Bentley Motors And Dezer Development Break Ground On Bentley Residences Miami

Bentley Motors, in collaboration with Dezer Development, has broken ground on Bentley Residences Miami, the ultra-luxury waterfront development coming to Sunny Isles Beach which features the patented ‘Dezervator’ car elevator. Bentley Residences will emulate a sense of class, elegance, and sophistication, setting a precedent for resort-style luxury living on the beach, complete with five-star hospitality and service, and an unrivaled food and beverage program by Chef Todd English. Dezer Development is led by Gil Dezer, who has been one of the most active developers transforming the Sunny Isles Beach skyline including recently developing the Porsche Design Tower. With the commencement of construction at Bentley Residences Miami, Dezer’s vision to bring the first Bentley-branded residential tower to the world and continue setting an entirely new standard for luxury living, is now underway with an estimated completion in 2027.

Bentley Residences Miami is set to rise 61-stories, 749’ above the Atlantic Ocean. The tower will feature 216 exquisitely finished residential units, each embracing an exquisite balance of indoor/outdoor living and offering uninterrupted views of the ocean and waterways. Pricing starts at $5.25 million and every unit will encompass an individual balcony swimming pool, outdoor shower, unobstructed seascapes, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows seamlessly implemented throughout.

Built with luxury car owners in mind like Dezer himself, each residence will include an in-unit multi-car garage and a patented car ‘Dezervator’ alongside all the most desirable luxury amenities and world-class services. The tower features four ‘Dezervators,’ which are patented hydraulic elevators built to transport residents and their vehicles directly to a private garage their floor complete with EV charging points. The car is identified on arrival by an RFID sticker positioned in the vehicle and a special LED lighting system then guides the driver to one of the ‘Dezervators’ which takes them straight to their residence. The whole process is seamless, with no buttons to press and no need to leave the vehicle.

Bentley Residences Miami will feature a residents-only private restaurant helmed by four-time James Beard award-winning celebrity chef Todd English. In addition to the restaurant, Bentley Residences will also boast an impressive 20,000 square feet of exclusive amenities across the span of three levels. Some of which amenities include a whiskey and cigar lounge, wellness and revitalization spa, cinema, cabanas, and oceanfront beauty salon. Amongst the most impressive amenities is the car elevator, also named the Dezervator, which is able to transport residents’ vehicles from the ground floor up to the privacy of their own home all without having to get out of the car. The Dezervator along with the glass-ensconced garage allows for residents to keep their prized cars in pristine condition and on display in their living rooms.

Bentley Residences was conceptualized by Dezer Development and designed by the world-renowned architectural firm Sieger Suarez Architects - known for their work on Dezer Development’s Porsche Design Tower and Residences by Armani/Casa the tower will feature uninterrupted views of the ocean and waterways, bringing the beauty of the outdoors into each new home.

The Bentley design team is collaborating with Dezer on the interior and exterior architecture of the building, translating Bentley’s luxury design to the residential experience. Built with luxury car owners in mind, each residence will include an in-unit multi-car garage and a patented car Dezervator alongside all the most desirable luxury amenities and world-class services. Designed by world-renowned architectural firm, Sieger Suarez Architects, the luxury residential tower is designed to appeal to Bentley’s and Dezer Development’s most discerning customers.

East Unit

West Unit

Amenities

Exterior

Renderings via Bentley Residences Miami

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Michelle Bernstein and Jeffrey Chodorow To Open First Private Restaurant at Five Park Miami Beach

Renowned chef Michelle Bernstein and acclaimed restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorow are set to open their first-ever private restaurant at Five Park Miami Beach. The intimate food and beverage concept will be exclusively available to the residents of the landmark tower which is being developed by David Martin (Terra) and Russell Galbut (GFO Investments). The culinary venture will be housed on the building's Park Club sixth-floor amenity deck, delivering an inspired menu that seamlessly fuses Mediterranean sophistication with vibrant local flavors. Bernstein will also curate the food and beverage offerings for the tower’s 26th-floor Canopy Club, an exclusive social club for Five Park residents.

Chodorow, a prominent figure in the Miami and New York City culinary scene, is recognized for legacy establishments like China Gril, Bond Street Hudson Yards and Red Farm Coconut Grove. The restaurateur is working alongside James Beard Foundation award-winner Michelle Bernstein who is marking her debut in the realm of residential restaurants. She is behind acclaimed projects like Café La Trova, Sweet Liberty, Michy’s Chicken Shack and the highly anticipated Sra. Martinez re-opening in Coral Gables this year.

