ZIG Investment Group, led by entrepreneur and real estate developer Mike Zikri, has secured approval for a 25-key luxury boutique hotel to rise adjacent to Villa Paula, the landmark 1920s Neo-Classical residence located in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood. The City of Miami Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously in favor of the project, which will expand the site’s role as both a cultural and hospitality destination.
The development, known as Casa Paula, is being designed in collaboration with Royal Byckovas Architects. Plans call for a contemporary addition that complements the architecture of Villa Paula, long regarded as one of Miami’s most distinctive historic properties. The new building will integrate modern elements while paying homage to the estate’s Cuban heritage and architectural legacy.
Credit: ZIG Investment Group.
“This marks a thrilling new chapter in Villa Paula’s story,” said Mike Zikri, owner of Villa Paula. “Our vision is to preserve the legacy of one of Miami’s most iconic landmarks while shaping an innovative cultural destination that resonates on a global stage.”
According to the design team, the project aims to establish a seamless relationship between the historic villa and its new counterpart. “Our goal was to create a dialogue between past and present,” said the team at Royal Byckovas Architects. “Casa Paula honors the soul of Villa Paula’s historic architecture while introducing a fresh, contemporary spirit that will inspire both visitors and the local community for generations to come.”
Credit: ZIG Investment Group.
Villa Paula, completed in 1926, has long been recognized for its Neo-Classical design and cultural significance. With Casa Paula, Zikri intends to expand its use as a gathering place for art, events, and hospitality, blending boutique accommodations with curated cultural programming.
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So beautiful… fantastic for Lemon City!
Calle 8 in Little Havana is so ripe for this type of development
Little Havana in general, especially vacant parcels between pre-war single-family and apartment houses, which frankly should have been declared historic years ago. Infill at it’s best.