In North Miami Beach, a new development proposal seeks to transform a current restaurant and retail strip into a 26-story apartment tower, Elevate North Miami Beach Apartments (Elevate NMB), designed by Aventura-based NMD Nomadas with Thomas Engineering Group as the civil engineer and Architectural Alliance Landscape as the landscape architect.

​

Elevate 163 North Miami Beach LLC, led by Rafael Pecchio of ILP Developers based in Key Biscayne, acquired the site for $6.03 million in July 2023. The proposed development outlines a mix of 351 apartments and 3,034 square feet of commercial space over 618,786 square feet, incorporating 490 parking spaces. Residential units are designed to occupy from the second floor upwards, integrating into the parking structure, and feature an amenities deck on the ninth floor, including a pool, fitness center, lounge, sauna, and club room.

​

The developer has requested nine variance waivers to the city, encompassing the project’s structural and functional aspects. These waivers seek modifications for items such as the tower setback from the street, the size of ADA-compliant parking spaces, and the alleyway width. The requests also extend to the lot width and the implementation of decorative screening for the parking garage, opting for this in place of the standard liner building.

 

These waivers aim to integrate the project’s distinct design elements and maintain the vibrant, pedestrian-oriented environment that the development envisions. To preserve the area’s community spirit, plans are underway to include CAO Bakery and Café in the new establishment, allowing it to continue as a local staple.