Gioia Hospitality Group Set To Open La Sponda on September 19 in Coconut Grove at Vita at Grove Isle

Building on the success of Daniel's Miami, recently named the highest-ranked Florida steakhouse on the World's Best 101 Steak Restaurants list, and Daniel's, A Florida Steakhouse, which has earned Michelin Guide recognition, Gioia Hospitality Group founders Thomas Angelo and Kassidy Angelo will open La Sponda, an elegant waterfront Italian restaurant inspired by their family's heritage, this September at CMC Group’s recently delivered luxury condominium Vita at Grove Isle.

Marking the hospitality group's first Italian concept, La Sponda represents a natural evolution for Gioia Hospitality, whose reputation has been built on exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and thoughtfully designed destinations. More than a restaurant, La Sponda is a deeply personal expression of Thomas Angelo's lifelong connection to Italy, drawing from his family's roots in Puglia and decades spent exploring the country's regional cuisine, artisans, wineries, and traditions.

"I grew up in a family deeply rooted in southern Italy, where some of my favorite memories were made in the kitchen and my travels with my children to Puglia,” said Thomas Angelo, Co-Founder of Gioia Hospitality Group. "Those memories became the foundation for La Sponda, and our hope is that every guest who walks through our doors feels that same sense of warmth, connection, and hospitality."

"This restaurant is incredibly personal to us because it brings together our family's traditions with everything we've learned while building Gioia Hospitality. We can't wait to welcome guests into a place that feels as warm and memorable as the homes and restaurants that inspired it,” said Kassidy Angelo, Co-Founder of Gioia Hospitality Group.

“Grove Isle has long held a special place in Miami, with a history as one of the city’s most celebrated waterfront destinations,” said Ugo Colombo, Founder of CMC Group. “With Vita, our vision has been to honor that legacy while introducing a new expression of luxury and waterfront living. La Sponda is a natural extension of that vision bringing exceptional dining, hospitality and design together to create a destination that enhances the lifestyle at Vita and once again establishes Grove Isle as a place for the broader Miami community to experience and enjoy.”

While Daniel's introduced guests to one of the country's most celebrated steak programs, La Sponda continues Gioia Hospitality's culinary legacy, complementing that steak-driven foundation with handmade pasta, pristine seafood, exceptional wines, and genuine hospitality that come together around the table. Leading the culinary program is Chef Danny Ganem, who has worked alongside Thomas and Kassidy to bring the family's vision to life. Fresh pasta is made in-house daily, alongside an evolving selection of crudo, antipasti, and seafood, with signature specialties inspired by the founders' favorite dishes and family traditions, alongside dishes drawn from different regions across Italy. Highlights include Spaghetti alla Chitarra al Tartufo with Burgundy truffles, cultured butter, and Parmigiano espuma; Paccheri al Campagnolo with Aquanaria Branzino, Datterini Tomatoes, Capers, Olives; Branzino alla Vernaccia with Taggiasca olives, potatoes, tomatoes, and basil; and an Australian L'Grow Ranch Wagyu Bistecca Fiorentina, a Wagyu porterhouse finished with rosemary, Balsamico di Modena, and Gioia olive oil.

Complementing the culinary program, Wine & Beverage Director Daniel Bishop will curate a globally influenced wine collection anchored by Italy’s most celebrated regions and inspired by the Angelo family’s Italian heritage. The list will showcase benchmark reds, including Barolo and Barbaresco from Piemonte, celebrated Tuscan selections, lighter-style Etna reds from Sicily, and wines from Puglia that pay homage to the Angelo family’s roots. Bright, mineral-driven coastal whites of Italy will complement the collection, evoking the seaside regions and destinations of the Amalfi Coast, Taormina, and Cinque Terre. French, Spanish, and California wines will further round out the program, alongside select vintages spanning up to 20 to 25 years. The collection will continue to evolve over time, shaped by seasonality and guest preferences.

Signature cocktails include the refreshing Summer in Amalfi Spritz with Martini & Rossi Prosecco, St-Germain, Italicus Aperitivo, Condesa Gin Clásica, and cucumber; Zio Tony, a tropical riff on the Paper Plane, with Angel’s Envy Daniel’s Cask Bourbon, Sarti Aperitivo, Amaro Nonino Riserva, passion fruit, and lemon; and Garibaldi Fresca, a playful take on the Italian classic with Campari and fluffy pineapple and orange juices.