“It's extremely special to collaborate with visionaries like Jeffrey, David, and Russell, especially in such a beautiful setting,” said Bernstein. “An on-site residential restaurant allows us to really embrace and create a longstanding relationship with our clientele. More than ever, we want our guests to feel at home – we will know their specific tastes, favorites and special orders."

Inspired by Five Park’s waterfront location and 360-degree water views, Bernstein's menu promises an array of seasonal flavors with a selection of approachable yet sophisticated dishes. From delectable snacks and appetizers to refreshing salads and standout main courses, residents can savor signature dishes such as Moroccan spiced crab cakes, hamachi crudo, black bean burgers, and spaghetti cacio e pepe. The restaurant, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant florals, offers indoor and outdoor dining, accommodating on-the-go orders or large gatherings set against the Miami sunset. The rotating menus will be curated to seamlessly transition from day to night, with service extending to the pool deck.

“Food is such an integral part of today’s residential experience,” said David Martin, CEO of Terra. “We’re very proud to be partnering with Michelle and Jeffrey, who possess a unique and heightened understanding of consumer needs. Their expertise extends far beyond traditional hospitality; we sought partners who also have a grasp on the behind-the-scenes of crafting and sustaining a comprehensive food and beverage concept.”

Five Park has recently completed construction and is on track for delivery this year. The landmark project features a striking 48-story tower and the adjacent Canopy Park, a backyard community oasis spanning three acres.

Five Park features over 50,000 square feet of amenities including the Canopy Club, which spans 40,000 square feet perched atop the tower offering sophisticated social spaces, including a private dining room, jewel box bar and lounge, living rooms, library, den, outdoor terraces, wellness and fitness areas. The Park Club amenity deck, which is an addition to the restaurant, features an expansive pool and café terrace with covered cabanas, loungers and intimate social spaces. Inside, residents can enjoy a fully outfitted gym, spa treatment rooms, co-working spaces with private offices and board rooms, screening rooms and more. The development also includes the construction of a 158-foot-long enclosed bridge designed by French conceptual artist Daniel Buren. The Canopy Bridge connects Five Park’s site to the South of Fifth neighborhood for the first time.

Renderings via Five Park

Mercedes Benz Launches First Branded Residence In The United States in Collaboration With JDS Development Group

JDS Development Group and Mercedes-Benz have revealed Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami, a 67-story, mixed-use residential project was designed by SHoP Architects where construction is already underway with an expected completion in 2027. Located at 1 Southside Park, Mercedes-Benz Places is set to deliver over 2.5 million square feet of mixed-use development including 791 branded residences, 130,000 square feet of amenities and hospitality space, 200,000 square feet of office space, health and fitness facilities, a 174-key hotel, retail outlets, and on-site parking. Pricing for the residences is set to start at $550,000 and ranges up to $4 million for the largest three bedroom floor plan; penthouses are yet to be released. The project is also the first branded real-estate project for Mercedes-Benz in the United States, centered around the theme of “Timeless Design, Inspired by Miami.”

“It is a privilege to work with Mercedes-Benz and move beyond a traditional residential building to create a new community for the future. Underpinned by sustainable building methods and design, Mercedes‑Benz Places in Miami will create a legacy not just for Brickell, but Florida as a whole.” Said Michael Stern, Founder & CEO of JDS Development Group

This visionary tower is being developed by JDS Development Group, the company behind some of the world’s most transformative skyscrapers of the past decade. The project is part of the Mercedes-Benz licencing business by Mercedes-Benz Customer Solutions GmbH. The Mercedes-Benz design team has worked in collaboration with award-winning SHoP Architects to ensure the structure embodies the brand’s design philosophy of Sensual Purity.

The residential tower will be built in Brickell at 1 Southside Park, comprising 791 Mercedes-Benz residences with studios to 3-bedroom condominiums. Occupants will enjoy spectacular views of Miami, Biscayne Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and beyond.Foundation work is underway and initial occupancy is planned to start in 2027. Sales will be managed by SERHANT, a multidimensional real estate and media company.

