Focus And Group Fox Break Ground On 39-Story Miami Starlite Tower In Brickell

• Focus and Group Fox Management launch 39-story, 517-unit tower in Brickell
• Project spans about 800,000 square feet with a major amenity package
• Construction underway with foundation work already progressing

What the groundbreaking means for Brickell development

Construction is officially underway on Miami Starlite, a 39-story residential tower rising at 128 Southwest 7th Street in Brickell. The project replaces the former Miami Starlite Motel, continuing the trend of redeveloping low-rise sites into high-density housing. Developed by Focus and Group Fox Management, the tower will deliver 517 residential units, adding significant scale to the western edge of Brickell near the Miami River. With Suffolk Construction already advancing through early foundation work, the project has moved beyond planning and into active development.

What early construction progress signals for timeline

Construction teams have already completed key early milestones, including test piles and the start of production piling. Foundation work is moving forward with the installation of both permanent and temporary wells. Several major contractors are involved, including Keller handling pile work and Langan Engineering overseeing geotechnical engineering. This level of early coordination suggests a well-capitalized project with momentum. For investors, early foundation progress is a strong indicator that the project is on a realistic path toward vertical construction.

What the scale and amenities mean for renters

Miami Starlite is designed as a large-scale residential offering, with approximately 800,000 square feet of space and 16,000 square feet dedicated to amenities. Plans include coworking areas, a fitness center, pet amenities, and multiple pools, along with outdoor lounges. The design reflects current renter preferences for lifestyle-driven buildings that combine living, working, and leisure in one location. The building’s rounded design and large balcony layouts also position it competitively within Brickell’s high-rise market.

What westward expansion means for Brickell growth

The project is part of a broader shift in Brickell, where development is pushing west toward the Miami River. Older, smaller properties are increasingly being replaced with large multifamily and mixed-use towers. This expansion is opening up new pockets of density while extending the core of Brickell beyond its traditional boundaries. For landlords and investors, this means new opportunities in emerging submarkets that are still close to the financial district but offer more redevelopment potential.

What this means for investors and landlords

Miami Starlite highlights the continued strength of multifamily development in Miami, particularly in high-demand urban cores like Brickell. Developers are scaling projects to meet sustained population growth and rental demand, while also upgrading product quality through amenities and design. For investors, the trend is clear. Target redevelopment sites in growth corridors where density is increasing, and demand fundamentals remain strong.