Terranova Reveals Arquitectonica-Designed Carbon-Neutral Mixed-Use Building On Miracle Mile In Coral Gables

Terranova Corporation, led by Stephen Bittel, has revealed plans for 93 Miracle Mile, the first carbon-neutral building in Florida on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. The Arquitectonica-designed mixed-use commercial building will use electricity-generating photovoltaic glass and will be the first built under the new Miracle Mile Overlay zoning code.

Terranova Corporation, led by Stephen Bittel, has revealed plans for 93 Miracle Mile, the first carbon-neutral building in Florida on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. The Arquitectonica-designed mixed-use commercial building will use electricity-generating photovoltaic glass and will be the first built under the new Miracle Mile Overlay zoning code. Plans were recently submitted to the City of Coral Gables for approval. 93 Miracle Mile will rise four-stories and will feature 6,700 SF of ground floor restaurant space, 9,700 SF of retail space on the 2nd and 3rd floors, and 7,300 SF of office space on the 4th floor. The building will also feature a rooftop terrace.

Terranova is the largest property owner on Miracle Mile with a portfolio spanning 15 properties and 120,000 SF. They acquired the .2-acre site with a vacant 9,000 SF retail building which was previously Navarro Discount Pharmacy for $6.8 million in December 2021.

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MG Developer Celebrates Grand Opening Of Gables Village Showroom in Coral Gables

Inspired by Merrick’s seven villages, Gables Village will be built in a Mediterranean Revival-Style Architecture, designed by De La Guardia Victoria Architects & Urbanists, and bordered by gardens inspired by the alcoves in the Plaza de España. Units will vary in style and sizes including, one-bedroom flats to four- bedroom townhomes that range size, from 1,750 sq. ft. to 3,100 sq. ft.

MG Developer has officially opened the showroom for their newest and most exclusive project, “Gables Village,” a 48-residence collection inspired by the province of Seville, Spain. The intimate ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Mayor Vince Lago, and several City commissioners, LESTE, VYV, Linkvest Capital, ONE Capital, investors for the development, as well as ONE Sotheby’s, the exclusive broker, for Gables Village. The new sales center is located at 2990 Ponce de Leon Boulevard in Coral Gables.

MG Developer created a sophisticated Seville-themed ambiance for the event and featured Spanish traditions including a cigar-maker, and entertainment while serving Cava and fine Spanish wines, decadent delicacies, and desserts, for all the notable guests to enjoy the official opening celebrations of the new Gables Village gallery, which is located on Ponce de Leon Boulevard. MG also featured an impressive documentary-style film showcasing their trajectory as developers in the City Beautiful with never-before-seen aerial shots of Coral Gables.

The event, culminated with remarks made by Coral Gables’ Mayor Vince Lago; Alirio Torrealba, CEO of MG Developer; Gables Village architect, Maria de la Guardia of De La Guardia Victoria Architects & Urbanists; and Daniel de la Vega, President of One Sotheby’s International. Mark Trowbridge, President of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce was the Emcee for the event.

“We are thrilled to be here with all of you today in this stunning new gallery, getting a glimpse of our future. We are very proud to be a part of bringing Gables Village to life in our City,” said, City of Coral Gables, Mayor Vince Lago. “We have never seen a project of this magnitude, receive such praise since it was first introduced to the City. MG Developer understands the importance of building residences that fall in line with our City’s rich history, tradition and aesthetic values, which our City is known for. We are all eager to see this vibrant community come to fruition.”

The $50 million development will be completed by 2024 and will pay homage to George Merrick’s legacy, and original vision, for this parcel of the City Beautiful in a classic, yet modern way.

“We are so excited about opening our first showroom as we get closer to breaking ground on Gables Village,” said Alirio Torrealba, CEO, MG Developer. “I want to give a special thanks to our partners that entrusted in us. These partnerships solidify our vision for building luxurious residences in one of the most sought cities in the world. We are excited about Gables Village, the City’s future and growing our partnerships,”

“This gallery provides buyers with a preview and chance to see, touch and feel all of the modern touchpoints and luxurious finishes they can soon find in their home. It will truly inspire people to want to be in Coral Gables and be part of this new luxurious enclave.”

The project itself is located at 535 Santander Avenue and will include townhomes, duplexes, lofts, flats and an archway with raised residences above ground level, creating a distinct welcoming feeling into the Gables Village enclave. It will be set throughout 17 lots, replacing the existing rental apartments bordered by Malaga Avenue, Santander Avenue, Segovia Street and Hernando Street.