“Our branded real-estate venture in Miami embodies the strategy behind Mercedes-Benz Places. We want to develop exclusive residences with our partner that are undeniably Mercedes-Benz and create a new mode of urban living with vibrant communities. Ultimately, we want to create places to come home to, in a location worth living in.” Said Eva Wiese, Head of Mercedes-Benz Customer Solutions GmbH

The design of Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami centres around an eye-catching, cube-shaped mixed-use tower. These simple geometric bodies are interconnected to create a prominent skyscraper that stands out in the current architectural landscape of Miami. The shape of the building has been refined through the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of Sensual Purity. This is the symbiosis of intelligence and emotion – two contrasting principles that combine to create clear forms and sensuous surfaces. The emotional side of Sensual Purity is characterised by free-flowing, elliptical lines and shapes inspired by nature. With its stacked-box design, this project reflects the technical side of the design language.

“Our distinctive style is Sensual Purity. This philosophy, based on the duality of emotion and intelligence, consists of a hot and a cool pole. The cool aspect represents very much the tradition of geometric German long live design originated in the Bauhaus. This crucial part of our brand was the inspiration for the architecture of this extraordinary new Mercedes-Benz Places landmark in Miami.” Said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Mercedes-Benz AG

Looking at the architecture of Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami in more detail, the profiles of the individual balconies and terraces are designed to capture the light in a wide variety of ways. Technical silver is the dominant colour, complemented by the classic Mercedes-Benz black and white, to create opportunities for distinctive highlights and stimulating contrasts. The overall architectural effect commands a distinct presence on the Miami skyline.

Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami will give residents and guests access to a range of customer-centric living solutions. There will be more than 130,000 square feet of amenities and hospitality space. In addition, there will be 200,000 square feet of office space, health and fitness facilities, a 174-key hotel, retail outlets, and on-site parking. Innovative mobility solutions also play a key role with space for EV charging stations, valet parking, a car fleet for occupants, plus bicycle and scooter sharing. Mobility and innovative digital solutions will be developed in collaboration with ReWyre, a leading commercial property technology platform.

In addition to changing the residential landscape, Mercedes-Benz Places in Miami aims to transform the Brickell neighborhood. Key to this will be reimagining Southside Park as an urban oasis through a collaboration with renowned urban landscape designers, Field Operations. With its canopy of trees and native vegetation, such as mango trees and shortleaf figs, the project aims to create a healthy living space. The regeneration strategy also supports a range of environmentally friendly activities, including energy-efficient production, impactful vegetation, and water conservation.

Renderings via The Boundary

Olara Begins Construction On Private Dock in West Palm Beach

New York-based developer Savanna has begun construction on the private dock amenity at Olara, a new luxury condominium tower set to overlook the Intracoastal Waterway. The private dock will be one of the most exclusive amenities offered at any West Palm condominium, given its rarity in the community east of Flagler Drive, and will feature a pair of house yachts, three for-purchase boat slips and a dedicated seafaring concierge capable of arranging everything from deep-sea fishing to paddleboarding. While the condominium readies to break ground in March for an expected completion in 2026, the private dock is slated to open early this summer and will serve as a preview into Olara’s forthcoming waterfront lifestyle as the 26-story building rises. SavCon is leading construction.

“Incorporating the private dock was one of the first decisions we made in the development process, and quickly became central to our vision,” said Chris Schlank, President and Co-Chairman of Savanna. “While many other projects have waterfront views, not many encourage and allow for residents to get out on the water like Olara. With dockage becoming increasingly limited in South Florida, we felt this was an amenity that our buyers would appreciate.”

Serviced by a five-star concierge team, the private dock amenity provides Olara residents with the opportunity to enjoy a wide array of unique experiences. They can coordinate a private yacht charter to Palm Beach Island, hire a boat captain for a day trip on one of Olara’s two house yachts, embark on a catamaran scuba and snorkel tour with local experts, try their hand at deep-sea fishing, have a gourmet lunch or dinner at sea or even invite friends to visit by boat and dock at the guest slip. Aside from boating, residents will also have access to many water sports and activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking and floating tubes. The dock will extend 192 feet out into the Intracoastal Waterway, and will be dimly lit throughout the evening, providing a focal point towards the water for all that pass by.

