Merrimac Ventures Unveils Plans for Bungalow East Residences in Fort Lauderdale Beach

Merrimac Ventures, a renowned South Florida real estate investment and development firm, has announced the launch of sales for Bungalow East, an exclusive luxury condominium set to rise in Fort Lauderdale Beach. The 14-story boutique development will house just 34 residences, each designed with refined elegance and offering extensive amenities in one of the area’s most walkable and desirable beachside communities.

Situated at 530 North Birch Road, Bungalow East is positioned steps from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. The project, anticipated to break ground in late 2025 with an 18-month construction timeline, embodies Merrimac Ventures’ legacy of transforming Fort Lauderdale Beach from a seasonal “Spring Break haven” into a premier resort destination. This vision was first ignited by the Motwani family over 35 years ago through the strategic acquisition and redevelopment of oceanfront motels, paving the way for acclaimed developments like the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences, the Conrad Hotel, and Paramount Fort Lauderdale.

“Fort Lauderdale Beach’s transformation has been extraordinary,” said Dev Motwani, Co-Managing Partner of Merrimac Ventures. “Our family has been invested in this community for decades, and Bungalow East is a special project that completes our vision for this area.”

Bungalow East will feature spacious three- and four-bedroom residences ranging from 2,100 to 2,800 square feet, with options for flexible floor plans. Two exclusive penthouses, each spanning approximately 4,000 square feet and boasting private rooftop decks, are also part of the offering. Homes are priced between $2 million and $4 million and will feature floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive terraces with summer kitchens, and high-end finishes that evoke a sense of sophisticated luxury.

The building's design, a collaboration between Swedroe Architecture and Adriana Hoyos Design Studio, embraces natural elements with neutral palettes, wood accents, and sleek modern finishes. Each residence will come equipped with private elevators and chef-inspired kitchens complete with gas-range stoves, emphasizing the development’s focus on upscale, functional living.

Amenities at Bungalow East are designed for a lifestyle of relaxed luxury. Highlights include a resort-style pool deck, a wellness center with massage rooms and a beauty salon, a rooftop sunset lounge, and a yoga lawn. Additional offerings include a gaming and entertainment lounge, a conference center, and pet-friendly features such as a dog run and spa. A ground-floor retail space is slated to house a future café or wine bar, adding to the neighborhood's vibrant atmosphere.

Residents will also gain membership privileges at the Fort Lauderdale Yacht Club and exclusive access to the Conrad Hotel Fort Lauderdale, which includes beach service and full use of the hotel's amenities.

“OneWorld Properties is thrilled to lead the sales and marketing of Bungalow East,” said Peggy Olin, CEO of OneWorld Properties. “This development will redefine luxury living in Fort Lauderdale Beach, offering residents both exclusivity and convenience in an unparalleled location.”

Fort Lauderdale Beach continues to attract a wave of new residents and investors, driven by Florida’s favorable tax policies and high quality of life. Bungalow East is poised to cater to this growing demand, appealing to locals and out-of-state buyers seeking proximity to the beach and access to South Florida’s vibrant culture.

The community’s prime location offers residents easy access to North Beach Village’s top dining and entertainment spots, including The Secret Garden Dining Club, Truluck’s, and Casablanca Café, as well as cultural attractions like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the trails of Birch State Park.

$94.5M Construction Loan Secured for Excel Miami in Arts & Entertainment District

Clearline Real Estate has secured $94.5 million in construction loans to advance the development of Excel Miami, a 24-story multifamily tower situated at 1550 NE Miami Place in the Arts & Entertainment District. This financing is crucial for the completion of the high-rise, which aims to offer modern urban living while embracing the artistic culture of downtown Miami.

The loan package is anchored by a $68.5 million senior construction loan from Centennial Bank, spearheaded by Jay Brito. In addition, Southern Realty Trust Inc. (SRT) provided a $26 million subordinate loan, arranged through an affiliate of the company.

Excel Miami is being developed by Clearline Real Estate, a New York- and Miami-based firm led by Jenny Bernell. Clearline specializes in multifamily real estate investments across emerging markets in the United States, focusing on projects that align with population and economic growth.