Inspired by Merrick’s seven villages, Gables Village will be built in a Mediterranean Revival-Style Architecture, designed by De La Guardia Victoria Architects & Urbanists, and bordered by gardens inspired by the alcoves in the Plaza de España. Units will vary in style and sizes including, one-bedroom flats to four- bedroom townhomes that range size, from 1,750 sq. ft. to 3,100 sq. ft. The village will also boast recreational amenities, including a multipurpose room, a pool, and a Wellness Center for residents to enjoy. Construction for the project starts in the Fall of 2022 and will be completed in 2024.

“We take a lot of pride in building in the City Beautiful and the communities we build are for the people that enjoy the sophisticated lifestyle Coral Gables has to offer. We develop luxury residences that inspire, and this new gallery does just that. As soon as you walk in, you feel in awe and right at home at the same time,” added Torrealba.

MG Developer, led by Alirio Torrealba, is the City’s most active residential developer having completed its newest project, Althea Row, which nearly sold-out in less than 90 days. MG will soon wrap-up its Biltmore Square community, as it completes Biltmore Row, the 10 exclusive townhomes featuring a total of 5,561 square feet each, with elaborate coralina-stoned entryways that trace back to the heritage of classical design elements found in Spanish colonial architecture.

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Miracle Mile's Only Cuban Restaurant Calle 23 Miami Reveals Revamped Menu For Summer

Trendy Coral Gables’ Cuban bar and restaurant Calle 23 Miami has unveiled a revamped menu for the summer season, serving up bold, chef-driven Cuban classics made with fresh, local ingredients that stay true to the rhythm and soul of Havana.

Trendy Coral Gables’ Cuban bar and restaurant Calle 23 Miami has unveiled a revamped menu for the summer season, serving up bold, chef-driven Cuban classics made with fresh, local ingredients that stay true to the rhythm and soul of Havana. As the only Cuban restaurant along the enchanting Miracle Mile, the colorful Calle 23 Miami fills a much-needed void in the neighborhood with its authentic flavors and lively atmosphere. New for summer, the refreshed menu doubles down on its Cuban inspiration with a Miami twist, featuring a selection of mouthwatering small, medium and large plates, along with refreshing salads, sides and desserts to satisfy all cravings.

Food

Get transported to the streets of Havana at Calle 23 Miami, where the team’s Cuban roots are expressed through sensational music, cocktails and a newly updated food menu. Ideal for sharing, new small plates like the Croquetas del Barrio (ham, chorizo, or cheese served with cilantro, BBQ chef sauce and pepper jelly) and the Tartar del Salmon (served with avocado, pico de gallo, passion fruit, olive oil and salt) reinvent beloved Cuban classics while celebrating summer in Miami with seasonal ingredients and refreshing preparations.

From the medium plates, La Frita Cubana (two sliders made with homemade chorizo beef patties, chipotle dressing, pepitas, and signature fries) is a satisfying handheld dish that’s perfect for fueling up before dancing the night away to Calle 23’s live salsa music. From the large plates, the Nobel Ropa Vieja de Res (slow-cooked beef, rice, black beans and maduros) hits the spot with its rich, soulful sauce.

Salads like the Ensalada de Aguacate (avocado, heirloom tomatoes, red onions, and citrus dijon dressing) complement any of Calle 23 Miami’s elevated yet familiar Cuban-inspired dishes, but also work well as a meal on their own. For dessert, the new Arroz con Mango is the ultimate refreshing finisher for a sweet end to an amazing summer evening.

Cocktails & Entertainment

Excellent handcrafted cocktails remain a centerpiece of Calle 23 Miami’s menu. Choose from tasty options like the Mojito, Cucumber Smash or the Coco Loco, to name a few. Calle 23 Miami offers a popular happy hour, plus live entertainment, dancing and plenty of Cuban sabor throughout the week. Calle 23 features live entertainment every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Calle 23 Miami is located at 230 Miracle Mile Coral Gables, FL 33134.

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Location Ventures Completes Luxury Condominium 'Villa Valencia' In Coral Gables

Following record-breaking sales and its distinction as the first U.S. condominium development to integrate the revolutionary Delos’ DARWIN™ Home Wellness Intelligence network, Location Ventures has received its TCO for Villa Valencia. The now complete luxury condominium building in Downtown Coral Gables delivers a collection of 39 luxury condominiums which are currently 95% sold.

