European Developers Bring Luxury Mixed-Use Concept to Miami's Thriving Arts District
In a significant boost to Miami's evolving Wynwood neighborhood, a prominent German development partnership is moving forward with Cloud One Hotel & Residences Wynwood, an ambitious mixed-use project that promises to redefine luxury living in the city's arts district. The development team—comprising ALP.X Group, Motel One, and Büschl Group—announced their plans to launch condominium sales this month, with Douglas Elliman selected to spearhead the marketing efforts.
This marks a significant milestone for Motel One, the Munich-based hotel group that owns and operates the Cloud One brand. While the company has already established a presence in New York City, the Wynwood project represents an important expansion of their footprint in the American market, bringing European design sensibilities and hospitality concepts to Miami's most creative neighborhood.
Architectural Excellence and Premium Amenities Define New Development
Planned for a nearly one-acre site at 2215 Northwest First Place, the development will feature approximately 85 exclusive condominiums alongside a 214-key hotel in an architecturally distinctive eight-story building. The design team brings together impressive credentials, with New York-based HWKN and Hollywood-based ODP Architects collaborating to create a structure that received design approvals in September.
"We wanted to create something that honors Wynwood's artistic heritage while introducing a new level of sophistication," explained Sebastian Lüdke, founder and CEO of Munich-based ALP.X Group. "The project isn't just about residences—it's about creating a complete lifestyle experience."
The development will feature an array of premium amenities, including:
- A signature food and beverage concept on the rooftop
- A stunning rooftop pool with panoramic Miami views
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Ground-floor retail space potentially housing a boutique grocery store
- Curated artwork and murals by Goldman Global Arts
What sets this development apart from others in the area is its unique integration of residential and hospitality components. Condominium owners will enjoy full access to hotel services and amenities, creating a seamless luxury experience that blends the privacy of home ownership with the conveniences of hotel living.
Innovative Residential Offerings with Investment Flexibility
The residences will occupy the top three floors of the building, with 15 spectacular duplex penthouses featuring soaring 22-foot ceilings. A separate dedicated lobby ensures privacy and exclusivity for condominium owners and residents.
Sharon Novotny, senior vice president of development marketing at Douglas Elliman, detailed the diversity of available units: "The condos will range from efficient studios to spacious three-bedroom residences, with prices starting in the $500,000s, averaging approximately $1,250 per square foot."
The size range is equally impressive, with units starting at approximately 500 square feet and extending beyond 1,000 square feet for larger residences. More than 60 percent of the inventory will comprise one-bedroom condominiums, reflecting market demand for accessible luxury living options in the area.
Like many new developments in Wynwood, Cloud One residences will offer owners short-term rental flexibility, allowing them to monetize their investments through platforms like Airbnb when not in personal use. This feature acknowledges Wynwood's growing status as both a tourist destination and an emerging business hub, with numerous companies establishing offices or relocating headquarters to the vibrant neighborhood.
The First of Its Kind in Wynwood's Evolving Landscape
Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman Florida, emphasized the project's significance: "Cloud One will be the first traditional hotel with an integrated condominium component in Wynwood. We anticipate strong interest from buyers seeking accessible luxury, walkability, and premium finishes in one of Miami's most dynamic neighborhoods."
The development team has assembled an impressive roster of partners to execute their vision. March and White Design will create sophisticated interior spaces, while Fortis Design + Build serves as development manager. Goldman Global Arts—the Goldman family's renowned art curation company based in Wynwood and New York—will oversee the integration of artwork throughout the property, ensuring the development maintains authentic connections to the neighborhood's artistic identity.
European Investment Group Signals Long-Term Commitment to U.S. Markets
Ralf Büschl of the Büschl Group revealed that both he and Lüdke maintain personal investments in the project, underscoring their confidence in its success. Moreover, they envision Cloud One Wynwood as just the beginning of their American expansion.
"We're actively exploring opportunities for additional Cloud One-branded projects across key U.S. markets," Büschl stated. "Miami Beach, West Palm Beach, Nashville, and New York are all on our radar for future developments."
The site's history adds an interesting dimension to the project. Records indicate the property was acquired by a Delaware LLC led by the German partnership in September 2023 for $24 million from real estate investor and former Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine.
With demolition of the former Whale & Star building already completed, the development team anticipates breaking ground either by late 2025 or early 2026. While the developers have self-funded work to date, including site demolition, they plan to secure a construction loan to finance vertical construction as the project advances.
Insights About Cloud One Hotel & Residences Wynwood
How Does Cloud One Differ from Other Wynwood Developments?
Cloud One represents the first traditional hotel with an integrated condominium component in Wynwood, offering residents hotel-style amenities and services while maintaining residential privacy. This hybrid model is new to the neighborhood and elevates the luxury living experience beyond what existing projects offer.
What Investment Advantages Do These Condos Offer?
Beyond appreciation potential in the rapidly developing Wynwood market, owners benefit from short-term rental flexibility, allowing them to generate income through platforms like Airbnb when not using their residence. Additionally, the European pedigree of the development team adds unique design sensibilities that differentiate these units from comparable offerings.
Will the Development Impact Wynwood's Artistic Character?
The developers have partnered with Goldman Global Arts to ensure authentic artistic integration throughout the project. Rather than diminishing Wynwood's creative identity, Cloud One aims to enhance it through thoughtfully curated artwork and murals that respect the neighborhood's cultural heritage.
How Accessible Is This Development for First-Time Luxury Buyers?
With starting prices in the $500,000s and a focus on efficient floor plans (particularly one-bedroom units), Cloud One offers an entry point into luxury living that remains attainable compared to other Miami luxury developments. This positions the project to appeal to young professionals and investors seeking quality construction and amenities without ultra-premium pricing.
Is This Development Part of A Larger Trend?
Yes, Cloud One represents the continuing evolution of Wynwood from an arts district to a complete live-work-play neighborhood. The inclusion of potential grocery retail space acknowledges the area's transition toward becoming a fully functional residential community while maintaining its creative character.