The tower, designed by Arquitectonica, is set to bring a contemporary and sophisticated architectural style to Miami’s multifamily housing landscape. Excel Miami Apartments will cover 214,183 rentable square feet and offer 427 residential units. The diverse lineup of living spaces includes studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, and 13 unique townhouse lofts, catering to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.

Residents of Excel Miami will have access to an impressive array of amenities housed on a dedicated floor with 18-foot ceilings. The amenity package includes a pool, a yoga deck, a fitness room, co-working spaces, a screening room, and podcast suites—providing a balanced blend of relaxation, wellness, and productivity.

Strategically located near the Metromover School Board Station, the tower promotes a transit-friendly lifestyle that appeals to professionals and urban dwellers seeking both convenience and connectivity in the heart of Miami. Excel Miami is poised to elevate the standard for multifamily living, offering residents a seamless blend of modern design and accessibility to the city’s dynamic cultural scene.

Casa Gianna Brings Vibrant Italian Dining to Gale Miami Hotel & Residences

Opening on November 18, 2024, Casa Gianna will debut as a fresh Italian dining experience at the newly launched Gale Miami Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami. Developed in collaboration with the global hospitality brand Zouk Group, Casa Gianna aims to offer an inviting and authentic culinary experience, transitioning seamlessly from a morning café into a lively evening dining spot.

Russell Galbut, Owner Representative of Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, emphasized the importance of the restaurant’s opening: “Casa Gianna sets Gale Miami apart as a key destination, especially with our proximity to the Miami Worldcenter. Working with Zouk Group has been instrumental in shaping Casa Gianna, which is just the beginning of our vision for the property’s culinary offerings.”

Under the direction of Executive Chef David Caceres, the menu will feature a diverse range of both traditional and modern Italian dishes. Highlights include Pappardelle Alla Rosa De Ricotta with brown butter sage, Crusted Pistachio Chilean Seabass with tomato puttanesca, and artisanal pizzas prepared in a custom Wood & Stone pizza oven. Options such as the Ai Funghi e Tartufata pizza and gluten-free or vegetarian dishes ensure an inclusive dining experience. “Each dish tells a story, merging classic Italian flavors with contemporary flair,” Chef Caceres noted.

Casa Gianna’s 9,000-square-foot space, designed by New York’s Laseu Studio, combines the ambiance of a classic Italian trattoria with modern design elements. High ceilings, warm wood accents, and a 360º bar opening to the lush Terrazza create a welcoming environment for both indoor and al fresco dining. The restaurant also features Café Gianna, a grab-and-go spot inspired by Miami’s Cuban ventanitas, serving Italian pastries and espresso.

Complementing the menu, Casa Gianna will offer a curated wine list featuring selections from Italy’s renowned vineyards and a cocktail menu with options like the Sunset in Sicily and Tuscan Mule. Guests can take advantage of the signature Aperitivo Hour, designed for pre-game or post-event gatherings, given the restaurant’s prime location near Kaseya Center.

Casa Gianna’s opening will be followed by brunch service and regular entertainment events, adding to Downtown Miami’s vibrant culinary and social scene. The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, located at 601 NE 1st Ave., will further expand its offerings in 2025, welcoming a Bodega Taqueria y Tequila outpost and two additional dining concepts. Casa Gianna will operate daily, with hours set for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

BD Hotels Breaks Ground on The Nora Hotel in West Palm Beach’s Nora District

The highly anticipated Nora District in West Palm Beach marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking of The Nora Hotel, a new 201-key boutique hotel developed by BD Hotels, in collaboration with Sean MacPherson, NDT Development, Place Projects, and Wheelock Street Capital. This project represents BD Hotels’ first new construction hotel outside of New York City and is set to bring a unique blend of luxury and high-design to the area.

Richard Born of BD Hotels shared, “The Nora Hotel represents our vision of transforming West Palm Beach’s hospitality landscape with a bespoke experience that caters to today’s sophisticated travelers. We are thrilled to collaborate with the district's developers to make this a reality.”

