A large double tower mixed-use residential development is planned for Northeast First Avenue, in the heart of Downtown Miami.

The Namdar Group proposes a structure consisting of two 42-story towers at 222/234 NE First Avenue and 50/60 NE Third St.

In a project known simply as 222, the towers are to be home to 1,374 residential units. The project includes approximately 8,000 square feet of ground floor retail access, 336 parking spaces and more than 1,300 bicycle racks.

The city’s Urban Development Review Board recommended approval of the project.

The project architect is Behr Font Partners. PA board member Robert Behar withdrew from the stage during the presentation.

The developer’s lawyer, Brian Dombrowski, had written a letter stating that the property comprises approximately 52,004 square feet or 1.194 acres, after the surrender of the required right.

The property now consists of a single storey commercial structure and surface parking.

The site is east facing Northeast First Avenue, the principal frontage of the property. It has a secondary façade on Northeast Second and Northeast Third Streets.

Mr Dombrowski said the property is zoned T6-80-O with the broad plan designation of the CBD.

There are several Metromover and Metrorail stations within 1,000 feet.

“The property is also located a block away from Brightline station. The property is also well served by bus and trolley routes,” Mr Dombrowski wrote.

He told the board that the new structure would be wrapped around the existing building.

“That building is out of projects. The exemption will push away from that structure in a big way… We are caring a lot about that building,” he said.

“The landscape plan incorporates native trees into the proposed landscaping plan. The proposed project will decorate footpaths with trees, provide shade and provide a better walking experience,” he wrote.

The developer is requesting an exemption from the Miami 21 zoning code, asking:

Reduce the secondary frontage setback above the eighth story to 9 feet for lots with a dimension less than 100 feet.

Lower the eighth-story upstairs and rear shocks to 20 feet for lots with a dimension of less than 100 feet.

Match the major strokes of the block and its context.

Lower the podium setback from 10 feet to 9 feet along Northeast Second and Third Streets.

Extend the parking in the second layer, above the first story, along the primary façade. Miami 21 allows this where an art or glass treatment is provided for 100% of the encumbrances. Art or glass treatment should be approved by the planning director on the recommendation of the Urban Development Review Board.

Extend the parking in the second layer above the first story along the secondary frontage.

Substitute two commercial loading berths for one industrial loading berth.

The tower-to-tower distance from the eighth floor has been reduced by 10% from 60 feet to 54 feet.

A representative of the developer said the towers will be rental apartments.

Board member Dean Lewis said, “I love the way you have layered the façade…the strong verticality.”

Board member Gia Zapattini said, “It’s a beautiful building, very elegant, clean and simple. Very well executed.”

Board President Ignacio Paramuy said, “I commend the development team. An extraordinary job.”

Board member Willie Bermelo said, “I’m very impressed by some of the details … my hat is off. When we admit it, we do it with all the bells and whistles.”

“It is a beautiful project. It would be very disappointing if it is not made for what we have here,” said Mr. Permuy, referring to the site plans and renderings provided.