Over the past several years, Thomas, Kassidy, Danny Ganem, and Daniel Bishop have traveled extensively throughout Italy, immersing themselves in regional culinary traditions while building relationships with producers, winemakers, artisans, and suppliers. Every journey helped shape La Sponda, from discovering family-run wineries and sourcing exceptional ingredients to selecting handcrafted materials and finding inspiration in the timeless hospitality that defines Italy's most beloved destinations.

Designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the restaurant blends timeless European elegance with the relaxed sophistication of Coconut Grove. Nearly every element throughout the space was thoughtfully sourced from Italy, including handcrafted furnishings, imported stone, custom tables, and artisan finishes. Guests are welcomed into an intimate dining room anchored by crisp white tablecloths, hand-painted architectural details, a baby grand piano, and a private dining room tucked away for special occasions. While the restaurant is rooted in Italian craftsmanship, subtle nods to Coconut Grove can be found throughout the interiors, including custom lamps individually hand-painted by a local artist with illustrations inspired by the neighborhood's iconic peacocks and tropical surroundings. With seating for approximately 120 guests, La Sponda was designed to feel both grand and welcoming, bringing together refined luxury and the warmth of an Italian home.

True to Gioia Hospitality Group's philosophy, service will remain at the heart of the La Sponda experience. Led by an experienced front-of-house team, guests can expect warm, attentive hospitality inspired by the traditions of Italy, where every meal is treated as an occasion and every guest is welcomed like family.

La Sponda will initially open for dinner on Wednesday – Sunday. Reservations will be available on Resy.

Images via The Louis Collection

Past PROFILEmiami articles about Vita at Grove Isle and Gioia Hospitality Group:

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Signature Penthouse at Vita at Grove Isle Furnished by Artefacto Hits the Market for $23.5 Million

A landmark two-level penthouse with private 40’ rooftop pool in the nearly sold-out waterfront development by renowned Miami developer Ugo Colombo of CMC Group has hit the market for $23.5 million listed with Nelson Gonzalez, Senior Vice President and top-producer with over $4 billion in career sales at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS) EWM Realty.

SOLE PH‑1 at Vita at Grove Isle (5 Grove Isle Dr., Coconut Grove, Fla.) is offered fully furnished by Artefacto – the internationally acclaimed interior design brand. The residence spans nearly 13,000 square feet of total living space, including 7,000 square feet of interiors and 5,600 square feet of outdoor spaces. Atop it all sits a striking, private 40-foot rooftop pool with uninterrupted vistas of Biscayne Bay and the downtown Miami skyline. With an asking price of $23.5 million, SOLE PH‑1 is the largest and most expansive residence within the boutique island development.

“This penthouse stands apart in Coconut Grove,” said Gonzalez. “It is rare to find a condo with such abundance of private amenities, typically found only in a single-family home. In addition to the private amenities, residents get to enjoy additional amenities and luxuries offered by Vita at Grove Isle, and another layer of security offered by private-island living. For buyers seeking privacy, outdoor living with sweeping views, and immediate access to Miami’s cultural and social hubs, SOLE PH‑1 is truly a standout opportunity.”

The four-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath residence is accessed via a private elevator that opens into a grand foyer, leading to expansive living areas defined by 11-foot ceilings and walls of glass that fully retract to connect the interiors with 13-foot-deep waterfront terraces. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, the home features finely appointed Artefacto interiors and premium finishes throughout, including a Molteni kitchen with Miele appliances, frameless Barausse doors, and an integrated Crestron smart home system with Lutron HomeWorks lighting.

The Bayfront primary suite has a spa-inspired, book-matched marble bath and oversized double closets, while three additional guest bedrooms with en-suite baths capture serene water views from the opposite side of the residence. A sculptural spiral staircase ascends to the penthouse’s signature, 97-foot-long rooftop terrace – an elevated entertainment environment featuring the 40-foot pool, a summer kitchen, and multiple lounge areas framed by waterfront panoramas.

“From the outset, Vita at Grove Isle was designed to highlight Coconut Grove’s natural beauty and elegant lifestyle,” said Ugo Colombo, Founder and CEO of CMC Group and developer of Vita. “SOLE PH‑1 elevates that vision, pairing grand-scale indoor-outdoor living with meticulous craftsmanship and a rooftop environment that embraces the surrounding water and skyline.”