BD Hotels, known for iconic New York properties such as The Greenwich and The Bowery, has teamed up with Wheelock Street Capital for the second time, following the successful relaunch of Hotel Chelsea in 2023. NDT Development and Place Projects are also key partners in this endeavor. “The Nora Hotel will serve as a cornerstone for the district,” said Ned Grace, Co-Founder of NDT Development. “It aligns seamlessly with our plan to position the district as a premier lifestyle destination, offering top-tier dining, retail, and wellness experiences.”

Joe Furst, Founder of Place Projects, expressed excitement about partnering with BD Hotels. “Their ability to tailor each hotel to its neighborhood while maintaining their signature style is unparalleled,” he noted.

The design of The Nora Hotel takes inspiration from Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, an homage to Addison Mizner’s architectural legacy in Palm Beach. New York-based Gachot Studios and architectural firm Stantec are behind the hotel’s interiors and structure, featuring arched walkways, rich hues, and intricate tilework. The property will also include a tranquil loggia and garden area for guests.

Highlighting the hotel’s dining scene, Stephen Starr’s STARR Restaurants will debut Pastis, a 13,300-square-foot Parisian-style brasserie with expansive indoor and outdoor seating. STARR Restaurants will also curate offerings for the hotel’s rooftop space, which will include a pool, two bars, private cabanas, and a restaurant. Additionally, in-room dining will be available, further enhancing the guest experience.

The Nora District itself is undergoing a transformation, with Phase I of the master plan underway since June 2023. Upon its early 2025 completion, the district will feature over 150,000 square feet of both adaptive reuse projects and new developments. Historic railway warehouses are being reimagined into vibrant retail spaces, celebrating art and local talent. Phase I will also introduce over 55,000 square feet of Class-A office space.

With its dynamic blend of dining, arts, and lifestyle offerings, Nora is poised to become a cultural and commercial hub in Downtown West Palm Beach. Confirmed retailers include Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, Sana Skin Studio, and more, creating an inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The district’s master plan was developed in partnership with the City of West Palm Beach and urban planning firm PlusUrbia, aiming to revitalize the area with thoughtful, community-oriented design.

Altman Living Unveils New Luxury Apartment Community Altis Grand Kendall

Altman, a prominent developer in multifamily and industrial real estate, has opened its latest project Altis Grand Kendall, 342 upscale apartment homes to Miami's Kendall neighborhood. This addition brings a sophisticated living environment tailored to modern renters, combining sleek interiors with a robust range of high-end amenities.

Located at 9455 SW 137th Ave., Altis Grand Kendall features a selection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences. Each unit showcases a modern design with efficient layouts, integrating premium elements such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hard-surface flooring. Spacious walk-in closets, full-size washers and dryers, and private patios or balconies are also standard, with select units offering primary bathrooms outfitted with double sinks, soaking tubs, and walk-in showers. Prices for these contemporary homes range from $2,195 to $4,090.

Developed under Altman Living’s Altis brand, known for its elegant yet functional designs, the community reflects a commitment to elevated living. "Altis Grand Kendall has attracted significant interest from renters who value luxury and convenience in a vibrant setting," said Seth Wise, CEO of Altman. "Our goal with every project is to create exceptional experiences, offering thoughtfully crafted living spaces paired with unmatched amenities."

Residents have access to a broad range of wellness-oriented and recreational amenities. The outdoor area features a heated saltwater pool with private cabanas and lounge seating, pickleball courts, a playground, and an outdoor pavilion with grilling stations and a fireplace. A serene lake and multi-use trail accommodate outdoor activities like jogging, biking, and walking, while pet owners will appreciate the enclosed dog park and dog spa.

Indoor amenities further enhance the living experience. The 24/7 fitness center is complemented by a yoga and cycling studio equipped with the interactive Mirror. Additional luxuries include a spa lounge with a sauna and massage room, a virtual sports simulator, and a movie lounge with high-definition projection. Social spaces such as a game room and a resident lounge serving Starbucks coffee add to the community atmosphere, while a business lounge caters to remote workers with private conference rooms and collaborative workstations.

