paul Murphy, Blue is the gateway to Uptown Miami the hottest new area of residential and urban growth in Miami.

The 1-bedroom units will range in size from 830 to 883 square feet. The 2-bedroom units will range in size from 1368 to 2070 square feet. The pre-construction price range for the 1-bedroom unit ranges from $330,000 to $389,000, and the 2-bedroom units range $375,000 to $784,000. Construction has broken ground August 2003 and is scheduled for completion August 2005.

Building Features:
-Private 6th floor piazza overlooking Biscayne Bay and the city, with over one acre of rooftop gardens, fountains outdoor seating.
-Heated swimming pool.
-A 12,000 square foot, 2-story spa/wellness center with a full array of treatments and therapies.
-Outdoor lap pool.
-Cold plunge and thermal pools, all overlooking Biscayne Bay.
-Complimentary membership to the private spa and fitness center.
-A 4,000 square foot retreat off the Sky Deck, with a bar/kitchen, media and entertainment centers.

Residence Amenities:
-European kitchens, finished in fine woods, brilliant lacquers and stainless steel.
-Top-line fixtures, finishes and appliances from brands such as Kohler, Toto, Whirpool and G.E. Profile.
-Granite counters.
-25 cubic foot refrigerator with ice and water in door.
-Stainless steel sink with disposal.
-Bosch full-size stacked washer and dryer.
-Imported Marble floor.
-Kohler designer fixtures.
-Glass shower enclosure.
-9' high ceiling with smooth finish Pre-wired for ceiling fans and light fixtures.
-Pre-wired for Category 5 high-speed data/voice internet Energy-saving.
-High-impact glass floor-to-ceiling windows and doors with blue tint.
-Recessed covered balconies with blue-tinted glass railings.
-Ventilated closet shelving system.
-High-efficiency heating and air-conditioning system.
-Solid core entry door Entry corridor with city and bay views.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 7

Nirvana
680 NE 64 Street
(Miami)

Type: Luxury Condos
Units: 1, 2, 3 and 4 bdrms
Building Height: 6 Floors
Total Units: 33

Nirvana An ideal condition of rest, harmony, tranquility and joy. Perfectly situated in Miami's urban epicenter and overflowing with 15 acres of lush, tropical landscaping,Nirvana embodies the essence of its name. Relax on your own private terrace. Bask in the breathtaking view across Biscayne Bay. Lose yourself in the tantalizing entanglement of banyan trees. Explore the beautiful botanical garden. Submerge your body and soul in one of two resort- style swimming pools. At Nirvana, it's all up to you. Whatever your dreams, whatever your desires, you'll discover the ideal environment to achieve that sense of satisfaction you only imagined before.

Amenities:
-2 new resort- style pools
-2 tennis courts
-24-hour on-site security
-soothing spa
-sauna facilities
-botanical garden
-tropical landscaping
-state-of-the art fitness facility
-bayside beach
-cabana grilling area
-beach volleyball courts and tiki huts.

[Archit_K]

Building: 234 N.E. 3rd Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Related Group
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa
Structure Type: 23-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
The 196-unit Loft I is scheduled for completion in Summer, 2005, and will provide affordable condominium housing to the Downtown Miami area. It will feature expansive high ceilings and amenities such as a plunge pool, a health club, and a sun deck. In addition to residential spaces, the tower will also provide retail spaces on the first floor.
Miami project # 8

http://www.capriengineering.com/images/projects/LoftDowntown.gif
^ This is the old design.
The Loft Downtown 1
201 NE 2nd Avenure
Miami, Florida
TYPE: LOFT

BEDROOMS: 1-2 BDRMS, 1-2 BTHS
BUILDING HEIGHT: 23 Stories
TOTAL UNITS: 196

Construction end: 2006

Building Features:
-Downtown Miami’s landmark loft address
-Contemporary 23-story Tower
-Two-story Lobby
-Only 9 residences per floor
-Zen-like entry leading to the sleek, contemporary lobby and courtyard area featuring a plunge pool with thermal waterfall, Feng Shui seating areas, tea garden and convenient juice bar
-Coy fish pond
-Multifunction club room with state of the art entertainment center and lounge
-Complete fitness center
-Aromatherapy Steam room

Loft Features:
-10’ Ceilings (12’ in PH)
-Pre-wired for high-speed Internet and cable access
-Tinted, energy-efficient and impact resistant sliding glass doors and windows
-Energy efficient AC and heating Systems
-Stained concrete floors
-Kitchen Features:
-Italian designer cabinetry
-Stainless Steel double sink with undermount installation & convenient pull-out spray faucet
-Granite Countertops
-Energy efficient Appliances

[Archit_K]

Building: N.E. 2nd Ave. & N.E. 2nd Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Related Group
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa
Structure Type: 36-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Located in the Downtown Miami area, the site for Loft 2 is intersected by the new Metromover, a transportation system similar to a monorail in function. The interference caused by the Metromover required an innovative solution to design the new 500-unit affordable housing building. Originally, the idea was to build two towers on either side of the Metromover, but the final plan is to allow the transportation system to actually go through the building. From the ground floor to the ninth floor, Loft 2 will have a base of two structures, combining into a single tower from the 10th floor on. This will create a passageway for the Metromover.

This building reminds me of one of those buildings in a science ficition movie.
Miami project # 9

http://www.resionline.com/megatemplate/uploads/preconstruction/7172004818547060.jpg
The Loft Downtown 2
133 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami, Florida

Status: Proposed

A design like this makes me want to smile.

[NewYorkYankee]

It seems to me that the high density of Miami would make for some traffic jams. Typical southern city, people own cars.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 10

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/643/848esb_alone.jpg
Espirito Santo Plaza
1395 Brickell Avenue
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Luxury Condos, Office Space & Retail
Units: Studio, 1, 2, & 3 bdrms
Building Height: 36 Stories
Total Units: 136

Owner/Developer:
Estoril Incorporated

Architect:
Kohn Pedersen Fox
Associates, PC

Espirito Santo Plaza:
Located on a full city block fronting at 1395 Brickell Avenue, in the heart of Miami’s international financial market, EspiritoSantoPlaza’s main tower will occupy a forward position on the site. With its simple, elegant lines and sculptured exterior, the building will welcome visitors with a dramatic 36 story concave figural arch, beautifully symbolizing the gateway to Latin America.

Water in all of its sparkling, cascading forms is an integral part of the aesthetics of the building and the theme of moving water will be experienced at numerous points throughout the complex.

Amenities:
EspiritoSantoPlaza will be a sparkling 36-story glass tower with an attached 12-story parking garage. It will include 300,000 square feet of class "A" office space, a luxury hotel with ballroom and meeting facilities and specialty retail/restaurant space. The top floors of the property will consist of a fully equipped health club and luxury condominium residences overlooking the soaring 11 story atrium.

Building Features:
-EspiritoSantoPlaza will be 36 stories tall, featuring a steel and glass exterior.
-Office space will occupy 300,000 square feet.
-Retail space will encompass 7,500 square feet.
-Restaurant facilities are planned for 15,400 square feet.
-A major, first class hotel will occupy 225,000 square feet and will provide suite management for the 121 luxury condominium residences which will occupy the top ten floors of the building.
-A fitness club below the sky lobby will offer well-equipped exercise rooms. Additional facilities, located atop the building's parking garage, will include a swimming pool, two tennis courts, whirlpool, sundeck and garden.
-A luxurious 11-story Atrium Sky Lobby will afford stunning interior and exterior views for the hotel suites, restaurant, lounge, and condominium residences.
-Valet parking will be availableValet parking will be available for tenants and building patrons in the 980-space garage.
-Public Metromover transportation for Metrorail and the Tri-County rail system is located directly across Brickell Avenue.
-Spectacular panoramic views of the bay and city.

Espirito Santo Plaza's website: http://www.espiritosantoplaza.com/

Finished 2002

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 11

Latitude on the River
7th Street S.W. 2nd Avenue
Miami, Florida

Type: Condos
Units: 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms
Building Height: 44 Stories
Number of Units: 427

Developer: EA Fish Associates
Architect: Arquitectonica
General contractor: Suffolk Construction Co., Inc.
Interior Designer: Nick Luaces Design Associates
Real-Estate Agent: Cervera Real Estate, Inc.

LATITUDE on the River, is located on the exclusize southern side of the historic Miami River, sitting in the very midst of the new Riverfront Promenade and just steps from Miami's world-class dining and entertainment District. Latitude on the River offers a full showcase of luxury amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center and sauna, business center, home theater, and billiard room. Plus, there is a dedicated yoga room and a Tai Chi meditation garden located on the 11th and 12th floors that boast spectacular 360-degree breathtaking Riverfront, Bay and Cityscape views while your fascinating backyard is in constantly, in compelling motion.

Building Amenities:
-Expansive Terraces
-Spacious Walk-In and Linen Closets
-Wall-to-Wall Carpeting and Tiled Floors
-9 Feet Ceilings in Towers and Riverfront Flats with Floor-to-Ceiling Sliding Glass Doors
-12 Feet Ceilings in Penthouses
-High-Speed Internet Access and Cable/Satellite TV Available
-Pre-Wired for Ceiling Electrical Features in Kitchen and Dining Areas
-High Efficiency Air Conditioning System
-Top-of-the-Line Washer and Dryer
-Hurricane Code, Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
-Tinted, Tempered Energy-Efficient Glass

Construction end 2007

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 12

1800 Club
1800 North Bayshore Drive
Miami, Florida.

Type: Lofts & Condos
Units: Stuios, 1, 2 & 3 bdrms
Building Height: 40 Stories
Total Unit: 450
Construction Date: Summer 2004
Completion Date: Summer 2006

Developer: BCOM, Inc.
Architect: Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc.
Real-Estate Agent: Fortune International Realty

1800 Miami
40-story mixed-use development project consisting of 450 residential units, with accessory recreational uses, 36,818 sq. ft. of retail/nonresidential space.
Designed by Bermello Ajamil & Partners, the 1.4-acre complex would have a 9-floor parking garage for 670 cars. The ground floor has room for indoor and outdoor restaurant use and retail. The next two levels would accommodate offices and the 4th floor would have townhome - like units.The remaining floors would be for one- to three-bedroom units

View more renderings here http://www.emporis.com/en/il/pc/?id=136155&aid=8&sro=1

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 13

Uptown Lofts
2275 Biscayne Boulevard.
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Lofts
Units: Studios, 1, 2, & 3 bdrms
Building Height: 12 Floors
Total Units: 65
Square Footages: 775 - 1,965
Construction Date: Spring 2004
Completion Date: Summer 2005

Developer: Cobalt Development
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa & Associates Architects


UPTOWN LOFTS
Are located in near the heard of Miami's Design District. Located on the SE cornwer of NE 23rd Street and Biscayne Boulevard. Each units is comlete with two balconies, spacios layouts, 10 foot high ceilings and much more.

Building Amenities:
-10 foot-high ceilings
-Two balconies,
-Italian cabinetry,
-Security access controls,
-Fitness- center,
-Sauna,
-Party room
-Enclosed Parking
-Pet Friendly

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 14

Star Loft on the Bay
N.E. 25th Street & Biscayne Blvd
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Luxury Lofts
Units: Studio's, 2 bdrms & Penthouses
Building Height: 23 Floors
Total Units: 48
Square footages: 856 sqft - 7,431 sqft
Construction end 2006

Architect: Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design
Architect: Zyscovich, Inc.
General Contractor: Lauris Boulanger, Inc.

STAR LOFTS highlights spectacular bay views and expansive floor plans. In addition to its breathtaking vistas, these cutting-edge, designer-ready lofts offer residences with luxurious designer finishes and state-of-the-art appliances. Only three lofts per typical floor provide a panorama of Miami's Biscayne Bay, its world famous Port, and its magical skyline from every residence.
STAR LOFTSn the Bay offers an array of unique loft options, including Studio residences, two-story Lanais each boasting 18-foot tall Great Rooms, Flow-through, See-through lofts, two Penthouses and a two-story Tower Suite.

Amenities:
-atrium lobby
-infinity-edged pool
-meditation garden
-resident gym
-yoga/chi lounge
-outdoor sunset Jacuzzi
-24-hour manned security
-valet attendant
-full-time maintenance person.
-pet friendly.

Loft Features:
-spectacular views
-expansive floor plans
-cutting-edge
-12 foot ceilings
-designer-ready lofts
-deluxe finishes
-state-of-the-art appliances

[NewYorkYankee]

I love #8!

[Archit_K]

I love #8!
Downtown Miami Project # 8

Check out this Espirito Santo Plaza model from KPF's website http://www.kpf.com/projects.htm

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 15

Quantum on the Bay
1900 North Bayshore Drive
Miami, Florida.

Type: Lofts and Condos
Units: Stuios, 1 bdrms, 2 bdrms, PH
Building Height: 51 Stories

Developer: Terra-Adi International Developments
Architect: Nichols Brosch Sandoval & Associates, Inc.
General Contractor: Facchina-McGaughan LLC
Financing (bank): Corus Bank
Financing (bank): Fremont Investment & Loan

Quantum Soaring 51 stories over the city-lit water of Biscayne Bay...it's Quantum. Designed by the renowned architectural firm of Nichols, Brosch, Sandoval & Associates, Quantum is destined to be the Miami Art Districts most distinctive address.

Residence Features:
-9 ft. Ceilings in tower residences
-10 ft. Ceilings in Penthouses
-Soaring 13 ft. Ceilings in Lofts.
-Floor-to-ceiling windows & sliding glass doors for breathtaking views of the bay.
-Large private balconies.
-Wall-to-wall carpeting.
-Spacious walk-in-closets.
-Stacked washer and dryer.
-Wiring options: fiber optic, high speed internet access, cable TV.
State-of-the-art security system.

Quantum on the Bay North Tower
Floors: 44
Construction end: 2006

Quantum on the Bay South Tower
Floors: 51
Construction end: 2006

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 16

Parc Lofts
35 N.E. 17th Street
Miami, Florida

Type: Lofts
Number of Units: 72
Building Height: 6 Stories

Parc Lofts:
Designed by Bermello Ajamil & Partners this remarkable six-story, 100-foot tall loft building located in the heart of the Performing Arts District. The area will be home to the new Performing Arts center, the new Miami Art Museum, coutless galleries, restuarants and shops... all walking distance from Parc Lofts's front door. Parc Lofts will feature an enclosed oasis, complete with gym, lush tropical garden, large swimming pool and sun deck, and covered, secured parking.

Units: Parc Lofts offers units that range from 700 to over 5,000 square feet that are flexible, owners can choose to buy adjoining units to create a generous, voluminous space. All residences will feature 15 - 20 feet of ceiling heights, spacious walk in closets in larger lofts - pre-wired outlets with multi-line capacity for telephone, fax and internet access, Impact resistant panoramic windows, terraces with aluminum railings, and much, much more...

Unit Amenities:
-Terraces
-Mezzanine Bedrooms with their own bathroom
-Vintage bathrooms
-Kitchen appliances, including custom kitchen cabinets and stainless appliances
-High-tech security and intercom system with cameras
-10-16 feet of impact resistant windows

Status: Approved

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 17

Aria Lofts
90 NE 40 Street
Miami, Florida
(Design District)

Type: Lofts
Units: Studios, 1 bdrms & 2 bdrms
Building Height: 18 Floors
Total Units: 78

Developer: Urbana Development Group
Architect: Chad Oppeneheim
Construction Company: Maleta Construction Co.

ARIA:
Designed as an urban loft condominium and retail development, Aria will rise as the consummate setting for culture, taste and lifestyle. Located in the hippest new urban hotspot in Miami, The Design District is located just minutes from Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, American Airlines Arena, Miami International Airport and the world class Miami Performing Arts Center. This District is staking its claim as the "Square Mile of Style"... the haven for art, fashion, design and culture.

AMENITIES:
-24-hour security/concierge
-Covered secured parking
-10 foot deep outdoor living terraces allowing for entertainment
-Floor to ceiling impact resistant glass
-State of the art European kitchens with stainless steel appliances
-Natural stone showers and baths
-Asian inspired rooftop with fifty foot long swimming pool surrounded by luxurious daybeds with panoramic city and bay views
-Rooftop spa featuring fitness center
-Sauna and steam
-Ground level retail/restaurants.

Units:
This eighteen story tower of minimalistic purity will feature 78 loft condominiums, varying in size from 700 to over 2,000 square feet... ceilings will soar from 10 to 20 feet in height and outdoor living terraces that are 10 feet deep providing spaces that are truly a masterpiece of innovative living.As a resident of Aria you wil be just steps away from the shops, restaurants and cafes of the Design District. Marvel at the floor to ceiling glass in this state of the art masterpiece... a complete vision that allows residents the choice to nest, work or play.

Status: Approved

[Archit_K]

Building: 701 NE 31st Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Sonoma Companies
Architect: Chad Oppenheim & Walter Chatham
Structure Type: 36-Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Ice 1, a post tensioned, 100-unit, concrete condominium tower, will be constructed above multiple levels of parking garage, providing spectacular views over the Biscayne Bay. WSP Cantor Seinuk's role in this project was one of value engineering, resulting in an estimated reduced project cost of $34 million.
^ Ice 1

Building: 630 NE.31st Street ,Miami, FL.
Client: The Sonoma Companies
Architect: Oppenheim Architecture & Design
Structure Type: 53- Story / Concrete Structure
Project Category: Residential

Project Description
Ice 2, a condominium tower consisting of 53 residential, amenity, and parking floors, has an estimated project cost of $70 million. The residential floors are cast in place concrete flat plate construction.

http://www.miamirealestatetrends.com/pages/Ice2.aspx
^ Ice 2

Miami project # 18

ICE's design expresses pure architectural elements -- space, light and volume all dedicated to the pleasure of residents. Crisp modernism delivered with straightforward integrity. Be at one with your surroundings. 100 two-story lofts in a distinctive 36 story tower wrapped by a 4-story ground floor loggia

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 19

Cite on the Bay
2000 North Bayshore Dr
Miami, Florida

Type: Lofts & Condos
Units: Studios, 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom
Building Height: 15 Floors
Total Units: 436

Developer: MCZ Development Corporation
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa & Associates Architects
Atairway Supplier: American Stair Corporation
Financing (bank): Corus Bank

Cite' Condos Cité is cutting-edge form and function that works for how you want to live. Awaken to a breathtaking view of Biscayne Bay or the Miami skyline just outside your window. Go for a swim in the private resort-style heated pool as the city comes to life all around you. A state-of-the-art fitness center is also at your disposal for an invigorating workout. Then dash off to your nearby office or to your favorite corner coffee shop for an impromptu meeting.