The offering arrives as Vita continues to see strong closing momentum following its completion in late 2025. The seven-story, 65-residence building is now nearing sellout, having recently reported nearly $400 million in closings in under 60 days. Average residence prices stand at approximately $8.5 million, with a notable share surpassing $10 million. At the top of the market, Vita has recorded multiple penthouse transactions above $15 million, including several exceeding $20 million, underscoring the project’s position within South Florida’s rapidly expanding super-prime residential landscape.

“Miami – and Coconut Grove, in particular – is firmly on the radar of ultra-high-net-worth buyers,” Gonzalez added. “Today’s top buyers want more than just turnkey interiors or smart technology…they’re looking for outdoor living and waterfront experiences that feel effortless and extraordinary. SOLE PH‑1 delivers on all fronts, combining scale, privacy, and panoramic vistas in a market where homes like this are increasingly hard to find.”

Set on a 20-acre private island, Vita at Grove Isle grants residents exclusive access to the Grove Isle Racquet & Yacht Club, which features eight Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball and padel courts, along with a bayfront pool and poolside bar. The development will soon welcome La Sponda, an Italian waterfront restaurant opening this summer with views of Biscayne Bay. Additional amenities include private resident event spaces, a spa, fitness center, and yoga studio.

With only a limited collection of residences remaining, SOLE PH-1 represents a singular opportunity to acquire one of the largest and most distinctive penthouses currently available in Coconut Grove – within a development that has quickly emerged as one of the neighborhood’s most sought-after waterfront addresses.

Images via Luxehunters Productions

Past PROFILEmiami articles about Vita at Grove Isle:

For more information about Vita at Grove Isle or to inquire about purchasing a unit please fill out the form below:

Ugo Colombo's CMC Group Completes Vita at Grove Isle in Coconut Grove

Renowned Miami developer Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group has officially delivered its most sophisticated development to date, Vita at Grove Isle, marking the pinnacle of the firm’s three-decade commitment to elevating Miami’s luxury residential landscape. The 7-story boutique condominium features 65 ultra-luxury residences and is located on the exclusive 20-acre private island of Grove Isle, situated just offshore of Miami’s Coconut Grove enclave. Following the receipt of the building’s Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO), closings have now commenced as residents begin to take ownership of their units and prepare for move-ins.

Since its 2023 sales launch and groundbreaking, Vita has attracted a predominantly domestic buyer pool, including many local Miami residents relocating from large estate homes in nearby affluent neighborhoods. Drawn to Vita’s expansive, estate-like floor plans, these buyers value the ability to downsize without compromising space, while gaining the convenience, privacy, and lock-and-leave ease of luxury condominium living. As the only new luxury condominium delivering in Coconut Grove this year, Vita also offers the advantage of immediate occupancy for buyers eager to transition seamlessly into their new homes.

The majority of Vita’s residences have already been sold, leaving a limited selection of available inventory priced from $6.5 million, including a two-story penthouse with a private pool and rooftop terrace priced at $22 million.

“Vita at Grove Isle represents the culmination of years of careful planning, thoughtful design, and an unwavering attention to detail,” said Ugo Colombo, Founder of CMC Group. “Our goal was to deliver a level of quality, privacy, and craftsmanship that feels truly special, something worthy of this remarkable island. Seeing Vita come to life is incredibly meaningful, and I’m proud of what we have created.”

Every detail of Vita, from its layouts and smart-home systems to the fine marbles sourced directly from Italy, was personally overseen by Ugo Colombo, a Milan native with an unmatched eye for luxury. His involvement touched every corner of the project, from the building’s façade engineering to custom furnishings and advanced lighting and climate technologies, resulting in a seamless living experience defined by craftsmanship and enduring quality.

Vita’s completion marks the latest milestone in Ugo Colombo’s three-decade legacy of shaping Miami’s skyline. His commitment to timeless style, breathtaking luxury, and meticulous detail has been a constant in the sea of change defining Miami real estate. Since igniting the city’s luxury condominium boom with Bristol Tower and Santa Maria in the early 1990s, Colombo has continued to deliver a selective and curated portfolio of best-in-class developments including Porto Vita, Grovenor House, EPIC Hotel & Residences, Brickell Flatiron, and most recently Onda Residences in Bay Harbor Islands, all of which have retained their value and remain synonymous with elevated design and craftsmanship.

