As one of the first developers to put Edgewater on the map, The Melo Group continues to be visionaries for the future of Miami, with a strong strategic focus on innovation and properties that redefine the community. Hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, The Melo Family has called Miami home for the past 25 years.
The family’s journey into development began with Carlos & Martin Melo’s grandfather, who was deeply involved in the industry. Their father, José Luis Ferreira de Melo, furthered this legacy by developing over 5,000 residential units for sale in Argentina. Continuing this tradition, The Melo Group has delivered more than 8,000 residential units in Miami, with an additional 3,500 units currently in the planning stages.
For The Melo Group, Miami presented a welcoming environment and a unique opportunity to revitalize Edgewater when they arrived. In 2001, they made their first land purchase in Miami, seeing potential in its prime location near I-95, Biscayne Bay and Margaret Pace Park. Over the years, they have transformed Edgewater, completing over 8,000 units and bringing new life to the neighborhood. Other developments in Miami include 22 Biscayne Bay, 1800 Biscayne Plaza, Biscayne Park, One Plaza, Second Plaza, 23 Biscayne Bay, Oak Plaza, 22 Skyview, Flagler On The River, 25 Mirage, Bayhouse Miami, Melody Tower, Aria On The Bay, Square Station, Art Plaza, Miami Plaza, Downtown 1, Downtown 5th and Urban 22.
Their latest project, Aria Reserve, exemplifies their vision. The development will feature the tallest identical dual towers south of New York City, a public park, and a long-awaited Baywalk. The project took over a decade to assemble the necessary land. The first building is slated for delivery in March 2025, with the second tower already surpassing its 20th Floor in construction.
The dual tower luxury condominium development is situated on 5 acres of prime Biscayne Bay waterfront land in Miami’s Edgewater enclave. The project’s architect is internationally acclaimed Bernardo Fort-Brescia of Arquitectonica, with interiors by MORADA Haute Furniture Boutique, and lush landscaping by ArquitectonicaGEO. The residences are defined by impeccably finished units with 1- to 4-bedroom floorplans measuring between 1,100 and 2,600 sq. ft. in size. A limited collection of penthouse residences, ranging from 3,500 to over 9,000 sq. ft., each come with its own one-of-a-kind personal 3-car garage vault, of which 5 tri-level penthouse mansions will also feature private rooftop decks with pools and summer kitchens. Residences are priced from $1.9 million up to $12 million for penthouses. Every residence will include a pair of private or semi-private elevators, a dedicated office/den and open flow-through layouts with expansive terraces boasting unparalleled sunset views to the west and bay and ocean views to the east. The project will also include 550 linear feet of Baywalk, connecting the Edgewater community to nearby parks along the waterway.
In addition to Aria Reserve, The Melo Group is developing Downtown 6, 17 Plaza and other towers, bringing another 3,500 new units to the Miami market in different locations, comprising both condos and rental properties, office and retail space. The projects have garnered attention from high-profile figures from around the world, including global soccer stars Alexis Mac Allister and James Rodríguez, who have purchased units in their luxury towers. They are also playing a leadership role in the Underdeck Miami project and are strong supporters of educational initiatives in the area. Their contributions reflect a lifelong dedication to building not just structures but sustainable communities where residents can thrive.
According to Carlos Melo, Miami offers an unbeatable combination of location, a booming economy, pleasant year-round weather, and a dynamic community of professionals. Miami’s real estate market has never been stronger, attracting both international and local buyers.
What’s more, Martin Melo emphasizes that the city has seen an influx of new residents, particularly during and after the pandemic. This migration has increased demand for market-rate rentals and essential services. “The city is young but at the same time it has a lot of young people that want to innovate, experience the lifestyle and grow the city,” he says. In response, The Melo Group collaborates with private and public entities to create not just housing but vibrant communities.
Following the legacy of José Luis Ferreira de Melo, the family is focused on mixed-use developments that combine residential and commercial spaces. Their projects emphasize accessibility, with many located near transit zones, parks, and recreational areas. This approach ensures residents can live, work, and play within their neighborhoods.
In addition to continuing to expand the Miami lifestyle and skyline, The Melo Group is deeply committed to community development and philanthropy. Among their many accolades, Carlos Melo, Co-Principal of The Melo Group, was honored with the Key To The City of Miami, recognizing the family’s significant contributions to the city’s development and community. They’ve also earned the “Miami General Contractor Ranking” from The Real Deal; “Power Leaders in Real Estate” from South Florida Business Journal; and a “Best Development Project” distinction for Aria Reserve in Hola Latinos Magazine.
According to Carlos Melo, Miami’s rapid growth presents challenges such as rising material and labor costs, higher interest rates, and the need for infrastructure improvements. Increasingly stablized material prices allow the company to complete projects efficiently. The Melo Group remains committed to meeting demand and delivering high-quality projects for Miami’s vibrant population.
Looking forward, the family envisions a skyline that reflects the city’s dynamic growth while addressing sustainability and community needs. With major events like the World Cup, Formula 1, and a new stadium on the horizon, Miami is becoming a global hub for sports and culture. This evolution, coupled with Miami’s rise as a cultural and economic powerhouse, positions The Melo Group to continue playing a pivotal role in the city’s growth; TheMeloGroup.com.