Following record-breaking sales and its distinction as the first U.S. condominium development to integrate the revolutionary Delos’ DARWIN™ Home Wellness Intelligence network, Location Ventures has received its TCO for Villa Valencia. The now complete luxury condominium building in Downtown Coral Gables delivers a collection of 39 luxury condominiums which are currently 95% sold. The building was constructed by general contractor Winmar Construction. Closings are currently underway, and residents have begun to occupy their residences.

Villa Valencia has a limited amount of inventory remaining, including a $14.9 million upper penthouse which is also the most expensive listing in the submarket. Throughout its sales process, the building has set an unrivaled new standard for luxury condominium living in “The City Beautiful,” currently holding the record for the condo with the highest price-per-square-foot ever sold in the area at $1,100 per square foot.

Villa Valencia is centered on three pillars, nature, technology and wellness, to promote optimal living unlike any other. At its coveted address, 515 Valencia Avenue, the development has integrated Delos’ pioneering DARWIN Home Wellness Intelligence network within residences, as well as throughout common areas. This exclusive system is the world’s first platform aimed at enhancing human health, well-being, sleep and performance by monitoring and calibrating air, light and water quality. It aligns technology with nature’s intent by using innovation to bring the best of organic outdoor conditions, inside.

“Not only is this a pivotal moment for Location Ventures and Coral Gables, but also for wellness real estate,” said Rishi Kapoor, CEO of Location Ventures. “Villa Valencia showcases the ongoing demand for health-centric amenities and well-designed spaces that mirror those of nearby estates. Located in a desirable, growing Miami suburb, it is a testament that high quality and timeless elegance in a legacy offering is in great demand.”

With wellbeing as a centerpiece, Villa Valencia’s amenity program leaves no stone unturned. The building is complete with a hammam, steam room, his-and-her saunas, hydrotherapy plunge pools, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness facility with yoga, Pilates and weight training. For outdoor enjoyment, a 78-foot resort-style pool with a lap lane and waterfall is complemented by two summer kitchens, spacious sunbeds and resident-owned cabanas.

Most recently, Villa Valencia debuted Elevate Wellness, a bespoke wellness program that presents spa and wellness services tailored to residents’ needs. This includes closet organization, physician-led health evaluations, acupuncture for humans and canines, dietician-led consultations, and more. The project will also feature an adjoining 9,000-square-foot public park with lush landscaping, contributing to Coral Gables’ green spaces.

Villa Valencia’s architectural DNA is a fresh rendition of Coral Gables signature Mediterranean architecture style, paired with tropical modern interiors. Each residence features private elevator entry and superior finishes such as European flooring, exterior sliding doors, and finished custom closets. Kitchens are equipped with state-of-the-art Subzero and Wolf appliances, a wine cooler, custom cabinetry and quartz countertops. Expansive outdoor terraces accompany each living space.

“We are proud to be a part of Villa Valencia’s journey from conception to completion,” said Daniel de la Vega, President, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty. “Location Ventures set out to deliver one of the most iconic buildings in the city, and that is exactly what they did. Villa Valencia is a market maker in a category of its own. With over $100 million sold to date, this is an unprecedented moment for our teams and the incredible city of Coral Gables. We are truly privileged to have achieved this milestone together.”

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MG Developer Acquires 33 Alhambra Circle In Downtown Coral Gable, Plans New Luxury Condominium Alhambra Parc

MG Developer, one of the most active developers in Coral Gables, has acquired a parcel of land at 33 Alhambra in Coral Gables’ Northside entrance and has announced plans to build a new mixed-use condominium community. Named Alhambra Parc, the project will feature with 33 luxury condominiums and retail on the ground floor. This acquisition was made in partnership with VYV.

MG Developer, one of the most active developers in Coral Gables, has acquired a parcel of land at 33 Alhambra in Coral Gables’ Northside entrance and has announced plans to build a new mixed-use condominium community. Named Alhambra Parc, the project will feature with 33 luxury condominiums and retail on the ground floor. This acquisition was made in partnership with VYV, a real estate development group with headquarters in Peru, that also partnered with MG Developer to build Gables Village.

“VYV is grateful and feels very proud of the joint venture that it has built with MG and our plans are to grow in South Florida with the support of MG,” said Cesar Paniagua, Director of VYV.

Knighthead Funding, LLC, a private mortgage lender based in New York, provided the loan. Executive Directors Jeffrey Donnelly and Dmitry Levkov of Colliers International financed this project.