“Delivering Vita at Grove Isle is especially meaningful for us because we only take on one or two developments at a time, allowing us to pour our full attention into every detail,” said Christine Martínez de Castro, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of CMC Group. “Under Ugo’s leadership, every element, from the caliber of materials to the integrity of the design, was thoughtfully considered to ensure Vita feels like a collection of private homes, a true waterfront retreat accessible only by a private bridge. It reflects the standard of quality and craftsmanship that has guided Ugo’s work for years and continues to set our developments apart.”

For the design of Vita, Colombo partnered with global architecture and design firm CallisonRTKL, local architecture firm S&E Architects, and Italian designers Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Architecture to create one-of-a-kind interior and amenity spaces. Vita’s three elegantly curved buildings – Mare, Luce and Sole – are designed to showcase a single architectural structure mirroring the natural contours of the island, while maximizing panoramic views of the sparkling Biscayne Bay from every residence.

Resident amenities include a private bayfront pool, Pickel and Padel courts, poolside bar and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa, and membership to the “Grove Isle Racquet and Yacht Club,” which features a Club pool with adjacent bar as well as night-lit tennis. Residents and their guests will also enjoy access to La Sponda, an elevated Italian dining concept from Gioia Hospitality Group, the team behind Miami’s acclaimed Daniel’s, opening in 2026 for lunch, dinner, and cocktails.

The level of planning that has gone into Vita’s architecture and amenities is matched only by the detail paid to the design of its residences. Units feature dedicated elevators with private foyers, contemporary Italian-designed open-concept kitchens equipped with concealed, top-of-the-line Miele appliances, and elegant bathrooms showcasing custom Italian cabinetry, European designer fixtures, hand-selected book-matched marble, and masterfully crafted Italian stonework. Additionally, each home offers at least 10-foot ceilings from finished floor to drop ceiling, pre-installed smart home automation for seamless control of lighting, climate, and air/water filtration systems, and high-performance soundproofing for unparalleled privacy and comfort.

Vita’s exclusive collection of 12 two-story penthouses elevates the experience further with private rooftop terraces offering full-size swimming pools and summer kitchens allowing for year-round outdoor dining, lounging and entertaining. Inside, each penthouse features drop ceilings and soaring 11-foot finished ceiling heights that enhance the home’s sense of volume and elegance.

Grove Isle is one of the most exclusive residential locations in Miami. Spanning 20 acres, the gated private island in Coconut Grove is just minutes away from mainland Miami via the scenic Grove Isle bridge. The secluded community is highly prized by residents as a peaceful haven with panoramic bay views, in close proximity to Miami’s best shopping, elite schools, chef-driven restaurants, world-class arts and culture, and destinations such as Brickell, Miami Beach and Coral Gables.

As Colombo celebrates the completion of Vita, CMC Group is already ushering in its next chapter with the recent groundbreaking of the Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove, the firm’s newest ultra-luxury development in partnership with Fort Partners. Poised to become one of Miami’s most distinguished addresses, the project continues CMC’s tradition of delivering meticulously crafted, design-forward residences that elevate the city’s skyline and reinforce its position as a global luxury destination.

Images via CMC Group

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CMC Group Tops Off Vita at Grove Isle in Coconut Grove

Grove Isle’s first new residential development in decades is one step closer to completion. Renowned real estate developer Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group has topped off construction of Vita at Grove Isle, a 65-unit ultra-luxury condominium on the 20-acre private island of Grove Isle, situated just offshore of Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood. The seven-story boutique waterfront development, located at 5 Grove Isle Drive, is comprised of three interlinked buildings, artfully forming one unified structure. Vita at Grove Isle is slated for delivery in late 2025.

Vita at Grove Isle is seeing strong sales, with nearly 80% of its residences already pre-sold and under hard contract. The majority of the development’s buyers hail from the United States, showing strong domestic demand for newly built product as a primary residence in Coconut Grove, which has become one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods in the recent years.

“Seeing Vita at Grove Isle take shape is a fulfillment of our vision for future residents and the future of Grove Isle itself,” said Ugo Colombo, Founder of CMC Group. “This development will offer an exclusive private-island lifestyle, combining the unparalleled water views and unique location with the comfort and luxury of homes, all within the convenience of a condo. It truly redefines luxury living in one of Miami’s most sought-after residential enclaves.”

Residences at Vita at Grove Isle will feature unobstructed panoramic bay views, exquisite detailing, and the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. Units include three-, four-, and four-plus-den-bedroom layouts, along with a collection of twelve exclusive penthouses each boasting private rooftop pools, measuring up to 6,600 square feet in size. Residences are priced from about $6 million, with penthouses priced from about $19.5 million.

