Inside The Second Annual PROFILE Design Summit 2025 Presented by Pedini by Daruso Designs at Flexform Miami

On February 12, 2025, PROFILEmiami hosted the second annual PROFILE Design Summit Presented by Pedini by Daruso Designs at Flexform Miami. The lush setting of the Flexform furniture showroom in Midtown Miami became a bustling hub and a memorable evening for South Florida's top minds in design and real estate, which brought together over 300 industry professionals creating an atmosphere charged with creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

The evening kicked off with an hour of bespoke networking and real estate showcase, as guests sipped cocktails powered by E11EVEN Vodka and absorbed the ambient sounds of local DJ San_Dee. Attendees enjoyed creative pop-ups from Design and Real Estate Showcase brands including a 360-Photo Studio by Pedini by Daruso Designs; and other interactive pop-ups by Modern Stones, Edge House Miami, Resurface Architectural Wraps, Doda Space, Cetta Group, C&E Cleaning Elevated and La Cuisine Appliances.

The highlight of the summit was an engaging panel discussion featuring an all-star cast of panelists who delved deep into the complexities and nuances of architecture and interior design in Miami. The panel was moderated by interior designed Mayela Rojas from Amazed ID: Interior Design & Development Firm who led an insightful discussion with iconic Miami-based architect Kobi Karp, architect-to-the-stars Ralph Choeff, and acclaimed interior designers Alison Antrobus of Antrobus Design Collective and Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma.

Each of the panelists shared their personal journeys into the design realm, detailing their inspirations, key projects, and passion for creating spaces that resonate with Miami's unique culture and environment. Ralph Choeff of Choeff Levy Fishman discussed his newly revealed design for a Palm Beach estate which just listed as one of the most expensive homes in the country at $285 million. Ralph also discussed working with Alex Rodriguez and with interior designer Alison Antrobus on their recently collaboration designing David Beckham's Miami home. Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma gave background on his work with Miami-staple restaurant’s Queen and Lafayette Steakhouse and the legendary Kobi Karp gave insight on developing with sustainability and how architects can continue adding value to communities.

As the discussion unfolded, guests were invited into the personal design philosophies that shape the work of each panelist. The dialogue took a fascinating turn as the panelists explored the influence of South Florida's geography and climate on their designs, emphasizing how they creatively harness local elements while addressing the reality of hurricanes and rising sea levels. Sustainability emerged as a vital theme, with discussions around materials and practices that minimize environmental impact, particularly relevant in Miami's delicate ecosystem. The panelists also shared their insights on current trends shaping the future of Miami's skyline, emphasizing the integration of technology in their design practices.

The challenges posed by the regulatory environment in South Florida were also candidly discussed, providing attendees with a glimpse into the complexities faced by designers and developers alike. Through community engagement, the experts conveyed the significance of public input in their projects—highlighting a collaborative approach that fosters relationships and understanding.

As the panel discussion wrapped up, thoughts on the future landscape of Miami’s architecture were shared and the panelists offered invaluable advice to the next generation of designers, emphasizing the importance of staying adaptable, engaged, and continuously learning. The audience was invited to participate in a Q&A session before the opportunity to interact with panelists 1-on-1.

Following the panel guests continued to network and discuss, apparent that the PROFILE Design Summit 2025 had not only sparked conversations but had also fostered connections that would flourish long after the evening officially concluded. The takeaways were rich, leaving attendees with insightful knowledge and inspiration to carry into their future projects.

Design Showcase

Image credit @PROFILEmiami

MV Real Estate Holdings and Driftwood Capital Announce JV On $185 Million Riverside Wharf Featuring Dream Hotel On Miami River

Miami Developer Alex Mantecon of MV Real Estate Holdings (MVREH), in conjunction with Driftwood Capital, one of the country’s leading hospitality sponsors, has revealed plans for the Riverside Wharf, a hospitality-driven entertainment complex situated along the historic Miami River that will push the limits of what is known today as hospitality in Miami. The 200,000-square-foot, two-tower development will offer a fully immersive Miami experience anchored by the highly amenitized 165-key Dream Miami luxury hotel. The complex will feature the rebirth and expansion of The Wharf Miami, 16,000 square feet of signature restaurants, a 12,000-square-foot event hall, a world-class 30,000-square-foot nightclub and rooftop dayclub, and a private deep water marina capable of accommodating megayachts.

“Riverside Wharf will be a destination for entertainment unlike any Miami has seen, bringing together world-class entertainment and hospitality offerings to a unique waterfront destination with direct Intracoastal access to the ocean,” said Mantecon. “We are excited to finally bring to fruition the dream and vision Miami has had for its riverfront entertainment district which until now has historically sat vacant and underutilized.”

Added Carlos Rodriguez Jr., COO of Driftwood Capital, “As Miami continues to attract new capital, new world-class tech and financial firms, and new talent from other parts of the country, the demand for one-of-a-kind destinations combining elements of luxury, nature, outdoor adventure and unique dining experiences is poised to escalate rapidly. We’re pleased to be able to contribute several decades of hospitality development and operational expertise to this truly unique development which will enhance Miami’s skyline and elevate the entire Miami River District.”

“Miami is a top international destination for world-class hospitality and entertainment, and continues to set the bar with exciting new experiences for travelers unlike anything else in the world,” said Mayor of Miami Francis Suarez. “Dream Miami at Riverside Wharf will be an unparalleled development in the heart of Miami for visitors and locals alike, and I couldn't be more excited to see it launch."

At 10 stories, the $185 million mixed-use development will rise on the current site of The Wharf Miami and the abutting vacant parcel. The 1.5-acre assemblage is the culmination of the vision established in the City of Miami’s 2016 voter referendum approval, obtained by MVREH, for the development of food and beverage establishments along the waterfront. The roughly 600 linear feet of water frontage will provide for the continuity of the publicly accessible Riverwalk, seamlessly connecting Riverside Wharf between Downtown Miami and Brickell. Riverside Wharf will take on the benefits of MVREH and Driftwood Capital’s best-in-class partners, including Dream Hotel Group’s growing success in highly amenitized luxury food and beverage oriented hotel properties, and Breakwater Hospitality Group’s ongoing success of high-volume entertainment venues.

“There is a natural synergy between Dream Hotel Group and the city of Miami,” said Dream Hotel Group CEO Jay Stein. “Our leading lifestyle brand Dream Hotels continues to expand quickly, just like Miami, offering international hospitality, vibrant entertainment and one-of-a-kind experiences sought by local residents, as well as business travelers and pleasure seekers from across the globe. We are thrilled to take part in this extraordinary project and can’t wait to open our doors in 2025.”

Riverside Wharf will transform the storied Miami River district while paying homage to the historic fishing culture of the neighborhood by celebrating the area’s beloved Garcia’s Fish Market with a pop-up seafood market on the grounds, where locals can get the freshest catch daily.

The development is slated to break ground in 2022 and be completed by 2025. It is designed by Jon Cardello of Cube3 architects with landscape design by Savino-Miller Design Studio.