“We are truly proud to further our partnership with MG Developer and VYV for this second site in Coral Gables,” said Brian Sullivan, Vice President of Knighthead Funding, LLC. “We are also very proud to be growing our portfolio of properties in South Florida.”

“We are excited to be partnering with Knighthead Funding for another project in Coral Gables,” said Alirio Torrealba, CEO of MG Developer. “We are grateful to our partners for trusting in our vision for the City Beautiful, and our commitment to elevate the City with each and every project we build,”

The new development will rise close to Downtown Coral Gables’ financial district and will be in walking distance to Giralda Plaza and several restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.

The acquisition further anchors MG Developer’s presence in Coral Gables. Alhambra Parc will complement the existing Biltmore Square enclave, and Gables Village which is in its pre-sale phase and has a new sales gallery is located at 2990 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Suite 101. When completed in 2024, Gables Village will consist of duplexes, townhouses, and condominiums and integrate gardens and courtyards throughout an entire block, with 50 percent of the site to include lush landscaping and hidden parking garages.

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Shoma Group Acquires 2.5 Acre Transit-Oriented Site in Coral Gables To Develop Shoma One Mixed-Use Multifamily

Miami-based developer Shoma Group has announced its latest acquisition, a 2.5-acre site at 3650 Bird Road, currently home to Deel Volvo, near Coral Gables for $34 million. It will be the site of Shoma One, a mixed-use project with a 391-unit apartment community and a Shoma Bazaar food hall. The development is expected to cost $220 million to build.

Miami-based developer Shoma Group has announced its latest acquisition, a 2.5-acre site at 3650 Bird Road, currently home to Deel Volvo, near Coral Gables for $34 million. It will be the site of Shoma One, a mixed-use project with a 391-unit apartment community and a Shoma Bazaar food hall. The development is expected to cost $220 million to build.

“Miami is more popular than ever and the robust demand for housing that we’ve seen over the last couple of years is here to stay,” said Masoud Shojaee, Shoma’s CEO and chairman of the board. “This location is ideally positioned between Coral Gables and Coconut Grove, with the bustling entertainment and dining scenes of Miracle Mile and CocoWalk just a short drive or bike ride away. We are very happy to bring this live-work-play mixed-use project with upscale apartments and fantastic amenities, including a Shoma Bazaar, to this thriving area.”

Designed by MSA Architects, Shoma One will comprise of two 18-story towers. It features thoughtfully designed amenities–a signature of Shoma's multifamily projects–including a bowling alley lounge, child daycare, 1,161-square-foot yoga and spinning studio, dog park, co-working café, rideshare lounge for awaiting Ubers and Lyfts, and a spa with steam room, sauna and massage rooms. Each tower will have a rooftop sky lounge on the 18th floor, where residents can take in expansive views of Coconut Grove extending all the way east to Biscayne Bay, as well as its own lobby and secure mail and package room.

Atop the eight-story gated parking garage it will have a 2,500-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center, a club room, and a pool and pavilion with an outdoor grill, water features and lounge areas equipped with large projection screens for viewing parties.

A bicycle-friendly development, Shoma One will also have a designated bike room for storage with a repair station for conveniently performing light maintenance. The site appealed to Shoma because of its proximity to the Metrorail and the Underline. Shoma One’s courtyard will link to the linear park, giving residents direct access to its lush green landscaping and cycling and running paths.

The apartments will be stylish and modern, with upgraded finishes and tech-savvy details for seamless living, including biometric fingerprint door entries for keyless, secure access. They will range in size from 375-square-foot micro studios, which will be furnished with space-efficient convertible furniture, to 1,400-square-foot two-bedroom units. There will also be seven two-story live-work residences, which allow for separate office and bedroom spaces on each floor, ranging from 1,344 to 1,400 square feet.

Michael Fay of Avison Young was the agent representing the seller, Deel Volvo, in the transaction. Shoma One is scheduled to break ground in January 2023 and is expected to be completed in 18-24 months.

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Step Inside This Coral Gables Mansion In The Exclusive Tahiti Beach Asking $12.9 Million

A stunning non-waterfront mansion on an exclusive cul-de-sac in Coral Gable’s gated Tahiti Beach has hit the market for $12.9 million. The Mediterranean residence stuns with its majestic arches, winding walkways, and private beach access. The 10,768-square foot estate offers 7 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, and sits on an expansive 1+ acre lot.

