A new 8-story hotel is being planned along Little Havana’s iconic Calle Ocho corridor, where developer 1603 SW 8 Street, LLC, tied to North Park Ventures from Chicago, is seeking City Commission approval to rezone a site currently occupied by a surface parking lot. The proposal, designed by Modis Architects, would replace a half-acre assemblage with a 149-room hotel, filling a gap in an area that currently lacks hotel options. While Miami’s Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board has already given the project near-unanimous approval about a month ago, the final decision now rests with the City Commission.
Located at 710 SW 16th Ave and 1603 SW 8th St, the developer plans to redevelop both a surface parking lot and two low-rise structures from the early 1900s. The rezoning request only applies to the northern parcel at 710 SW 16th Ave, which would shift from T5-O to T6-8-O and more than double the allowable density. The southern parcel, 1603 SW 8th St, is already designated T6-8-O.
According to a representative from the project, ‘Calle Ocho is locally and internationally known as a major tourist destination but lacks lodging options. The project proposed a hotel to incentivize tourists to not only visit but stay on Calle Ocho and, in-turn, stimulate the economic development of the area”.
First reported by the South Florida Business Journal, beyond plans for 149 hotel rooms, there will be 17,030 SF of commercial space, a rooftop pool, and 128 parking spaces. The facade, featuring large windows with a white and dark brown palette, is described by Modis Architects as “inspired by architectural elements from Havana and tells a story of grandeur with tropical elegance that celebrates the spirit of Cuba and offers guests an elevated experience. This hotel aims to become not just a place to stay, but a destination that embodies the joy, history, and the vibrancy of Calle Ocho.”
The developer will have to obtain permits for both demolition and construction if approved by Miami’s City Commission. As of now, there are no substantial permits pertaining to demolition or site prep for the property. A name for the hotel isn’t finalized but plans hint at ‘Calle 8 Hotel’.