In addition to the private dock, Olara features more than 80,000 square feet of amenities that rival a luxury resort. Many of the spaces are designed for residents to refresh and reset, as wellness is a guiding principle at Olara. This includes a world-class fitness center by The Wright Fit that offers 13,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor workout spaces, ranging from an open-air yoga deck and performance training zones with indoor-outdoor turf lanes to a studio for yoga, mat Pilates, core movement and breath work and a Pilates studio. There will also be spa and wellness amenities like a five-star recovery and regeneration spa, a recovery zone featuring Normatec compression therapy and Hypervolt massage equipment, a Japanese-style Onsen, sauna, steam and treatment rooms, cold plunge, vitality pools and meditation rooms.

Olara’s pool deck continues the resort-inspired lifestyle. The grounds will be lushly landscaped by EDSA, extending to the property’s private waterfront veranda and library. Two cabana-lined swimming pools for leisure and laps will overlook the Intracoastal Waterway, while a juice bar will energize and enhance residents’ everyday life. Additional spaces at Olara include a game room, private dining room and catering kitchen designed by Gabellini Sheppard Associates. Residents working from home will also have areas optimized for productivity, such as a multimedia lounge, private offices, conference spaces and a co-working lounge. A bevy of personalized services include a concierge, 24- hour private security, valet, house car, in-home dining offerings, catering by the celebrity-chef helmed eatery and access to an exclusive Olara Residents App.

Residences at Olara will be two- to four-bedroom plus den units, with floor plans ranging from 1,500 to over 4,200 square feet, with pricing starting at $2 million.

Renderings via Binyan Studios

Related Companies Launches Sales At Waterfront Condo 'Shorecrest' in West Palm Beach

Related Southeast has launched sales for Shorecrest in West Palm Beach. The luxury condominium features stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Palm Beach Island and the Atlantic Ocean. Located on North Flagler Drive, Shorecrest is designed by architecture firm Roger Ferris + Partners with residential interiors and amenities by Rottet Studio, and landscape design by DSBoca. The residences include 140 graciously scaled homes, penthouses and access to The Related Life, an impressive array of amenities, services and programming similar to those found at the most exclusive private members clubs around the world.

The renowned design team of Roger Ferris + Partners and Rottet Studio’s collaboration on Shorecrest is each firm’s first ground-up, new residential development in West Palm Beach. Roger Ferris + Partners’ striking design features a curvilinear façade with floor-to-ceiling glass that provides panoramic views of the water and ample light for each residence, creating a sense of openness and connectivity between indoors and out.

“Related has been dedicated to the growth of West Palm Beach for decades and we are proud to expand our luxury residential offerings with Shorecrest,” said Stephen M. Ross, Chairman and Founder of Related Companies. “Tailored to this thriving community, Shorecrest transforms a part of the waterfront while capturing a timeless aesthetic for residents.”

“West Palm Beach has solidified its status as one of the most sought-after addresses in the country,” said Kenneth A. Himmel, President and CEO of Related Urban. “Shorecrest is a feat of remarkable design from Roger Ferris + Partners, one of the most renowned experts in the industry, and demonstrates the strength of the local market.”

“Shorecrest offers an extraordinary lifestyle in West Palm Beach that prioritizes both design and function, offering gracious living spaces, many with terraces featuring panoramic waterfront views,” said Bryan Cho, Executive Vice President of Related Companies. “Building on Related’s legacy of delivering best-in-class, luxury residential buildings, Shorecrest will deliver unprecedented amenities, services and access to West Palm Beach.”

“Shorecrest resides on a spectacular site in West Palm Beach. The building features a curvilinear façade with a dramatic mosaic design on the exterior. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows emphasize panoramic views and large outdoor terraces bring the outdoors into each residence,” said Roger Ferris, Founding Principal of Roger Ferris + Partners.

Rottet Studios’ brilliantly designed interiors at Shorecrest are finished with extraordinary detail. Kitchens offer custom White Oak European millwork, a suite of top-of-the-line Gaggenau appliances, and finishes of Cote D’Vaniglia and Calacatta Fioritto marble. Primary bathrooms feature limestone flooring, Namibia White marble walls, custom vanities, freestanding soaking tubs, and shower stalls with rain shower, handheld spray, and showerhead. With ceiling heights of approximately 9’6” that extend to 11’6” at the Penthouse floor, all residences feature White Oak wood plank flooring and numerous technology and wellness aspects including Lutron home automation for lighting and thermostat controls, enhanced cell service and super-fast network speeds, and ducted fresh air with multiple filtration points, filtered water, and multi-zone climate control.