Vita at Grove Isle’s construction progress brings the island closer to much-needed significant upgrades, including roadway enhancements, updated signage, and guardhouse improvements, as well as the completion of the 'Vita at Grove Isle Club.' Club members will have access to a Club pool and adjacent bar, as well as additional amenities including night-lit tennis, padel ball and pickleball courts. Vita residents will also have exclusive access to a range of indoor wellness facilities, including a private bayfront pool, bar, lounge, and fitness center and spa. Additional amenities include a children’s playground, along with a gourmet restaurant and bar, open to the public, which will serve lunch, dinner, and cocktails, along with access to the island's marina.

CMC Group’s exceptional track record of sought after, sold out, high-quality residential buildings has established the firm’s strong and long-lasting relationships with top lenders. In early 2024, CMC Group secured a $239 million construction loan from Bank OZK for the building.

Ugo Colombo has tapped global architecture and design firm CallisonRTKL, local architectural firm S & E Architects, and Italian designers Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Architecture to create one-of-a-kind interior and amenity spaces at Vita at Grove Isle. Composed to showcase a single architectural structure, the three buildings – Mare, Luce, and Sole – will offer a boutique living experience enveloped by lush, native landscaping. The building’s design mirrors its unique Grove Isle location, inspired by the natural contours of the island in its elegant, curved shape while maximizing views of the sparkling Biscayne Bay.

Meticulous detail was paid to the design of Vita at Grove Isle. Every residence will include private elevators with a private foyer; contemporary Italian-designed open concept kitchens with concealed top-of-the-line appliances; elegant bathrooms with custom Italian cabinetry, European designer fixtures, hand-selected book matched marble, and masterfully crafted Italian stonework; at least 10-foot-high ceilings; pre-installed smart home technology including lighting, climate control and water/air filtration systems; high-performance interior wall soundproofing for ultimate relaxation and privacy; and large 13-foot-deep waterfront terraces – and up to 6,000 square feet of private rooftop space in penthouses – allowing for year-round outdoor dining, lounging and entertaining.

Spanning 20-acres, Grove Isle is considered one of Miami’s most exclusive private islands, located in Coconut Grove, just minutes away from mainland Miami via the scenic Grove Isle Drive bridge. The secluded community is highly prized by residents as a peaceful haven with panoramic bay views. The island is in close proximity to Miami’s best shopping, most elite schools, chef-driven restaurants, and entertainment destinations in areas such as Brickell, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables and has been described as one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the United States.

Ugo Colombo’s commitment to timeless style, breathtaking luxury and meticulous detail has been a constant in the sea of change that has come to define Miami real estate over the past three decades. In 1993, the Italian developer’s CMC Group began building Bristol Tower, the condo that ignited the luxury residential boom in Miami. Bristol Tower’s success was followed by the launch of Santa Maria in 1996, the 52-story tower whose ‘mansions in the sky’ reshaped the Brickell skyline and put the district on the map as one of the world’s top-tier luxury markets.

Since then, CMC Group has focused on developing only a handful of condominium developments – Porto Vita, Grovenor House, EPIC Hotel & Residences and Brickell Flatiron – all of which enhanced their respective communities and retained value by competing with pricing of new product on the market today. The firm recently delivered Onda Residences in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, a luxury boutique condominium in partnership with Morabito Properties, and launched sales for the Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove, the hotel flag’s first standalone residential project in Florida.

For more information about Vita at Grove Isle or to inquire about purchasing a unit please fill out the form below:

Construction Passes Halfway Point of CMC Group's Vita at Grove Isle in Coconut Grove

Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group has surpassed the halfway point of construction at Vita at Grove Isle, a seven-story boutique luxury condominium taking shape on Grove Isle, a private 20-acre island just offshore of Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood. The waterfront development, located at 5 Grove Isle Drive, is comprised of three artfully interlinked buildings, now rising one tower at a time to form one unified structure. All three buildings are expected to top-off construction by this summer. Vita at Grove Isle, which broke ground in April 2023, is slated for delivery in late 2025.

At the beginning of this year, the firm secured a $239 million construction loan from Bank OZK to fund the ongoing development of the condominium.

Vita at Grove Isle will include 65 luxury residences with three-, four-, and four-plus-den-bedroom layouts, including a collection of twelve exclusive penthouses boasting private rooftop pools measuring up to 6,600 square feet in size. Residences start at $6 million, with penthouses priced from $19.5 million.

