What’s Next For Downtown Doral? Here’s A Look At What’s Coming

Joseph Grullon has watched Doral transform over the years — evolving from an industrial hub into a trendy, vibrant neighborhood.

“When we first moved here, it was mostly warehouses,” said Grullon, who relocated to Doral in 2004.

While the industrial vibe hasn’t disappeared completely, the focus in recent years has shifted to Downtown Doral — a bustling district filled with apartments, restaurants, and retail shops. The area’s rapid growth has created a lively atmosphere that extends beyond the 9-to-5 workday. More professionals are sticking around for dinner and drinks, and visitors from across Miami-Dade are making the trip to experience the scene. Many are even choosing to live in the heart of it all, fueling demand for new residential developments.

Grullon, now 38, briefly moved to Brickell but returned to Doral when he realized how much of downtown Miami’s appeal could now be found in West Miami-Dade.

“Doral started bringing in more businesses, retail, restaurants,” he said. “People from Brickell and downtown who are starting families can move here and still enjoy a walkable lifestyle — restaurants and shops right downstairs.”

Downtown Doral’s Ongoing Evolution

Downtown Doral began taking shape in 2005 with the construction of a new City Hall and office buildings. In 2013, developers broke ground on its centerpiece — a vibrant street lined with restaurants, parks, shops, and apartments, which began opening in 2015 and 2016. But the work is far from over. New projects are already underway, including a major residential addition and expanded retail and parking options.

Introducing Sevilla: Downtown Doral’s Newest Mid-Rise

Sevilla, a new seven-story apartment building by Codina Partners — the masterminds behind Downtown Doral — is the latest addition to the neighborhood. Located along the main boulevard near Northwest 53rd Street and just east of 87th Avenue, Sevilla will span two city blocks and offer 412 rental units ranging from one to three bedrooms (720 to 1,708 square feet). Construction is underway, and residents are expected to move in by early 2027. Sevilla embodies Codina Partners’ “live, work, play, learn” philosophy.

“People want a true urban community without the chaos,” said CEO Ana-Marie Codina. “It’s a resort-like lifestyle, with everything you need within walking distance.”

The building will include luxury amenities such as a movie theater, multiple resort-style decks, a sauna, a private salon, pickleball courts, and a two-story gym with a rooftop walking track. Families will benefit from proximity to a nearby elementary charter school and a large playground. UHealth Doral, a nearby outpatient center with 20 specialties, is just across the street. And within minutes, residents can stroll down a restaurant-lined stretch of Northwest 53rd Street lit with string lights. While rents will be at market rates — likely between $2,500 and $5,300 based on nearby Codina properties — many say the quality of life justifies the cost.

“I bring my family here often because it’s such a nice area,” said Diana Mendoza, a 32-year-old Doral resident who works for the city. “It’s a great place to live and work. The city truly cares about its people.”

More Retail and Parking Arrive in 2026

Alongside the Sevilla development, Codina Partners is launching a new in-house team to manage its residential properties — a move aimed at improving service and keeping operations local. The firm recently refinanced its Palma at Downtown Doral complex, becoming the sole owner of the two-tower property.

“Most apartment buildings are managed by out-of-state corporations,” Codina said. “We want our tenants to feel seen and valued — with local management and personalized service.”

To support the growing community, Codina is also expanding retail and parking infrastructure. Between now and 2026, over 25,000 square feet of new retail space will open along Northwest 87th Avenue, with a 932-space parking garage rising at 87th and 53rd Terrace.

“The goal is to create a truly vibrant community,” Codina said. “A place where everything — healthcare, education, dining, entertainment, and fitness — is right at your doorstep. We’re excited to keep building toward that vision.”

Source: Miami Herald