Altis Grand Kendall’s prime location ensures residents are well-connected, with easy access to SW 88th Street, the Florida Turnpike, and nearby employment hubs like the University of Miami and Miami Executive Airport. The community is also close to top-rated schools, shopping centers like Dadeland Mall, and attractions including Zoo Miami and the Lowe Art Museum.

Designed by the award-winning firm Anillo Toledo Lopez, LLC, Altis Grand Kendall exemplifies Altman Living’s legacy of creating spaces that blend elegance and comfort, appealing to diverse lifestyles in a rapidly growing Miami neighborhood.

1.5M SF Mixed-Use Development Sawyer’s Walk Delivers Target in Miami's Overtown

Sawyer’s Walk, the largest mixed-use development in the historic community of Overtown, recently opened its retail section, marked by the launch of a 50,000-square-foot Target store. Over the next several months, additional major retailers are set to open, including Burlington, Five Below, Aldi supermarket, and Ross Dress for Less.

The 1.5 million-square-foot Sawyer’s Walk complex includes 578 residential units, primarily housing low-income seniors, as well as 175,000 square feet of retail space, a 25,000-square-foot public plaza, and 130,000 square feet of office space. MSC Group has secured the office space for its new North American headquarters, anchoring the development at 249 NW 6th St. The project was spearheaded by SG Holdings, a partnership between Swerdlow Group, SJM Partners, and Alben Duffie.

Among the new retail spaces, Burlington is scheduled to open in October with a 38,000-square-foot store. A 25,000-square-foot Aldi and a 10,000-square-foot Five Below will follow in November, while Ross Dress for Less is expected to open in March 2025.

Sawyer’s Walk was developed as a public-private partnership in collaboration with the City of Miami’s Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency, Miami-Dade County’s Department of Public Housing and Community Development, and city and county officials. The project aims to address both affordability and accessibility concerns in Greater Downtown Miami by delivering affordable residential options and value-focused retail stores.

The development also includes amenities designed to enhance the community, such as a public plaza with art murals, outdoor seating, a children’s playground, and a dog park. Residents and shoppers will have access to nearly 1,000 parking spaces and multiple public transit options, including Metrorail, Metromover, and Brightline.

Led by Michael Swerdlow, Swerdlow Group has been active in bringing new retail options and affordable housing to South Florida. The company has over 8,000 affordable housing units in the pipeline, with a focus on revitalizing underserved areas and addressing food access in designated ‘food deserts.’ Swerdlow Group’s portfolio includes over 30 million square feet of residential, retail, industrial, and office space developed across the region.

Surf Row Residences Launches Sales in Surfside

In the heart of Surfside, one of Miami's most coveted coastal communities, Surf Row Residences is introducing a new standard of upscale living. Developed by LD&D, a Miami-based real estate investment, development, and design firm, in collaboration with ONE Capital and IGEQ, this exclusive collection of 25 custom condominiums blends luxury and tranquility just a block from the beach.

Located at 8800 Collins Avenue, Surf Row Residences offers newly reimagined living spaces designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s buyers. With prices starting at $1.4 million, these residences are represented by ONE Sotheby’s International Realty and are already garnering significant attention for their unique offerings and unbeatable location.

“Surfside continues to demonstrate its appeal as one of Miami’s most desirable markets, and we’re thrilled with the early interest in Surf Row even ahead of our official launch,” said Daniel de la Vega, president of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty. “This development captures the synergy between thoughtful design and the relaxed elegance of the neighborhood, meeting high demand for premium coastal living.”

Available in one- to three-bedroom floorplans, Surf Row Residences range from 894 to 2,004 square feet and exemplify refined living. The interiors feature spa-like bathrooms with raised wet areas, free-standing bathtubs, rainfall showers, and custom vanities. Kitchens are equipped with Miele appliances, Dekton countertops, and built-in wine fridges, blending functionality with style. Buyers can select from two custom design packages, each inspired by the natural textures and tones of the beach, offering large-format porcelain tiles in coral-stone or sun-bleached wood finishes.