“Vita at Grove Isle will be the cornerstone of Grove Isle’s renaissance, bringing back the spirit of its glory days while ushing in a new era of luxury that the island has yet to see,” said Ugo Colombo, Founder of CMC Group. “Once complete, Vita will be a haven for residents and its island neighbors who seek a waterfront escape, complete with a Michelin-quality restaurant and clubhouse that’s just minutes from a walkable, family-friendly neighborhood with endless live-work-play options.”

For the design of Vita at Grove Isle, Ugo Colombo has partnered with global architecture and design firm CallisonRTKL, local architectural firm S & E Architects, and Italian designers Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Architecture to create one-of-a-kind interior and amenity spaces. Composed to showcase a single architectural structure, the three Italian-named buildings – Mare, Luce and Sole – will offer a boutique living experience enveloped by lush, native landscaping. The building’s design mirrors its unique Grove Isle location, inspired by the natural contours of the island in its elegant, curved shape while maximizing views of the sparkling Biscayne Bay.

Resident amenities at Vita at Grove Isle will include a private bayfront pool, poolside bar and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa, a children’s playground, and a membership to the “Vita at Grove Isle Club,” which will offer a Club pool and adjacent bar, and additional amenities including night-lit tennis, padel ball and pickleball courts. Residents and their guests will also have access to a gourmet restaurant and bar serving lunch, dinner, and cocktails, which will also be open to the public, as well as access to the island’s private marina.

Every residence will include private elevators with a private foyer; contemporary Italian-designed open-concept kitchens with concealed top-of-the-line appliances; elegant bathrooms with custom Italian cabinetry, European designer fixtures, hand-selected book matched marble, and masterfully crafted Italian stonework; at least 10-foot-high ceilings; pre-installed smart home technology including lighting, climate control and water/air filtration systems; high-performance interior wall soundproofing for ultimate relaxation and privacy; and large 13-foot-deep waterfront terraces – and up to 6,000 square feet of private rooftop space in penthouses – allowing for year-round outdoor dining, lounging and entertaining.

Grove Isle is one of the most exclusive residential locations in Miami. Spanning 20 acres, the gated private island in Coconut Grove is just minutes away from mainland Miami via the scenic Grove Isle Drive bridge. The secluded community is highly prized by residents as a peaceful haven with panoramic bay views. The island is minutes away from Miami’s best shopping, most elite schools, chef-driven restaurants, and entertainment destinations in areas such as Brickell, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables and has been described as one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the United States.

CMC Group is also currently completing the construction of another luxury boutique condominium nearby in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, Onda Residences, in collaboration with Morabito Properties.

Images via CMC Group

CMC Group Locks Down $239 Million Construction Loan for Vita at Grove Isle in Coconut Grove

CMG Group, led by Ugo Colombo, has locked down a $239 million construction loan for Vita at Grove Isle, an ultra-luxe boutique condominium under construction on the exclusive private island of Grove Isle situated just offshore of Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood. The financing was provided by Bank OZK to fund the ongoing development of the seven-story condominium, which will encompass 65 waterfront residences showcasing unobstructed panoramic bay views, exquisite detailing, and the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. Following its groundbreaking in April 2023, vertical construction of Vita at Grove Isle is already well underway, with completion on track for late 2025.

Buyers are responding to Vita at Grove Isle’s brand of intelligent and quiet luxury, with more than 70% of the development’s residences already pre-sold to residents hailing primarily from the United States. Vita’s prime private-island waterfront location in one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods, combined with CMC Group’s stellar track-record of delivering sold-out high-quality construction, neighborhood defining condominium communities, created a powerful combination that put the developer in position to secure favorable financing.

Vita at Grove Isle will include three-, four-, and four-plus-den-bedroom condominiums, with a collection of twelve exclusive penthouses boasting private rooftop pools measuring up to 6,600 square feet in size. Residences start at $5.7 million, with penthouses priced from $19.5 million.

“Over the years, our team at CMC Group has made a habit of developing at our own pace – one or two buildings at a time – a strategy that is very much by design. We are globally recognized for the painstaking level of planning and quality execution that goes into each of our developments, and we are continuing that tradition with Vita at Grove Isle, where no detail has been overlooked,” said developer Ugo Colombo, Founder of CMC Group. “We’ve been pleased with our long-standing relationship with Bank OZK and look forward to working with them again in our future development endeavors.”

