Midtown Development, the proprietor of Sunset Place in South Miami, is gearing up for an ambitious redevelopment of the site. Once a thriving mall after its opening in 1998, Sunset Place has faced a prolonged downturn in the 21st century, with numerous redevelopment efforts faltering over the years. Now, the developers are presenting a new vision to the South Miami Planning Board, aiming to breathe new life into the property with immense retail and residential space.
The new master-plan will consist of 7 high-rises, ranging from 15 to 33 floors. To contribute to a mixed-use, transit-orientated vision, developers are planning 1,513 units, 287 hotel rooms, a movie theater/performing arts theater that holds a maximum of 1,300 seats, 149,506 SF of retail, and 50,892 SF of office space. Units range from studios, one-bedrooms, two-bedrooms, and three or more bedroom configurations. The developer is also planning 2,418 parking spaces to accommodate for residents and visitors. 213 bike spaces are required under South Miami code, and will be included in the parking garage.
The development is entitled to two bonuses (Tier 1 & 2) for increased height, density, and more. Without the bonus, the high-rises would measure between 4-17 floors at the highest.
The development is divided into four zones to minimize disruption to existing single-family homes. The Sunset Zone, located along Sunset Drive, is the farthest from US Highway 1. Following it are the Village Zone, Central Zone, and lastly, the Gateway Zone, which is closest to US Highway 1 (also known as South Dixie Highway). The Gateway Zone will feature the tallest buildings, with towers reaching 33 floors, while the Sunset Zone and Village Zone will have buildings up to 15 floors. For a visual overview, please refer to the illustration below.
According to elevations, two buildings in the Sunset Zone and Village zone will both rise 15 floors. One is 181 FT and the other is 212 FT (Height difference due to mezzanine level).
In the central zone, two buildings will measure a respective 21 floors and 25 floors. The 25 Floor tower is 346 FT and the 21 floor tower is 284 FT.
In the Gateway Zone, three buildings are planned to reach a maximum of 33 floors. One building will stand at 357 feet, while the other two will each reach 426 feet. The difference in height, despite all having 33 floors, is due to a mezzanine level at the top of the two taller buildings. If constructed, the 426-foot height will become the tallest point south of the Douglas Road Metrorail Station in Miami.
Heatherwick Studio recently unveiled a video showcasing the architecture and design of Sunset Place. The studio emphasized their aim to preserve the character of Sunset Drive while enhancing it by introducing lively storefronts and creating several pedestrian-only streets. The video can be seen here.
ODP is the architect of record. The development is located at 5701 Sunset Dive, South Miami, FL 33143.