One Biscayne Tower seeks zero setback makeover

One of Downtown Miami’s longstanding and high-profile skyscrapers is planning a major new look and other exterior improvements.

One Biscayne Tower, at 2 S Biscayne Blvd., is a 40-story multi-tenant office and mixed-use project owned by CP Group. The city’s Urban Development Review Board recommended approval of its modification plans to the planning director.

Brian A. Dombrowski, an attorney representing the owner, presented the details of the planned modifications to the board.

In a letter to the city Mr. Dombrowski wrote, “The Site Plan proposes the reconfiguration of the ground floor at the existing structure as well as the installation of new garage screening in order to enhance the pedestrian realm and overall building aesthetics.”

The plans show a new screening system to cover the 12-story garage, currently exposed. The screening would be a mix of solid panels and vertical metal slats.

Mr. Dombrowski said the proposed changes to the façade of the parking podium are designed to “make it a little more Miami 21 friendly,” a reference to the city’s zoning code.

The ground floor will also be upgraded with new impact glass and outdoor seating, and other improvements.

MKDA is the architectural firm overseeing the renovation.

One Biscayne Tower, built in 1972, was last renovated in 2020. It has more than 690,000 square feet of floor area.

The owner boasts that its tower is centered in the heart of Miami’s dynamic business district with unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay. Amenities include fitness center, printing services, overnight mail service, florist, deli, several on-site banks, on-site owner and management, and 24-hour security.

One Biscayne Tower is across from the Bayfront Metromover Station, across the street from Bayside Park and Bayside Marketplace, and is a key feature of the city’s growing skyline.

Mr. Dombrowski said the owner is requesting a waiver of the Miami 21 ordinance to complete the modifications.

The waiver would allow the project to match the dominant setback of the block and its context.

The applicant seeks a waiver to allow a reduction of the required minimum ground level setback along the property’s principal frontage along South Biscayne Boulevard from 10 feet to none at all to match the dominant setback and context of the area, he said.

Mr. Dombrowski wrote, “The Property is zoned T6-80-O and located within the City’s UCBD area which is designated to accommodate the City’s urban core with increased density and intensity … This transect zone is intended for buildings set close to the frontage.”

He said the waiver would allow for the ground level to be reconfigured to match the context of the block and allow for the existing structure to have a consistent façade for the height of the structure, which will encourage pedestrian interaction and allow for the property to provide more active facades and frontages.

“Very good work,” said Board Chairman Ignacio Permuy, “exceptional … it’s simple but you’ve captured the essence of the building.”

Board member Ligia Ines Labrada said the change is “very elegant,” and she said bringing the storefronts closer to Biscayne Boulevard will help activate the pedestrian realm. “A nice solution,” she added.

Board member Gia Zapattini said, “I love everything you’re doing,” although she did say the dark gray colors on the new garage screening seems a bit too dark for Miami.

Board member Robert Behar said, “I think you did a great job … it’s going to be a great addition.”

Board member Agustin Barrera said, “It’s a great improvement.”

Board member Anthony Tzamstzis said, “I like very much what you’ve done.”

Mr. Permuy concluded, “There’s a certain elegance to it. I can’t wait to see when it’s built.”