“Shorecrest balances the classic refinement of Palm Beach, along with the relaxed attitude of contemporary South Florida. The serene interiors are intentionally light-filled and grand, drawing the sunlight indoors. The careful attention to detail and sculpted proportion in every room creates a strong residential attitude, and sense of intimacy. The interior finishes are fresh and timelessly inspiring, drawing inspiration from the sandy beaches and expansive water views nearby,” said Lauren Rottet, Founder of Rottet Studio.

Residents will enjoy world-class amenities and white-glove services encompassing the best in fitness, leisure, and entertaining in meticulously designed spaces. The stunning 60-foot rooftop pool with a 50-foot sun shelf features lounging areas as well as a dining and grill area, both with dramatic views overlooking Lake Worth, Palm Beach Island, and the Atlantic Ocean. The Club Level on the sixth floor features entertaining options that span throughout a private dining room, cocktail lounge, cafe, screening room, game room, and virtual reality lounge. Wellness options include a spa suite, state-of-the-art fitness center, and yoga room. Options for remote work in both a coworking lounge and executive meeting space.

Shorecrest residents enter through a luxuriously landscaped motor court, greeted by a doorman and valet, and welcomed into the lobby lounge staffed by a 24-hour attendant and concierge. Shorecrest will be managed by Related Management, widely considered the leader in luxury residential property management and acclaimed for their high level of service and lifestyle programming.

Related Southeast has been deeply committed to improving the West Palm Beach community for the past 25 years, with the introduction of new luxury residential projects and significant commercial properties in West Palm Beach, including The Square, One Flagler, East and West Towers, 360 Rosemary, RH West Palm, and the Hilton West Palm Beach.

A sales gallery for Shorecrest is expected to open in February 2024 and will be located at 460 S. Rosemary Ave, Suite 180, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Related Florida LLC and Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group are exclusively handling sales and marketing for Shorecrest, where pricing will start at approximately $1.3 million for a one-bedroom to $9 million for a four-bedroom.

Renderings via The Boundary

Plans Filed For Santander Tower Set To Rise 765' On Brickell Ave

Banco Santander has filed plans to develop a 40-story, 765’ tall office tower on their two acre property 1401 Brickell Avenue following their application for a total demolition permit for the existing 14-story office building which was delivered in 1973 currently sits on the property. The proposed Santander Tower would be built to LEED Platinum standards and would feature 612,918 SF of Class A office space, 107,953 SF of F&B space including multiple ground and lower floor restaurants as well as a multi-level urban club on the 9th floor podium; the building will also feature 1,496 parking spaces. Santander Tower plans to activate the pedestrian and street level with public plazas and landscaping along Brickell Ave. The tower is designed by Handel Architects with interiors by Bernardi + Peschard Arquitectos, landscape design by Rios and LandDesign. Rilea Group will oversee the development process.

Renderings via Handel Architects

Landau Properties Breaks Ground on Kobi Karp-Designed Indian Creek Residences & Yacht Club

Landau Properties has broken ground on Indian Creek Residences & Yacht Club, the highly anticipated new residential development transforming the south shore of Miami’s Bay Harbor Islands. The groundbreaking comes on the heels of the development setting a new price record for the most expensive condo sale on Bay Harbor Islands after the penthouse, which was listed for $12 million, sold for an undisclosed price.

Landau Properties founding executives Jonathan Landau, DC Lowinger and Yaeli Lowinger were joined by Linda Zarifi, Founder of Zarifi Design, Kobi Karp, Founder and Principal of Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design, OFFICIAL co-founders Richard Jordan, Andrew Wachtfogel and Oren Alexander, Menachem Kranz, and executives from Civic Construction, the project’s general contractor, and BridgeInvest, who provided the building’s $29 million financing package.

“Reaching this momentous milestone marks a significant stride towards the realization of this visionary development,” said Jonathan Landau, Founder and CEO of Landau Properties. “Indian Creek Residences & Yacht Club seamlessly blends the most sought-after waterfront location and amenities with cutting edge architectural design. We’ve created a unique product that has captivated the market and continues to see great success.”

