I’m thrilled to sit down with Luca Calarailli, a seasoned expert in construction with a deep background in design and architecture. With a passion for integrating cutting-edge technology into building projects, Luca brings a unique perspective to the industry. Today, we’re diving into the exciting details of Alton Biscayne, a 12-story luxury residential development in North Miami. Our conversation explores the project’s standout features, innovative construction methods, architectural vision, and its role in the area’s ongoing growth.
How would you describe the vision behind Alton Biscayne and what sets it apart in North Miami?
Alton Biscayne is all about bringing a fresh, upscale living experience to North Miami, a city that’s really coming into its own as a hub for growth and development. Located at 11240 Biscayne Boulevard, this 12-story luxury community is designed to blend modern aesthetics with urban convenience. What makes it stand out is the thoughtful integration of high-end amenities and unique residential offerings, like townhome flats, which you don’t see everywhere. It’s positioned in a vibrant corridor near Biscayne Shores, so it’s tapping into the energy of a neighborhood that’s rapidly evolving, offering residents both a premium lifestyle and proximity to Miami’s key spots.
Can you walk us through the scale of this project and what the numbers tell us about its impact?
Absolutely. Alton Biscayne is a significant undertaking, with 336 apartment units spread across more than 605,000 square feet on a 3.3-acre site. It also includes a 7-story parking garage with 487 spaces, which was carefully planned to accommodate the needs of residents in a dense, urban setting. These numbers reflect not just the size but the ambition to create a community that can support a large number of people while maintaining a sense of comfort and accessibility. It’s a project that’s poised to make a real dent in the housing demand in North Miami.
What can you tell us about the architectural approach to Alton Biscayne and how it balances style with practicality?
The design, crafted by Cohen Freedman Encinosa, focuses on creating a sleek, contemporary look that fits North Miami’s growing skyline. The 12-story tower paired with a 7-story parking garage is visually striking, but it’s also highly functional. The architects prioritized efficient use of space, ensuring that luxury doesn’t come at the expense of livability. You’ve got open layouts, modern finishes, and a structure that maximizes natural light and views. It’s about giving residents a high-end feel while making sure the building works for everyday life.
I’m curious about the unique living spaces and amenities. What makes features like the townhome flats and rooftop deck special?
The eight townhome flats are a standout feature, designed for those who want a bit more space and a home-like feel within an apartment community. They cater to families or individuals looking for something beyond the typical unit—think multi-level layouts with a private vibe. Then there’s the rooftop amenity deck, which is going to be a game-changer. It’s a space for relaxation and socializing with incredible views of the area. Add to that extras like a golf simulator, an arcade room, and saunas, and you’ve got a lineup of amenities that truly elevate the living experience. These aren’t just add-ons; they’re part of creating a lifestyle.
Let’s dive into the construction techniques being used. How do methods like tunnel form construction contribute to the project?
Tunnel form construction is a method where concrete walls and slabs are poured simultaneously using reusable forms, almost like building a tunnel. It’s incredibly efficient for high-rise projects like Alton Biscayne because it speeds up the construction timeline and ensures structural consistency. It’s ideal for repetitive layouts, which you often see in multifamily buildings. This approach was chosen to keep the project on track for a tight schedule while maintaining quality. It’s not uncommon in South Florida, but it’s still a specialized technique that requires skilled execution.
Can you explain the role of auger cast piles in the foundation and why they’re important for this development?
Auger cast piles are essentially deep foundation elements created by drilling into the ground and filling the holes with concrete and reinforcement. They’re crucial for Alton Biscayne because of South Florida’s challenging soil conditions—think sandy, loose ground that doesn’t naturally support heavy structures. These piles transfer the building’s weight to more stable layers deep below, ensuring the 12-story structure and parking garage stay solid and safe over time. It’s a standard practice in the region for projects of this scale, and it’s been tailored to the specific needs of this 3.3-acre site.
What’s the story behind the developer’s involvement, and how does this project fit into their broader goals for the region?
The developer, Kolter Multifamily, a division of Kolter Group, has a strong track record in Florida with projects like Alton Palmetto and other large-scale multifamily developments. Their focus is on creating communities that drive growth in up-and-coming areas, and Alton Biscayne fits perfectly into that mission. They’re not just building apartments; they’re contributing to North Miami’s transformation into a modern, desirable destination. Compared to past projects, this one pushes the envelope with its amenities and scale, showing their commitment to raising the bar for urban living in the state.
How did the general contractor come on board, and what’s their approach to bringing this vision to life?
KAST Construction was selected as the general contractor due to their proven expertise in multifamily projects across South Florida. Their portfolio and ability to handle complex builds made them a natural fit for Alton Biscayne. Their approach is hands-on, focusing on precision with techniques like tunnel form construction while keeping the project on schedule. They’ve been vocal about their excitement for this development, emphasizing how it aligns with their goal of expanding their footprint in the region and delivering top-tier communities.
What’s your forecast for the future of multifamily developments like Alton Biscayne in North Miami?
I think we’re just at the beginning of a major wave of multifamily growth in North Miami. The area’s strategic location, close to Miami’s core but with more room for development, makes it incredibly attractive. Projects like Alton Biscayne are setting a high standard with luxury and amenities, and I expect to see more developers follow suit, focusing on mixed-use and lifestyle-driven communities. Over the next five to ten years, North Miami could become a real powerhouse for residential living, especially as demand for urban, connected spaces continues to rise.