AMENITIES:
-Elegant porte-cochere entrance
Exquisitely designed & appointed two-story main lobby
-Club Room overlooking pool with full gourmet kitchen & cafÈ seating, media center & business center
-State-of-the-art fitness center
-Resort swimming pool amidst bricked & landscaped deck
-Secured, covered garage parking
-Valet service, concierge service & 24-hour security
-Video-monitored access entry
-20,000 sq. ft. of on-site ground floor retail

Completed 2004

[Derek2k3]

Some of those projects are really nice.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 20

Brickell on the River
31 SE 5th Street
(Brickell, Miami)

Type: Condos & Lofts
Units: 1 bdrms & 2 bdrms
Building Height: 42 & 46 Floors
Total Units: 324 & 384

Developer: Groupe Pacific
Architect: Cohen, Freedman, Encinosa & Associates Architects
General Contractor: AMEC Construction Management, Inc.
Structural Engineering: The Cantor Seinuk Group Inc.
Real-Estate Agent: Fortune International Realty

Brickell On The River:
Luxury waterfront living has been redefined. For here, at the river's edge, rises an architecturally stunning pair of buildings - Tower One - 42 stories of contemporary design - one and two bedrooms condos - Tower Two - 46 stories of contemporay design - lofts that brilliantly reflects the spirit of Miami city living. It's the luxe life. Set amidst lush tropical landscaping, surrounded by a riverfront promenade, and offering views of river, bay and city that dazzle both day and night. Welcome to Brickell on the River.

Amenities:
A magnificent two-story lobby with soothing water feature; a lushly landscaped pool and sun deck on the 11th floor level overlooking the river; a richly appointed riverfront club room; and a well-equipped business center.
And uniquely yours, a waterfront promenade that meanders along the river - where residents can enjoy a quiet morning walk or jog, watch the sunrise or view the passing boats.

Building Features:
-Spectacular panoramic views of the bay and city.
-Lushy landscaped circular drive with porte cochere.
-Two-story lobby entry with water feature.
-Chic yet elegantly warm lobby.
-Private Club Room open to river promenade.
-Exclusive multi-level health and fitness center overlooking the river.
-Separate sauna, whirlpool, steam, massage, locker and dressing areas for men and women.
-Free weight and circuit training.
-High- tech cardiovascular and aerobics areas.
-Full Service concierge.
-Business Center.

Master Suite:
-Bathrooms with marble floors and countertops.
-Jacuzzi type tubs.
-Glass shower enclosure.
-European-style fixtures and hardware.

Brickell on the River North Tower Construction end 2005

Brickell on the River South Tower Construction end 2006

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/cx/?id=104906

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 21

1390 Brickell Bay
1401 Brickell Ave
Miami, Florida

Type: Condos
Units: Studios, 1 bdrms & 2 bdrms
Building Height: 39 Floors
Total Units: 323

Developer: BBB Group
Architect: Zyscovich, Inc.
Real-Estate Agent: Vistas International Realty, LLC

1390 is a unique and contemporary three-tiered residential tower conveniently situated in the heart of the financial area in Brickell. 39 rising floors, with the recreational areas and two spectacular pools, located on the 14th.floor overlooking the city and the Biscayne Bay.

Building Features & Amenities:
-16' Height clearance lobby
-Recreational deck
-Secure mail /Package reception area
-Award winning architectural designers
-14th Floor Recreational Deck
-13 different unit selections
-Apartment ceilings 9" high
-Italian kitchen cabinery
-Top of the line finishes
-Hi speed internet on each residence
-5 star restaurant
-Modern gym with multiple machines

Construction end 2008

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=176654

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 22

http://newconstruction.cc/Loft_Images/LoftsonBrickell/LoftsonBrickell1.jpg
Lofts on Brickell
1528 Brickell Avenue & 1650 Brickell Avenue
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Lofts
Units: 1bdrms & 1.5 bth
Building Height: 5 Floors
Total Units: 24 in each

The Lofts On Brickell challenges your perception of how you think of a home. Designed to give you what current communities can't; the sense of freedom and free space. Two distinct new developments on Brickell Avenue in the Heart of Miami's Financial District.

Amenities:
-Double heigth 18 feet ceilings
-European Style kitchen cabinets
-Stainless steel appliances
-Washer and Dryer inside units
-Spacious Terraces
-Walk in closet in Master bathroom
-Giant Spa Located on the rooftop
-Meditation Sun Deck

Loft Features:
-18 ft ceilings
-Floor to ceiling Glass Windows
-European Cabinetry
-Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances
-Spacious Terraces
-Washer and Dryer inside the Unit
-Jacuzzi Style Tab in Master Bedroom
-Walk-In Closet in Master Bathroom

[Kolbster]

How do you get word of all these projects!?!?

[Archit_K]

How do you get word of all these projects!?!?
I visit varies sites, especially this one http://www.ci.miami.fl.us/Planning/pages/land_development/LargeScaleDev.asp , this is a site that gives a rundown on every project in Miami. I also go to other forums(but this is like the only organized forum).

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 23

60 SW 13th St.
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Condos
Units: Studios, 1, 2, & 3 bdrms
Building Height: 52 Floors
Total Units: 433

Developer: Colonial Development Group, LLC
Architect: Borges + Associates

INFINITY AT BRICKELL is proud to present the latest concept in urban living… SKY-LOFTS. Sky-lofts, both in one-story “Flats” and two stories “Splits” offer the new freedom of open living in a prestigious and luxurious downtown Miami high rise. SKY-LOFTS are free flowing open space where one room flows from one space to another (or onto exterior balconies) by minimizing constraining hallways and walls, and where the sky and outdoors are visually brought indoors, in every residence, through expansive glass walls. Particularly dramatic are the two story living spaces with double height glass offering twice the drama in the “ Split ” units.

Unit Features:
-Unique contemporary design
-Expansive glass walls with dramatic city views
-Split units have 2-story high living rooms with bedroom(s) on second floor
-Expansive balconies from living room and bedroom
-Lavish master bedroom suite with walk-in closet
-Ten-foot ceilings in most Living Areas
-Sliding glass doors onto balconies and terraces
-Pre-wiring for cable television, telephone and computer networking
-Laundry room featuring Whirlpool washer/dryer

Building Amenities:
-Enclosed and secured garage parking
-Air-conditioned storage lockers
-24-hour access monitoring
-24-hour attended lobby & concierge services
-Closed circuit television surveillance monitored
-Valet parking available
-Rooftop garden and patio overlooking the City (9 th Floor)
-Heated rooftop swimming pool and sun deck overlooking the City and park
-Outdoor heated whirlpool spa
-Poolside lounging and entertainment area
-Penthouse residents to have access to private rooftop (45 th floor) landscaped sundeck, splash pool, whirlpool span and sheltered gazebo for entertaining or relaxation.

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=201022

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 24

Skyline on Brickell
2101 Brickell Avenue
(Miami, Florida)

Type: Condos
Units: 1, 2, & 3 bdrms
Building Height: 38 Floors
Total Units: 360

Developer: Skyline Equities Realty, LLC
Architect: Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc.
General Contractor: Keystone Construction Group
Structural Engineering: Donnell, DuQuesne & Albaisa PA
Structural Engineering: Vital Engineering PA
Civil Engineering: Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc.
Consultancy: Jimenez McDowell Engineering Consultants Inc.
Financing (bank): Union Labor Life Insurance Company

SKYLINE ON BRICKELL features an incandescent, sleek architectural look and feel as created by acclaimed firm, Bermello Ajamil and Partners. Skyline on Brickell offers the prestige and convenience of a Brickell Avenue address - along with the pleasures of a waterfront lifestyle - at a price as stunning as the building itself. It's resort-style living in a uniquely desirable and convenient location.

Amenities:
-Floor to ceiling windows
-Landscaped arrival plaza and Porte Cochere
-Valet parking
-3-story indoor parking garage
-Private marina
-Resort-style swimming pool and spa
-Sand volleyball court
-Lighted tennis court
-24 hour doorman and concierge services
-Dry cleaner valet
-State-of-the-art fitness center
-5 x 7 storage units
-Four high-speed elevators

Unit Features:
-Wall-to-Wall carpeting in living/dining and bedrooms
-Large walk-in closets
-Large private terraces with glass railings
-Floor-to-ceiling windows
-Wired for high-speed internet access
-65 channel satellite television package
-Enviable city and bay views

Emporis:More cool looking renderings here
http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=136154

Completed 2004

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 21 http://www.1390brickellbay.com/
http://img94.exs.cx/img94/4816/1390brickell1fo.jpg

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 25

Architect: Louis Revuelta: Revuelta Vega Leon P. A.

THE IVY is unique – a multi- layered world of its own, centered within the larger world of an exciting tropical metropolis – the city of Miami. There has never before been anything like THE IVY.,,a gated residential oasis that is a private, lushly landscaped park at the edge of the Miami River. The residences of THE IVY present a rare opportunity… an opulent lifestyle in the midst of a vibrant, cutting-edge urban scene. THE IVY is destined to become the newest buss, the most talked about architectural masterpiece in Miami.

Official website: http://www.theivymiami.com/

[Archit_K]

^ The Ivy at Riverfront Miami project # 25

http://www.miamirealestatetrends.com/Images/StarterImages/TheIVYMainPic.jpg

The Ivy at Riverfront will be a gated community in downtown Miami on the Miami River. The entire project will consist of three towers with panoramic views of the city and of Brickell including the Biscayne Bay. This community will be family oriented with all the amenities of a luxurious residence. Building amenities include: pool, Jacuzzi, party room, concierge service, valet services, security guard service. There are also plans to construct a 300 boat dry-dock marina by the river (pending approval).
The first tower has 43 stories with a total of 450 units in the building; 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units ranging from $200,000 to $800,000. Construction is set to begin in January-March 2005 and last approximately 20 months. The construction of other towers will follow soon after.
Penthouses will be designed for Sky Lofts with 12 foot ceilings. Prices: $500 per square foot. Eight stories of Parking Garage. Livable area will start on the 10th floor.
Architect, Luis Revuelta, famous for quality and luxurious buildings such as the Jade, Il Villagio (South Beach), Santa Maria (Brickell Avenue), the Bristol Tower (Brickell Avenue), among many others locally and worldwide, will bring The Ivy at Riverfront. Part of a 13.5 acre village on the Miami River featuring gated entry, plush landscaping, gardens, fountains, tennis courts, recreation centers, coffee shops, restaurants, State of the Art daycare, and much more.
http://www.resionline.com/megatemplate/userpreconstructiondetails.asp?id=3080401&propertyID=3537

[Archit_K]

Building: Miami, FL.
Client: Dade County, Miami
Architect: Cesar Pelli & Associates
Structure Type: 2 to 3-story / Steel & Concrete Structure
Project Category: Art and Entertainment

Project Description
The new Miami Performing Arts Center is composed of two major structures; a 200,000 SF concert hall and a 350,000 SF ballet opera house. The concert hall is structured out of steel framing supporting concrete on metal deck and steel framing supporting formed concrete at the balcony tiered seating areas. The ballet opera house building will house the new theater and support spaces. In addition to the main performance area, this building houses a rehearsal area, banquets room and a studio theater. The structure is steel framed supporting concrete on metal deck. The balcony areas are also steel framed and support formed concrete seating risers. Long span steel trusses span the theater and support the attic and roof levels.

Miami Today News
http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/020912/story2.shtml
Miami's performing arts center struggles to meet construction schedule

By Frank Norton
With foundations nearly laid, about 120 workers are set to begin the 11-month phase of pushing up steel beams to support the roofs and walls and the complex electrical circuitry needed to power Miami's performing arts center.

Turret-like elevator towers already mark the perimeter of the planned Sanford & Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House, rising west of Biscayne Boulevard between 13th and 14th streets.

"We're moving aggressively to stick to schedule," said Gail Thompson, project director. "We've had the rainiest spring and summer ever."

The center's three-year building phase, which began in October 2001, is scheduled for completion Oct. 15, 2004, though final completion will depend on a number of variables, such as weather and the timeliness of steel beam shipments now predicted to be arriving two to three weeks late, Ms. Thompson said last week.

Although the steel shipments previously expected Sept. 16 would probably be delayed about two weeks, Ms. Thompson said, it will not affect the completion date.

"I was shocked and appalled to hear the Sun-Sentinel report on NPR (National Public Radio) this morning that we could see much longer delays," she said, denying earlier rumors that late shipments could push back completion by six months or a year.

"We are slightly behind schedule but have acceleration plans in place. You might see we are working weekends and late nights now," she said.

The $370 million performing arts center project is considered the largest public-private partnership ever undertaken by Miami-Dade County, with building costs totaling $255 million. Barring incessant rains or a major unforeseen force, money is the only other factor that could significantly delay the center's opening.

"Let's face it, this is a tough economic climate," said Nancy Herstand, executive director of the Performing Arts Center Foundation, the fund-raising arm created to attract private sector money to help get the center up and running. "Everybody becomes more selective in what they do during a downturn and that raises the challenge for us."

The Ziffs are making installment payments on a $10 million pledge that entails putting their name on the opera hall, Ms. Herstand said. It will be the western building of the complex planned to be home for five local arts organizations.

Although revenues from Miami-Dade County's convention development tax on tourist spending are financing the bulk of the project, private-sector donations remains crucial to its completion.

Ms. Herstand said she is confident the foundation will meet its $80 million campaign goal toward the end of the project, still about three years off. The group has raised about $50 million but has taken 10 years and about $10 million in campaign operating costs to do it.

The fund-raising goal includes a $21 million endowment that must be in place by the time the arts center opens. Interest from that fund is expected to accrue $800,000 to $1 million each year and is to be used to help fund the center's operating losses.

Of the foundation's $80 million campaign, $42.2 million is earmarked for building costs, payable directly to the county when the center opens, and $21 million will go to the creation of the operating endowment fund. More than $10 million in campaign operating expenses and about $5 million to help set up the Performing Arts Center Trust administration that will run the center make up the balance of the total private sector fundraising commitment.

This last three-year leg of the private funding campaign is expected to be the most difficult due to national and local economic woes and the fact that some of the biggest donors have already been tapped.

"Is it more difficult, yes, but we are optimistic that we'll meet our goals," said foundation Chairman Sherwood Weiser. "There's no question the market has affected some gifts. But the people we're talking to still recognize the importance of the project."

Ms. Herstand and others said that while business has slowed, there have been no withdrawals of pledges due to this year's stock market plunges. In fact, she said, the percentage of gifts coming through stock equities is small.

Even counting donations from individuals, she said, there have been no losses.

"That says a great deal to me about the people behind this project really wanting to see it come through. It also reflects the depth of donors' pockets, since their wealth to some degree insulates them from shocks in the economy. We're fortunate this is not a grassroots campaign because that's where you would feel it the most."

Mr. Weiser said summer fundraising in Miami is especially difficult since many potential donors spend the season north or abroad.

With about three years and $30 million to go, the foundation has turned to state and federal governments for help.

"We are looking for appropriations from the federal budget for the coming year" - October to September - and that's not without precedent in terms of other performing arts centers," said Michael Hardy, president & CEO of the Performing Arts Center Trust.

Rep. Carrie Meek together with Sen. Bob Graham and Sen. Bill Nelson are spearheading an effort to raise $2 million in federal appropriations for the rehabilitation of an Art Deco tower that is planned in front of the opera house. There are 13 such requests nationwide likely to be decided just after the start of the fiscal year in October.

A spokesperson for Rep. Meek called the project a "huge economic development engine for downtown Miami, just like the air and seaports," adding that performing arts centers spin-off production and performance studios, shops and restaurants.

Officials would not comment on the status of the request but Sen. Graham's press secretary Jill Greenberg said "it is early in the appropriations process, but the senator sees the performing arts center as the cornerstone of redevelopment downtown. He is committed to a long-term effort to secure funding" for the project.

In terms of state funds, trust and foundation executives are pushing for Regional Cultural Facilities Act dollars, which could finance programming at the center up to a maximum of $2.5 million a year for up to four years.

Mr. Hardy said planners would seek appropriations in the spring budget.

The center was designed by Cesar Pelli and is being built by Performing Arts Center Builders, a partnership of Odebrecht Construction, the Haskell Company and Ellis Don Corp. It will include the 2,480-seat Ziff Opera House, a 2,200-seat Carnival Symphony Hall, a 200-seat flexible space studio theater, a 57,000-square-foot central plaza with outdoor performance space, an Art Deco tower and a restaurant.

Miami's peforming arts center related sites
http://www.fda-online.com/projects/miami.html
http://www.pacfmiami.org/ This website might have changed.
Miami project # 26

http://www.ellisdon.com/ed/markets/institutional/theatres/pacmo/pacmo.jpg

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 27

http://www.resionline.com/megatemplate/uploads/preconstruction/7172004543022017.jpg
Opera Tower
1756 North Bayshore Drive
Miami, Florida

Developer: Florida East Coast Realty
Architect: The Corradino Group Architects
General Contractor: Beauchamp Construction Company

- Phase II of the Miramar Centre will be the tallest rental apartment building in the city of Miami.
- In addition to 635 apartment units, Miramar Centre - Phase II will include approximately 10,000 square feet of ground floor restaurant and retail space

Construction end 2006

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=101587

[Archit_K]

Click here http://www.operatower.com/. Opera Tower, is adjacent to the Performing Arts Center.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 9 A model of Loft 2.

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/40730024.jpg
And
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/40730033.jpg

[Roark]

What surprises me about Miami is that it has a smallish population (around 380,000) for a city with such a huge concentration of tall buildings. Anyone care to explain why?The City of Miami is quite small. The City of Miami Beach is #2 in density to NYC. MB is a 7 square mile island with 90,000 residents (and who knows how many second and third homes/condos). Hialeah is the second largest city in Miami-Dade county is famous/infamous for having a "second economy" or many 3 generation families in one home...many undocumented by the census, but with incredible amounts of purchasing power. Businesses and cash are passing from generation to generation witout the pesky hassel of taxes.

[Archit_K]

Hey Roark, I’m surprised to see you here. Welcome.

[Roark]

Everglades Hotel Gives Way to 49-Story Condo Complex

MIAMI-Everglades on the Bay, a two-tower, 49-story, 849-unit residential condominium with 60,000 sf of retail, breaks ground at 244 Biscayne Blvd. next month. The 2.8-acre parcel is the former site of Everglades Hotel, a 72-year-old landmark that was imploded a week ago by 50 pounds of dynamite and 137 pounds of “steel-cutting” charges

Thought that you all might find this interesting
Everglades Demolition (http://www.restainer.com/skyscrapers/1-23-05_EvergladesDemo.AVI)
If you look closely to the building with the curtain glass on the left of the picture, you can see the Everglades falling from the South clockwise. That same reflecting building is the site of the Everglades sales center. Ironically, the sales center is on the top floor of that building, and it experienced broken glass from debris from the old Everglades!

[Roark]

Hey Roark, I’m surprised to see you here. Welcome.Thanks for the welcome. You run a very nice ship!

[Archit_K]

Thanks for the welcome. You run a very nice ship!
As in thread or forum? Moderators of this forum(WYN) is Edward, Stern and Kris.

[NoyokA]

Project #11 looks like Gehry’s very first incarnation for the Disney Concert Hall if anyone’s aware of that buildings design.

[Archit_K]

^ Oh, I'm not aware of the first design. Frank Gehry had so many preliminary designs, that I had lost track of all of them.

[Archit_K]

Here's the updated projects list from the March report.

