Mandarin Oriental, Miami Demolished to Make Way for New Property

Just 20 seconds was all it took for the 23-story Mandarin Oriental, Miami, to be imploded on April 12, as the luxury hotel operator makes room for a new and improved Mandarin Oriental, Miami and The Residences at Mandarin Oriental. 

Hundreds of locals gathered along the water in Brickell, near South Beach, to watch the property’s demolition on Sunday morning around 8:30 a.m., according to 7News Miami. Several news outlets also captured the downfall on video. The hotel operated for 25 years before closing in May 2025 and was a staple of the city’s skyline. 

It will take about six months to clear the rubble, and construction on the new hotel and residences will begin in fall 2026. It is expected to be completed by 2030, featuring a North Tower and a South Tower.  

The North Tower will house Mandarin Oriental’s new North American flagship 121-key hotel, including 34 luxurious suites, a signature Spa at Mandarin Oriental, and multiple fine dining and al fresco restaurants. 

The North Tower will also have 66 private residences and 28 hotel residences, while The South Tower will have another 228 residences. Mandarin Oriental has been leaning into its residence product, and also has Mandarin Oriental Residences, West Palm Beach, in the works, expected to open a year later in 2031.