A stunning non-waterfront mansion on an exclusive cul-de-sac in Coral Gable’s gated Tahiti Beach has hit the market for $12.9 million. The Mediterranean residence stuns with its majestic arches, winding walkways, and private beach access. The 10,768-square foot estate offers 7 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, and sits on an expansive 1+ acre lot. The entryway features a double-height foyer leading into a spacious family room with curated neutral tones.

The estate also features a full guest house, dreamy terraces, and a massive backyard perfect for entertaining with a turquoise pool. Additional features include an oversized kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a large office with a full bath and balcony, 3 car garage, service room, impact windows throughout and a recently updated roof.

Owners of this home, one of only 26 total homes on the guard-gated island of Tahiti Beach, gain access to a private club and clubhouse, gym, tennis courts, yacht club, and 24-hour security.

3 Tahiti Beach Island Road is currently listed by Saddy Delgado with ONE Sotheby’s International Realty for $12.9 million.

Images via Pedro Torres for ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

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Merrick Manor Sells Out Commercial Spaces With Sales Of Prime Ground-Floor Retail Suite

Merrick Manor continues to generate strong interest from investors seeking Class A commercial real estate in Coral Gables. The luxury mixed-use building developed by the Henry Torres-led Astor Companies, has sold out the commercial spaces following the $5.44 million sale of several retail condominiums, including two units occupied by popular fitness studio Sweat 440.

Merrick Manor continues to generate strong interest from investors seeking Class A commercial real estate in Coral Gables. The luxury mixed-use building developed by the Henry Torres-led Astor Companies, has sold out the commercial spaces following the $5.44 million sale of several retail condominiums, including two units occupied by popular fitness studio Sweat 440.

Prisma Properties LLC acquired Merrick Manor commercial units CU3, CU8-9 and CU10 in a transaction that closed on April 26. ONE Sotheby’s International Realty Global Commercial Director Manny Chamizo III, the exclusive sales representative for Merrick Manor’s 20,000 square feet of prime ground-floor commercial space, brokered the sale. Merrick Manor’s ground-floor retail space is now fully leased or owned by owner/users.

Sweat 440 occupies 3,055 square feet in CU8-9. The high-intensity interval training (HITT) studio has a passionate following among its members, which range from beginners to fitness enthusiasts. Sweat 440 has locations in Florida, New York and Canada.

The 1,307-square-foot CU3 is currently utilized as the Sales Gallery for Merrick Manor’s limited inventory of available luxury residences. Located at 301 Altara Ave., next to the world-class Shops at Merrick Park and in the middle of the city’s Design and Innovation District, Merrick Manor is experiencing brisk residential sales activity and is on pace to sell out within the next six months.

M&B Dental Associates, P.A., led by renowned aesthetic dentist and decorated U.S. Navy veteran Dr. Ivan Mendoza,occupies the 1,669-square-foot CU10. M&B and Sweat 440 are part of Merrick Manor’s Health and Beauty Corridor, which also includes Anaïs Nails & Spa, Body Details, Elegance Beauty Salon and Trésor.

“Our success in curating Merrick Manor’s ground-floor retail space with a dynamic mix of tenants, which comprise the building’s Health and Beauty Corridor, played a major role in this new investment sales transaction,” Chamizo said. “The buyer recognized that prime commercial real estate like this is at a premium in Coral Gables. We are proud to produce another tremendous outcome at Merrick Manor.”

The sale to Prisma comes as another signature Merrick Manor commercial tenant, high-end furniture retailer Sierra Muebles, prepares to open its first U.S. showroom at the building in the next few months. A Peru-based retailer that has exclusive representation of the Brazilian brand in Peru and Miami-Dade County leases Merrick Manor’s largest commercial space, which totals 4,448-square-foot.

“This transaction underscores the long-term belief in our building from the real estate community,” Torres said. “Merrick Manor has an unparalleled location and commercial space that perfectly complements the building’s 227 residences.”

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Check Out The Most Expensive Penthouse In Coral Gables Listed For $14.9 Million At Villa Valencia

A wellness escape in the sky, this upper penthouse at Villa Valencia is expected to shatter records once sold. It’s currently the most expensive condo listed in Coral Gables at $14.9 million. The building holds the record for most expensive condo sale of the lower penthouse for $6.5M. Villa Valencia is being developed by Location Ventures and will deliver early this year.