Project, Height, Number of Stories

800 footers-3
Met3-866
SMA-1 805 64
SMA-2 805 64

700 footers-5
Paramount Park 754 70
Lynx-1 746 76
Lynx-2 746 76
900 biscayne 740 63
Infinity2 736 65

600 footers-13
The Marquis 679 63
330 Biscayne 659 56
One Brickell Plaza 650 57
Opus-2 650 67 stories
600 Biscayne Bay 649 62
River Front West 630 55
Platinum on the Bay 625 51
Opus 620 57
Marinablue 615 57
Dupont Towers 609 60
Infinity 604 52
River Front East 602 54
Cardinal Symphony 600 60

500 footers-18
Plaza on Brickell 585 56
Premiere Tower-1 579 52
Premiere Tower-2 579 52
Villa Magna1 574 52
Villa Magna2 574 52
Paramount Bay 562 47
50 Biscayne 554 55
Met2 550 53
Ice2 545 54
Everglades on the Bay-1 538 49
Everglades on the Bay-2 538 49
Quantum 536 48
Onyx2 536 50 stories
Island Gardens 535 48
Opera Tower 530 56
Ten Museum Park 528 48
Soleil 514 43
Park Place2 511 32

400 footers-22
Avenue1 495 46
Asia 483 36
One Miami 480 45
1390 Brickell 478 47
Latitude on the River 476 42
Plaza on Brickell 475 46
One Miami 459 44
Portico 459 42
The Pointe at Brickell 442 42
Park Place 440 43
Met1 440 40
The Loft2 433 35
Blue 426 36
500 Brickell-1 423 42
500 Brickell-2 423 42
1800 club 423 40
Brickell on the River north 423 42
Park Lane Tower 422 33
Axis-1 418 37
Axis-2 406 36
River House Lofts 405 29
Avenue2 400 35

300 footers-9
Beacon at Brickell 396 36
Mercy Hospital mixed use 389 33
Miami Rivertown 380 35
NeoVertika 369 35
Commodore Bay II 360 34
Miami Parking Garage (mixed use) 357 33
Lyghte 357 32
Midtown Miami-4 350 31
Midtown Miami-3 309 29

http://www.ci.miami.fl.us/Planning/pages/land_development/LargeScaleDev.asp

[Archit_K]

This might be the final design. I' am some what disappointed.

Overview
Type: Mixed -used development
Location: Downtown Miami
Prices: From mid $200,000s

www.metropolitanmiami.com

Standing 74 Stores over downtown Miami, Met 3 is bringing a new dimension to Metropolitan Miami's visionary urban lifestyle, says a company executive. Soon to be the tallest residential tower south of Manhattan, Met 3 will feature unsurpassed water and city views, inviting contemporary residences and a complete complement of 24/7 amenitites.

"Met 3 is the next step forward in the creation of a vibrant downtown Miami lifestyle, where work, entertainment and shopping are just a few steps from home, "says Time Weller, vice president of Development, MDM Development Group. With its open piazzas, tree-lined walkways and loggias, upscale restaurants, shops and unique lifestyle/entertainment center, Metropolitan Miami will be the epicenter of downtown activity -day and night.

Sales of the 650 units at Met 3 are now underway, following the remarkable success of Met 1, the development's first residential tower, which is now approximatley 90 percent sold.

Met 3 will be built on the site of Henry Flagler's turn-of-the-century resot, the Royal Palm Hotel. To celebrate Met 3's launch, along with the ground-breaking of the project's first tower Met 1. Metropolitan Miami will host a March festivity in conjunction with the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. "Last Tea at the Royal Palm," with live entertainment, costumes and food and drink from the era.

Coral Gables-based Nichols, Brosch, Wurst, Wolf & Associates has designed Met 3 with a distinctive flair that reflects downtown Miami's global appeal, and emphazies the tower's spectacular views. For instance, Met 3 features "sky lofts" with double-height ceilings, between the 58th and 65th floors, along with spacious penthouses starting on the 66th floor.
Miami project # 28

Met 1, 2, and 3
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/40898167.jpg
^ An old rendering.
Map
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/40898137.jpg

Building Features:
-designed by the renowned architectural firm of Nichols, Brosch, Sandoval and associates
-interiors designed by RTKL
-impressive classical modern 40-story building
l-ocated in the heart of downtown miami with magnificent Biscayne Bay, Miami River and city views
-spectacular spacious lobby with dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows approximately 20 feet high overlooking the bay
-spacious floor plans with one, two and three bedroom units; units consist of loft, tower and penthouse residences
-private high-speed elevators with limited key access
-direct access to the new riverwalk
-private lounge areas in lobby
-private roof terrace with breathtaking bay and city views

Residence Amenities:
-private terraces
-move-in ready with attractive flooring in all areas
-professionally engineered soundproof floors
-ceiling heights of 19'4" in the lofts, 9'4" in the tower units and 11'4" in the penthouse units
-pre-wired for ceiling electrical fixtures in all bedrooms, dining, and breakfast areas
-ventilated closet shelving
-marble windowsills
-high efficiency air conditioning system
-top-of-the-line stackable, large capacity washer & dryer
-impact resistant windows and sliding glass doors designed to meet hurricane -codes tinted, tempered glass for energy efficiency
-spacious walk-in closets
-linen closets

http://img13.exs.cx/img13/5200/met353lw.jpg
^ New design.
And here's another with a little blurb that specifically mentions the height as being 866ft.
http://img13.exs.cx/img13/6950/met362xa.jpg

[Archit_K]

^ Miami Project # 28

Met Square
http://www.hicorpusa.com/TIGrealty/DTMiami/DwtnResources/Met1-104.gif

MET SQUARE:
A Gorgeous four-story atrium style entertainment, lifestyle complex which will include a movie theater, exciting roster of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues all surrounding playful, colorful architectural design.

Your surroundings will bring to mind the culture and energy of New York Times square district and provide Downtown Miami with a long-awaited much desired social and lifestyle destination!

[Archit_K]

The Met 3 looks pretty large...any info on floor counts and height?
866ft, I just hope this doesn't change again.

[Archit_K]

Four Seasons Hotel and Tower
1441 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL

Facts:
-The Four Seasons is the tallest building in Florida.
- In addition to guest rooms for the Four Seasons Hotel, the building also contains 184 condominiums and 84 condo/hotel units.
- The building includes 200,000 ft² of office space and a 45,000 ft² fitness and spa facility.
- Occupancy of the residences began in August 2003 and the hotel held its grand opening October 1, 2003.
- Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc. is the Architect of Record.

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=100767

http://www.millenniumptrs.com/miami/images/pic_miami_splash.jpg
^ 789ft
Four Seasons Hotel and Tower, is currently the tallest skyscraper in Miami.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 29

http://www.markzilbert.com/images/condo_pix/50_biscayne/photo.jpg
50 Biscayne
50 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida

Developer: The Related Group
Architect: Sieger Suarez

What makes 50 Biscayne so unique:
-Design by award winning architectural firm Sieger Suarez (incorporating a design by Burle Marx, known internationally as the most important landscape architect). Magnificent 3-Story lobby created by the world renowned Rockwell Group www.rockellgroup.com
-European Kitchen and Bath finishes by Dellacasa. www.dellacasa.info
-Floors 1-3: Residential lobby and 15,000 square feet retail space *Dean and Deluca
-Floors 38-41: Eastern Biscayne Bay exposed Glass Enclosed Townhouses
-Floors 4-10: Boutique Hotel and/or Studio Units

Building Levels:
Floors 1-3 Retail Space and Resident Lobby
Floors 4-10 Boutique Hotel and/or Studio Units
Floors 10-13 Amenities Floor, Pool Deck, Fitness Center, Health Club, Spa
Floors 14-37 & 42-54 Residential Units (see floorplans below)
Floors 38-41 (Glassed Area in the Middle) Glass Enclosed Townhouses - These have not yet been released
Floors 53-54 Penthouses

- 50 Biscayne Boulevard was originally planned as the Columbus Office Tower, a 38-story, 578-foot, 691,593 sq ft office building with retail and parking space.

Construction suppose to end in 2007

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=204607

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 30

Opus Towers
1237 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL
^ address of tower 1

Architect: Arquitectonica

20' 8" Loft residences strategically placed throughout the building. Beautiful views
combining Miami City's skyline and Biscayne Bay!

Interiors:
-Miele and Sub-Zero Appliances
-Neff Cabinetry Visit www.neffkitchens.com
-Limestone Baths
-Wood slider doors to enter into rooms
-Air conditioned storage
-Amenities Level 13th floor
-Wine cellar
-Anti-aging Spa managed by Bill Holdenfeld
-full service Gym
-Infinity edge pool facing Southeast towards downtown, Biscayne Bay, and Cruse-ship alley

http://www.tigrealty.com/Opus/

Opus Tower 1: 620ft 57 stories Status: Proposed

Opus Tower 2: 650 67 stories Status: None (couldn't find any images)

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=206383

These images at the bottom is of tower 1.

[londonlawyer]

I was in Miami this weekend and was amazed by the amount of construction. The total number of buildings under construction is nowhere near what is currently being built in Manhattan; however, the percentage of construction sites relative to the city is probably greater in Miami than anywhere else in the US. There are cranes everywhere in the downtown area. It's amazing! It's like a Chinese boom town.

The downside is that, from the renderings I've seen, most (but not all) of the buildings are quite bland. One of the exceptions, however, is the new Espirito tower, which is absolutely beautiful! The interesting thing is that the Espirito tower appears to be the only office building that was constructed there in recent years. Everything else appears to be residential. Moreover, as a New Yorker, the prices are very reasonable.

Anyway, Miami is extraordinary. It's one of the few American cities in which I'd have any interest in living.

[Archit_K]

^ I agree lots of construction.

[Archit_K]

Downtown skyline March 24th 2005
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298004.jpg

If you look closely One Miami (Miami project # 4) is topped out.
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298021.jpg

Performing Arts Center (Miami project # 26)
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298023.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298023.jpg

American Airlines Arena
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298064.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298064.jpg

Everglades on the Bay (Miami project # 3)
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298058.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298056.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298061.jpg

I saw at least 30 Ads advertising future buildings in Miami.
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298063.jpg

Miami's Freedom Tower
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298069.jpg

Wow, this was a great find walking. 900 Biscayne Sales Center.http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298073.jpg

or maybe it was 31 Ads lol
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298128.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298077.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298150.jpg

Model of 900 Biscayne
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298153.jpg

Marina Blue (Miami project # 1)
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298097.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298118.jpg

In between Marina Blue and Ten Museum Park is 900 Biscayne 740 ft. 63 stories Biscayne (Underconstruction just a foundation)

Ten Museum Park (Miami project # 2)
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298054.jpg

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 31
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41299939.jpg
^Rendering.

900 Biscayne Bay
900 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida
740 ft. 63 stories

Developer: Terra-Adi International Developments
Architect: Revuelta Vega Leon

900 Biscayne Bay condominiums is designed by well renowned architect Luis Revuelta.

The 60 story concept takes full advantage of the location with its amazing views of Biscayne Bay and Downtown Miami Skyline.

[/b]Among the most interesting amenities[/b]:
-60 stories
-Residences starting on the 14th Floor
-10 ft. ceilings throughout
-floor to ceiling glass
-9ft. wide glass balconies
-Private elevators
-Top of the line appliances and finishes
-AWARD WINNING multi-level lagoon Pools
-2 first class restaurants and retail space on site

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41299941.jpg
^ Location and close up of the rendering.

^ Model of 900 Biscayne Bay is up above.

Completion end in 2007.

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=207628
Official website: http://www.900biscaynebay.com/

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 32

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41300910.jpg
Mondrian Condominium
317 NE 24th Street
Miami, Florida
199 ft. 17 stories

Developer: H&H Development Co.
Architect: Fullerton-Diaz Architects, Inc.
Real-Estate Agent: Cervera Real Estate, Inc.

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=220647

Official website: http://mondrianmiami.com/

Status: approved

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 33

Marquis
1100 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida
679 ft. 63 stories

Developer: Leviev and Boymelgreen Developers [Africa Israel Investments Ltd., Boymelgreen Developers, LLC]
Architect: Arquitectonica

Marquis Miami
Marquis, a 65 story luxury residential condo tower and boutique hotel overlooking Biscayne Bay is set to become the crown jewel of Downtown Miami. With dazzling ocean and city views, Marquis will bring a luxurious new lifestyle to Miami’s cultural epicenter.

Marquis Miami Preconstruction Condo Features and Amenities
This 306-Unit luxury real estate condo and 56-room luxury preconstruction boutique hotel will feature an infinity-edge pool, 8,000 sq. foot world class spa, fine dining restaurant , street front retail shops, ample parking and a long list of luxury services such as room services, valet parking, concierge services and housekeeping.

Marquis Miami Location
Marquis is ideally situated at 1100 Biscayne Blvd. , at the crossroads of Downtown Miami and Miami Beach, just one block from the new Performing Arts Center. It is within minutes of countless world class shopping destinations, restaurants, various museums and recreational facilities

Marquis Miami Prices and Size
Prices will rnage from the $600,000s to over $7million. The residences at Marquis will range in size from 1,600 square feet for one-berooms to, one and a half bath unit, to 7,500 square feet, for a spectacular penthouse. The building's typical floor plans feature one, two, and three bedroom units, many with a den. In addition to the tower residences, Marquis also offers a seies of Sky Townhomes set twelve stories about Biscayne Boulevard.

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=226421

Arquitectonica: www.arquitectonica.com

Official website: not yet available.

Approved but first this building has to go.
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298044.jpg

March 24th 2005
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41298052.jpg

[Archit_K]

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41302441.jpg

Miami Freedom Tower is the 19 story Mediterranean style building in downtown.

The large number of Cuban exiles : about 450,000 people were processed registration from 1962 to 1974 at U.S. CUBAN REFUGEE CENTER in Miami Freedom Tower.

For Cuban community in Miami, Freedom Tower is a great symbol of their history.

[Alex_F]

There was an ad in today's Miami Herald for the proposed new Related Companies development on Brickell Avenue, one that will require the demolition of the existing Sheraton hotel there. The ad, and the website it mentions, iconbrickell.com, show a rather unclear and sort of ghostly drawing of three towers that are planned for the site, and each looks easily to be in the 700' range. The website is just a teaser right now, with no details. Would like to know the projected heights of these latest skyline changers for Miami.

[Archit_K]

^ www.iconbrickell.com

[Archit_K]

There was an ad in today's Miami Herald for the proposed new Related Companies development on Brickell Avenue, one that will require the demolition of the existing Sheraton hotel there. The ad, and the website it mentions, iconbrickell.com, show a rather unclear and sort of ghostly drawing of three towers that are planned for the site, and each looks easily to be in the 700' range. The website is just a teaser right now, with no details. Would like to know the projected heights of these latest skyline changers for Miami.
Everyone, This Icon Brickell tower project is a GO!!!, It is in Sunday, Miami herald, April 10, its on the back page of A, 32 A, its the whole page, all 3 towers for sale, lol. www.iconbrickell.com Yes, this will change Miami's skyline alot more than I ever imagine,
P.S. everyone, this is so cool and you know Jorge Perez will build all 3 towers probably faster than Met 3, and in the website shows his 500 brickell directly accross the street. wow, this is great !!!

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 34

Click here for details: http://iconbrickellcondos.com/

[Archit_K]

The new Lynx project in downtown Miami. Still in the approval stage, but I see no reason why they shouldn't get it.

http://img97.exs.cx/img97/9933/10072fh.jpg

http://img97.exs.cx/img97/5720/10086uk.jpg

http://img200.exs.cx/img200/1238/10057sd.jpg

http://img97.exs.cx/img97/1290/10060sa.jpg
^ beachhouse
www.beachhousemiami.com

[Archit_K]

^ Lynx is showing up in the Miami city diagram now...it looks so appropriate at that height. *crosses fingers*

http://www.skyscraperpage.com/diagrams/?c134

[Archit_K]

City of Miami
Planning Advisory Board Agenda
April 20, 2005
CITY OF MIAMI y PLANNING DEPARTMENT
444 SW 2ND AVENUE, 3RD FLOOR y MIAMI, FLORIDA, 33130 PHONE (305) 416-1400
Printed on 4/8/2005 Page 3 of 3



1. Consideration of a Major Use Special Permit for the Paramount Park project, located at approximately 728 Biscayne Boulevard and 225 NE 7 Street. (Downtown NET District) No.: 2005-033 Applicant: Adrienne F. Pardo, on behalf of Panelinios, Limited. Consideration of a Resolution approving with conditions a Major Use Special Permitpursuant to Articles 5, 13 and 17 of Zoning Ordinance No. 11000, as amended, the Paramount Park project (MU-2005-007), located at approximately 728 Biscayne Boulevard and 225 NE 7 Street, Miami, Florida, to construct a 756-foot, 68-story high mixed use structure to be comprised of approximately 467 total multifamily residential unitswith recreational amenities; approximately 120 hotel rooms; approximately 12,947 square feet of retail space; and approximately 818 total parking spaces; providing for certain floor area ratio (“FAR”) bonuses.



2. Consideration of a Major Use Special Permit for the Park Lane Tower project, located at approximately 345 NE 32 Street. (Wynwood/Edgewater NET District) No.: 2005-034 Applicant: Adrienne F. Pardo, on behalf of Park Lane Towers, LLC. Consideration of a Resolution approving with conditions a Major Use Special Permit pursuant to Articles 5, 9, 13 and 17 of Zoning Ordinance No. 11000, as amended, the Park Lane Tower project (MU-2005-009), located at approximately 345 NE 32 Street, Miami, Florida, to construct a 437-foot, 22-story high mixed use structure to be comprised of approximately 143 total multifamily residential units with recreational amenities; approximately 19,839 sq. ft. of office space; approximately 16,310 square feet of retail and restaurant space; and approximately 371 total parking spaces; providing for certain floor area ratio (“FAR”) bonuses.



3. Consideration of a Major Use Special Permit for the Bayview Market project, located at approximately NE 17 Street and NE 2 Avenue; 51 NE 17 Terrace; 59 NE 17 Terrace; 65 NE 17 Terrace; 67 NE 17 Terrace; 69 NE 17 Terrace; 75 NE 17 Terrace; and 79 NE 17 Terrace. (Wynwood/Edgewater NET District) No.: 2005-035 Applicant: Lucia A. Dougherty, on behalf of BDB Miami, LLC, owner/contract purchaser, F & C Kochen LLC, and Sylvia Whyte Mfg. Co., and Abacus Advisory & Consulting Corp. Consideration of a Resolution approving with conditions a Major Use Special Permitpursuant to Articles 13 and 17 of Zoning Ordinance No. 11000, as amended, the Bayview Market project (MU-2005-003), located at approximately NE 17 Street and NE 2 Avenue;51 NE 17 Terrace; 59 NE 17 Terrace; 65 NE 17 Terrace; 67 NE 17 Terrace; 69 NE 17 Terrace; 75 NE 17 Terrace; and 79 NE 17 Terrace., Miami, Florida, to construct a 160-foot, four story high mixed use structure to be comprised of approximately 653,659 square feet of retail space (14,325 sq. ft. of which is street side); approximately 24 total loft residentialunits; and approximately 2,360 total parking spaces.