Ugo Colombo’s commitment to timeless style, breathtaking luxury and meticulous detail has been a constant in the sea of change that has come to define Miami real estate over the past three decades. In 1993, the Italian developer’s CMC Group began building Bristol Tower, the condo that ignited the luxury residential boom in Miami. Bristol Tower’s success was followed by the launch of Santa Maria in 1996, the 52-story tower whose ‘mansions in the sky’ reshaped the Brickell skyline and put the district on the map as one of the world’s top-tier luxury markets.

Since then, the firm has focused on developing only a handful of condominium developments – Porto Vita, Grovenor House, EPIC Hotel & Residences and Brickell Flatiron – all of which enhanced their respective communities and retained value by competing with pricing of new product on the market today. The firm is currently building another luxury boutique condominium in partnership with Morabito Properties, Onda Residences in Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, which is expected to be completed in early 2024.

For the design of Vita at Grove Isle, Ugo Colombo has partnered with global architecture and design firm CallisonRTKL, local architectural firm S & E Architects, and Italian designers Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Architecture to create one-of-a-kind interior and amenity spaces. Composed to showcase a single architectural structure, the three buildings – Mare, Luce, and Sole – will offer a boutique living experience enveloped by lush, native landscaping. The building’s design mirrors its unique Grove Isle location, inspired by the natural contours of the island in its elegant, curved shape while maximizing views of the sparkling Biscayne Bay.

Resident amenities at Vita at Grove Isle will include a private bayfront pool, poolside bar and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa, a children’s playground, and a membership to the “Vita at Grove Isle Club,” which offers a Club pool and adjacent bar, and additional amenities including night-lit tennis, padel ball and pickleball courts. Residents and their guests will also have access to a gourmet restaurant and bar serving lunch, dinner, and cocktails, which will also be open to the public, as well as access to the island’s private marina.

The level of planning that has gone into Vita at Grove Isle’s location and amenities is matched only by the detail paid to its design. Every residence will include private elevators with a private foyer; contemporary Italian-designed open concept kitchens with concealed top-of-the-line appliances; elegant bathrooms with custom Italian cabinetry, European designer fixtures, hand-selected book matched marble, and masterfully crafted Italian stonework; at least 10-foot-high ceilings; pre-installed smart home technology including lighting, climate control and water/air filtration systems; high-performance interior wall soundproofing for ultimate relaxation and privacy; and large 13-foot-deep waterfront terraces – and up to 6,000 square feet of private rooftop space in penthouses – allowing for year-round outdoor dining, lounging and entertaining.

Grove Isle is one of the most exclusive residential locations in Miami. Spanning 20-acres, the gated private island in Coconut Grove is just minutes away from mainland Miami via the scenic Grove Isle Drive bridge. The secluded community is highly prized by residents as a peaceful haven with panoramic bay views. The island is in close proximity to Miami’s best shopping, most elite schools, chef-driven restaurants, and entertainment destinations in areas such as Brickell, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables and has been described as one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the United States.

Images via CMC Group

Ugo Colombo's CMC Group Breaks Ground On Ultra-Luxury 'Vita at Grove Isle' in Coconut Grove

One of Miami’s most renowned luxury developers, Ugo Colombo of CMC Group, has broken ground on Vita at Grove Isle, set to be his most sophisticated residential development to date. The ultra-luxe boutique condominium is located on the exclusive Grove Isle, a 20-acre gated private island situated just offshore of the city’s trending Coconut Grove neighborhood. The seven-story development, which is being built on the island’s last remaining waterfront parcel, will feature 65 impeccably designed residences showcasing unobstructed panoramic bay views, exquisite detailing, and the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. Construction of the project is now underway, with an estimated delivery timeframe of 24 to 28 months.

Housing costs in Coconut Grove are surging as the neighborhood becomes the landing spot of choice for new-to-market residents, with prices rising as sales volume diminishes due to a lack of inventory. According to a One Sotheby’s February 2023 Report, average home prices in Coconut Grove were up 32% year over year.

More than 40% of Vita at Grove Isle’s residences have already been pre-sold, with the majority of its buyers hailing from the U.S. Residences will include three-, four-, and four plus den-bedroom units between 2,500 and 6,500 square feet. A collection of twelve exclusive penthouse residences will range from 3,400 to 6,600 square feet each with a private rooftop terrace featuring its own full-size swimming pool, full bathroom, and summer kitchen. Residences start at $5.5 million, with penthouses priced from $12 million.