A wellness escape in the sky, this upper penthouse at Villa Valencia is expected to shatter records once sold. It’s currently the most expensive condo listed in Coral Gables at $14.9 million. The building holds the record for most expensive condo sale of the lower penthouse for $6.5M. Villa Valencia is being developed by Location Ventures and will deliver early this year.

Designed with wellness in mind, the ultra-luxury penthouse is a full floor four-bedroom, five and a half-bathroom residence, with office and den. In addition to the typical features that make for life in the lap of luxury such as rain showers, Wolf appliances, Brizo fixtures and more, the most unique aspect of this residence is its more than 4,000 SF of outdoor space, complete with a summer kitchen, bar and dining area, buyer’s option plunge pool and meditation space. A product of the pandemic, an expansive, and highly functional outdoor terrace for condo buyers is the new necessity. Further aiding in residents’ health, high-tech air and water filtration, via the Delos DARWIN system.

Each residence interior at Villa Valencia will showcase a private foyer and elevator entry, complete with superior finishes, including European flooring, 10-foot exterior sliding doors, and finished custom closets. Kitchens are equipped with state-of-the-art Subzero and Wolf appliances, a wine cooler, custom cabinetry and quartz countertops. On the outside, the façade features a modern take of Coral Gables’ signature Mediterranean architecture style, designed by Hamed Rodriguez Architects.

In the boutique building, residents can enjoy an amenity portfolio that leaves no stone unturned. The wellness program includes a hammam, steam room, his-and-her saunas, hydrotherapy plunge pools, alongside a state-of-the-art fitness facility with areas for yoga, Pilates and weight training. For outdoor enjoyment, a 78-foot resort-style pool with a lap lane and waterfall is complemented by two summer kitchens and spacious sunbeds for relaxation. A dinner party can be hosted in the Cucina, while a game night can take place in the lively entertainment room, followed by movies in the theater. An executive room with video conferencing allows professionals to work from home with ease. It overlooks the adjacent park, whose grassy field features a large sculpture and water features. Nearby a dog run is perfect for pet lovers.

For residents looking for additional private space, poolside cabanas and private garages are also available for purchase.

Villa Valencia is also pursuing a National Green Building Standard certification, along with bespoke residence services such as closet organization, physician-led health evaluations, acupuncture, dietician-led consultations and more via its Elevate Wellness brochure.

Located in the heart of the City Beautiful, the building has direct access to Miami International Airport and is blocks from Miracle Mile. The Greater Miami Area is a rapidly expanding economic hub, and Coral Gables alone is home to 20 consulates and 140 multinational corporations. It is an ideal community with “Class A” office space, top private and public schools and universities, country clubs, golf courses and world-class culture – all within steps to Villa Valencia.

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MG Developer Adds New 'Coral Carpet' Public Art Installation To Balboa Plaza in Coral Gables

Balboa Plaza, one of the most original parks in Coral Gables, where the stone bench named “A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ is located, has a new decorative Coral Carpet, which now completes the “living room” setting at the popular outdoor park. In 2018, MG Developer celebrated the first installation of the original stone bench at Balboa Plaza.

Balboa Plaza, one of the most original parks in Coral Gables, where the stone bench named “A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ is located, has a new decorative Coral Carpet, which now completes the “living room” setting at the popular outdoor park.

In 2018, MG Developer celebrated the first installation of the original stone bench at Balboa Plaza for an inaugural dedication event for the City’s Art in Public Places, Public Art in Private Development program.

This new installation of art furthers MG Developer’s commitment to creating enclaves that reflect the city's tradition of being the most desired living destination in South Florida and reigniting George Merrick’s vision of Building Beautiful in the city.

Now, the new inlaid, terrazzo piece at Midnight Summer’s Dream that has been installed complements the stone sofa and the lush green landscaping throughout the park. The predominant coral color of the carpet also pays homage to the City’s traditional European vibrant charm that can be found throughout the Gables while the pattern in the carpet features a flower pattern that appears to be blooming, pulsating, or dancing through a coral field of flowers that represent the city’s people and rich culture.

The 30 foot long sofa and carpet act as an extension of a home at the park, together with the giant banyan tree that overlooks the living space, which creates an enormous amount of shade for those that want to lounge on the bench, also reflects the canopy-lined streets of Coral Gables. Additionally, two statuesque lamps that stand on each side of the sofa, frame and illuminate the living area at Balboa Plaza every night. Created by artists Roberto Behar and Rosario Marquardt.

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