4. Consideration of a Major Use Special Permit for the Lynx Downtown project, located at approximately 16 SE 2 Street; 60 SE 2 Street; 41 SE 3 Street; and 61 SE 3 Street. (Downtown NET District) No.: 2005-036 Applicant: Lucia A. Dougherty, on behalf of Downtown Associates, LLC, contract purchaser and 1225 SW 8 Street Property, owner. Consideration of a Resolution approving with conditions a Major Use Special Permit pursuant to Articles 13 and 17 of Zoning Ordinance No. 11000, as amended, the Lynx Downtown project (MU-2005-008), located at approximately 16 SE 2 Street; 60 SE 2 Street; 41 SE 3 Street; and 61 SE 3 Street, Miami, Florida, to construct a mixed use six building cluster development to be comprised of approximately 430 total multifamily residential units; approximately 91 live/work units; approximately 207 condominium/hotel units; approximately 194 hotel rooms; approximately 147,696 square feet of office space; approximately 50,357 square feet of retail and restaurant space; a 291-foot high vertical sports club of approximately 111,041 square feet; and approximately 1,459 total parking spaces.



5. Consideration of amending Ordinance 10544, as amended, the Miami Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan, in order to amend the Future Land Use Element/Map by amending the text to incorporate language regarding the designation of an Urban Central Business District.No.: 2005-037 Applicant: City of Miami Planning Department onsideration of amending Ordinance 10544, as amended, the Miami ComprehensiveNeighborhood Plan, in order to amend the Future Land Use Element/Map by amending thetext to incorporate language regarding the designation of an Urban Central Business District within the City of Miami pursuant to Section 380.06(2)(e), Florida Statutes, setting forth the boundaries of the Urban Central Business District; establishing guidelines and standards which shall be applicable to developments within the Urban Central Business District; providing for transmission to the Department of Community Affairs; providing forconflicts, severability, codification and an effective date.

[Kolbster]

Hmm, this 756 tower, who knows, maybe a 1000 footer is next, and maybe then after that a worlds tallest perhaps? hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

[Archit_K]

Hmm, this 756 tower, who knows, maybe a 1000 footer is next, and maybe then after that a worlds tallest perhaps? hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Rumor has it that there will be a mixed use office/residential that will surpass 1000K ft.

The site is on 3rd and Biscayne, currently there is a hotel on that site but it will be demolished and the site will be redeveloped as a one tower complex wiht commerical office space.

Renderings are coming soon.

[cryptobionic]

Archit_K, I can't thank you enough for all the info, images and upates on Miami and her surroundings! I love this great city; where you can experience a taste of each every blessed county in the entire Western hemisphere. It's great to know that the traditionally linear skyline of Miami is gaining some depth. Last weekend I was overjoyed to witness the north side of downtown being rescued from it's doldrums. I'm sure you'll keep us up-to-date, thanks in advance!

(rumor of a 1000+ footer.....? whoa!)

[Archit_K]

^ GGGG thanks, I hope you find this article interesting.

DEVELOPMENT

Miami to scrap old code, design `new city'

The city of Miami, long criticized for helter-skelter development, plans to replace its antiquated zoning code with a neighborhood- and pedestrian-friendly set of building rules in an effort to map the future.

BY ANDRES VIGLUCCI

aviglucci@herald.com

Miami, where complaints about hodgepodge development are as old as the city itself, is poised to try something completely different: planning.

On Saturday, Miami officials will formally launch an ambitious two-year effort to produce a series of comprehensive plans to guide the city's future development.

The most dramatic, and potentially contentious, element: The city intends to junk its antiquated and confounding zoning code -- which critics say encourages urban horrors like high-rise towers next to single-story homes -- and start over.

''We are really designing a new city,'' said Mayor Manny Diaz, who is heading the effort, dubbed Miami 21, and has made it a top priority of his administration. ``It's long overdue. As far as I can tell, no one has looked at this since, well, ever.''

The effort will also include plans to improve transportation, parks and public spaces, and to spur economic development in the city until well into the new century.

But the code overhaul is the linchpin of Miami 21.

The goal is a simple ''form-based'' zoning code that clearly and concisely delineates where intensive development is appropriate and where it isn't, and outlines how buildings should be shaped to ensure attractive, people-friendly streets.

Miami would be the first major U.S. city to adopt such a code.

It will be written by the Miami firm of Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, co-founders of the New Urbanist movement, which seeks to revive the principles of traditional town planning -- denser, compact development and walkable streets -- as an alternative to auto-dependent urban sprawl.

Though perhaps best known for planning the Florida Panhandle resort town of Seaside, Duany and Plater-Zyberk's firm has more recently created urban plans for cities from Berlin to Baton Rouge, La.

The rewrite would take place even as a high-rise condo-construction boom of unprecedented scope is already recasting downtown Miami and surrounding areas -- gobbling up vacant land, flattening some of the city's oldest buildings and, in some cases, invading long-established neighborhoods where the quirks of the zoning code permit out-scaled development.

The city and its consultants say it's not too late to ensure that the new condo towers are woven into a coherent urban fabric.

''I think it's all good,'' said Plater-Zyberk, who also is architecture dean at the University of Miami. ``The question is how to make it all work together.

``Walking out of a single-family house and going two or three blocks to a Starbucks is pretty great. But having a 50-story building looming over your backyard is not.''

AN APPEASEMENT

Some activists who have battled the city over development say the well-publicized launch of Miami 21 is meant to pacify critics while construction continues largely unchecked.

The city selected Duany and Plater-Zyberk for the task in May 2004, but it took the ensuing months to assemble a team of national economic, transportation and legal experts.

In the meantime, city planning statistics show, 51 large-scale projects have been approved across Miami, encompassing 17,776 residential units and more than three million square feet of floor space. Applications for new buildings continue to flow in.

The city's largest residents' group nonetheless intends to participate intensively in the public sessions that will help shape the plan.

''I'm basically optimistic,'' said Joe Wilkins, secretary of Miami Neighborhoods United, a 1-year-old coalition of 20 city homeowners' associations. ``We've been victimized by the antiquated zoning code. The feeling is that the city has had a bias toward development at the expense of the neighborhoods.

``The city always says they want to preserve neighborhoods. This is a chance for them to put their money where their mouth is.''

PUBLIC INPUT

The city fully intends to use advice from residents, Diaz vowed, noting that he also expects input, and potentially opposition, from developers fearful of regulation.

''We want that debate,'' Diaz said in an interview.

The city will be divided into four quadrants, with the new zoning for each to be completed and enacted in successive six-month blocks, starting with the city's northeast neighborhoods. When it's done, the rewrite will cover every significant commercial corridor in Miami and a quarter-mile to each side of it, encompassing virtually the entire city.

Parts of the current code date to the early 1900s, and have not been rewritten since, residents and city officials say.

Since then, new regulations -- called overlays -- have been added on top of the old, so that the code has become dauntingly complex.

It fills several volumes, forcing developers and homeowners to hire lawyers versed in exploiting loopholes, and leading to inconsistent decisions, city officials say.

Firmer and clearer definitions will lead to more consistent and quicker decisions, city officials hope, reducing the need for protracted negotiations or battles over projects.

''With Miami 21, the developer will know what he can do, and neighbors will know what can go in next to their property,'' said city Planning Director Ana Gelabert-Sánchez.

ECONOMIC ANGLE

Also important, Diaz said, is an economic development plan to go along with the zoning rewrite to identify possible new economic uses and ensure that jobs or businesses aren't unintentionally hurt by the new code, as well as a transportation study to propose solutions to traffic congestion.

Also planned is a survey of the city's long-neglected system of 110 parks to determine how to put them to optimal use, and also look for ways to create new parks and public open spaces like plazas and greenways.

The new code would incorporate local plans already passed to protect neighborhoods like Coconut Grove from intrusive development. It would also formalize and extend planning guidelines already in use for large-scale projects that ensure condo and office towers are street-friendly -- hiding parking garages, for instance.

Such measures are now subject to negotiation because the current code doesn't require them.

[Archit_K]

http://img.coxnewsweb.com/B/03/66/93/image_1493663.jpg
Miami building study center that mirrors Scripps
By Stacey Singer

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer

Sunday, April 17, 2005

MIAMI — Research laboratories now under construction at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center are part of a plan to transform two gritty city neighborhoods into a biotechnology village — an urban version of the Scripps project under way in rural Palm Beach County.

The Miami project, while still in its infancy, already has many of the key components that Palm Beach County's venture is lacking: a research hospital, a medical school and new laboratory construction. All Miami needs is additional land for spinoff biotech businesses and additional homes so that workers can live nearby.

Seventy miles to the north, the biotech community planned for Mecca Farms is mired in lawsuits. Construction has yet to begin on permanent laboratories for The Scripps Research Institute, the project's anchor. Scripps still is waiting for a partner willing to build a clinical research hospital, needed to test new drug discoveries on humans.

The statewide education consortium planned alongside Scripps has yet to take form. Scripps' main ties to a university are with its temporary landlord, Florida Atlantic University, whose two-year medical program is run jointly with the University of Miami. Scripps is developing a small graduate program with the University of Oxford in England.

County officials have pledged to put off construction until the litigation is resolved — for years if need be. While the county waits, Miami city leaders are moving quickly on their plan to transform the Civic Center and Overtown neighborhoods, just east of the UM-Jackson complex.

Miami City Manager Joe Arriola says it will be a live-work-play research community with high-rise space for health and biotech businesses. Plus, it will include accessible housing for the staff and scientists who will work there — all of it a few miles from trendy South Beach, the city's booming downtown and Miami International Airport.

"We're acquiring some land east and west of I-95," Arriola said of the biotech village. "Believe me, we're going to create a new city."

Arriola declined to give specifics, saying a major announcement is planned in a few months. The city will bring in a private developer and lease out space, he said. Tenants are already signing on, he said, chuckling that Palm Beach County will be envious.

"I'm so excited it's not even funny," said Arriola. "Believe me, Miami is booming."

In Palm Beach County, Commissioner Burt Aaronson shrugged off the threat of competition.

"We're moving in the right direction, and I'm not the least bit concerned that the city of Miami is building a biotech park," he said. "We've got Scripps. Scripps is the magnet."

The Miami plan, unlike Palm Beach County's, capitalizes on major existing institutions: Jackson Memorial and the University of Miami, which attracts $100 million a year from the National Institutes of Health. UM's Miller School of Medicine is adding more than 500,000 square feet of lab space, which will rise over the next two years. The project's biggest political hurdle will be getting additional land, particularly in Overtown, one of Miami's oldest black communities.

Scripps, at its La Jolla, Calif., campus, attracts about $206 million in NIH funding a year to conduct basic biomedical research. The three laboratory buildings Palm Beach County is financing for Scripps will total 375,000 square feet. Unlike in Miami, there's plenty of space. They'll sit on a man-made artificial lake amid a 1,920-acre suburban park. There's room for 2 million square feet for Scripps to grow into through the years, plus 8.5 million more for related businesses.

In the short term, Miami's labs will be larger and will open more quickly than those planned for Scripps, noted UM President Donna Shalala. "It's amazing how much we're getting done," she said. "Our community was a natural place to create a major biomedical center."

Miami-Dade County never was considered a contender for Scripps when the institute shopped for a Florida site. The institute wanted at least 500 acres, something that's hard to find in Miami Dade.

"God, we would love having them here," said Miami City Manager Arriola. "If I had that kind of land here, I would have given it to them."

Scripps' leaders say they're committed to Palm Beach County. Still, unless Scripps can break ground at Mecca Farms soon, it will face a lab-space crisis that has the potential to jeopardize its state funding.

The state's grant agreement requires Scripps to hire 545 people over seven years. Halfway into Scripps' second year, it has lab space for only about 100. By the end of next year, the state timetable calls for Scripps' payroll to reach 280, although the contract allows it to achieve just 75 percent of that number.

Palm Beach County has offered to build Scripps a second temporary building at the Florida Atlantic University campus in Jupiter. That might not be enough to solve Scripps' problem, said Scripps' chief operating officer, Doug Bingham. The proposal is under study, he said.

"It will be in the May-June time frame before we know whether that makes sense," Bingham said.

Although Scripps officials have declined her offers so far, Shalala said UM would be ready and willing to offer Scripps temporary space in its new buildings. "We have volunteered to do anything they think they need, but I don't think they want to come all the way over here."

At UM/Jackson, a glassy green 335,000-square-foot clinical research tower is rising along the Dolphin Expressway. It will be ready for scientists to move into a year from now, said UM's assistant vice president for facilities, Ron Bogue.

Two years from now, a 168,000-square-foot wet lab will open, he said. Scripps predominantly uses wet-lab space, which has the air-handling systems and containment areas for chemistry research.

"If all our plans come to fruition, we're looking at a 62 percent increase in air-conditioned space over the next five years," Bogue said. "The other piece of our comprehensive master plan is a bio-research park, and we've been working with the city of Miami on that for two years."

Miami streamlines permits

The city is streamlining the permitting process, rewriting its zoning and coordinating planning for the entire region through a process it's calling the Miami Partnership.

Arriola and Bogue both credit Shalala with igniting the growth plan after she became president more than four years ago. "She has been the catalyst behind all of this," Bogue said. "We have a goal of being one of the top 20 medical schools in the nation. That was one of her first edicts when she came here."

Arriola, a successful printing entrepreneur, resigned a post on UM's board of trustees to take over the city manager's role less than two years ago. He donates all but $1 of his city paycheck to the United Way.

"I knew from working with Donna that this was a true economic engine for a city," Arriola said. "We have great weather, and we need something else. This biotech and health care, this is what we can do really well."

http://www.palmbeachpost.com/business/content/local_news/epaper/2005/04/17/m1a_SCRIPPS_0417.html

[Derek2k3]

Great article from Transfer:

http://www.usemenow.com/web-log/
"Miami's Manhattanization"

According to the City of Miami Large Scale Development Report, since 1995, 79 projects have been completed (or are close to completion) for a total of 18 thousand new residential units, and 2 million sq ft of office. There are 67 approved projects slating an additional 21 thousand residential units, and 21 projects in the application phase, for 3 thousand more residential. There are a whopping 87 in the preliminary phase, which would add 25 thousand more residential units. The sum of these: 4 million sqft of retail, 3 million sqft of office space, and 69 thousand residential units. With 37 thousand of these units being built in Downtown Miami, at an esitmated construction cost of over 12 billion dollars. Huge. Talking Hi-Density, Hi-Rise, Downtown, Tower construction. Another 8 thousand of these units, 52 of the total residential projects, will be built in Wynwood/Edgewater, most of which will be lower scale lux lofts and other semi-dense yuppie enclaves....

Finish reading the article at the site. Lots of renderings also.
http://www.usemenow.com/web-log/

[Archit_K]

Miami: Third Greatest Skyline in the US (after New York and Chicago of course)... and gettin better by the day... almost doubling in size in 10 years...

[Archit_K]

Lynx--approved another meet on May 28

Comments-Lynx and Bank of America will be lit a night but lynx will always have a lighter shade then b.o.a to insure that BOA is still the dominant night scraper.

[Archit_K]

Condo development on Miami coast is hot, hotter, hottest
By Marilyn Adams, USA TODAY
MIAMI — Fifty stories below the penthouse terrace of Jade Residences, a new luxury condominium high-rise, the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean beyond stretch endlessly.

Miami's 70-story Four Seasons tower includes condos.
Four Seasons

This mesmerizing view from the three-story, four-bedroom condo fetched $7 million in the hottest real estate market Miami has ever seen, and one of the hottest in the USA.

Florida's developers and real estate brokers are flying high amid an unprecedented condo-building and -buying wave they hope won't end anytime soon. The frenzied spending is coming to a large extent from outside Florida — well-to-do baby boomers from the North nearing retirement, and foreigners whose money for real estate has gained potency from a weak dollar.

Development is also setting records in other Florida coastal cities such as Tampa and West Palm Beach, but the boom has been most dramatic in Miami and its nearby beach communities.

Miami-area home values increased 20% in 2004, vs. a national gain of about 12%, the federal government says. But that measure fails to register the dizzying price escalation for new condos on or near the water. Developers of new projects are asking about $500,000 for a one-bedroom on the beach with an ocean view.

Today, an estimated 50 major condo projects are proposed or under construction within 50 city blocks in Miami on or near Biscayne Bay. There are so many gaping holes in the ground — where old buildings have been razed and new ones are planned — that downtown looks as if it has been bombed. A remarkable 69,000 condo units are currently in the permit pipeline or are newly built and for sale citywide. By comparison, Las Vegas — perennially among the USA's hottest housing markets — issued permits for 40,000 units of all types of housing last year.

The explosion in South Florida real estate comes despite four major hurricanes that roared across Florida last summer, causing $22 billion in damage and weeks of panic statewide. The Miami area was spared, but for a time, it seemed the phenomenon of four hurricanes could cause the entire Florida coastline to lose a bit of luster. That hasn't happened.

"South Florida is going through the largest urban redevelopment in its history," says Michael Cannon of appraisal firm Integra Realty Resources.

Cannon and other experts here are increasingly worried that paradise might be getting overbuilt. They fear investor speculation is driving too much of the condo demand — that some builders, developers and lenders might be heading for a crash, as has happened here before.

He and other experts suspect some projects will never get the construction loans they need to get off the ground because so many units have been pre-sold to speculators with small down payments, and banks know the speculators plan to resell at a profit, not live there. "Do I think all these projects will be built?" says real estate expert Lewis Goodkin of Goodkin Consulting. "Absolutely not."

Weak dollar draws Europeans

Powerful economic and demographic forces are driving the boom. Developers see an army of aging baby boomers looking for a warm place to vacation or retire. Low interest rates have made big mortgages more affordable. In the past five years, real estate has been a far a better investment than the stock market.

The weak dollar makes Florida real estate look like a bargain abroad. To Europeans with euros to spend, for example, Florida property can seem like a deal because of the added buying power they get from a favorable currency exchange rate. Unlike the past, today's Florida developers aren't targeting just retirees or snowbirds from the Northeast and Latin America. Luxury buildings are targeting the wealthy worldwide.

For years, Miami suffered from negative perceptions fed by popular culture and reality. TV's Miami Vice glorified the fight against the violent cocaine trade. The series CSI: Miami still portrays this as an unusually murderous town. In the 1990s, police corruption, violent attacks on tourists and prosecutions of top politicians on bribery and voting-fraud charges shaped a banana republic image.

Today, Miami's business and government leaders are working to craft a world-class city. A performing arts center is going up downtown, and development is planned all around it. Blocks away, the American Airlines Arena houses Miami Heat basketball games and concerts by top stars. A few miles to the east lie the hot restaurants and nightclubs of South Beach. So fast is Miami's landscape changing that Mayor Manuel Diaz last weekend unveiled a master plan, "Miami 21," designed in part to bring order to frenetic development.

Prices for new condos have leaped. As of last year, the average price for a condo in Miami-Dade County hovered close to $300,000, a third higher than in 2000, according to Integra. But in downtown Miami's more desirable neighborhoods, one-bedrooms in new projects start at about $350,000 in the earliest stages of selling. In Miami Beach and other communities, one-bedroom units in new oceanfront projects start at close to $500,000 and run into the millions.

With prices at those levels, developers must inspire an irresistible urge to buy. To that end, some new projects are named for precious stones and metals: Onyx, Emerald, Platinum. Others evoke colors of the sea — Blue, Acqualina — and still others, rapturous states of mind -Apogee, Nirvana.

"They're not selling condos anymore," Cannon says. "They're selling sex."

"You sell a dream, " says Edgardo Defortuna, CEO of Fortune International, a Miami developer.

