River Landing Will Be A Game-Changer For Miami’s Health District



Since breaking ground in March 2017, River Landing Shops & Residences has attracted curious glances from commuters driving on Miami’s Dolphin Expressway. Now, 3 years later, and with over 2.5 million square feet constructed, the massive mixed-use development is nearing completion. And anticipation has only intensified, especially for those who live and work in the nearby Health District.

River Landing, South Facade.

Regarded as one of Miami’s ‘mega-projects’, River Landing will introduce a diverse mix of retailers, offices, restaurants, residences, and public spaces. As one of the largest concentrations of medical and research facilities in the country, the Health District has had limited choices for housing, commerce and leisure. River Landing Shops & Residences, developed by Urban-X, was conceived to fill this need. “The project will energize the neighborhood,” said Joel Evans, Project Manager at BC Architects. “It will create new opportunities for people who live and work in the Health District.”

Refining the way we live

With its proximity to hospitals, medical centers and civic buildings, Giordy Vazquez, BC Architects’ Construction Administration Manager, believes River Landing addresses an undeniable housing need. “Many people who work in the area have to commute from far away,” said Vazquez. “So now there is an opportunity for them to live, shop, and dine in an urban setting, close to where they work.”

River Landing, West Residential Tower.

The two residential towers are located on the west portion of the development and offers panoramic views of downtown Miami, Miami River, and Miami International Airport. Nestled in between the towers is an elevated amenity deck with private terraces, lap pool, club house, fitness center and dog park. Privacy is also a priority. While residents will be able to take advantage of on-site shopping and dining venues, non-residents can only access the public and retail areas. This separation is a must for a successful mixed-use project.

 

Influencing the way we interact with each other

Just as small towns have central plazas that stimulate community activity, River Landing Shops and Residences has the Atrium. Here is where everything converges. Criss-crossed with catwalks and escalators, the multi-story, glass-topped Atrium connects residents, shoppers, office tenants, and restaurant patrons. “It’s really dynamic,” said Vazquez. “Once it opens, people will gravitate towards this attractive and energetic place, whether they are there to shop, work, or simply socialize. “

 

Improving the way we work

River Landing will include over 100,000 square feet of Class A office space. Full-height glass and motivating views make this a desirable option for local professionals. “This feature of River Landing allows professionals who work in the area to have private offices nearby,” said Vazquez.  “Doctors and lawyers who make frequent trips to the hospital and courthouse would now have the opportunity to significantly decrease their commute.”

Office tenants will also have access to an exclusive outdoor terrace. This unique amenity is separated from the public areas and features lush landscaping and seating areas. The terrace is designed for comfortable everyday use and to accommodate large events. 

Enhancing the way we shop and play

River Landing’s retail component will consist of four levels, totaling 315,000 square feet. Tenants that have already signed on to lease space include Burlington, Ross, Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Publix, Hobby Lobby, and GNC. While there are still more spaces left to fill, residents and visitors can enjoy the variety of big-box retail and smaller storefronts once opened.

By providing the opportunity for more businesses to enter the Health District, River Landing with play a substantial part in stimulating local economic growth in the area. There will be an abundance of new jobs created while residents and non-residents will have more accessible retail options. 

Rendering showing future retail facade, river walk and public park.

“When it comes to activating the river front, the River Landing promenade is a big step in the right direction,” said Evans. The generous river walk will encourage guests and residents to interact while enjoying the waterway. For people that visit River Landing by boat, docking stations along the river walk will allow them easy access to restaurants and shops.

The pedestrian-friendly promenade leads to an adjacent public park. “The green space will improve the overall area and benefit both residents and non-residents alike,” said Evans. “The space will have a positive impact on the area, encouraging people to be more social and active outdoors.”

River Landing, View from River.

River Landing Shops & Residences is a mixed-use development located on the Miami River. Developed by Urban-X and poised to revitalize the Health District, River Landing will feature over 500 residential units, office space, well-known retail tenants, a river walk, and a public park.

BC Architects AIA, Inc. is an architecture firm located in Coral Gables, Florida. With multi-family, high-rise, and mixed-used projects throughout Florida, BCA works with developers who seek to create expectional spaces for their end users. For nearly three decades, BCA has helped its clients during the entire development process — from site selection and concept design to permit drawings and construction administration.

 


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