Designed by Miami-based architect Kobi Karp with interiors by the acclaimed Zarifi Design, the curvaceous building will serve as a counterpoint to Miami’s collection of tall, boxy towers by referencing Bay Harbor Islands’ history of mid-century modern design. The eight-story waterfront building is home to nine luxury condominiums and six yacht slips, one of the only private yacht clubs in the area. Providing a sought-after opportunity for waterfront views of the coveted Indian Creek Island and Country Club, the half-floor, full-floor and duplex homes boast unobstructed waterfront views, best-in-class finishes and spacious interiors that range from three to five bedrooms and span up to 5,600 square feet.

“This is a building unlike anything else on the market on the Bay Harbor Islands, so it’s no surprise buyers from across the country appreciate the opportunity to own the best new full-service condo in this jewel like pocket of Miami,” said Andrew Wachtfogel, Co-Founder and President of New Development for OFFICIAL, the exclusive sales and marketing firm for the development. “Interest has been incredibly robust, and we’re excited to continue on that path with construction now underway.”

Complementing the expansive residences, Indian Creek Residences & Yacht Club will offer a resort-style amenities package for residents. In addition to the yacht club complete with dockmaster concierge services, the curated amenities include a world-class spa with treatment rooms, state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor yoga lawn, flexible entertainment lounge with high-fidelity sound system and bar, and landscaped rooftop terrace with a pool, dining area, outdoor kitchen and screening pavilion. The building also offers a full-time doorman, resident concierge and 18 private parking spaces.

Pricing begins at $5.6 million for a half-floor home.

Renderings via Williams New York

Fortune International Group and Château Group Launch Sales of North Tower at The St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami

The St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, has launched sales of the much-anticipated North Tower, marking another milestone following the success at 80% sold South Tower, which started converting reservations to contracts in May of 2023. The launch of the North Tower also follows closely on the heels of the sale of a $55 million penthouse in the South Tower, introducing a new opportunity for buyers in this highly sought-after property. The total sellout of The St. Regis Residences Sunny Isles Beach, Miami equates to nearly $3 billion. The project broke ground in September 2023.

The St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, will be the tallest residential property on the ocean in South Florida, with the North Tower rising 750 feet tall. Developed by Fortune International Group and Château Group, and managed by St. Regis Hotels and Resorts, the Residences are situated along 435 linear feet of immaculate beach, offering infinite ocean views. The North Tower will feature 170 residences spanning up to 5,500 square feet and include two, three, four, and five-bedroom residences, along with exquisite, two-story, full-floor penthouses with private pools. Both towers provide amenities offerings exclusively for the use of tower residents. The North Tower’s amenities encompass an expansive lobby, pickleball and padel courts, a fitness center, a therapeutic wellness pool, kids’ and teens' clubs, private lounge areas, and more.

"The remarkable sales achievements of the first phase of The St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami have created significant momentum for the property, propelling us into this exciting new phase,” said Edgardo Defortuna, President and CEO of Fortune International Group. “With substantial high-profile sales already in the South Tower, we are confident that the North Tower will continue this upward trajectory, appealing to buyers in search of the distinctive resort-style lifestyle in Sunny Isles Beach."

“As the tallest residential property on the ocean in South Florida, The St. Regis Residences, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, stands as a global magnet for discerning buyers. The appeal lies within its luxurious amenities and exceptional St. Regis service, which attracts buyers from around the world,” said Manuel Grosskopf, CEO of Château Group. “The North Tower will provide residences with a resort-like feel that defines the Sunny Isles Beach location and deliver the elevated lifestyle available to all future residents.”

Along with exclusive amenities, North Tower residents will enjoy access to an extensive, property-wide amenity suite totaling over 70,000 square feet, curated to cater to every desire. These include a private Beach Club with direct ocean access, three ocean-facing pools with cabanas, and a Sunset Pool Deck featuring an infinity edge style pool. Residents have the option to entertain either in the oceanfront terrace dining and lounge events space of the Residents Club or in the Ellipse Club, which boasts a cognac room, wine bar, and gaming rooms. Unparalleled, 24/7 St. Regis Service is incorporated throughout the property, including their signature butler service, ensuring a seamless living experience for residents.

The visionary architecture firm Arquitectonica, paired with interiors by celebrated São Paulo-based designer Patricia Anastassiadis and landscape design by EDSA shape the towers, providing an elevated lifestyle in Sunny Isles Beach, one of South Florida's most sought-after residential locations. Positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Sunny Isles Beach offers a unique blend of resort-like tranquility and the cultural vibrancy of city living.

