Sonesta International Hotels Corp., alongside Mint Developers, have revealed plans for The James Hotel & Residences, an 82-story mixed-use supertall designed by Idea Architects at 231 East Flagler Street in Downtown Miami. Estimated to cost $850 million, the project will introduce a blend of luxury residences and hospitality, becoming one of Miami’s tallest buildings.

Credit: The James Hotel & Residences.
Renderings reveal the design of The James Hotel & Residences, featuring a sleek dark glass façade accentuated by a silver exoskeleton with a honeycomb pattern that undulates across its full height. The structural framework gives the illusion of tapering while maintaining a consistent vertical massing. Balcony slabs are set within the exoskeleton, arranged in three vertical rows, with some wrapping around the corners. The tower rises from a box-shaped podium clad in a gold lattice framework, which appears to be screened with a beige or brown metallic or aluminum material, likely concealing a parking garage. The crown follows the same design language as the podium and elevation, incorporating a smaller version of the geometric honeycomb-patterned exoskeleton as a decorative screen at the top.
The James Hotel & Residences will feature 336 fully furnished residences, with approximately 200 hotel rooms participating in a leaseback program. The tower will include high-end amenities, such as a luxury spa, private cabanas with plunge pools, snow and rain rooms, and multiple dining options. One of its signature restaurants will house the highest-elevation luxury bar and restaurant in the Americas. Additionally, the project will include a four-story private club with exclusive access for members and hotel guests.

Credit: The James Hotel & Residences.
Originally revealed as Two31 Flagler, the tower was initially planned as an 83-story residential development with 369 units but has since been reconfigured into a mixed-use project with hotel and residential components. A press release by AD1 Hospitality describes it as the tallest in Miami, likely meaning it will reach the FAA-imposed height cap of 1,049 feet above sea level. Sonesta also confirmed the agreement to build the project on their website.

Credit: The James Hotel & Residences.
Groundbreaking is expected in Q1 2026, with completion anticipated by late 2028. Sales for the residences are set to launch in Q2 2025, with an exclusive pre-sale offer available to Sonesta Travel Pass members.
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
Absolutely stunning. Can’t wait to see Miami’s skyline grow to include all these supertalls.
Another boring rectangle on a box of parking. At least the exoskeleton makes the building facade more interesting #designbetter