Select residences include private rooftops, offering upgrade options like plunge pools and summer kitchens ideal for al fresco entertaining. To personalize their space further, buyers can utilize InteriorSelect, LD&D’s innovative design configurator.

Surf Row Residences provides a wealth of amenities that cater to relaxation, fitness, and convenience. From a Zen-inspired spa with a steam room, sauna, and hammam, to a fully equipped fitness center and sunlit pool deck, the property encourages a balanced lifestyle. Residents also benefit from coworking spaces and beach-ready amenities, alongside elevated hospitality services including a beach butler, 24-hour concierge, and optional housekeeping. For those with an active lifestyle, the nearby Surfside Tennis Center offers private and group lessons.

Designed by Alfonso Jurado Architecture and Boris Pena Architects, Surf Row Residences marries modernity with nature. The architecture draws inspiration from Surfside’s coastal landscape and Miami’s cultural heritage, featuring expansive layouts, layered glass facades, and generous balconies that invite natural light and ocean breezes. Fluid lines echoing waves, wings, and sand dunes bring an organic aesthetic to the residences, creating a serene ambiance.

“Our vision for Surf Row Residences was to capture the essence of coastal living, combining the area’s charm with a timeless yet contemporary design,” said Alejandro Bonet, managing partner of LD&D. “We’ve built a community that isn’t just about luxury but about creating a sense of place – one that embodies quiet distinction and prestige.”

Surfside is known for its unique blend of small-town charm and urban sophistication. North of Miami Beach, the area offers a slower pace of life with access to premier shopping, dining, and entertainment, including Bal Harbour Shops and Haulover Beach Park. Combining historic Art Deco charm with modern architecture, Surfside creates a captivating coastal lifestyle for residents who value both culture and tranquility.

With its thoughtful design, exceptional amenities, and prime location, Surf Row Residences is poised to redefine luxury coastal living in Miami. For those seeking a seamless blend of sophistication and serenity, this new development is set to become an iconic address in Surfside.

Adam Neumann Launches First Condo Project at Miami Worldcenter

Adam Neumann, co-founder of Flow, has announced the launch of his first condominium development project in Downtown Miami, marking Flow's expansion into the ownership market. The project, named Flow House, will be located in Miami Worldcenter and will include 466 units spread across 40 stories. Slated for delivery in 2025, Flow House will offer luxury living with a range of amenities, including coworking spaces, a fitness center, poolside restaurant, and spa. Sales will be managed by One World Properties led by Peggy Olin, with prices starting at $450,000 for studios.

Flow House is designed to address the growing demand for community-focused urban living, reflecting Flow’s ethos of integrating work, wellness, and connectivity into the residential experience. The project targets a wide range of buyers, with options from studios to larger one-bedroom units, all offering floor-to-ceiling windows and high-end finishes. Some units include private balconies, and residents can upgrade to gourmet kitchens as part of the customization options available.

Located at 697 N Miami Avenue, Flow House is part of the rapidly growing Miami Worldcenter district, a prime location close to restaurants, entertainment, and major transportation networks. The development aims to provide residents with both the convenience of city living and the wellness-focused amenities associated with Flow properties.

“We learned while building Flow over the last two years that the exact same needs faced by renters are also faced by owners in terms of lack of community and lack of connectivity,” said Flow co-founder Adam Neumann. “We are excited to build upon our vision and bring the full Flow experience, which is rooted in community and a sense of belonging, to anyone looking for a better experience from their permanent residence.”

In addition to the residential units, Flow House will feature a variety of shared spaces designed to enhance the resident experience, including coworking areas, a resort-style pool, yoga studios, and concierge services. The development also includes amenities such as a dog run, restaurant, and spa facilities, which cater to both the professional and leisure needs of residents.

Flow, which has been supported by venture capital firm a16z, is expanding its portfolio across the U.S. and internationally. The Miami condo project represents a major milestone in the company’s growth as it continues to develop properties that prioritize community, connectivity, and sustainable living.