PROFILE Exclusive with Developer of Jem Residences Miami Miki Naftali of Naftali Group

PROFILEmiami had the opportunity to sit down with legendary real estate developer and investor Miki Naftali of Naftali Group to discuss his career and first project in Miami, the recently launched Jem Residences Miami. Miki Naftali is the Chairman and CEO of Naftali Group which he established in 2011. Over the course of his 35-year career in the global real estate industry, Miki has acquired, developed, and managed over $15 billion and 31 million SF in real estate assets across North America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. In New York City alone, he has assembled a seminal portfolio of 25 luxury condominiums encompassing over 1,900 residential units, as well other notable projects, including luxury apartment buildings and mixed-use properties.

Now, Miki has turned his sights on Miami where he recently launched JEM Residences Miami in Downtown Miami’s Miami Worldcenter neighborhood. This dynamic condominium development will rise over 700’ tall, 67 stories, and is set to become a landmark focal point within the city’s iconic Miami Worldcenter. JEM Residences Miami will feature 259 condominiums with a private 50th floor amenity suite designed to compete with any high-end luxury hotel, offering a diverse array of meticulously curated indoor and outdoor spaces to cater to various activities.

PROFILEmiami joined Miki at the Jem Residences Sales Gallery to learn about his career and why he set his sights on Miami to develop his next project:

[PROFILEmiami] Where did you grow up? Give us your background? How did you get involved in real estate? Tell us about your first deal?

[Miki Naftali] I moved to the U.S. in 1987 to attend the University of Southern California to pursue a degree in industrial engineering management. While going to school, I became a property manager in order to help pay my bills. My early exposure to real estate deals involved searching for rental buildings to purchase, a task I learned myself through a combination of on-the-ground exploration and common sense. My breakthrough came when I successfully identified a property for acquisition, earning my first real paycheck. I knew that I had found my passion. After spending time in Los Angeles, I returned to Israel in 1992, where I started to work as a project manager and quickly moved up the chain to senior project manager to later become CEO of a small real estate company working on various projects including residential, hotels and office buildings. My signature project at the time was a 44-story mixed-use tower in Tel Aviv, one of the tallest buildings in the city. In 2000, I made a pivotal move to New York, marking a significant chapter in my real estate career.

[PM] What was your first major development?

[MN] From 2000 to 2004 I developed several very successful residential projects in New York City. In 2004, I acquired the famous Plaza Hotel – a renowned New York landmark and one of the most recognizable brands worldwide – for $675 million. After a well-planned $450 million major gut renovation of the one million, 100-year-old building, The Plaza was transformed into the most luxurious mixed-use building. It includes 180 private residences which all sold at a record-breaking price, 152 hotel condominium suites for sale, 131 over-sized hotel rooms and 160,000 square feet of retail space that houses ultra-luxury boutiques and North America's first luxury food hall. The Plaza's world-famous interior venues were restored to their original grandeur, and the project was completed in late 2007.

[PM] When did you found Naftali Group? Give us the background on the firm.

[MN] In 2011, I founded Naftali Group after developing major projects in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Montreal, and Singapore as well as taking our Canadian arm public and serving as the chairman of the board. I decided it was time to start my own company and focus my energy and time on designing and developing great buildings that are financially sound, instead of splitting my time dealing with public markets. Naftali Group was founded with a passion to be the best in class. We work with the most talented designers, engineers, brokers, and in-house executives, always pushing the boundaries and standards, and delivering high-quality results in all different market types.

[PM] Naftali Group has built quite an impressive record in NYC, can you tell us what have been some of the keys to your success?

[MN] We have always stood by our product and provided the highest quality possible for each development we deliver. Our company builds projects with timeless designs and great locations based on buyer demand. We prioritize listening to our buyers and delivering on their needs. It’s a simple formula in theory, but few can make good on these promises. That is what sets us apart; the ability to consistently create quality projects, time after time. We also have a strong team that is meticulous and detail oriented. From conversion to ground-up new construction, we have a rare ability to bring together talented teams to realize ambitious goals. Ultimately, our customers are what matter the most. In one of the most competitive and advanced real estate markets in the world, our customers have chosen to buy and rent our apartments even before our projects are completed, which is a testament to the quality of our work.

[PM] When did Miami come on Naftali Group’s radar? Tell us about the acquisition of the JEM property.