Developers, he says, must sell condos today before the first dirt is turned because construction lenders require sales-contract commitments upfront. Fortune's Jade project sold out a year before the building was completed last fall.

Now, Fortune is marketing a proposed oceanfront project called Jade Beach, where the penthouse is advertised at $11 million. Meanwhile, land prices in downtown Miami's handsome Brickell Avenue neighborhood, where Jade was built, have continued to soar. In 2001, Defortuna paid $19 million for Jade's 2.5 acre site. Today, an adjacent empty lot the same size is advertised at $100 million.

Developers are amazed at the diversity of buyers and shoppers. Ninety percent of Jade's buyers are foreign nationals, says Ana Cristina Defortuna, Edgardo's wife and the company's vice president for sales.

"We have people from every Latin American country," she says. "We have royalty in the building, singers, actors."

Mexicans are the top Latin buyers now, she says. Mexican pop music star Luis Miguel owns one of Jade's penthouses. Colombian race car driver Juan Pablo Montoya owns another one.

"Russians are very strong right now," she says. "They are the best: They don't negotiate price."

Other projects target U.S. buyers. At Trump Grande, an oceanfront high-rise development in nearby Sunny Isles Beach, buyers tend to be from the Northeast, where the Trump name is well known. Five condo towers are proposed on a total of 19 oceanfront acres where sleepy motels once stood. Prices range from $700,000 to a stunning $25 million for an 18,000-square-foot penthouse.

Developer Joyce Bronson, whose company Related Group is backing Trump Grande, says they have seen no signs the market is cooling off.

"There is a large buying population out there," she says. "When you compare the value of real estate here to other world-class cities, our numbers look pretty good — and we have sunshine."

Speculators eyed

Community leaders hail the burst of growth, the new property tax revenue and the revitalization of neighborhoods. But many real estate experts are warning that rampant speculation could jeopardize the vibrant market.

Consultant Goodkin estimates up to 70% of recent condo buyers are purchasing for speculation.

"People are betting rather than buying," he says.

Fueling the problem is "an absence of gatekeepers," Goodkin says. "There's a lot of liberal financing out there." Experts also note that a new crop of aggressive but inexperienced developers has been drawn to the market by the smell of quick profit.

"All the banks are concerned about the level of speculation," says Raul Valdes-Fauli, the senior lender at Union Bank in Miami. "In a market like this, banks really need to go back to the fundamentals, and do deals with people they know." Union is now "being more selective" about financing new condo projects.

He says many construction lenders are now requiring developers put "non-assignment" clauses in sales contracts forbidding buyers from flipping their units before they close. Others are requiring 30% down payments or limiting the number of units any one buyer can get to one or two.

If a building sells too many units to speculators who don't close, he says, "The first people who get burned are the buyers who just closed on their units." The value of their investment plummets.

Despite the investment risks, many buyers can't resist the hypnotic water views — and the possibility prices will keep going up. Drawn to the tropics, airline CEO Jonathan Ornstein of Phoenix-based Mesa Air Group shopped a long time for an oceanfront condo in Miami Beach.

Miami Beach is "a hip place," he says. "The condos are really on the beach. You walk out the door, and you're on the sand."

Ornstein just put 10% down on a small, furnished condo-hotel room in Fontainebleau III, a project adjacent to the oceanfront Fontainebleau Hilton Resort in Miami Beach. The building won't be completed for at least two years. At $580,000, the unit was $1,000 a square foot.

He knows he might have overpaid. "This could be a bubble," he says. If it is, he says, buying at the low end of the market gives him some protection. "The less you spend, the less you could lose."
http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi...boom-usat_x.htm

[Archit_K]

Nightly News regarding Miami's construction boom?

http://video.msn.com/video/p.htm?t=1&m=News%20-%20Weather&mi=NBC%20News&i=14462c78-054a-45fb-925f-9c8fe11cd882,41e215a0-27a7-44b0-86c7-13ef1e3bea8b,14462c78-054a-45fb-925f-9c8fe11cd882,fd7c13cc-9144-423a-9197-43ee6fd23efe,ff9e18af-89a8-4e60-bbed-de9242bb3c7d,d5d48756-400a-4eb6-83ce-35f91bb59a2a,44ff19b5-aacb-4afb-b0e4-6447b3d4f0fc,31e879ea-a5bd-45e1-90d6-e295a6bef754,69ac537f-ca63-4374-ac88-9ebeb0e228fb,b4d4e7e0-4123-482e-9767-f8d8af19c925,&rf=

[krulltime]

Cool Thanks for the link for that video... It was very interesting! Wow I want to go to miami and see this for myself... This is amazing! I can't wait to see it become like a big city!

[Archit_K]

MIAMI

City aims to put lid on zoning anarchy

City leaders will overhaul Miami's zoning code because they say it encourages insensitive development. But the planned reforms may be too late to catch the condo boom.

By ANDRES VIGLUCCI

aviglucci@herald.com


AND MATTHEW HAGGMAN

Why do city leaders plan to scrap Miami's zoning code and start from scratch? What makes it so bad?

For one answer, look no further than the almost finished Baylofts condominium on Northeast 25th Street in Edgewater, an old, low-scale Miami neighborhood on Biscayne Bay north of downtown that has been eviscerated by a troop of impertinent high-rise invaders.

The nine-story building greets its neighbors not with a welcoming entrance, but with an inhospitable garage front. The curling concrete garage ramp is virtually jammed up against the graceful old one-story house next door, which sits in the building's shadow.

Baylofts is but one of many examples of the urban atrocities that city leaders say Miami's antiquated, patchwork code not only permits but encourages.

And as a torrid condo-building boom spreads across the city, from Little Havana to Coral Way and upper Biscayne Boulevard, the results are threatened neighborhoods, disjointed streetscapes, unsightly new buildings and a widespread belief that developers can get away with anything.

''There is nothing like a development boom to expose the flaws in the current system,'' Miami Commissioner Johnny Winton said last week at the launch of Miami 21, as the effort to develop a new growth plan for the city is called.

The code, he said, deserves ``a starring role in the theater of the absurd.''

The response by Miami Mayor Manny Diaz's administration is a sweeping plan that over the next two years would replace the old zoning rules with a new ''form-based'' code designed to weave new development into a cohesive and lively urban fabric -- protected neighborhoods, appropriately scaled and sidewalk-friendly buildings, walkable streets, open plazas and green spaces, all with an attractive and consistent look.

That's the vision.

Then there is reality.

Development at unprecedented levels continues, remaking old neighborhoods and streets faster than planners can write new rules.

With the bulk of planned new development yet to come out of the ground -- 69 approved major projects totaling 22,000 residential units have not even begun construction -- some fear that new and unpleasant surprises await city residents.

While some have called for a moratorium or a slowdown on new approvals while Miami 21 is instituted, Diaz, Winton and other city leaders show little desire to slow things down.

''There is hope, but also a lot of skepticism,'' said Joe Wilkins, secretary of Miami Neighborhoods United, a coalition of about 20 city homeowner groups.

``The mistakes of the past that they say they now want to correct have already impacted our neighborhoods. We can't tell yet, but this process may be too little, too late.''

Wilkins said city leaders didn't help their case when they declined to answer questions submitted by residents at last week's four-hour Miami 21 launch, saying the program ran long and that they would respond later online.

''We were disappointed,'' Wilkins said.

``It was strictly a one-sided monologue. We would like to have a dialogue.''

The dialogue will happen, city officials promise. They say Miami 21 will be shaped in a series of public forums.

FOUR QUADRANTS

SECTIONS OF CITY

VIEWED IN SEQUENCE

To speed up enactment of the new code, the city has been divided into four quadrants. Each quadrant's code will be completed and voted on by the commission in successive six-month blocks, starting with the city's northeast neighborhoods.

The new rules, however, would not apply to already approved projects, and could not force developers to make changes to buildings under construction or completed.

Take Baylofts. It's likely to be there for many years to come, a dead spot on the street. The lovely house next door? For sale. For condo development.

How did it happen?

The explanation begins with the fact that parts of the current code date to the early 1900s, city officials say.

Since then, new regulations have been layered atop the old, so that the code has become dauntingly complex, filling several volumes and requiring developers and homeowners to hire lawyers for any significant work. Coconut Grove, for instance, has 22 different zoning designations, according to the planning department.

Sometimes, zoning has been rewritten for individual projects. Variances introduce even more unpredictability. Canny land-use lawyers make a living exploiting loopholes, and developers' political pull has often determined the outcome. The result is inconsistent decisions that lead to urban incoherence and embittered residents.

''We have a city that's the result of people being able to build whatever they want,'' said Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, the prominent planner and University of Miami architecture dean hired by the city to oversee Miami 21. ``It was never planned, just platted and developed.''

The current code regulates building uses and density, Plater-Zyberk said, but says little to nothing about urbanism -- the art of ensuring that individual buildings blend into a cohesive landscape that respects the human scale. There is nothing in it about how buildings should meet the sidewalk, where parking garages should go, where entrances should be, or requirements for streetfront shops and cafes to spur pedestrian activity.

Her firm has written similar codes for Baton Rouge, La., and other smaller cities, but Miami would be the first major U.S. city to attempt it, she said.

''If we're building a denser city and you don't make it pedestrian-friendly, no one will walk,'' Plater-Zyberk said.

NEW RULES IN PLACE

GOAL: MAKE BUILDINGS

MORE STREET-FRIENDLY

City planners have already instituted some new rules for large-scale developments or for those requiring variances. Those guidelines ask developers to make their towers street-friendly -- hiding parking garages, for instance, lining them with shops or town houses, and keeping auto entrances off main streets like Biscayne Boulevard.

Because nothing in the code requires those changes, however, they are subject to negotiation with developers. That leads to piecemeal, block-by-block planning -- and often leaves developers and residents alike guessing at what is allowed.

''Right now, it is up to the developer and whatever comments they get from the planning people,'' said developer Jorge Perez, who has two large condo projects along Biscayne Boulevard.

``The result is that it is sporadic. It is like a mouth with twenty beautiful teeth and three rotten ones -- it still looks rotten.''

Smaller buildings without variances -- for instance, most condo projects of fewer than 200 units -- escape planning scrutiny altogether because they fall below the large-scale threshold.

Left to their own devices, developers often produce incompatible construction like suburban-style strip malls set behind unappealing asphalt parking lots on Calle Ocho, killing street life, said Miami Planning Director Ana Gelabert-Sánchez.

Edgewater is a perfect example.

One of the city's earliest neighborhoods, it fell into disrepair by the 1970s, when many residents decamped for the suburbs. Instead of coming up with a careful redevelopment plan, the city simply upped the zoning sharply, effectively allowing high-rises next to single-family homes. Because no one wanted to build there until now, however, the problem did not arise sooner.

Projects like Baylofts, which fell beneath the large-scale radar, are one result. The city had no authority to tell the developer how to design it.

Another problem is the way allowable floor space and height are calculated.

In its Miami 21 slide-show presentation, available online at miamigov.com/planningpages/miami21, the city's poster child for inappropriate development is an Edgewater project, Onyx 2 -- although the project is not named.

CREATIVE COUNTING

TOWER CAN CONTINUE

TO GROW -- AND GROW

The presentation details how generous calculations allow the tower, on the bayfront site of the demolished historic Bliss House, to grow as though it were fed steroids.

The code permits the developer to count a strip of right-of-way at the end of the street, plus 90 feet of bay water, as open space, adding several floors to the already generous basic zoning.

The street also counts as open space, adding several more floors. So does the plot across the street, which the developer -- BAP Development -- owns and will turn into a park, adding more floors.

Finally, the developer will make a payment into an affordable-housing fund, adding even more floors.

The result: a 50-story tower on a massive parking pedestal looming at the end of a narrow street of low-rise homes, apartments and picturesque bungalows, some dating to the 1910s.

BAP principal Willy Bermello was traveling in Mexico and could not be reached.

Whether such calculations and bonuses should be eliminated or scaled back will be an important part of the Miami 21 process, city leaders and their consultants said -- a move that some developers are likely to oppose. Extra floor space can add millions of dollars in profits to developers' pockets.

To ameliorate the effects of the code on stable, long-standing communities, the city commission has also passed a series of local measures, including limits on development in Coconut Grove as well as guidelines that limit heights of commercial buildings on upper Biscayne Boulevard abutting a strip of historic neighborhoods of single-family homes.

The new code would incorporate those measures and expand similar requirements to the rest of the city.

''For some time, the city planning department has been trying to implement the very principles and legislate some modifications that are consistent with Miami 21,'' said Santiago Echemendia, a Miami land-use attorney. ``The problem is that before, it has been done in a piecemeal fashion. Now it will be comprehensive.''

But planners concede that they must be careful: Any reform that appears to curtail development rights might leave the city vulnerable to ''takings'' lawsuits.

Planners may have a couple of options for addressing the issue of overscaled towers.

The new code could require tall buildings to step back sharply from abutting homes and have, in place of the now commonplace blank walls, ''liners'' consisting of smaller-scale dwellings like town houses.

The code could require buffer zones of low-rise buildings like small apartment houses between high-rises and single-family residential districts, Plater-Zyberk said.

Some developers say that detailed guidelines on everything from street lamps and benches to landscaping and storefronts -- which Miami 21 promises to deliver -- can still come on time.

Winton said the Downtown Development Authority will prepare, in conjunction with Miami 21, specific downtown streetscape guidelines within six to 12 months. Of the new buildings in the downtown core, only developer Perez's two-tower One Miami condo at the mouth of the Miami River should be completed before that.

[Alex_F]

From this morning's MIAMI HERALD:

DOWNTOWN MIAMI
http://www.miami.com/images/common/spacer.gif
Plans for world's tallest condo tower unveiled

http://www.miami.com/images/common/spacer.gif
Miami's new landmark? A developer is proposing to build the world's tallest condo tower -- 1,200 feet and 110 stories high -- on Biscayne Boulevard.
http://www.miami.com/images/common/spacer.gif
BY MATTHEW HAGGMAN
http://www.miami.com/images/common/spacer.gif
mhaggman@herald.com
http://www.miami.com/images/common/spacer.gif
The South Florida building boom may be reaching new heights, with a developer proposing what could be the world's tallest condominium in downtown Miami.

Leon Cohen is preparing to submit plans with the city of Miami to build a condo tower and apartment-hotel tower that would each rise 1,200 feet along Biscayne Boulevard.

If built, both 110-story skyscrapers would be the tallest in Florida, and the condo tower would rank as the tallest residential high-rise in the world, Cohen said.

The 21st Century Tower in Dubai, 883 feet tall, is currently the world's tallest residential building, according to Germany-based Emporis, which tracks high-rise construction. Florida's tallest high-rise is the 789-foot Four Seasons Hotel & Tower on Brickell Avenue in Miami.

But Cohen, who grew up in Paris and moved to Miami Beach in 2000, faces severe hurdles in getting approvals to build so high. The Federal Aviation Administration has limited the height of new buildings along Biscayne Boulevard so as not to interfere with planes flying into Miami International Airport.

Called Empire World Towers, Cohen's development would rise on an L-shaped, roughly two-acre parcel at 330 Biscayne Blvd. The two towers, projected to include 1,000 condo units and 500 apartment-hotel units, would wrap around the Holiday Inn hotel at the corner of Biscayne Boulevard and Northeast Fourth Street.

MIAMI = NEW YORK

''Miami is what New York was in 1945,'' Cohen said Wednesday, who shrugged off any concerns about too many new condos being built in downtown Miami. ``Biscayne Boulevard will become Fifth Avenue.''

On Monday, the developer formally purchased the property from Allen Greenwald for $31.7 million, he said. Demonstrating how Miami's prices have raced upward amid the region's ongoing condo boom, Greenwald purchased the site in April 2004 for $16.5 million.

Edie Laquer of Laquer Corporate Realty in Miami, who called the project ''innovative,'' brokered the sale.

AIR NAVIGATION

FAA public affairs manager Kathleen Bergen, who works out of the agency's Southeast region office in Atlanta, said the heights of all buildings are considered on a case-by-case basis. FAA staffers perform a computer analysis studying the longitude and latitude of a structure to determine if a building is a hazard to air navigation. It is not uncommon, she said, to negotiate with developers over height, markings and lighting.

''Miami is a very busy place for us for airspace studies,'' Bergen said. ``That is much taller than what has been proposed. But we would take a look at any proposal that came in.''

Developer Pedro Martin, who plans to build high-rise condo towers nearby at 600 and 900 Biscayne Blvd., said his building heights were limited to 649 feet.

''Would they go to 1,200? I have no idea,'' Martin said, who added that projects like Cohen's, which are located closer to downtown Miami, may be allowed to rise higher.

Cohen insists he can win approvals for the two towering structures -- and expressed total confidence he can build at least 900 feet high.

''I would not be talking about this if I didn't think we could do it,'' he said.

Cohen, whose company is Maclee Development, said this would be his biggest project. He completed a partially built, 52-story hotel in New York, the Flatotel Building. He's now constructing a six-story condo hotel, the Empire Ocean Residence, at the site of the former Charles Hotel at 1475 Collins Ave. in South Beach.

The developer hired Alexandria, Va.-based Aviation Management Associates to conduct a study on the project. In the report, Aviation Management concluded Empire World Towers would create some problems for aviation but that those issues could be solved.

BUILDING CHALLENGES

Meanwhile, the building creates significant engineering challenges. Cohen, for instance, said the building will be the tallest concrete structure in the world. ``This is due to the hurricane weather in South Florida.''

Still, some are skeptical.

''Why so high?'' said real estate analyst Michael Cannon, who also questioned if condo buyers would want to live so high. ``I hope they do a good wind test because you have some major atmospheric pressure on a building that high.''

[kendalldad1030]

What surprises me about Miami is that it has a smallish population (around 380,000) for a city with such a huge concentration of tall buildings. Anyone care to explain why?

The city of Miami is a small part of the metropolitan area which consists of over 5 million people and serves as the financial center for not only the "Gold Coast" but for the southeast. The Brickell corridor has been labeled the "Wall Street of the South". However, it is still amazing the amount of construction and the size of the structures. Additionally, Miami is the gateway to the Americas and has become a focal point for business/trade as well as tourism in South/Central America as well as the Caribbean.

[Archit_K]

Developer plans world's tallest condo -- 110 stories -- in Miami

Sun-Sentinel
Posted May 5 2005, 7:54 AM EDT

MIAMI -- It's only on the drawing boards, but a developer is proposing to build the world's tallest condominium tower in downtown Miami.

Leon Cohen bought the property Monday for $31.7 million and is preparing to submit plans for a 110-story tower that would be 1,200 feet tall. A companion tower of the same height would be a combination hotel-apartment building.

But it may not be easy to get approval for his Empire World Towers. The Federal Aviation Administration limits the height of downtown buildings because of overflights from Miami International Airport jets.

Developer Pedro Martin, who plans to build two nearby condo towers, said his building heights were limited to 649 feet.

The proposal by Cohen's Maclee Development would include 1,000 condo units and 500 apartments and hotel rooms. The project also would be the tallest concrete structure in the world.

``This is due to the hurricane weather in South Florida,'' Cohen said Wednesday.

The world's tallest residential building, the 21st Century Tower, stands 883 feet tall in Dubai. Florida's tallest high rise is the 789-foot Four Seasons Hotel & Tower in downtown Miami.

