Design for new Ft. Lauderdale mixed-use tower features sequence of stepped rounded volumes

The newly revealed design for 633 SE 3rd Ave., a 47-story, mixed-use tower in Ft. Lauderdale, features a sequence of stepped rounded volumes that ease the massing of the tower as it rises. The ODA-designed structure is composed of tubular volumes alternating between a sleek curved glazed façade and alternating wrap-around balconies. These elements generate a dynamic play that breaks up the massing of the building.

Setbacks and carved double-height voids enable a series of extensive roof deck amenities for residents at different levels with open city views. A large corner plaza and activated walkways will provide dynamic and lively ground floor programming for the neighborhood. The podium is lined with residential units that continue the tower expression and a dynamic three-dimensional parking screen façade paralleling the theme established by the cylindrical tower design.

At night, concave recesses of the parking façade create a decorative wall of light and textures that add to the ambiance of the neighborhood. These features aim to bring a heightened sense of sophistication to this part of the city—south of the New River in the Rio Vista neighborhood.

The 1,099,811 sf high-rise will accommodate 830 rental units—studios to 2 bedrooms—951 parking units, and 12,798 sf of retail space.

“Buildings at this scale house a community of people who live, work, and play from what they consider home,” said Eran Chen, founder and executive director, ODA. “This new lifestyle is formed by a building that is shaped to be flexible, create strong connections, and allows for diverse activities.”

On the building team:
Owner and/or developer: Dependable Equities
Design architect: ODA
Architect of record: ODA
MEP engineer: N/A
Structural engineer: N/A
General contractor/construction manager: N/A

ODA mixed use ext 2 — Courtesy VERO Digital.

ODA mixed use ext 3 — Courtesy VERO Digital.

ODA mixed use ext 4 — Courtesy VERO Digital.

Bold cantilevered designs are prevalent today, as developers and architects strive to maximize space, views, and natural light in buildings. Cantilevered structures, however, present a host of challenges for building teams, according to José R. Rivera, PE, Associate Principal and Director of Plumbing and Fire Protection with Lilker.