[MN] The decision to invest in Miami aligns with our company's strategy of expanding into premier geographic areas with strong growth potential and creating "best in class" developments at various price points. Miami has evolved tremendously over the past few years and the buyers have become more sophisticated and are seeking a better-quality product in residential apartments. The goal is to bring the expertise gained from global markets to South Florida, invigorating neighborhoods and setting a high standard for quality real estate products in the region.

[PM] Why was Downtown Miami and Miami Worldcenter so attractive to you?

[MN] Miami Worldcenter, located in Downtown Miami, is a well-known international hub that offers excellent walkability, making it an ideal location for development. The area is home to many entertainment and cultural institutions, including the Kaseya Center, Adrienne Arsht Center, Perez Art Museum Miami, Museum Park, and the Frost Museum of Science. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts a diverse range of dining options, high-end shops, and iconic waterfront, making it an attractive destination for both visitors and residents. For those seeking an urban lifestyle, the neighborhood offers plenty of transportation options without the need for a car. JEM Private Residences, strategically located near Brightline's Miami Central Station and metro-mover, make it easy to travel to various cities in Florida within Miami and other parts of the state. The project is also less than 10 miles from Miami International Airport, making travel in and out of the city convenient.

[PM] Tell us about JEM Private Residences, what makes this tower so unique?

[NM] We have collaborated with some of the world's most talented architects and designers to create an extraordinary building in Miami. Arquitectonica leads the building's design, Rockwell Group handles the interiors, and EDSA manages the landscape. The development is an urban oasis that boasts exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and construction that will stand the test of time.

JEM Private Residences is a 67-story building with 259 units ranging from 469 to 2,052 square feet. The condos start at the 43rd floor, offering breathtaking views of the Miami skyline, Biscayne Bay, and Atlantic Ocean. The building's top floor comprises 10 penthouses, with some having their own private outdoor pools. Amenities include the JEM Club on the 50th floor, which features a Sky Deck with a 60-foot pool, jacuzzi, and custom sculpture.

[PM] How is developing real estate in Miami different from New York City?

[MN] I joke that we thought it was difficult to get approvals and permits in New York, but Miami is even more difficult. Jokes aside, there are very different pre-construction processes in New York than Miami. The obvious is that we are able to sell much earlier in the process in Florida, which has allowed us to be creative and work alongside incredible partners here locally. While there are differences, what we do see is a shift in the type of product we are delivering in Miami. As more and more buyers come from New York to Florida, we want to be able to provide a product that appeals to the New York and international buyer. This is what has influenced our unit mix and make-up of this mixed-use development.

[PM] Your daughter Danielle works with you in an EVP role overseeing marketing and design, how special is it to share that family/work relationship?

[MN] Danielle learned the business from the bottom up, starting as a receptionist, moving to an administrative assistant in one of our sales offices, and learning every trick of the trade along the way before becoming our Executive Vice President of Marketing and Design. She is highly motivated, hard-working, and keeps pushing the quality of our work, so yes, it is special and rewarding to see the growth over time and it’s very helpful because I have more time to grow the business.

[PM] Besides real estate and work, tell us about some of your other hobbies?

[MN] Family and boating are my passions. I love being on the water, it is the only place I can relax.

[PM] Where can we find you in your day off? (Favorite restaurant, country club, boat, etc)

[MN] My days off are for either family or spending time on the water.

Image via PROFILEmiami | Renderings via Hayes Davidson

Check Out This Private Island At Ocean Reef Club Asking $75 Million

Nestled amidst the waters of the Florida Keys sits a rare opportunity, a 26 acre Private Island plus an additional waterfront mainland home within Ocean Reef Club. The private island island features a pool home, 12 one-acre developable waterfront lots, a 20-slip marina capable of accommodating a mega-yacht, three separate apartments, dockmaster office, a white sand beach and two tennis courts which convert to a helipad for a 10 minute flight to Miami. Modern infrastructure including fiber optic cable, water, & electricity, ensures seamless connectivity and convenience. The mainland property within Ocean Reef Club is a four-minute boat ride away and features a 100 ft. dock. The illustrious Ocean Reef Club features a private airport, two championship golf courses, a world-class 175-slip marina, impressive tennis & lawn sports facilities, full-service fitness center, salon and spa, medical center, oceanfront inn, and an array of shopping and fine dining options.

Pumpkin Key, 10 Cannon Point, Key Largo is listed for $75,000,000 with Liz Hogan of Compass.

Images via Legendary Productions