Small spaces Big Impact

REAL ESTATE

Small Spaces
BIG IMPACT

By Jenny Starr Perez

DEVELOPERS ARE REIMAGINING MIAMI’S LUXURY MARKET WITH PIED-À-TERRE RESIDENCES DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE AND STYLE.

Miami’s real estate market has long been synonymous with sprawling oceanfront estates, high-rise penthouses, and multimillion-dollar mega-mansions. Yet, as the city solidifies its position as a global hub for business, leisure, and culture, a new trend is emerging: the rise of the pied-à-terre.

Literally translating to “foot on the ground,” the concept of a pied-à-terre is nothing new—Parisians, New Yorkers, and Londoners have embraced these compact, secondary residences for decades. Now, Miami’s unique mix of international business, transient affluence, and evolving lifestyle preferences is driving a surge in demand for these high-end, smaller-scale residences. Developers are responding accordingly, delivering sleek, well-appointed homes designed for frequent travelers, hybrid professionals, and those who want a slice of Miami’s dynamic energy without the commitment of full-time residency.

The sudden rise of pied-à-terre residences in both Miami and Fort Lauderdale isn’t happening in a vacuum. It’s a direct result of shifting travel behaviors, workplace trends, and evolving buyer preferences. As global travel rebounds, Miami continues to solidify its status as a top destination for both domestic and international visitors. Miami International Airport recorded an 11.6% increase in passenger traffic in early 2024, with a notable 12% surge in international travelers. Whether for business or leisure, the city’s accessibility and cosmopolitan appeal make it the perfect location for those seeking a refined home base without the obligations of full-time residency.

Simultaneously, the normalization of hybrid and remote work has transformed the way professionals approach homeownership. No longer tethered to a single city, many high-net-worth individuals now split their time between multiple locations, making a pied-à-terre a logical investment. These residences offer a more personalized and consistent alternative to hotels or short-term rentals, allowing owners to maintain a familiar space each time they visit.

Beyond practicality, South Florida’s real estate market has always attracted affluent buyers, but today’s luxury consumer values experience and flexibility over permanence. A pied-à-terre grants access to the city’s thriving nightlife, cultural scene, and coastal lifestyle—without the commitment of maintaining a sprawling property year-round. As a result, developers are responding with sophisticated, high-end residences that cater to the modern buyer’s desire for both convenience and indulgence.

Several new developments are positioning themselves as the perfect pied-à-terre options, offering a blend of compact luxury and world-class amenities. These projects cater to buyers who want convenience, design, and a prime location.

EDGE HOUSE MIAMI

Situated in the heart of Edgewater, Edge House Miami offers 600 turnkey residences designed by Kobi Karp with interiors by Adriana Hoyos Design Studio. The units range from 410 to 1,242 square feet, making them ideal for part-time residents. Smart technology, European-style kitchens, and resort- inspired amenities—including pool terraces, a yoga studio, and co-working spaces—make this a seamless home base for those on the move.

ELLE RESIDENCES MIAMI

A bold fusion of fashion and real estate, ELLE Residences Miami brings a touch of Parisian sophistication to the Edgewater skyline. Developed in partnership with Vertical Developments and Urban Network Capital Group, this 25-story tower features 180 meticulously designed residences that reflect the chic aesthetic of ELLE DECOR. Amenities like a rooftop pool, wellness center, and gourmet summer kitchen cater to pied-à-terre buyers looking for a stylish retreat.

NEXO RESIDENCES

In North Miami Beach, Nexo Residences is redefining flexible ownership. The 254-unit development offers fully finished, short-term rental-ready residences with hotel-style amenities. Designed for convenience, the property features co-working spaces, a rooftop observatory, and a tech- integrated lobby. This is an attractive option for investors and part-time residents who want a lock-and-leave lifestyle.

SURF ROW RESIDENCES

For those seeking exclusivity, Surf Row Residences offers just 25 luxury condominiums a block from the ocean in Surfside. Featuring interiors curated in partnership with RH, spa-inspired bathrooms, and private rooftop terraces, these homes balance beachside tranquility with high-end design. Thoughtful amenities—including a Zen spa, fitness studio, and concierge services—enhance the effortless living experience.

THE STANDARD RESIDENCES, MIDTOWN MIAMI

Blurring the lines between hospitality and home, The Standard Residences brings its renowned brand ethos to Miami’s most walkable neighborhood. The 12-story building offers 228 pied-à-terre-style residences with access to a rooftop pool, a fitness center, a screening room, and co- working lounges. Residents also enjoy perks through The Standard’s “Friends with Benefits” program, which provides preferred rates at its global hotel locations.

As the region continues to evolve, the demand for pied-à- terre residences is expected to grow. The city’s international appeal, combined with its shifting economic landscape, makes it an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking a secondary home. Whether it’s a jet-setting entrepreneur, a seasonal visitor, or a remote worker looking for a warm-weather escape, today’s buyers want flexibility, convenience, and luxury—all in a smaller footprint. Developers are taking note, integrating more hotel-like services, elevated design, and adaptable living spaces into their offerings. With a new wave of pied-à-terre properties on the horizon, South Florida is poised to redefine what it means to have a second home.

REAL ESTATE