[Archit_K]

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/42998837.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/42998841.jpg
^ I really hope these 2 world tallest condos get built for Miami.

[krulltime]

SUPER!! SUPER!! SUPER!!

Way to go MIAMI!!!

I heard that the color scheme is different from the rendering that was posted though. That is gray and blue or something like that...

Have to wait for other renderings to find out.

[Kolbster]

WOW! this is great news, you know i heard rumor about a world tallest in Miami, this must have been it


Great news! :)

[TomAuch]

That site plan reminds me of the WTC Site (even that L_shaped building underneath those towers looks like the Marriot.) I'm not sure if this will be built, and these buildings aren't very good-looking though.

[Alex_F]

I agree with TomAuch...the rendering provided of the proposed Empire World Towers shows a very uninspired design.

It would indeed be sweet to have twin 1200 foot buildings in Miami, to form a focal point amidst the growing pack of 700-800 footers, but there should be some great architecture to go with it for a project of this scale.

The rendering shows (a) a non-descript box reminsicent of mid-60s thinking and (b) a similarly ultra-plain oval shaped tower looking much like Atlanta's Westin Peachtree hotel, which was cutting-edge design...when it was built, 30 years ago.

How about some outstanding architecture to go with the extraordinary height?

[danm]

http://www.floridarealestatecondohomes.com/images/Icon%20Brickell/Icon%20Brickell%20Picture2.jpg

1800 Units and 3 towers later you have:

Icon Brickell (http://miamirealestatetrends.com/pages/iconbrickell.aspx) the Developer:

For 25 years, The Related Group of Florida has had a dramatic impact not only on how South Florida looks, but how it feels. With creative passion, cutting-edge designs and visionary community planning, The Related Group has created a league of its own. With over $1 Billion in annual revenues reported last year, Related's portfolio includes more than 50,000 residential units built, owned and/or managed since the company's inception in 1979. This represents in excess of 5 billion dollars in real estate assets, making The Related Group the largest developer of multi-family real estate in Florida and the largest Hispanic-owned business in the United States.

Related is well recognized for the development of luxury high-rises. These towers include The Mark on Brickell; Portofino Tower, The Yacht Club at Portofino, Murano at Portofino, Murano Grande and ICON South Beach; (http://miamirealestatetrends.com/pages/IconSouthBeach.aspx) Ocean I, Ocean II, Ocean III and Ocean IV in Sunny Isles; City Place in West Palm Beach. Major projects under development include One Miami, Las Olas Beach Club in Fort Lauderdale, The Beach Club in Hallandale Beach, The Moorings in Lantana, The Slade, The Tower Condominium at City Place and Villa Lofts in West Palm Beach and The Venture and Aventura Marina in Aventura.

About the Artist: School drop-out Philippe Starck jump-started his career by designing two nightclub interiors in Paris in the 1970's. The success of the clubs won the attention of President Francois Mitterand, who asked Starck to refurbish one of the private apartments in the Elysee Palace.

Two years later, Starck designed the interior of the Café Costes, Paris, and was on his way to becoming a design celebrity. In quick succession, he created elegant interiors for the Royalton and Paramount hotels in New York, the Delano in Miami and the Mondrian in Los Angeles. ICON BRICKELL
(http://www.floridarealestatecondohomes.com/Icon-Brickell.htm)
Starck's approach to design is subversive, intelligent and always interesting. He has said that the designer's role is to create more "happiness" with less. To view some of Philipe Starck's work, please visit www.yooarehere.com (http://www.yooarehere.com/)

This will end up as a name brand like the "W Hotels" and the "Four Seasons"

DanM

[danm]

Lots of VIPs and a Sectacular fireworks show made for a great night.

Tomorrow 9am sales start at Paramount Bay in Miami (http://miamirealestatetrends.com/pages/ParamountPark.aspx)and you can bet that they will sell out 30% of the inventory on the first bay. This is incredible

http://www.floridarealestatecondohomes.com/images/ParamountBayNight.jpg http://www.floridarealestatecondohomes.com/images/ParamountBayDay.jpg

[Archit_K]

Will killer B's sting Miami's housing boom? Experts waffle

By Michael Lewis

http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/050512/story-viewpoint.shtml

Will Miami's housing market keep booming or bust? Expert panelists last week agreed that it will.
What they couldn't decide is which.
Everyone recognized skyrocketing prices. Nobody pointed to a retreat. But nobody denied one might be just around the corner.
That aligns panelists at Thursday's Florida International University event with most observers of Miami-Dade County's housing surge. While the three killer B's - balloon, bubble and bust - are in everyone's active vocabulary, so is that rosier "B" word, boom.
The rationale for the boom continuing is the nature of Greater Miami, which panelists see shielding us from trends including rising interest rates that will constrict housing demand throughout the US.
Real estate is becoming a more important global investment but so far represents less than 10% of all equity, attorney Neisen Kasdin told guests at FIU's MetroForum breakfast at the Miami City Club. The shift from stocks and bonds to real estate, he said, is paramount.
That capital, he said, is most likely to flow to cities such as Miami that are entry points to key slices of the globe. That distorts our market, he said, because most of our real estate buyers are not local.
Indeed not. Europe, particularly Germany, is investing major funds in South Florida properties due to the strength of Europe's currency, the euro, said Michael Cannon of Integra Realty Resources.
Foreign buyers account for more than 60% of South Florida real estate buyers, Mr. Cannon said.
But it's not just foreign demand. Wealthy US Baby Boomers, panelists agreed, target us for second, third and fourth homes.
In fact, according to Miami Commissioner Johnny Winton, this is the first time since the first wave of Cuban immigration in 1959 and 1960 that Americans other than New Yorkers have been moving into Miami in greater numbers than have been moving out. "They're from mainstream America," he said. "That segment has found Miami."
But will a bust follow the boom, as has happened here over and over?
"You can't use historical data to predict the future because we are in uncharted territory," Mr. Winton said.
Panelists cited four classes of Miami buyers - investors, speculators, end users and buyers of second, third and fourth homes. The investors buy and hold for appreciation while speculators try to flip for fast profits.
Without categorizing clientele, Dario Moreno of FIU's downtown Metropolitan Center hinted at distinct buyers at two Miami developments, each on the market for two years.
The Four Seasons' 186 units at 1425 Brickell Ave. were once the city's most costly. Dr. Moreno said that of the 46 sold so far, owners of only two had secured homestead exemptions - available only for primary residences - and only three had voters registered there. Developers reportedly just refinanced more than 100 unsold units. Two-bedroom units up for resale start at $1.1 million.
At the 199-unit NeoLofts at 10 SW South River Drive, Dr. Moreno found more than 30% of units have homestead exemptions and 46% registered voters. Resales of two-bedroom units, much smaller, start at about $380,000.
NeoLofts residents clearly work locally while Four Seasons buyers don't live there. But can we infer anything about booms and busts from markets at individual developments?
"We are having a recession with certain developers right now," Mr. Cannon said, "because they're out of business." But that's not a trend because others are doing well. Experienced developers, teams and lenders in the right niches are bound to succeed, but not everyone is in the right niche.
That's for sure: 11,000-plus unsold units sat on the market at the end of last year.
Meanwhile, more than 72,000 housing units are in the pipeline for the City of Miami, and tens of thousands are planned elsewhere in the county.
How much of this is speculative selling versus sales to investors, end users or second-home buyers?
"We don't know," Mr. Cannon said.
So are we in for a session with the killer B's - balloon, bubble and bust? Or is it to be boom? Will new condos succeed? Or will they, like Four Seasons units, remain on the market for years?
"Build 'em," was Mr. Winton's sage advice. "If they fail, we're going to end up with affordable housing."

[Archit_K]

http://skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=37024

[Alex_F]

"We are Building an Instant City" is the quotation that's used as the headline in an extensive multi-page report on Miami's highrise boom in today's Sunday edition of The Miami Herald.

The main report extends over five full pages of the Issues and Ideas section and features outstanding color illustrations of all proposed new buildings dropped into a current, black and white, panoramic photo of the city. There are images and stats for all the new buildings, plus additional graphic maps of the city as it is and how it will be transformed. The are numerous other aerial color photos of the current skyline and lots of commentary from all sides of the issue.

The Herald says they developed all their graphics using the city's Large Scale Development Report, with help from the Downtown Development Authority.

If you are following the amazing explosion of highrise construction in Miami, you need to acquire a copy of today's Herald. It's a completely comprehensive rundown of all new projects, both underway and proposed.

There is also a companion article, "Can City Handle the Growth?", on the front page of Section A that continues inside on 12A.

By the way, the height of the Empire World Towers is shown as 659 feet, not 1200, and the Herald footnotes this by acknowledging that the developer has announced the greater height but as of now has not submitted it to the city.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 35

The Beacon
801 Brickell Plaza
Miami, Florida

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43696852.jpg

Developer: Renzi Development

Started: 2003
Finished: 2005

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 2

http://www.miamilodgerealty.com/_Pictures_Properties/Ten-Museum-Park-1-copy.jpg

http://www.miamilodgerealty.com/_Pictures_Properties/Ten_2.jpg

http://www.miamilodgerealty.com/_Pictures_Properties/Ten_3.jpg
Ten Museum Park
1040 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida

Type: Lofts and Condos
Units: Lofts, 1-3 Bdrms & Penthouse
Building Height: 50 Stories

Ten Museum Park will be soaring above Miami's sparkling waters and lush islands, a slender 50-story crystalline tower of dramatic proportion, conceived by international award winning architectural visionary Chad Oppenheim, emerges from the vibrant skyline. 1, 2, 3 bedroom lofts. Tower Suite, and Penthouses with private rooftop vitality pools. Priced from $300,000 to over 4 million.!

At Ten Museum Park, your every whim is fulfilled with white-glove service and endless pampering by the expertly trained Clinique La Prairie staff. Relax in the 25,000 sf sky garden and soothe body and spirit in the signature Clinique La Prairie Spa. Refresh yourself in the 8 pools including infinity edge sunrise and sunset pools, 2 lap pools and 4 unique plunge pools. Unwind and recharge in pavilions dedicated to aromatherapy, chromotherapy, steam, sauna and rainforest showers or reinvigorate with a workout in the spa's fitness center. Streetside, dine in the fine restaurant, indoors or out. Head over to the private bar and lounge for socializing in a sophisticated setting.


BUILDING FEATURES:
A 50 story crystalline structure of dramatic proportion designed by visionary rchitect Chad Oppenheim

-10,000 sf restaurant and outdoor café fronting Biscayne Boulevard
-3,000 sf bar and lounge inspired by Michael Capponi
-20,000 sf of office space with views of Biscayne Bay
-24-hour Valet Parking
-24-hour building security
-Michael Capponi VIP access into popular clubs, nightspots and travel destinations worldwide
-Exclusive Clinique La Prairie white-glove service
-25,000 sf Clinique La Prairie Wellness Center and Pleasure Garden
-Architectural pavilions dedicated to aromatherapy, chromotherapy, massage, meditation, steam, and sauna
-Building situated in the heart of Downtown Miami's Arts and Entertainment District
-Building located 5 minutes from South Beach, Coconut Grove, Miami Design District and Miami International Airportd ceramic tiled floors in all baths.
Ten Museum Park
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43701813.jpg
^ @ the far right

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 31
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41299939.jpg
^Rendering.

900 Biscayne Bay
900 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida
740 ft. 63 stories

Developer: Terra-Adi International Developments
Architect: Revuelta Vega Leon

900 Biscayne Bay condominiums is designed by well renowned architect Luis Revuelta.

The 60 story concept takes full advantage of the location with its amazing views of Biscayne Bay and Downtown Miami Skyline.

[/b]Among the most interesting amenities[/b]:
-60 stories
-Residences starting on the 14th Floor
-10 ft. ceilings throughout
-floor to ceiling glass
-9ft. wide glass balconies
-Private elevators
-Top of the line appliances and finishes
-AWARD WINNING multi-level lagoon Pools
-2 first class restaurants and retail space on site

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/41299941.jpg
^ Location and close up of the rendering.

^ Model of 900 Biscayne Bay is up above.

Completion end in 2007.

Emporis: http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=207628
Official website: http://www.900biscaynebay.com/
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43719764.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43719769.jpg
^ @ the left is Marina Blue Miami project # 1(black shaded rendering) and right is 900 Biscayne Bay Miami project # 31(blue shaded rendering)

[Archit_K]

^ to the right of 900 Biscayne Bay is the site for Ten Museum Park.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 36

Axis at Brickell Village I
1101 SW 1st Avenue
Miami, FL
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43720803.jpg

Developer: Brack Capital Real Estate Group
Architect: Arquitectonica
MEP Engineering: UCI Engineering

Status: Construction hasn't started
End: Expected to finish in 2007

http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=217437

Axis at Brickell Village II

http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=217438.jpg

More interesting renderings of Axis at Brickell Village I and II
http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43721227.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/43721262.jpg

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 37

http://skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=12179

United States Courthouse
400 North Miami Avenue
Miami, Florida
Floors: 14 Status: Under Construction (topped out)

Architect: Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum
architect: Arquitectonica
General Contractor: Dick Corporation
Structural Engineering: Walter P. Moore Structural Engineers
MEP Engineering: TLC Engineering for Architecture
MEP Engineering: Hufsey Nicolaides Garcia Suarez Associates, Inc.
Interior fit-out: Hollywood Woodwork, Inc.
Consultancy: James R. Tucker, Inc.
Facade Maintenance System Supplier: Pro-Bel Group
Facade Supplier: Gate Precast Company

www.arquitectonica.com

[Archit_K]

www.lynx-network.com

[Alex_F]

Wondering if anyone has any info on the proposed development at the southern end of Brickell Avenue referred to as SMA. It's to be twin 806-foot buildings, which would make it the second tallest development in Miami after Met3 (third tallest, if Empire World Towers gets the approval to go to 1200 feet), and this SMA project would really dominate that part of the city...even overshadowing the 789-foot Four Seasons hotel right across the street. Can't find a website for it or any other info online at this time.

[212]

For now (5/27, early morning), the Herald still has the great interactive skyline graphic on its Web site ... check it out while it's still there! The graphic links to renderings of 90 developments, many of them truly impressive.

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/
Banner linking to the graphic is right at the top.

[pianoman11686]

Incredible. It's as if they're building an entire city from the ground up. Eerily reminiscent of what's going on in Dubai, except they're not setting any height records (yet).

[johnny hollywood]

I am origially from Miami so I just wanted to mention that when I saw this thread and read it. I remember we had a boat too in Key Largo as a kid though we were not rich. Good piece.

[krulltime]

For now (5/27, early morning), the Herald still has the great interactive skyline graphic on its Web site ... check it out while it's still there! The graphic links to renderings of 90 developments, many of them truly impressive.

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/
Banner linking to the graphic is right at the top.


Yeah that skyline graphic is totally amazing. Is a must of everyone to see this for sure. Simply incredible that this city is growing so much.

[Alex_F]

Miami Herald architecture critic Beth Dunlop has some thoughts in today's paper on the nature of Miami's building explosion, and she sees some negatives.

Something she doesn't mention, but that was noted by an urban planner who was quoted in a recent news article, is the fact that of the 100 or so downtown highrises planned for completion in the next few years, not one is an office tower (although a few are "mixed-use")....the planner stated that if you turn your downtown into an almost entirely residential area, you really no longer have a downtown.

Here's the link to Dunlop's article:

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/entertainment/11761357.htm

[Archit_K]

^ interesting Alex_F

Posted on Sun, May. 29, 2005

Architecture commentary: City in the Sky

BY BETH DUNLOP

bdunlop@herald.com

Are we turning our cities into theme parks for the very rich? This might indeed be the architectural question of the decade for most of America's ''hot'' cities, but it is a particularly trenchant issue right now for Miami.

I know a schoolteacher -- beautiful, young, talented and engaged -- who would love to take part in the transformation of downtown. But on two teachers' salaries, there is little she and her fiancé can afford, and nothing desirable. They've been looking for a year.

This is a small anecdotal truth that indicates a much broader one: We are pricing out the people who really make this place what it is and ought to be: diverse; young and old; artists and authors and teachers and storekeepers, policemen and social workers and public servants; not just those who manage their portfolios while jetting from St. Tropez to Miami to Las Palmas.

A real city is filled with people of all incomes and interests, who spend their money in local stores and restaurants run by other local people, and their time out walking on the streets and playing in public parks, sitting in cafes, browsing and window-shopping, strolling and stopping -- after work, after school, after church or temple, before a movie, a play, a concert. That, more than mere commerce, is the time-tested engine that drives urbanism.

The future Miami skyline could include nearly 100 planned or already-built skyscrapers, most of them condo projects, a once-in-a-city's-lifetime phenomenon that was graphically depicted in The Herald earlier this month. As each newer, taller, bigger, ever-more-fashionable building is announced, I wonder about what we're doing to Miami, why we seem so intent on building a city from the top down rather than the bottom up. I wonder why the city's leaders haven't taken hold of the process to ensure that all-important mix that starts with architecture but ends with people.

We're getting the architecture, but are we leaving the people -- and that all-important urbanism that makes the world's most admired and beloved cities so remarkable to inhabit or even visit -- behind?

I worry that we are building a ''skybox city,'' the urban equivalent of those precious perches at stadiums and arenas with services at the touch of a button. Those skyboxes are great for a privileged few, and that's exactly the case with the Miami we are building today. Instead of skyboxes, we are getting skyscrapers -- some of them architecturally distinguished and others architecturally negligible, at best -- but the effect is much the same. Fans, not skyboxes, make sports facilities flourish. Residents, not skyscrapers alone, make a city.

This is not just a matter of economics, but of city-building, which is much different from construction -- of establishing a vital, vibrant, energetic new way of life in a newly populous urban center. Without that, we'll have a chimerical city that seems to exist as a dazzling skyline only -- like Oz.

The dimensions first: As of April, there were 261 development projects in motion (this is to say somewhere between preliminary application and recent completion) in the city of Miami. For Miami this means a mind-boggling 69,039 residential units, which is basically the equivalent of building a medium-sized city. Not all of this is what might be considered ''prime'' residential development, along the bay or in or near downtown, but a significant percentage is.

In terms of architecture, the outlook is mixed, at best. Some of the buildings will be original, some cliched re-workings of designs we've seen far too much of in South Florida already.

Many questions arise. The rate of construction beggars our capacity to control quality. No planning department could keep up with it, not to mention the building department that must monitor quality of construction, code compliance and safety; add to this the fact that the building trades here are not renowned for their craftsmanship.

So far, we have had a lot of what might be called design-by-slogan, with promises of the lushest, poshest, most sophisticated life. Sales are promoted at cocktail parties with ''chic attire'' requested. And the names, each cooler than the last (Ice, Icon, Lynx, Mist, Neo, Onyx, Opus), make one yearn for the days of street addresses, period.

The public is treated to a barrage of glamorous images in newspaper ads and inserts and mailers and even signs and billboards, but those in the end are just artists' renderings that don't reflect the inevitable ''value engineering'' to get construction prices down. To see how this affects a high-rise design, look at the original images of Miami Beach's 40-story Setai, the tallest tower on the historic waterfront. Setai is a handsome-enough building, but it is not the dramatic or detailed work of architecture that was envisioned or publicly approved. And that is offered only as a cautionary tale, to say that what you see is not always what you get. Advertising and public relations are not architecture.

