“Real estate development projects are very complex,” says Maria Bosch, President of The Bosch Group. “From hopeful starts to anxious finishes, there is a constant stream of decisions to make, governmental agencies to comply with, and deadlines to respect.”

The Bosch Group, a project management firm based in South Florida, represents Taplin Development on Nine Hundred, a 24-story, mixed-use project planned in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Their primary directive: make sure the project runs smoothly, on time, on budget, efficiently and according to the developer’s vision.

Nine Hundred is designed by Miami-based firm BC Architects. Project Architect, Barbara Rivero is an advocate for engaging a competent project manager as early as possible. “The owner needs a project manager that knows construction,” she says. “They translate the project’s emotional, technical, and financial aspects. They make it happen.”

The project manager assumes several roles that facilitate collaboration between the owner, architect and contractor. Four key roles are described below. Each is an integral part of the development process and contributes to the ultimate success of the project.

Nine Hundred, Hallandale, Florida.

Managing scope and cost

Nine Hundred will accommodate a diverse group of users: boutique hotel guests, apartment residents, retail customers, fine dining patrons, and tourists seeking panoramic views from the roof-top bar. Without an experienced project manager, a development of this complexity is susceptible to scope creep and budget overruns.

“We act as Taplin Development’s liaison to ensure that contract documents and drawings are coordinated, and all permit review comments are incorporated prior to construction,” says Bosch. “Our intent is to minimize later field conflicts and changes which can be costly to the Project.”

As the project’s design progresses, TBG conducts regular cost estimates. They also perform a rigorous value engineering exercise to increase efficiency. By employing these techniques, valuable cost reductions can be achieved, the design is refined, and the developer avoids future budgetary surprises.

Finding the right consultants at the right time

As the leader of the design team, BC Architects collaborates with many specialized consultants. Several specialists, such as engineers, landscape architects, and interior designers, are active throughout the life of the project. But many others – life safety consultants, aquatic engineers, lighting designers, food and beverage specialists, etc. – are needed for a specific task at certain stages of a project.

“At BCA, we advise the developer on what consultants are needed, but the project manager establishes accountability for everyone’s part of the project,” Rivero said. “This requires an even temperament as there could be several different personalities involved.”

“The developer relies heavily on the architect to make the project a success, an icon, a work of art that inspires and unites the community and attracts the end users” – Maria Bosch, The Bosch Group

Balancing design and vision

“The developer relies heavily on the architect to make the project a success, an icon, a work of art that inspires and unites the community and attracts the end users,” Bosch said. “Our job is to mesh the designer’s concept with the developer’s vision.”

For Nine Hundred, Taplin Development envisioned an exceptional multi-faceted project. Located adjacent to the Village at Gulfstream Park and just north of the Miami’s affluent Aventura neighborhood, the aim is to attract both tourists and prospective residents.

“It’s really beneficial when owners allow themselves to be guided by the design professionals,” said Rivero. “BCA makes recommendations that streamline the design process while working closely with the project manager to make sure our suggestions are aligned with the developer’s goals.”

Diagram highlighting the various uses at Nine Hundred.

Tracking milestones and schedule

After receiving planning and zoning approval in mid-2019, the project schedule for Nine Hundred has moved at an accelerated pace. With a permit application submitted in late 2019 and construction anticipated to start in mid-2020, The Bosch Group has been a crucial factor in making sure deadlines are met.

“We work hand-in-hand with the construction manager to monitor the critical path or the project, Bosch said. “Roadblocks need to be cleared and hurdles overcome.”

At the end of the road, the goal of the entire project team – developer, project manager, architect, consultants and contractor – is a successful development that embodies the vision, passion, and diligence of everyone involved.

Nine Hundred (also known as The Falls at Gulfstream) is a 24-story mixed-use tower planned for Hallandale Beach, Florida. Located on Federal Highway, the project will feature a 140-key hotel, 320 rental units, prominent retail space, lush pool decks and a roof-top bar.

BC Architects AIA, Inc. is an architecture firm located in Coral Gables, Florida. With multi-family, high-rise, and mixed-used projects throughout Florida, BCA works with developers who seek to create expectional spaces for their end users. For nearly three decades, BCA has helped its clients during the entire development process — from site selection and concept design to permit drawings and construction administration.

The Bosch Group, Inc. is a boutique firm specializing in national and international construction management consulting. Founded in 1999, its staff is comprised of highly experienced and qualified construction and design professionals. TBG’s services include: owner representation, cost estimating, scheduling, litigation support, construction claims preparation & analysis, and dispute avoidance.