Every detail of Vita at Grove Isle – from residence floor plan flow and smart home functionality to the selection of fine marbles imported from Italian quarries – has been personally overseen by Ugo Colombo, a native of Milan who possesses an unmatched perspective on timeless luxury and unparalleled quality.

“While the Grove has been a stronghold for single-family-homes, Vita will usher in a new era of high-end condo homes that resemble nearby estates with expansive square footage, refined style and a superior location,” said Ugo Colombo, Founder of CMC Group. “In addition, the project will revitalize Grove Isle to its heyday of being a stronghold for those who want privacy and waterfront elegance while maintaining access to Miami’s nearby city centers.”

Ugo Colombo’s commitment to timeless style, breathtaking luxury and meticulous detail has been a constant in the sea of change that has come to define Miami real estate over the past three decades. In 1993, the Italian developer’s CMC Group began building Bristol Tower, the condo that ignited the luxury residential boom in Miami. Bristol Tower’s success was followed by the launch of Santa Maria in 1996, the 52-story tower whose ‘mansions in the sky’ reshaped the Brickell skyline and put the district on the map as one of the world’s top-tier luxury markets. Since then, the firm has focused on developing only a handful of condominium developments – Porto Vita, Grovenor House, EPIC Hotel & Residences and Brickell Flatiron – all of which have retained their value and compete with pricing of new product on the market today. Onda, located on Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands, recently topped off and is anticipated to be completed later this year.

For the design of Vita at Grove Isle, Ugo Colombo has partnered with global architecture and design firm CallisonRTKL, local architectural firm S & E Architects, and Italian designers Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Architecture to create one-of-a-kind interior and amenity spaces. Composed to showcase a single architectural structure, the three buildings – Mare, Luce, and Sole – will offer a boutique living experience enveloped by lush, native landscaping. The building’s design mirrors its unique Grove Isle location, inspired by the natural contours of the island in its elegant, curved shape while maximizing views of the sparkling Biscayne Bay.

The waterfront sanctuary will feature an extensive and thoughtfully curated collection of indoor and outdoor amenities, including a private residents-only bayfront pool, poolside bar and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa and children’s playground. Vita residents will also receive a house membership to the “Vita at Grove Isle Club,” which offers a Club pool and adjacent bar, and additional amenities including lighted tennis, padel ball and pickleball courts. Residents will also be able to enjoy a gourmet restaurant and bar serving lunch, dinner, and cocktails, which will be open to the public, as well as access to the island’s private marina.

The level of planning that has gone into Vita at Grove Isle’s location and amenities is matched only by the detail paid to its design. Every residence will include private elevators with a private foyer; contemporary Italian-designed open concept kitchens with concealed top-of-the-line appliances; elegant bathrooms with custom Italian cabinetry, European designer fixtures, hand-selected book matched marble, and masterfully crafted Italian stonework; at least 10-foot-high ceilings; pre-installed smart home technology including lighting, climate control and water/air filtration systems; high-performance interior wall soundproofing for ultimate relaxation and privacy; and large 13-foot-deep waterfront terraces – and up to 6,000 square feet of private rooftop space in penthouses – allowing for year-round outdoor dining, lounging and entertaining.

Additional resident perks include individually enclosed private car garages designed with provisions for EV charging in addition to 24/7 valet service, convenient bicycle storage, and the utmost advanced technology and WiFi capabilities equipped throughout the building.

Residents will also benefit from Vita at Grove Isle’s personal concierge which will be on-hand to assist with an array of arrangements and services, including dining and entertainment reservations to local attractions, in addition to the Grove Isle restaurant, home provisioning, housekeeping, child and pet care, personal shopping, private events, private drivers and transportation, car detailing, mail collection and forwarding, package deliveries, and more.

Furthermore, Vita at Grove Isle’s digital concierge ‘Vita Linc’ app will grant residents the ability to register guests and provide them with electronic keys, contact property management, privately message residents, check on pending/delivered packages, access appliance manuals and condo docs, and request vehicles from valet.

Grove Isle is one of the most exclusive residential locations in Miami. Spanning 20-acres, the gated private island in Coconut Grove is just minutes away from mainland Miami via the scenic Grove Isle Drive bridge. The secluded community is highly prized by residents as a peaceful haven with panoramic bay views. The island is in close proximity to Miami’s best shopping, most elite schools, chef-driven restaurants, and entertainment destinations in areas such as Brickell, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables and has been described as one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the United States.