The questions deepen when one moves to the linked issues of urbanism and city-building, the inevitable tricky questions of how buildings meet the street, of what to do with the cars, and what kind of amenities and activities will accompany these new buildings. Some projects are ''mixed use'' and will offer shopping and eating as well as housing, but others are (as Le Corbusier put it so many years ago) ''machines for living'' without even the pretense of being part of an urban fabric.

It stands to reason that 69,039 new housing units means somewhere upward of 100,000 parking spaces, far too many of them in podium garages that become the bulky faceless base of most of our buildings; some architects do well at disguising these. Some projects have paid careful attention to how their buildings meet the ground, to the all-important connection of residents to terra firma, but in others, that ''eyes on the street'' contact with place that lower-floor living offers will not exist.

The bond between people and place is a key step to creating community, and it is rarely (one can never say ''never'') achieved when the typical urban resident goes from a 50th-floor aerie (great view) to parking garage to car. That is indeed the urban equivalent of a very expensive theme park, and it is not urbanism.

Real urbanism does not exist in the sky but on the street. It is achieved when people put their feet on the ground. Most new residents will end up driving to the grocery store, the exception being those who will live within reach of the new Whole Foods Market downtown or who choose to walk to one of the two Publix markets near Brickell. But think of Manhattan or San Francisco or, for that matter, Paris or Rome, or any other place with a vibrant urban life, and you see evolutionary cities with streets lined with small shops -- bakeries, cafes, pizzerias, pharmacies, hairdressers, shoe repair shops, stationers, book stores, not to mention schools and cinemas and public parks and plazas -- that meet the needs of residents without requiring parking places.

Who will live in this new city we're building? It's impossible to tell by real estate sales, as so many purchases are done for investment (and often ''flipped,'' or resold as soon as possible), and the industry knows, even if they won't admit it, that deposits on units are not actually sales.

Anecdotally, I can look to the row of glamorous high-rise condos along Alton Road south of Fifth Street, another instant urban environment that seemed to pop up out of nowhere. Last fall, a magazine assignment took me into one of these, a 300-unit building. When I got there, things were remarkably quiet. I asked the guard how many people were in residence right then, and he told me: 35. That is probably bad news, in that we are usurping the shoreline and the sky for these very big buildings, and good -- as it means that at any given time, such a building is not spewing 300 or 400 cars onto our roadways. And if that translates across the bay, to Latin American, European and North American buyers not in full residence at any time, the implications are much the same.

[Archit_K]

Miami project # 38

Plaza on Brickell Tower I
851 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL

Construction end late 2006

Plaza on Brickell Tower II
901 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL

Construction ends early 2006

http://www.pbase.com/archit_kderek2k3/image/44049126.jpg
Plaza on Brickell Tower I is to the left and Plaza on Brickell Tower II is to the right up front of this rendering.

[Alex_F]

More thoughts on Miami's building boom, this time from attorney Matthew Gorson, as interviewed in this morning's Miami Herald.


http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/business/11758131.htm


Relevant portions from the interview follow....




Whether you love or hate the way South Pointe has evolved over the past decade with high rises such as Portofino Towers, the man with a hand in all of the large-scale development at the south tip of Miami Beach is Matthew B. Gorson.

Indeed, Gorson -- Miami real estate lawyer and national operating shareholder for Greenberg Traurig -- has done the legal work resulting in many of the high-rise towers now in the planning stage or dotting South Florida's cities and shorelines. His clients include developers Jorge Perez, Michael Swerdlow and Ian Bruce Eichner, among others.




Q: Is this the biggest boom you have seen in South Florida in more than 30 years practicing real estate law in Miami? Where is this headed?

A: It has been dramatic for the last three years, the most I have ever seen.

I think Miami is going to become one of the major cities of the world. I already think it is one of the most attractive, wonderful places to live. The rest of the world is finding that out. People will continue to beat a path to our door. There is no reason why this city couldn't have 5 million, 8 million, 10 million people. But that is not going to happen unless we go vertical.

We are not going to impinge on the Everglades much further, if at all. So there is only one way to go, and that is up. And I think we will build up.

Q: What is the biggest danger? And how many of these buildings will actually be built?

A: I think the biggest danger is over-development because of sales to investors and the potential of people buying who don't intend to necessarily live in a unit -- who are either going to rent it, hold it, sell it. If too many units come onto the market and we have a change in the economy in terms of interest rates going up too high, there may not be the ability to resell the units or to rent the units.

On the other hand, I see Miami continuing to grow. Despite the fact we have had so much development, I am cautiously optimistic because we continue to attract people. And not only from Latin America and the Northeast, but from Europe. And we are going to start attracting [them] from Asia. . . . Ultimately, the inventory will be used up. But we may have some slow periods.

[In terms of how many announced projects will be completed,] I think at least half will get built. We've had a lot of inflation in the cost of construction and while prices of units are going up, there is going to be a limit. We are all aware that real estate is cyclical and that at some point there will either be a down cycle or cooling off or stabilization of some sort, particularly if interest rates continue to rise. Given our economy and deficits, I don't see the Fed continuing to increase rates too much. I am cautiously optimist the ride will continue. We have been in a good environment for real estate for at least 10 years. That's as long a string as I can remember. I see no sign of it slowing down right now.

If history serves us, it will.

But there may be a rotation. Right now, everything is condominium. If people come and fill up these buildings being sold, we will need more retail for sure. Hopefully we will need more office buildings. So you may see a rotation as well.

Q: A big issue is having a more pedestrian-friendly environment, more open spaces. Is this a priority for developers?

A: I think those who are from Miami and care about the community for sure are concerned about a proper long-term development plan. As an example, Jorge Perez of The Related Group sits on the Downtown Development Authority, and the DDA has just spent the last two years working to try and get planning for the entire Biscayne corridor, the Brickell corridor, Flagler Street, so there is some consistency so developers who come to the city will know what is expected of them by way of treescapes, retail, benches, whatever it might be at the street level so we can have a beautiful, workable city.

[Alex_F]

As some 60,000 new condos will be coming on line in Miami, some area investors are now stockpiling cash and waiting to jump in and buy them (and even buy entire unfinished towers) at rock bottom prices, believing the current market cannot sustain itself much longer...especially when all the speculators simultaneously start trying to flip the units they've bought, as the 100 or so new buildings going up in Miami are completed.

Here's the link from today's Miami Herald:

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/business/11812197.htm

[khanusma]

Today, 6/6, was Soleil's first day of sales. I passed on the opportunity to purchase a unit today b/c of all the housing market unknows. I wonder how it went.

[Alex_F]

Anyone following the luxury condo tower explosion in Miami has to read this article about how the apartments are being marketed...including the throw-away nature of the million dollar sales centers that get bulldozed when the tower breaks ground.

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/11859866.htm

[Alex_F]

The recent artist's rendering in the Miami Herald of Miami's future skyline is now available as a poster, from this website:

http://www.newsartstore.com/index.php

[totus photography]

Hello everyone,

Please take a look at www.totus-photo.com. I am interested in any feedback on the photos and navigation of the site. This is only the beta version. More images are to be added soon as well as a client log-in area and "credentials" section.

Please go to the contact section and send me an e-mail.

Thank you in advance,
Jeff Stevens

www.totus-photo.com

[totus photography]

www.totus-photo.com

Sorry, I didn't parse the link.

[kz1000ps]

Now that you've used the forum for advertising your product, we here at WiredNY hope to see you become an active contributing member to our discussions and not drop off the face of the Earth, as seems to be the case much of the time - fair deal?

Excellent pictures, by the way.

[kz1000ps]

Never. Saw. That. Coming.

[totus photography]

kznyc2k and Law & Order,

I always would like to hear any comments good, bad or indifferent.

I thought the apparent solicitation might raise some eyebrows. I honestly just wanted some input. The forum seems interesting and all the contributors seem well-informed. Advertising was the farthest from my mind. Just wanted to gain some fresh insight other than my own.

My interest is truly in documentation. Clients just happen to pay for the result. The skyline is changing by the minute and I like the challenge of capturing the beautiful side (if possible) of that transformation from the air. It is an interesting and challenging job most of the time.

For the record - I do not think any potential clients post here. If they do, great. Please check out the site. The log-off time of 10 minutes was unintentional.

Thanks,
Jeff

[Spine]

I think the Herald article is great. There are lots of new buildings planned for Miami. It would be nice to see what is going to happen at the pedestrian level.

Jeff,

The photos are awesome! How did you get such nice night time photos at that altitude? I bet you needed long exposures. I've tried shooting from a helicopter and the pictures come out real blurry. Did you use a blimp?

http://www.webo.com/Miami-Biscayne-Blvd.jpg

[kz1000ps]

Jeff,

I apologize for going on the offensive perhaps a little too agressively, but I think I can speak for all here that it's aggravating to see one- or two-posters come on to hawk something and vanish. I'm completely with you in personal interests, that being the love of capturing your city in all different lights/moods/angles. Getting paid for it is certainly a nice perk! Too bad I don't have access to the air. And again, the photos are really beautiful, hopefully one day I'll be up at that level (ha, that's a pun, I'm funny). Take care.

Phil

[totus photography]

I understand about the one-post-stands. Hopefully, I can contribute to the forum somehow. I will fill you in on any insider info I might be allowed to share whenever I can. Although most of the time, I think I am the last one in the loop.

I stumbled on this forum a couple of months ago. I have been "post"poning making any contributions of my own. But I thought this would be a great place to hear the needed feedback concerning the images and gain some information on possible upcoming projects.

Thanks for the compliment. Make sure you use the white scroll bar at the top to view the entire image. I am not convinced that it is obvious to do this but I like the minimal approach whenever possible.

We just shot views for 1 Broadway (formerly Park Place) this morning from balconies on the 31st and 36th floors. Great predawn and sunrise conditions after the storms last night. The new structure has 36 floors, 372 units. All rental. I hope the investors understand what they are getting into with a full lease building.

[totus photography]

And Spine,
Amazing rendering! You wouldn't happen to be related to Spine3D would you?

[Spine]

Yep. I guess you've heard about our company. We did the Park Place renderings.

I admit also that this is a great thread for insider info. I'm amazed at how soon the members know about upcoming projects. I will also try to share what I know when possible.

[Archit_K]

well i' am happy to see this thread booming. jeff beautiful panoramas!

[Archit_K]

http://www.spine3d.com/

[totus photography]

Spine,
Just a hunch on the name. You guys do great work - love the lighting effects on your renderings. You definitely know what you are doing.

Archit K,
Thanks for the kudos. Seems like you are the biggest contributor to the site. How do you nail down all the info? How do you find the time? Great research and great insights. I notice you are all over Miami with a camera. I didn't know half the places you find even existed.

The forum would probably flow even better if we all were on at the same times. Unfortunately, work dictates the schedule.

Jeff

[Archit_K]

Spine,
Just a hunch on the name. You guys do great work - love the lighting effects on your renderings. You definitely know what you are doing.

Archit K,
Thanks for the kudos. Seems like you are the biggest contributor to the site. How do you nail down all the info? How do you find the time? Great research and great insights. I notice you are all over Miami with a camera. I didn't know half the places you find even existed.

The forum would probably flow even better if we all were on at the same times. Unfortunately, work dictates the schedule.

Jeff
^ well i go to varies sites to do my research, read the miami herald and if i have time to spare in my busy schedule i watch the news. i from florida but i go to school in brooklyn.

-Kris

[Spine]

Thanks Guys!

Here's a little something for Alex. Guess what building inspired the top.

Eddie

http://www.webo.com/projects/sma.jpg

[Alex_F]

Welcome to the discussion, Eddie, and thanks for your great contributions.

The thus-far mysterious SMA project is less so now...great rendering. To hazard a guess, I would say the spikes on the decorative tops of these buildings look similar to the crown of the Statue of Liberty.

Would I be correct also that this project is basically two 60-story buildings with about 20 stories of uninhabited glasswork on each that is intended to serve as a nighttime beacon for the city?

[Spine]

Good guess Alex. It does have a New York influence. But, it was inspired by the Chrysler Building.

The crowns will be habitable and I bet they'll be very expensive condos also. I wish I could afford one. The views will be spectacular.

Does anyone have any new info on Empire World Towers? It seems that the Herald Skyline article listed it smaller at 659ft and 56 floors. This seems a lot more realistic since the site is in a flight zone. The FAA would never allow a building that tall there. All the buildings in that area are now under 700ft. Including Paramount Park.

[Kolbster]

God, you can't leave this post alone for any amount of time...I'm going to have to restate the obvious: Florida is a HOT bed!

Ohh, and those Chrystler like towers are very nice looking

[archifreese]

Good guess Alex. It does have a New York influence. But, it was inspired by the Chrysler Building.

The crowns will be habitable and I bet they'll be very expensive condos also. I wish I could afford one. The views will be spectacular.

Does anyone have any new info on Empire World Towers? It seems that the Herald Skyline article listed it smaller at 659ft and 56 floors. This seems a lot more realistic since the site is in a flight zone. The FAA would never allow a building that tall there. All the buildings in that area are now under 700ft. Including Paramount Park.

Its still pending though there are some current discussions about 1123 ft. The freedom tower addition review is postponed a month for revisions/reconsiderations.

[Spine]

Anything above 1000 ft. would be really cool. I hope they get approval.

I think the issue with the freedom tower addition is not really the height. It's the proximity to the historic building. Anything that gets built there is going to have an impact, even the other new buildings next to it.

Either way, Biscayne Boulevard is going to be a great public space lined with a wall of towers. It will be unique.

[Alex_F]

A couple months ago I posted here that there was an online place to purchase a poster of the Miami Herald's May graphic of the future city skyline. Just to let you know, I've had a real problem in dealing with these folks and six weeks later haven't received my poster. They are very casual about returning calls or emails, if they even do so at all. So if any other readers of this forum have used the link I provided and had similar problems, sorry about the bum steer.

I know that some other readers here have visited the variety of websites that have info and photos about new Miami construction, with most of these sites being operated by real estate brokers or groups of brokers. I just ran across one I personally hadn't seen before, and it's the best of the bunch:

http://www.miami-condo-lifestyle.com/

Well written, well organized, nice graphics, easy to navigate. Check it out if you haven't already.

By the way, I learned from the aforementioned site that the project on Brickell called SMA is to be called Capital at Brickell (and thanks Jeff and Spine for the info on this project you previously posted...much appreciated). I see also that the floor count of the two towers now is down to, respectively, 57 and 54. They were previously 67 each. Anybody know if that means this project is no longer slated to be 806 feet?

[krulltime]

God, you can't leave this post alone for any amount of time...I'm going to have to restate the obvious: Florida is a HOT bed!

Ohh, and those Chrystler like towers are very nice looking

I second that!

Miami... who knows I might retire there one day!

[MiamiGUY]

cardinal symphony-1650biscayne blvd -896units,28,000 sqft office,66,245 retailsqft,
60stories 600ft,app cost-290million
http://www.elkus-manfredi.com/images/1650%20Biscayne.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

dupont towers

1228units,62hotel,38,000retail,
60stories 609ft,45stories 460ft approx cost-$767million
http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/8975/02332view1s6yq.jpg
http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/7323/02332view2s0mg.jpg
http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/9470/02332view3s8og.jpg

[Ninjahedge]

(to post #201)

Interesting, but it looks difficult structurally.

I think Florida has very little seismic requirements, but hurricane is huge!

The back "spine" looks like the fire-stair-core and will have some lateral resisting elements. But without something on the "front" you will get what I like to call "tail wagging". The front will swing back and forth when it is pushed side to side.

I am sure they are putting something in there to handle that, but with the view being prime, it might be difficult to fit in a good sized braced frame up near the tip.....

[MiamiGUY]

miami city tower
http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/6219/miamicitytower1ow.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

$1.3 billion mixed-use project slated for Brickell
By Vanessa Krause
A $1.3 billion mixed-use project spanning almost two blocks and 5.5 acres in the Brickell financial district would create Miami's tallest buildings and is expected to get under way within 12 months.
The Brickell CitiCentre project, targeted for vacant land at 700 and 701 S Miami Ave., is to include three towers ranging from 69 to 76 stories with 2,424 residential units, more than 200,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space and 130,000 square feet of office space. Completion is projected in three years.
Miami's Planning Advisory Board unanimously approved the project without discussion last week, and developer Kevin Reilly said he anticipates final approval for a Major Use Special Permit from the city commission in September.
Brickell Citicentre LLC bought the site last October for an undisclosed amount from Miami Retail Partners, LLC - the name of the Millennium Partners entity created for the property.
Officials from Millennium Partners, the New York-based developer of the Four Seasons mixed-use tower on Brickell Avenue, were not available Tuesday for comment.
Millennium's Four Seasons, at 64 stories and 788 feet, 9 inches tall, is now the city's tallest structure. All three proposed Brickell Citicentre towers would rise above it.
Mr. Reilly, who said he is managing member of Brickell CitiCentre LLC and sole owner of the project, said land acquisition was financed internally, and construction costs are to be covered through a loan.
"I am securing a construction loan from major bank, but it hasn't been finalized yet," he said.
One tower is to be on the lot east of South Miami Avenue and the other two on the west side of the street.
The Brickell CitiCentre project that won Miami Planning Advisory Board approval last week to become Miami's tallest buildings is to serve as an entry to the Brickell area between the Miami River and Brickell Village, developer Kevin Reilly said.
"The project has been in the works since last fall," Mr. Reilly said. "The city and I share the same vision for this area, so working with the Planning Department has been a very positive experience and the approval process has gone very smoothly."
Mr. Reilly said he anticipates final approval in September from the city commission.
Although one tower is to rise east of South Miami Avenue and the other two are to be on the west side of the street, at 701 and 700 S Miami Ave. respectively, the two sides will not be physically connected.
"I felt this would take away from the open-air, park-like feel," Mr. Reilly said.
The city had previously suggested providing a direct connection between the Eighth Street Metromover station and the site, but then agreed that a direct connection isn't necessary because the station is easily accessible from Brickell CitiCentre.
"Brickell CitiCentre will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the neighborhood - the South Miami Avenue corridor is undergoing significant redevelopment in the Brickell area," Mr. Reilly said. "With the addition of Brickell CitiCentre, this corridor will soon become one of the city's most attractive and sought-after addresses for modern urban living."
The façade of the garages at the east and west borders of the property will be highlighted with walls that are Mondrian-meets-Miami inspired assembly of clear and frosted acrylic panels assembled in a metal frame, Mr. Reilly said.
The project is to provide ground-level retail, extra-wide sidewalks and urban plazas.
Mr. Reilly said the retail businesses will be a fusion of larger retailers and restaurants, including sidewalk cafes and neighborhood shops.
Amenities in the towers are to include multiple pools, including a saltwater soaking pool; fitness centers; gardens; a recreation deck cafe, and a spa. Units are expected to go on sale this year, Mr. Reilly said. Prices have yet to be set.
Mr. Reilly said Brickell CitiCentre will attract "a sophisticated, discerning buyer drawn by the high level of quality and unique amenities."
"I think Miami continues to be one of the most desirable destinations in the world, and will continue to attract buyers from around the world," he said. "It is the American Riviera."

http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/050728/story1.shtml

http://img222.echo.cx/img222/251/622050039mn.jpg[

[MiamiGUY]

portico-uptown district 324units ,41floors 461ft, approx cost 75million
http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/2825/portico1xf.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

http://www.restainer.com/jadeocean/r_JadeOcean_day.jpg
jade ocean by carlos ott---sunny isles

[MiamiGUY]

park place -500,000 office space,32stories 527ft
http://rileagroup.com/fotos/1450%20Brickell/1.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

news
uptown
-terra group buys ten acres in front of miami herald property,masterplan to be released next week.10acres 100+million
-argent ventures buys the omni mall right next to the newly acquired property by terra group-11acres 100+million
-bcre buys ice2 parcel,the building will still be built.
-paradise development pays 18million for parcel at 1550biscayne
-isreali partnership planning mixed use project directly behind performing arts center.
- florida dept of trans. pays 75million for 3 parcels of land which it said would get in the way of sumberging an overhead highway.the sites were suppose to be were the proposed opus1,2 and 3 were going to be built.:(
-developers at 1400biscayne sumbit plans to city for mixed use project with 2towers at 62floors 648ft,40,000sqft retail.727units

[MiamiGUY]

news
wynwood-edgewater-midtown design district
-dacra announces plans to build1.5 million square feet of new construction
including.Phase one is already underway. It includes:

• Oak Plaza, a project on Northeast 40th Street, that will include two two-story buildings for retail and design showrooms. A new street called Plumer Alley will knife between the two structures connecting to Northeast 39th Street, leading to a restaurant space and courtyard. Completion is expected by year's end.