For more information about Flow House or to inquire about purchasing a unit please fill out the form below:

Douglas Elliman Launches Sales at Ocean Glass Residences

Ocean Glass Residences, an exclusive community of 28 luxury townhomes, recently launched sales with Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Located at 10101 South Ocean Drive on Hutchinson Island, the development offers residents a unique combination of waterfront living and modern sustainability features. Designed by Wright Gardner and developed by EcoLogics Group, LLC, the homes feature cutting-edge Green Tech, including floor-to-ceiling impact glass panels and living spaces elevated 13 feet above sea level to enhance durability in the coastal environment.

The townhomes, ranging from 2,970 to 3,280 square feet, offer spacious three- to four-bedroom layouts with contemporary designs and a focus on open living spaces. Each home also includes a 500-square-foot rooftop terrace, providing expansive views of the surrounding nature preserve and the Intracoastal Waterway. Residents will benefit from private 3-plus-car garages, making the community ideal for those seeking both luxury and practicality.

Beyond the individual residences, Ocean Glass Residences boasts 14 private acres, 11 of which are preserved as untouched natural land. This commitment to conservation enhances the community’s peaceful ambiance and ensures long-term privacy. Additional amenities include a centralized clubhouse, complete with a pool and greenspace, as well as outdoor showers for residents to enjoy after beach visits. Notably, the community offers 11 private boat slips and direct beach access, a rare feature in the area.

Conveniently located just minutes from Historic Downtown Stuart, Ocean Glass Residences is close to the area’s best restaurants, galleries, and entertainment venues. With easy access to museums, live theatre, and boutique shops, the development is positioned to offer a blend of serene waterfront living with cultural experiences just a short drive away.

Dean Bloch and Kim Spears of Douglas Elliman are exclusively representing the sales of Ocean Glass Residences, with interest expected to grow as buyers seek out properties that provide a balance between modern luxury, environmental sustainability, and natural beauty.

Regency Development Group Breaks Ground on Luxury Condo in Bay Harbor Islands

Regency Development Group has broken ground on the Signature Collection, the first of three luxury buildings in the La Maré Brand Collection, a high-end residential development in Bay Harbor Islands, Florida. Comprising nine waterfront residences ranging from 2,200 to 4,300 square feet, the Signature Collection marks the initial phase of this premium project. Regency Development, a family-run company from Chicago with over 20 years of experience, is making its first foray into South Florida with this project, which aims to bring tropical luxury living to a prime waterfront location.

Michael Troyanovsky, Managing Partner at Regency Development, expressed excitement about the project’s milestone. “La Maré offers the key amenities residents are looking for, including boat slips, all in an unrivaled location," said Troyanovsky. The Signature Collection is set along a beautifully landscaped bayfront shoreline, providing residents with direct access to the water and offering a unique blend of city life and natural serenity.

Located at 9781 East Bay Harbor Drive, the Signature Collection features modern architecture designed by Kobi Karp and interiors by Debora Aguiar Arquitetos. Each residence includes expansive floor plans, floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces with bay views, and a secure elevator system that provides direct access to units. Kitchens will be custom-designed by Poliform, featuring stone countertops and Miele appliances, while the primary bathrooms will offer dual showers, deep-soaking tubs, and Antonio Lupi fixtures.

In addition to its luxurious living spaces, the Signature Collection offers a range of high-end amenities. Residents will have access to a marina with four boat slips, accommodating vessels up to 45 feet, a rooftop pool deck with a jacuzzi, outdoor kitchen, and lounge area. Other amenities include a fitness center, spa facilities with a steam room and sauna, and bayfront lounge areas. Water activities will also be available for residents to enjoy.

With prices starting at $3 million, the Signature Collection represents an exclusive opportunity to live in one of South Florida’s most sought-after locations. Construction of the Signature Collection is expected to be completed by early 2026. Douglas Elliman Development Marketing is overseeing sales for the project.

La Maré’s development marks a significant addition to the Bay Harbor Islands community, bringing a fresh perspective on waterfront living with luxury design and thoughtful amenities.