• Two modern single-family homes on Northeast 42nd Street that are set to receive the final nod for occupancy within the next two weeks.

• Two buildings along Northeast First Court between Northeast 38th and Northeast 39th streets that are slated to go up in 2006. Each will have a ground floor retail component and the upper floors in the Palm Court Building will include rental apartments while the Collection Building will have art gallery space and hold Robins' private art collection.

• Two parcels on either side of Tuttle Street between Biscayne Boulevard and North Federal Highway that Robins hopes will serve as the Design District's gateway. On one side of the street, two two-story retail and design showrooms are planned. On the other, two more two-story retail structures topped by several floors of condominiums are on the drawing board.

Robins said a condo developer will be chosen shortly who will build the condo component. Construction is set to begin next year.

Much of the construction, Robins said, will be financed by money earned from his project Aqua and from money paid to Dacra by the condo developer who builds the Tuttle Street condo. Robins has also long used Alabama-based Colonial Bank to finance his projects.

PHASE TWO PLANS

Robins plans to launch a second phase within the next three years that will include office space, more condos, art galleries, retail and design space and possibly a hotel. Those developments would go on several parcels of land Robins already owns at the intersection of North Miami Avenue and Northeast 39th Street, among other locations.

Added to this mix, developer Jeremy Green of Nexus Development Group has purchased two Design District parcels where he plans to build town homes and lofts. And last year Robins sold the famed Living Room building, noted for its oversized pink outdoor couch, to Diego and Ernesto Rimoch of Mexico City for $3 million. They plan to turn it into an independent film theater.
www.dacra.com (http://www.dacra.com)

-developers sumbit plans for tiziano 15 stories

[MiamiGUY]

news
downtown-brickell
-island gardens gets go ahead groundbreaking expected this year
-met2 changed from being a 40 story residential tower to a 37story office tower height 650ft
-verite sumbit plans to city-234units ,313,000 officespace, 55floors height ???
-villa magna returns,now 53floors 583ft
-beacon brickell village expected to increase size from 36 to 50 floors and second phase expected.
-also capital towers lowers height from 805ft to 649ft
-rumors are abound about a big office tower in brickell by fortune development and also one in downtown.

[MiamiGUY]

isreali partnership project #4
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/enyers/marquis0055jx.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

island gardens
http://www.urbanresource.com/images/dev/gallery/92/projectigrender.jpg

[Alonzo-ny]

I like the park place tower. Not the greatest miami skyline fan, not downtown but all those condos is awful like rio or something. But it looks like its getting some cool towers and hopefully someone might decide to have the only tallest n.american tower ever outside ny and chicago which would make a change.

[Alonzo-ny]

Wow thought id check emporis to see how many approved towers going up and there are 22 approved in the top 40 buildings (top 40 includes built, approved, u/c and proposed) 3 proposed, 11 u/c and only 4 actually built!! Talk a bout a boom, the only comparison must be nyc boom before 1929 crash!

[MiamiGUY]

Real Madrid plan theme parks in Miami and Beijing

MADRID, Aug 5 (Reuters) - Real Madrid plan to construct branded theme parks in Miami and Beijing as part of a strategy to expand and develop marketing opportunities across the globe.

"We are in negotiations with the mayors of Miami and Beijing to create two theme parks," Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was quoted as saying in Spanish sports daily AS.

"They will become the focus for the legions of Real Madrid fans in the powerful and heavily populated countries of the United States and China."

Real are also planning to include a theme park in Madrid at their new training base which is under construction in Valdebebas near the city's Barajas airport. AS reported that the club is aiming to have all three parks in place by 2008.

Real recently returned from an 18-day tour of the U.S. and Asia which was reported to have earned the club some $25 million.

Last month Perez said that Real Madrid's income had increased by 250 percent since he took over as president five years ago and that the club had overtaken Manchester United as the biggest earner in world soccer.

http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news?sl...uters&type=lgns (http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news?slug=reu-realparks&prov=reuters&type=lgns)

[Alex_F]

Great contributions, MiamiGUY, welcome.

[MiamiGUY]

http://www.capitalbrickell.com/index.html

Capital at Brickell has a website with some nice renderings up. Here are a couple of closeups of the roof structure:

http://www.capitalbrickell.com/images/Capital%20Tower%20Top.gif

http://www.capitalbrickell.com/images/Capital%20Tower%20Top2.gif

[Alonzo-ny]

Cool!

[Kolbster]

WOWOWOWOWOW!
WOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! CAPITAL TOWERS!
Oh my my, that is spectacular...i'm so saving that on my desktop

[Kolbster]

You know, of all the buildings constructed i only find four or so buildings which aren't amazing (In my opinion).

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5761&page=4&pp=15
Oppenheim Architecture & Design

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5761&page=5&pp=15
1 Biscayne Boulevard

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5761&page=6&pp=15
Parc Lofts

http://www.wirednewyork.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5761&page=7&pp=15
1390 Brickell Bay
1401 Brickell Ave


But for only to have four that aren't amazing out of all that construction...that's amazing.

[MiamiGUY]

well i don't know if this project had been posted here but its a biggie.

midtown miami is the name,a few years ago 56acres of land were being used as a storage facility for fec railways.this land was only 5 mins away from downtown and was just sitting there prime for redevelopment.some new york developers saw that one day this would be the future hotspot in miami so they formed midtown development llc.

so the specs the 56 acres was divided into 2 parcels,east and west.
east was to be the site for one of the most urban vertical malls in america will the other 30 acres would be used for residential,office and hotel towers in 10 buildings and 2 midrises.

groundbreaking for midtown began with the shops at midtown on november1 2004..and manytenants have already signed a lease.the other parcel westside began with phase 1 or midtown 2,the intriguing part of the west parcel is the award winning architects which are designing buildings,among the likes are arquitectonica,chad oppenheim, and kobi karp.
midtown original rendering
http://www.floridarealtyfinder.com/images/Mid-Town-Miami.jpg
midtown model
http://www.miamibeach411.com/photos/real_estate/midtown-miami-model-400.gif
midtown phase 1 u/c
http://www.cajaradesign.com/graphics/Mdt1.jpg
http://www.cajaradesign.com/graphics/Mdt7.jpg
http://www.cajaradesign.com/graphics/Mdt4.jpg
http://www.cajaradesign.com/graphics/Mdt5.jpg
http://www.cajaradesign.com/graphics/Mdt3.jpg

midtown phase 2 u/c
http://www.geraldjorge.com/images/Midtown%20Miami%20Tower.jpg
nidtown phase 3 sales
http://www.condofinds.com/listing_images/THREE_MIDTOWN_MIAMI2.jpg
midtown 4-10 not released yet

midtown midblock
http://www.condofinds.com/listing_images/Midblock_Midtown_Miami2.jpg
midtown construction
ok i don't have a recent construction picture but i was at the site a couple of days ago,the retail building #1 is on the second floor,also the midrise building 1 is on the 1st floor,while phase 1 -midtown2 is on it 3 floor and expect midtown residential phase 2 is expected to start foundation soon.

completion is expected to be n 2010

[MiamiGUY]

72story 835ft office tower annouced
and 10+acre mixed use project announced


renderings pending

[Kolbster]

72story 835ft office tower annouced
and 10+acre mixed use project announced


renderings pending

sounds exciting...who's the architect

[MiamiGUY]

72story tower=kobi karp
10acre mixed use infront of performing arts center-arquitectonica

[MiamiGUY]

talking about kobi karp he just designed this mixed use tower for a triangular parcel in brickell,called flatiron although i like the base of the building the building itself is not very creative,its just a glass box done in richard meier's stylehttp://www.kobikarp.com/images/Flatiron%20v1.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

and then since were talking about arquitectonica they just designed brickell citicentre another mixed use development featuring three towers which will all be taller than the current tallest fourseasons,i like the design although i feeli like they added to much parking to the project although they are located one block away from the metrorail and right beside the metromover. the tallest will be 808 feet.

http://img222.echo.cx/img222/251/622050039mn.jpg

[MiamiGUY]

10acre mixed use project annouced infront of performing arts center-arquitectonica

onmi mall,is a partially vacant mall which was brought for 110million dollars,it has about 11 acres.
plans were submitted last month to the city and it includes 4639 condos, and 227,192 sq ft of retail also 8000 parking spaces
these renderings were posted at ssp by chad but i'm not to sure that these are the really renderings just probably a masterplan or some massing studies.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/enyers/Cam-06-new-psdcopy.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/enyers/Cam-10-psdcopy.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/enyers/Cam-11-new-psdcopy.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v289/enyers/Cam-13-cartoon-psdcopy.jpg

[Spine]

Yep...that must be a massing study. Here is a shot of downtown looking south from above the PAC. This view shows the new towers along Biscayne Blvd. (Marquis, 10 Museum, 900, etc...)

http://www.webo.com/renderings/Downtown-small.jpg

[Alex_F]

In the Miami Herald this week is the announcement of Terra's plans for the vast open space they bought for $190m from the Herald publisher, Knight-Ridder, directly west of the Herald's bayside building: Two 62 story Arquitectonica residential towers. The following link has the story and a link to a rendering of the buildings:

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/special_packages/interactive/12788074.htm

Capital at Brickell's website at www.capitalatbrickell.com has a link to a PDF brochure for the development that has some very revealing helicopter shots of CAB's future location together with numerous views from that location in all directions...an excellent perspective on the Brickell area and how many spaces are left for development.

[lofter1]

OK, I'm confused...

The rendering seen on the Miami Herald link looks entirely different from what is seen in the pdf brochure found at the link to Capital at Brickell.

Are these two different projects?

[Alex_F]

Lofter1..

Yes, two different projects.

The two newly announced towers abutting the Miami Herald building are in the Park West/Omni area...while the Capital at Brickell project has been known for some time and it's a good two miles away at the southern end of Brickell Avenue (but they've just announced preconstruction sales in big ads in the paper, which also urge visits to this new website of theirs).

[Spine]

There is some new info about the Island Gardens project in the Miami Herald: http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/12827452.htm

It's a unique project because the two towers will be on an island between downtown Miami and Miami Beach. The views of the bay and skyline will be amazing.

http://www.spine3d.com/images/wiredny/shangrila.jpg

[umiami305]

Here is some new images of 1101 Brickell from Kobi Karp's website. Standing tall at 74 stories and 849FT!!!

[umiami305]

http://www.kobikarp.com/images/1101photomontage2.jpg

[umiami305]

http://www.kobikarp.com/images/1101photomontage.jpg

[umiami305]

Also have some more pics of yet another 849ft tower!!! I think most of us know it as Flatiron, I think however it has been renamed Brickell Park, but I am not positive on the renaming, does anyone have any info on this?

[umiami305]

http://www.kobikarp.com/images/Flatiron2.jpg

[umiami305]

http://www.kobikarp.com/images/Flatiron1.jpg

[umiami305]

I just found an exciting article on 1101 Brickell which means were one step closer on this tower!!!
Developer gets permit for mixed-use project in Brickell
By Deserae del Campo
Architects' renderings show 1101 Brickell towering above Brickell Avenue with balcony views of downtown Miami and the Biscayne Bay skyline.
The renderings may soon become reality. Miami commissioners last week granted developer Leviev Boymelgreen a major use special permit to build the 849-foot, 74-story mixed-use building with 650 residential units, 269,000 square feet of office space and 30,000 square feet of retail space.
According to city records, construction cost is estimated at $256 million.
The city expects the project to create 770 construction jobs, 51 permanent jobs and $3.9 million in tax revenue.
The site had been occupied by an 11-story office tower opened in 1964 and renovated in 1993 and a 19-story office tower built in 1985. They were sold last year by Banco de Desarollo Economico y Social de Venezuela, forced to divest the property by Venezuelan law.
To construct 1101 Brickell, architects said, developers will demolish the existing parking garage along with the office and commercial tower, which will be gutted and renovated to create retail space.
Unit prices haven't been determined, but Leviev Boymelgreen officials say anyone interested in buying a unit does not have to be multimillionaire.
The 17th floor is to include an amenity deck with a yoga studio, spa and fitness center.
According to materials submitted to the city's planning department, "1101 Brickell is a large property, approximately 3.2 acres, which spans from Brickell Avenue to Brickell Bay Drive that presents a significant redevelopment opportunity."
The planning department recommended approval of 1101 Brickell with conditions. It asked developers to provide a pedestrian-friendly environment surrounding the building along with landscape architecture.
"We've made this project pedestrian-friendly with public access to Brickell Bay Drive and Brickell Avenue," said Kobi Karp, president of Kobi Karp Architecture. "It took us three to four months to complete the renderings for this project."
There are to be 390 one-bedroom units, 138 two-bedroom units and 106 two-bedroom units with bi-level lofts on the top floors.

[umiami305]

Here is a list of the seven new tallest buildings approved or proposed in Miami that will be taller then the current tallest The Four Seasons(789FT) in Miami:
1) Empire World Tower I 1200FT, 106flrs / Proposed
2) Empire World Tower II 1200FT, 106flrs / Proposed
3) 600 Brickell 903FT , 68 flrs / Proposed
4) Met 3 866FT , 75 flrs / Under Const.
5) 1101 Brickell 849FT , 74 flrs / Proposed
6) Flatiron/Brickell Park 849FT, 73 flrs / Proposed
7) Brickell Citi Centre 808FT, 76 flrs / Aprroved

[Dagrecco82]

Here's one link that shows rendering for the Met projects.

http://www.miami-condo-lifestyle.com/met3.php

[TLOZ Link5]

I know that the question has been asked before, but how much population can Miami hope to gain from these new buildings? I doubt that most of the occupants will actually be full-time residents.

[Johnnyboy]

best of luck miami

[umiami305]

Here is an aerial photo of dowtown Miami from Brickell(at the Fours Seasons) to park west(american airlines arena). Obviously if you look closely you can tell this photo is from several years ago because the one miami towers have just broke ground in this photo and there's no construction cranes besides the one miami site which now in days all you see in construction cranes. But regardless its still a nice aerial shot.http://www.axiscondos.com/arialview.jpg

[umiami305]

I just visited Emporis.com and they now have 1101 Brickell listed as APPROVED and apparently it made it through unscathed, meaning its still the original 849FT!

[hey19932]

:D :D :D :D :D can' t wait till construction begins on 1101 brickell!

[umiami305]

Here is a tower I found out about from another forum, its not showing up on emporis yet but its called Logik, and its an office tower near the old Miami Arena!!! I am excited to see downtown finally starting to fill out and gain some depth towards 95!!http://www.logiktower.com/home.html

[umiami305]

This image was in the Miami Herald recently. This is a rendering of Villa Magna. Dual 60 story towers which will be next to Jade.

http://specialsections.miami.com/imagehandler/ss-ad/495238

[umiami305]

http://specialsections.miami.com/imagehandler/ss-ad/495238

[quefueuno]

Brickell tower won't leave the blueprint

The developer of a planned 49-story condo called 1390 Brickell Bay, which was slated to go up near Brickell Avenue in Miami, is pulling the plug on the project.

BY MATTHEW HAGGMAN

mhaggman@MiamiHerald.com (mhaggman@MiamiHerald.com)

A planned high-rise condominium tower called 1390 Brickell Bay in Miami won't be built and deposits will be returned to buyers, the developer announced.
Kenneth Baboun, president of The BBB Group, said he is abandoning the 49-story, 364-unit condo due to skyrocketing construction costs and an inability to get financing. He also blamed permitting and hurricane-related delays. ''Market conditions impaired us from doing this project,'' said Baboun, who plans to sell the roughly one-acre parcel pinched between the Espirito Santo Plaza building on Brickell Avenue and the bayfront condo tower, Jade. ``The market changed so fast, the rules have changed drastically.''
Market watchers have expected a shake-out in South Florida's new condo market because of the growing pressures of rising construction costs, a tight labor market, stricter lending by banks and, in some cases, inexperience on the part of novice developers who jumped into the region's condo boom.
Some developers -- and Baboun includes himself in this group -- have gotten caught in a pickle by preselling condo units at one price only to later find out the project will cost much more than expected to build. This has left some builders with razor-thin margins or even money-losing condo projects before digging a shovel into the ground.
The busy hurricane season created delays that only exacerbated the headaches.
''I think a weeding out is happening now,'' said Adam Greenberg, president of BayBridge Real Estate Group in Miami, a real estate brokerage. He said properties not located on the waterfront or oceanfront -- like Baboun's, which was a block from Biscayne Bay -- are most likely to be effected by market pressures like rising construction costs.
To be sure, dozens of high-profile projects in downtown Miami and across South Florida are going forward in an historic building boom that is remaking the region.
But in the past year, a growing number of projects have crumbled. Among them: Developer Michael Gold canceled a project in Miami's Edgewater neighborhood called ICE; in late December a proposed Miami Beach condo, Westside Lofts, by developer Robert Thorne filed for bankruptcy protection; and veteran developer Armando Codina pulled the plug on a heavily marketed Kendall project, Mission Bell.
For his part, Baboun was in some ways the classic example of the young, wealthy developer with big ambition but little experience. Just 25 years old, the Mexico native moved to Miami in 2003 and had never built a high-rise tower in his life.
Last fall, Baboun staged a lavish condo party -- a trademark of the South Florida condo boom, but something seen less today -- to announce the groundbreaking of 1390 Brickell Bay. The project had many earmarks of success: It was designed by well-known Miami architect Bernard Zyscovich, and Edgardo DeFortuna's company, Fortune International, marketed and sold the condo units. But Baboun said it wasn't until last week that he learned precisely how much the project would cost to build. He said the construction cost was more than 20 percent higher than expected, prompting him to cancel the project.